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Background: The Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale (IPOS) validly and reliably measures symptoms and concerns of those receiving palliative care. Aim: To determine the equivalence of the paper version with an electronic version of the IPOS (eIPOS). Design: Multicentre randomised crossover trial (NCT03879668) with a within-subject comparison of the two modes (washout period 30 min). Setting/Participants: Convenience sample of specialist inpatient and palliative home care patients aged over 18 years with cancer and non-cancer conditions was recruited. Scores were compared using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Bland-Altman plots and via a mixed-effects analysis of variance. Results: Fifty patients were randomised to complete paper-electronic (n = 24) and electronic-paper (n = 26) IPOS with median age 69 years (range 24–95), 56% male, 16% non-cancer. The ICCs showed very high concordance for the total score (ICC 0.99, 95% CI 0.98–1.00), lowest ICCs being observed for symptoms 'Appetite loss' and 'Drowsiness' (ICC 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.97). Nine of seventeen items had ICCs above 0.98, as did all subscales. No statistically significant mode, order, age, and interaction effects were observed for IPOS total score and subscales, except for 'Communication' (Fmode = 5.9, p = 0.019). Fifty-eight percent preferred the electronic version. In the group 75+ years, 53% preferred the paper version. Only three entries in the free-text main problems differed between the versions. Conclusion: The very high equivalence in scores and free text between the IPOS and the eIPOS demonstrates that eIPOS is feasible and reliable in an older palliative population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Only a few studies with small sample sizes have compared electronic Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) rating checklists with traditional paper-based OSCE rating checklists. In this study, the examiner-perceived usability and preference for type of OSCE checklist (electronic vs. paper based) were compared, and the influence of OSCE checklist type on missed ratings was determined, for the Swiss Federal Licensing Examination in clinical skills for human medicine. Methods: All examiners in the Swiss Federal Licensing Examination in clinical skills for human medicine were invited over two subsequent years to evaluate the OSCE checklist type they had worked with during the examination. This was based on a questionnaire with 14 closed questions (i.e., demographic, checklist-type experience, perceived usability, checklist type preference). Furthermore, the numbers of missed ratings for the paper-based checklist were recorded. Results: The data from these examiners (n=377) with experience of both OSCE checklist types were analyzed. The electronic OSCE checklist was rated significantly higher on all usability aspects (i.e., ease of use, candidate rating and error correction, clarity, distraction using the checklist, overall satisfaction), except for the speed of registering comments (no significant difference). The majority of the examiners in both years (2014: 54.5%, n=60, 2015: 89.8%, n=230) reported preference for working with the electronic OSCE checklist in the future. Missed ratings were seen for 14.2% of the paper-based OSCE checklists, which were prevented with the electronic OSCE checklists. Conclusions: Electronic OSCE checklists were rated significantly more user-friendly and were preferred over paper-based OSCE checklists by a broad national sample of examiners, supporting previous results from faculty-level examinations. Furthermore, missed ratings were prevented with the electronic OSCE checklists. Overall, the use of electronic OSCE checklists is therefore advisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the changes in the ink on paper subject to accelerated degradation before and after restoration treatment, an evaluation index describing changes to ink on paper documents before and after deacidification and enhancement by combining subjective and objective evaluations was established to improve the evaluation of the effect of deacidification and enhancement agent on the restoration of paper from the perspective of the ink thereon. According to the test indicators, test and control standard boards were designed and the paper for accelerated degradation was produced. In the experiment, 0.4 mol/L sodium carbonate solution, 6wt% styrene butadiene latex (SBR latex), sodium silicate, and polyamide polyamine epichlorohydrin (PAE) compound solution was applied to the accelerated degradation paper samples, respectively. After treatment, the quality indices such as color density, color difference, handwriting contrast and handwriting line width were measured. And observers were organized to make subjective evaluation on the accelerated degradation samples before and after the treatment. The results showed that the color density of magenta ink sample decreased by 10.61 % and the edges were blurred. The contrast and line width of handwriting after the treatment were decreased slightly. After treatment with 6 wt% SBR latex, the ink density of black increased the most (by 31.62 %) with no clear change in the handwriting contrast and line width. When using sodium silicate and PAE compound solution, the comprehensive effect on the text was much better. The results of subjective evaluation were consistent with the changes of objective indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few biomarker-based validation studies have examined error in online self-report dietary assessment instruments, and food records (FRs) have been considered less than food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) and 24-hour recalls (24HRs). We investigated measurement error in online and paper-based FFQs, online 24HRs, and paper-based FRs in 3 samples drawn primarily from 3 cohorts, comprising 1,393 women and 1,455 men aged 45–86 years. Data collection occurred from January 2011 to October 2013. Attenuation factors and correlation coefficients between reported and true usual intake for energy, protein, sodium, potassium, and respective densities were estimated using recovery biomarkers. Across studies, average attenuation factors for energy were 0.07, 0.07, and 0.19 for a single FFQ, 24HR, and FR, respectively. Correlation coefficients for energy were 0.24, 0.23, and 0.40, respectively. Excluding energy, the average attenuation factors across nutrients and studies were 0.22 for a single FFQ, 0.22 for a single 24HR, and 0.51 for a single FR. Corresponding correlation coefficients were 0.31, 0.34, and 0.53, respectively. For densities (nutrient expressed relative to energy), the average attenuation factors across studies were 0.37, 0.17, and 0.50, respectively. The findings support prior research suggesting different instruments have unique strengths that should be leveraged in epidemiologic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study assessed the features of the 100 most‐cited papers on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL). Methods: The 100 most‐cited OHRQoL papers were collected from Web of Science, adopting a combined keyword search strategy. Google Scholar and Scopus databases were searched to compare citations. The following data were extracted from papers: title of the paper, number of citations, authorship, country, year of publication, title of the journal, study design, sample size, topic and OHRQoL instruments used. Graphical bibliometric networks were created using VOSviewer software. Results: The number of citations of the top 100 most‐cited OHRQoL papers ranged from 73 to 949. Fifty‐six papers received at least 100 citations and two received more than 400 citations. Most papers were from Canada (23%) and had been published in Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology (37%). David Locker was the most‐cited author (25 papers; 3,521 citations). The cross‐sectional study design was the most common (68%). The impact of oral health conditions on OHRQoL (43%) was the most frequent topic, and the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) was the most commonly used OHRQoL instrument (48%). Conclusions: This bibliometric analysis highlighted the characteristics of the 100 most‐cited OHRQoL papers, demonstrating that this field is far from saturated. This list of the most‐cited articles can provide a reference point to guide oral health research, education and services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of postoperative bleeding, after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), has become particularly important because of the recent increase in antithrombotic use. Endoscopic shielding with polyglycolic acid (PGA) sheets has been shown to be effective. However, shrinkage and early displacement of the sheet remain challenges. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of our developed method, named wafer paper and ring-mounted PGA sheet (WaRP). Twenty-four patients with antithrombotic uptake who underwent the WaRP method following gastric ESD were retrospectively examined. This involved the delivery of a PGA sheet wrapped in wafer paper with ring-thread, and its fixation on the gastric floor using hemoclips. The primary outcome was the technical success rate of the WaRP, and several secondary outcomes were evaluated. The technical success rate of WaRP was 100%. The procedure lasted a mean of 10.5 min (SD 6.7 min). The prevalence of complete retention at follow-up endoscopy was 83.3% (20/24). There were no WaRP-associated complications, but post-ESD hemorrhage occurred in two patients undergoing hemodialysis (8.3%). The WaRP method is a simple and reliable means of PGA sheet delivery and placement that reduces the incidence of post-ESD hemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia symptoms are frequent during peripartum and are considered risk factors for peripartum psychopathology. Assessing and treating insomnia and related conditions of sleep loss during peripartum should be a priority in the clinical practice. The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review on insomnia evaluation and treatment during peripartum which may be useful for clinicians. The literature review was carried out between January 2000 and May 2021 on the evaluation and treatment of insomnia during the peripartum period. The PubMed, PsycINFO, and Embase electronic databases were searched for literature published according to the PRISMA guidance with several combinations of search terms "insomnia" and "perinatal period" or "pregnancy" or "post partum" or "lactation" or "breastfeeding" and "evaluation" and "treatment." Based on this search, 136 articles about insomnia evaluation and 335 articles on insomnia treatment were found and we conducted at the end a narrative review. According to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 41 articles were selected for the evaluation part and 22 on the treatment part, including the most recent meta-analyses and systematic reviews. Evaluation of insomnia during peripartum, as for insomnia patients, may be conducted at least throughout a clinical interview, but specific rating scales are available and may be useful for assessment. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), as for insomnia patients, should be the preferred treatment choice during peripartum, and it may be useful to also improve mood, anxiety symptoms, and fatigue. Pharmacological treatment may be considered when women who present with severe forms of insomnia symptoms do not respond to nonpharmacologic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the wake of local initiatives and developmental funding programs, interprofessionality is now included in national curricula in the German-speaking countries. Based on the 3P model (presage, process, product), this position paper presents the development of interprofessional education in recent years in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and places it in an international context. Core aspects as legal frameworks, including amendments to occupational regulations as well as the formation of networks and faculty development are basic requirements for interprofessional education. New topics and educational settings take shape in the process of interprofessional education: patient perspectives and teaching formats, such as online courses, become more important or are newly established. The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on interprofessional education is explored as well. Among many new interprofessional courses, particularly the implementation of interprofessional training wards in Germany and Switzerland are positive examples of successful interprofessional education. The objective of interprofessional education continues to be the acquisition of interprofessional competencies. The main focus is now centered on evaluating this educational format and testing for the corresponding competencies. In the future, more capacities will be required for interprofessional continuing education and post-graduate education. Structured research programs are essential to ascertain the effects of interprofessional education in the German-speaking countries. In this position paper the GMA committee on interprofessional education encourages further advancement of this topic and expresses the aim to continue cooperating with other networks to strengthen and intensify interprofessional education and collaboration in healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gold standard for measuring anhedonia is the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS). To date, there are no validated electronic versions of this questionnaire. We aim to study the equivalence between the traditional paper-and-pencil format and a digital version of the SHAPS. A group of 67 patients completed both SHAPS formats, and differences between formats were assessed. McNemar's test showed no significant differences between the two systems. The Kappa coefficient was over 40% for most items, and reliability was above 0.8, showing good to excellent levels of internal consistency. Thus, we have demonstrated a close equivalence between paper-and-pencil and electronic SHAPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a standardized campus climate survey that was disseminated across three modes of administration (N = 5,137), this study assesses the nonresponse bias of two web-based versions to a self-administered paper-and-pencil version conducted at a Southeastern 4-year university. Significant differences emerged across all three modes of administration and victimization measures (bullying, sexual assault, rape, emotional abuse, and intimate partner violence [IPV]). Respondents were more likely to report victimization in the web-based surveys administered to online-only classes and via mass email compared to the paper survey. Policy implications, especially as it relates to survey administration, are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the immediate and delayed effects of kinesiotape (KT) on postural control and patient-reported outcome measures under challenging conditions in individuals with anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions. Methods: Thirty-two anterior cruciate ligament-reconstructed patients for whom 6 months had passed since their operation were randomly assigned to either the KT (n = 16, aged 21.8 [5.5] y) or the placebo KT (n = 16, aged 24.0 [5.1] y) groups. Initially, both groups stood barefoot on a force platform while performing postural tasks in 4 randomized conditions (eyes open, eyes closed, cognitive task, and foam). Before the experiment, patients would bring the 4 conditions, which were written on folded papers, one by one, and in this way, the order of conditions for the examiners was determined. The patients' evaluations were conducted immediately and 48 hours after KT application. Postural control measures, with area and displacement of the center of pressure (CoP) in anterior--posterior and medial--lateral directions, and mean total velocity displacement of CoP (MVELO CoP) served as dependent variables. In addition, the International Knee Documentation Committee score was measured pretreatment and 48 hours posttreatment. Results: Significant group-by-time interactions were observed for displacement of COP in medial--lateral direction (P = .002) and MVELO CoP (P = .034). MVELO CoP significantly decreased (mean difference = 0.60, P = .009) immediately after KT application compared with preapplication measures. In the placebo group, a statistically significant decrease in MVELO CoP (mean difference = 0.869, P = .001) was observed at 48 hours post-KT compared with preapplication values. International Knee Documentation Committee scores significantly improved at 48 hours post-KT application in both groups (P < .05). Conclusions: Though observed at different time points, both KT (immediately after the intervention) and placebo KT (48 h after the intervention) were found to improve postural control measures. It appears that the changes in postural control may be more related to proprioceptive enhancement due to KT rather than the specific KT pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to identify the opinions of the Egyptian academic medical elite in the treatment of news sites for preventive medicine crises (corona vaccine model) and their assessment of this treatment and their trends towards it. The study relied on the method of media survey and it used the tool of electronic and paper questionnaire to collect data. The Egyptian academic medical elite chose the site of the seventh day with a relative weight of (61) in the front of the sites that were keen to follow it in the treatment of the Corona vaccine, and then sky news Arabic at a relative weight (57), and then the website BBC Arabic at a relative weight (56), and also chose breaking news form first, which is keen to follow it in the treatment of corona vaccine at a relative weight of (80.3), and then live broadcast at a relative weight (62), and then news reports at a relative weight (61). (48.5%) of respondents considered corona vaccine treatment on news sites to be fairly in-depth, (37.9%) felt superficial, and (13.6%) felt it was in-depth. A statistically significant correlation between the assessment of the Egyptian academic medical elite to address corona vaccine news sites and the degree of follow-up to them has been established. A statistically significant correlation between the degree of follow-up of the Egyptian academic medical elite to treat corona vaccine on news sites and their levels of confidence has also been established, while a statistically significant correlation between the elite's follow-up score for corona vaccine treatment on news sites and the effects of follow-up has not been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Evaluation of a new dengue NS1 test, with febrile illness case samples. • Comparable sensitivity and specificity of DEN-NS1-PAD to commercial diagnostic tests. • Nested-PCR was used as gold standard method for comparison. This study aimed to evaluate a microfluidic paper-based analytical device (DEN-NS1-PAD) based on a rapid NS1 antigen test for diagnosing dengue at the point of care. 219 serum samples from suspected dengue cases were tested with the developed DEN-NS1-PAD and commercial RDT by SD BIOLINE. The results were compared with the nested-PCR results. The limit of detection of DEN-NS1-PAD was 0.78 ng mL−1. It showed 88.89% sensitivity, 86.67% specificity, and a substantial agreement correlation (κ = 0.7522) compared with nested-PCR. In contrast, SD BIOLINE for NS1 (SD-NS1) detection showed 87.88% sensitivity, 90.00% specificity, and had a substantial agreement correlation with nested-PCR (κ = 0.7788). DEN-NS1-PAD is a valuable tool for diagnosing DENV infections, especially for diagnosed patients with early acute phase samples with high viral load. DEN-NS1-PAD has better sensitivity than SD-NS1 but less specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important changes in the syllabus improvement is to achieve a more qualitative and comprehensive final evaluation in all disciplines, where interdisciplinary term papers are projected. Therefore, it was considered opportune to unify the term papers of Methodology of Investigation and Health Prevention subjects in the Medical Sciencies Faculty of Holguín, what imposes that professors of both matters act in the same way towards the orientation, follow-up and evaluation of this activity, reason why a guide that facilitates the orientation for work development to the students and criteria uniformity in the teaching staff to evaluate and diminish the subjectivity when granting a qualification was elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In 2017, one study (Derek Pyne; Journal of Scholarly Publishing; DOI: 10.3138/jsp.48.3.137; University of Toronto Press) in the "predatory" publishing literature attracted global media attention. Now, over three years, according to adjusted Google Scholar data, with 53 citations (34 in Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science), that paper became that author's most cited paper, accounting for one-third of his Google Scholar citations. Design/methodology/approach: In this paper, the authors conducted a bibliometric analysis of the authors who cited that paper. Findings: We found that out of the 39 English peer-reviewed journal papers, 11 papers (28%) critically assessed Pyne's findings, some of which even refuted those findings. The 2019 citations of the Pyne (2017) paper caused a 43% increase in the Journal of Scholarly Publishing 2019 Journal Impact Factor, which was 0.956, and a 7.7% increase in the 2019 CiteScore. Originality/value: The authors are of the opinion that scholars and numerous media that cited the Pyne (2017) paper were unaware of its flawed findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To uncover the evaluation information on the academic contribution of research papers cited by peers based on the content cited by citing papers, and to provide an evidence-based tool for evaluating the academic value of cited papers. CiteOpinion uses a deep learning model to automatically extract citing sentences from representative citing papers; it starts with an analysis on the citing sentences, then it identifies major academic contribution points of the cited paper, positive/negative evaluations from citing authors and the changes in the subjects of subsequent citing authors by means of Recognizing Categories of Moves (problems, methods, conclusions, etc.), and sentiment analysis and topic clustering. Citing sentences in a citing paper contain substantial evidences useful for academic evaluation. They can also be used to objectively and authentically reveal the nature and degree of contribution of the cited paper reflected by citation, beyond simple citation statistics. The evidence-based evaluation tool CiteOpinion can provide an objective and in-depth academic value evaluation basis for the representative papers of scientific researchers, research teams, and institutions. No other similar practical tool is found in papers retrieved. There are difficulties in acquiring full text of citing papers. There is a need to refine the calculation based on the sentiment scores of citing sentences. Currently, the tool is only used for academic contribution evaluation, while its value in policy studies, technical application, and promotion of science is not yet tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pearson now uses a technology‐based testing platform, Q‐Interactive, to administer tests previously available in paper versions. The same norms are used for both versions; Pearson's in‐house equivalency studies indicated that both versions are equated. The goal of the current study is to independently evaluate equivalency findings. For the current study, equivalency was measured using the three‐part test set forth by American Psychological Association in 1986. First, the researchers examined rank order similarity; then, they examined mean score similarity; and finally, they examined score‐distribution similarity. One of these equivalency standards (rank order similarity) was not met, and one other standard is debatable (mean score similarity); therefore, the authors noted concerns about the use of Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, Fourth Edition Q‐Interactive for preschoolers. New normative data should be collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Paper patching, a method that places cigarette paper over the most mobile quadrants of the tympanic membrane, is one of the treatment options for patulous eustachian tube (PET). Aims/Objectives: The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of two different treatment strategies for PET. Material and methods: Twenty-three patients underwent paper patching of the tympanic membrane and 16 patients were treated with nasal saline irrigation with or without ipratropium bromide nasal spray. Medical records were reviewed for resolution of PET symptoms as categorical variables (complete remission, partial remission, or no improvement) with a minimum follow-up of 3 months. Results: Immediately after undergoing paper patching, 20 of the 23 patients (87.0%) reported complete remission (CR). The percentage of CR after paper patching was 82.6% at 1 month and 65.2% at 3 months. A greater percentage of patients reported CR of aural symptoms in the paper patching group than in the nasal irrigation group at both 1 and 3 months after treatment (p < .05). Conclusions and significance: Repetitive paper patching resolves aural discomfort in most PET patients for at least 3 months and can be considered as a first-line treatment option for PET in the outpatient setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This presentation reports the results of a project to extend the services and resources of Brigham Young University's Harold B. Lee Library to distance education students located in many areas of the world. Focusing on students enrolled in university-level English courses, the project team created a one-stop, integrated Web portal of library services and resources in Independent Study courses. This Library portal includes links to subscription databases, interlibrary loan, and personal reference services such as Ask a Librarian Live. The project team promoted faculty members' use of library research in the assignments for their Independent Study English courses. Finally, to ascertain the success of the project and make recommendations for further implementation and improvement, the project team tracked the students' use of library resources for their English courses and evaluated their experience with the portal. The ALA SIRSI's Leader in Library Technology Grant provided funding for the project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Electronic versions of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) seem to have a clear administrative logging advantage to traditional paper versions. However, most of them have not been formally evaluated for their suitability to replace paper outcome measures for assessment of individuals with lower-limb amputations. The aim of this study is to examine the usability and equivalence of electronic to paper versions of PROMs suitable for use in prosthetic clinical care and research for persons with lower-limb loss. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 10 participants remotely completed the following PROMs online and then on paper: Orthotic and Prosthetic User Survey (OPUS), Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES), Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ), Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9), and Community Participation Indicators (CPI). Participants also answered open-ended and standardized questions regarding the usability of the electronic surveys. Wilcoxon signed rank tests, comparisons to minimum detectable change, intraclass correlation coefficients, and Bland-Altman plots were used to evaluate differences between the two survey versions, meaningful changes in scores, reliability, and systematic biases, respectively. Results: Electronic surveys had fewer missing or ambiguous responses than paper surveys; however, the PEQ Social Burdens subscale could not be evaluated due to error in the creation of the electronic survey. No significant differences were found between scores of the two versions for any of the measures, but multiple participants had meaningful changes in the Appearance and Sounds PEQ subscales. All measures demonstrated acceptable reliability between versions, except the Appearance, Perceived Response, and Sounds subscales of the PEQ. No systematic biases in scores or usability concerns were found for any measures. Conclusions: This study analysis showed that most of the electronic PROMs studied are easily used and demonstrate equivalence to the paper versions. However, the PEQ Appearance, Perceived Response, Sounds, and Social Burden subscales require further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multimodal learning analytics (MMLA) offers the potential to provide evidence‐based insights into complex learning phenomena such as collaborative learning. Yet, few MMLA applications have closed the learning analytics loop by being evaluated in real‐world educational settings. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an MMLA solution in enhancing feedback and reflection within a complex and highly dynamic collaborative learning environment. A two‐year longitudinal study was conducted with 399 students and 17 teachers, utilising an MMLA system in reflective debriefings in the context of healthcare education. We analysed the survey data of 74 students and 11 teachers regarding their perceptions of the MMLA system. We applied the Evaluation Framework for Learning Analytics, augmented by complexity, accuracy and trust measures, to assess both teachers' and students' perspectives. The findings illustrated that teachers and students both had generally positive perceptions of the MMLA solution. Teachers found the MMLA solution helpful in facilitating feedback provision and reflection during debriefing sessions. Similarly, students found the MMLA solution effective in providing clarity on the data collected, stimulating reflection on their learning behaviours, and prompting considerations for adaptation in their learning behaviours. However, the complexity of the MMLA solution and the need for qualitative measures of communication emerged as areas for improvement. Additionally, the study highlighted the importance of data accuracy, transparency, and privacy protection to maintain user trust. The findings provide valuable contributions to advancing our understanding of the use of MMLA in supporting feedback and reflection practices in intricate collaborative learning while identifying avenues for further research and improvement. We also provided several insights and practical recommendations for successful MMLA implementation in authentic learning contexts. Practitioner notes What is currently known about this topic Multimodal learning analytics (MMLA) seeks to generate data‐informed insights about learners' metacognitive and emotional states as well as their learning behaviours, by utilising intricate physical and physiological signals. MMLA has not only pioneered novel data analytic methods but also aspired to complete the learning analytics loop by crafting innovative, tangible solutions that relay these insights to the concerned stakeholders. A prominent direction within MMLA research has been the formulation of tools to support feedback and reflection in collaborative learning scenarios, given MMLA's capacity to discern intricate and dynamic learning behaviours. What this paper adds Teachers' and students' positive perceptions of an MMLA implementation in stimulating considerations of adaptations in their pedagogical practices and learning behaviours, respectively. Empirical evidence supporting the potential of MMLA in assisting teachers to facilitate students' reflective practices during intricate collaborative learning scenarios. The importance of addressing issues related to design complexity, interpretability for users with disabilities, aggregated data representation, and concerns related to trust for building a practical MMLA solution in real learning settings. Implications for practice and/or policy The MMLA solution can provide teachers with a comprehensive view of student performance, illuminate areas for improvement, and confirm learning scenario outcomes. The MMLA solution can stimulate students' reflections on their learning behaviours and promote considerations of adaptation in their learning behaviours. Providing clear explanations and guidance on how to interpret analytics, as well as addressing concerns related to data completeness and representation, are essential to maximising utility. What is currently known about this topic Multimodal learning analytics (MMLA) seeks to generate data‐informed insights about learners' metacognitive and emotional states as well as their learning behaviours, by utilising intricate physical and physiological signals. MMLA has not only pioneered novel data analytic methods but also aspired to complete the learning analytics loop by crafting innovative, tangible solutions that relay these insights to the concerned stakeholders. A prominent direction within MMLA research has been the formulation of tools to support feedback and reflection in collaborative learning scenarios, given MMLA's capacity to discern intricate and dynamic learning behaviours. What this paper adds Teachers' and students' positive perceptions of an MMLA implementation in stimulating considerations of adaptations in their pedagogical practices and learning behaviours, respectively. Empirical evidence supporting the potential of MMLA in assisting teachers to facilitate students' reflective practices during intricate collaborative learning scenarios. The importance of addressing issues related to design complexity, interpretability for users with disabilities, aggregated data representation, and concerns related to trust for building a practical MMLA solution in real learning settings. Implications for practice and/or policy The MMLA solution can provide teachers with a comprehensive view of student performance, illuminate areas for improvement, and confirm learning scenario outcomes. The MMLA solution can stimulate students' reflections on their learning behaviours and promote considerations of adaptation in their learning behaviours. Providing clear explanations and guidance on how to interpret analytics, as well as addressing concerns related to data completeness and representation, are essential to maximising utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systems designed with persuasive software features can influence users to adopt attitudes and/or behaviours that contribute to better health outcomes. Studies on Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) interventions have shown how they can be used to support lifestyle changes. Meta-analytic reviews of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to appraise, summarise, and show their effects on health. To this end, we investigated the effectiveness of digital health interventions (DHI) designed for CHD and examined the impact of persuasive features in the DHIs. We performed a systematic search using three academic databases for scientific papers on CHD and digital interventions from 2010 to 2020, yielding 1556 papers. The systematic review and meta-analysis included 12 RCTs after screening. Our findings show that digital health interventions had an impact on diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, glycated haemoglobin, glucose, triglyceride, heart rate, and depression but not body mass index. We present effective interventions and insights into persuasive software features that were associated with effective DHIs. More research is needed to investigate the effectiveness of persuasive features in other contexts and other factors that can impact the effectiveness of DHIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To conduct psychometric testing of the Chinese version of the National Health Service Sustainability Model as an instrument to assess the sustainability of innovation in the Chinese nursing setting. Background: Evidence‐based practice is recognized worldwide as a way to improve the quality of healthcare; however, many evidence‐based practice programmes decline over time and do not sustain the benefits of their improvements. A sustainability assessment tool is used internationally but its use has not been validated in China. Design: A methodological study to test instrument validity and reliability. Methods: The data collection was conducted from 15 June 2022 to 31 August 2022. The internal consistency of the Chinese version of the sustainability model was measured with Cronbach's alpha. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the model's structural validity. Results: Four hundred eighty‐three questionnaires were returned, of which 478 were valid. The short time taken to evaluate the Chinese version of the sustainability model demonstrated its efficiency and ability to adapt to a busy clinical environment. The confirmatory factor analysis showed a good fit model and supported the convergence validity of the sustainability model. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.905 for the total scale, which indicated good internal consistency. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that the Chinese version of the sustainability model is a valid, reliable and efficient tool for measuring the sustainability of evidence‐based practices in Chinese nursing settings. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? As evidence‐based care grows in China, there are increasing numbers of programmes for evidence‐based practice.Evidence‐based practice leaders in China are currently focused on the implementation of evidence, with little focus on the maintenance of evidence after implementation.There is a lack of tools to assess the sustainability of evidence‐based practice in China. What this paper adds? This study further validates and refines the National Health Service Sustainability Model (NHS SM) in China's busy, centralized and paternalistic nursing clinical settings.Bridges the gap in sustainability assessment tools in China by introducing an evidence‐based practice sustainability assessment tool and further validating and refining the model in busy, centralized and paternalistic nursing clinical settings. The implications of this paper: Provide support to nursing professionals when selecting tools to assess the sustainability of evidence‐based practice in order to promote programme maintenance, avoid wasted upfront resource investment and achieve long‐term programme benefits.Provide a reference for professionals in other countries to introduce sustainability assessment tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The most effective injective treatment approach for sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain remains unclear. Aim of this study was to quantify the safety and effectiveness of the available injective strategies to address SIJ pain. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases from inception until January 2023. Inclusion criteria were studies written in English, comparative and non-comparative studies regardless of the minimum follow-up, and case series on SIJ injections. Safety and efficacy of the different injection therapies for the SIJ were quantified. A meta-analysis was conducted on the available data of the documented injective therapies. The "Checklist for Measuring Quality" by Downs and Black was used to assess the risk of bias and the quality of papers. Results: The literature search retrieved 43 papers (2431 patients): 16 retrospective case series, 2 retrospective comparative studies, 17 prospective case series, 3 prospective comparative studies, and 5 randomized controlled trials. Of the selected studies, 63% examined the effect of steroid injections, 16% of PRP injections, while 21% reported other heterogeneous treatments. The failure rate was 26% in steroid injections and 14% in PRP injections. The meta-analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in pain with the VAS score for both steroids and PRP: steroids improvement at mid-term 3.4 points (p < 0.05), at long-term 3.0 (p < 0.05), PRP improvement at mid-term 2.2 (p = 0.007), at long-term 2.3 points of the VAS pain scale (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Steroids are the most documented injective approach, with studies showing an overall safety and effectiveness. Still, the high number of failures underlined by some studies suggest the need for alternative procedures. Early PRP data showed promise, but the limitations of the current literature do not allow to clearly define the most suitable injective approach, and further studies are needed to identify the best injective treatment for SIJ patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of the very early emotional experiences in a child's life are recognized today as foundational in the mental health of becoming an adult. Unsurprisingly, clinicians and health authorities agree on the importance of early detection and treatment of any mental health issues experienced by the preschool child. This is even more important and challenging as young children do not yet have the language skills necessary to express their distress. But do the caregivers in charge of these populations have the best tools at their disposal to carry out that important mission in an efficient and scientifically robust manner reflecting the latest research findings and scientific literature? This is the question we try to answer in this paper. We revisited the theoretical underpinnings behind the concept of mentalization as playing a key role in the ability to understand the other's inner reality. We then carried out an extensive review of scientific papers written over the past 30 years on the subject. We examined mental representations of the adult on the child and analyzed those mentalizations as key inputs. We focused on extracting cross analyses of the mentalizations of one child by several adults with different functions in the life of the child. In this process, we used the PRISMA methodology applied to large international medical databases. We found that the qualitative approach, usually associated with a lengthy process, has been overwhelmingly used in trying to assess patients' mental states and to analyze the mentalizations on the patient, adult or child. Furthermore, cross analyses of mentalizations from more than one adult on a given child were almost nonexistent, despite having high epistemic and clinical potential. There is a dearth of reliable quantitative tools, able to capture and analyze the mentalizations on a patient, that are scientifically robust, transposable, and easy to implement in a clinical setting. The absence of such tools for medical professionals in charge of assessing preschool children contributes, in our view, the low detection and poor treatment of mental disorders in that particularly vulnerable population. We believe there is here an urgent unmet need and that such tools should be designed, validated, and deployed into the target populations as early as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex and enduring mental health problems require greater treatment resources, usually in the form of multidisciplinary support, including providing psychological therapies. This paper reports on an NHS, tertiary-level specialist psychotherapy service offering Psychodynamic therapies with longer-term, exploratory transdiagnostic approaches to support complexity and sustained personality functioning. This paper adopts a naturalistic study design evaluating the effectiveness of Psychodynamic therapy using pre- and post-outcomes across a 10-year period. A total of n = 474 participants self-report pre- and post-outcome measures were used as the marker of effectiveness along with therapist assessments during intake and engagement. The findings showed that Psychodynamic therapy was effective in reducing psychological distress based on service-user self-report and therapist assessments. While intake scores varied by socio-demographic factors, the rate of change across most groups was similar. There were several limitations relating to data quality and completeness which reflect the naturalistic design. Despite the limits of a naturalistic design, this study provides evidence of support for the place of Psychodynamic therapies within NHS mental health care, catering to those with complex and enduring mental health problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to investigate the quality of neural machine translation when translating research paper abstracts from English to Arabic. It performs an error analysis and provides an evaluation of the quality of neural machine translation (NMT) represented by Google Translate and Microsoft Translator. The research team selects 25 English research paper abstracts in education from well-known Scopus scientific journals issued in English speaking countries. These abstracts are then translated into Arabic using both Google Translate and Microsoft Translator. The error analysis is based on the typology of errors introduced by Multidimensional Quality Metrics (MQM). A professional evaluation is also conducted using the Scalar Quality Metric evaluation (SQM) as proposed in Freitag (2021). The study finds that the translation outputs of academic texts like abstracts of education research papers are still not up to standards when translating English educational research abstracts into Arabic. There are various types of translation errors. However, there is a slight difference in translation quality and number of errors in favor of Google Translate compared to Microsoft Translator. However, it is included that NMT system still requires a lot of training, and more Arabic corpora need to be built. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern challenges such as the liberalization of the railway sector and growing demands for sustainability, high-quality services, and user satisfaction set new standards in railway operations. In this context, railway infrastructure managers (RIMs) play a crucial role in ensuring innovative approaches that will strengthen the position of railways in the market by enhancing efficiency and competitiveness. Evaluating their performance is essential for assessing the achieved objectives, and it is conducted through a wide range of key performance indicators (KPIs), which encompass various dimensions of operations. Monitoring and analyzing KPIs are crucial for improving service quality, achieving sustainability, and establishing a foundation for research and development of new strategies in the railway sector. This paper provides a detailed overview and evaluation of KPIs for RIMs. This paper creates a framework for RIM evaluation using various scientific methods, from identifying KPIs to applying complex analysis methods. A novel hybrid model, which integrates the fuzzy Delphi method for aggregating expert opinions on the KPIs' importance, the extended fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method for determining the relative weights of these KPIs, and the ADAM method for ranking RIMs, has been developed in this paper. This approach enables a detailed analysis and comparison of RIMs and their performances, providing the basis for informed decision-making and the development of new strategies within the railway sector. The analysis results provide insight into the current state of railway infrastructure and encourage further efforts to improve the railway sector by identifying key areas for enhancement. The main contributions of the research include a detailed overview of KPIs for RIMs and the development of a hybrid multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model. The hybrid model represents a significant step in RIM performance analysis, providing a basis for future research in this area. The model is universal and, as such, represents a valuable contribution to MCDM theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic low back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide. A clinical model for its cause is lacking. Defining a cause based clinical model and a framework of understanding back pain in terms of peripheral structural and central functional pain is essential for optimal management. We describe the results of the largest published audit of 41 chronic low back pain patients, receiving outpatient sublingual ketamine therapy for defined central functional pain along with conventional peripheral structural pain management. Our clinical model assigns Movement Dysfunction as the primary cause for low back pain symptoms and restores it with Movement Therapy focused rehabilitation which is also defined. Patients were derived from a tertiary single neurosurgical specialist practice in Brisbane Australia over a three year period. Severe pain and disability measurements more than halved and only 13% of patients ceased ketamine prematurely due to predominantly non-sinister side effects common to all pharmaceutical therapies. All other surveyed metrics of utility were highly favourable in this challenging cohort of chronic back pain patients biased to poor outcomes. Outpatient ketamine maintains high efficacy and safety used in conjunction with a unique clinical model that describes chronic low back pain. This paper builds on our previous publications that describe the disease of movement dysfunction as an integral factor to the development of a cause based clinical model for the condition of chronic low back pain symptoms. Our clinical application of this model, applying the necessary dual approach of controlling symptoms arising from peripheral structural pain and central functional pain in conjunction with elimination of root causation has shown favourable outcomes in patients with high levels of pain and disability based on their tertiary referral origin and high Oswestry Disability Scores. Removing chronic low back pain from its position as one of the world's leading causes of pain and disability is more likely if the rehabilitation industry can replicate and test treatment algorithms based around established clinical models of disease which is the important subject of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of aldosterone has yet to be well appreciated in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Two variables define CKD: an estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and a spot urine albumin‐creatinine ratio of >30 mg/g. Both are needed for an accurate diagnosis. The presence of CKD at this level is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular death and a greater risk of CKD progression to kidney failure and subsequent dialysis. This paper presents an overview of aldosterone's importance in CKD and its contribution to the inflammatory processes involved in CKD development. Data on outcomes, both surrogate and hard, related to outcomes on CKD progression will also be discussed in the context of mineralocorticoid blockade. Based on recent epidemiological data as well as data examining markers of diabetic kidney disease progression, it is clear that use of both renin‐angiotensin system inhibitors and aldosterone receptor antagonists have a significant role in altering the natural history of kidney disease progression itself, as well as reducing the risk of cardiovascular events that generally accompany long‐standing kidney disease. This paper will discuss these issues and the management of consequent hyperkalaemia when both steroidal and non‐steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists are used in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Statins are commonly prescribed medications with recognised side effects including muscle weakness. Despite this, little is known about their effect on the physical activity and falls risk in the older population. This paper aims to explore the relationship between statin use and the physical activity and falls risk in adults aged 65 and older. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO were searched on 21/11/2022 to obtain relevant articles. Data considered appropriate included that relating to muscle strength, grip strength, gait speed, balance and falls incidence. Reference and citation searches were performed to identify further relevant papers, and all eligible articles were subject to a Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) to assess potential bias. With the data being highly heterogeneous, no attempt to measure effect size was made and a narrative synthesis approach was used. The review proposal was registered with PROSPERO: CRD42022366159. Results: Twenty articles were included. Data were inconsistent throughout, with the overall trend suggesting no significant negative effects of statins on the parameters of physical activity, or on falls risk. This was especially true in matched and adjusted cohorts, where potential confounders had been accounted for. Conclusion: This review did not identify a relationship between statin use and physical activity and falls risk in people aged 65 years and older. Ultimately, the risks and benefits of every medication should be considered in the context of each individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the emerging body of literature on the benefits of youth peer support, there is also evidence that peer support can have unintended negative impacts on peers themselves. It is important to explore what aspects of the peer role contribute to these difficulties in order to mitigate risks. This paper uses a participatory approach to examine the unique attributes of youth peer practice and the related challenges. We conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups with both peer and non-peer staff from a community-based youth mental health program that provides peer support services (N = 29). Thematic analyses were completed using QSR NVivo. Analyses capture the defining features and related challenges of the peer support role (self-disclosure, boundaries, role confusion and dynamic recovery), and risk factors that affect peers (stigma, exposure to harm and burnout). This paper contributes to the literature on peer support as well as youth participatory evaluation. The findings will be useful to support the development of improved organizational contexts for peer practice and more effective peer support programming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Pediatric Eating Assessment Tool (PEDI‐EAT‐10) is a reliable and valid tool for rapid identification of dysphagia in patients aged 18 months to 18 years. Aims: To translate and adapt the PEDI‐EAT‐10 into the Italian language and evaluate its validity and reliability. Methods & Procedures: The translation and cross‐cultural adaptation of the tool consisted of five stages: initial translation, synthesis of the translations, back translation, expert committee evaluation and test of the prefinal version. The internal consistency of the translated tool was analysed in a clinical group composed of 200 patients with special healthcare needs aged between 18 months and 18 years. They were consecutively enrolled at the Rare Disease Unit, Paediatrics Department, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli‐IRCCS, Rome. For test–retest reliability, 50 caregivers filled in the PEDI‐EAT‐10 questionnaire for a second time after a 2‐week period. Construct validity was established by comparing data obtained from patients with data from healthy participants (n = 200). The study was approved by the local ethics committee. Outcomes & Results: Psychometric data obtained from patients (104 M; mean age = 8.08 ± 4.85 years; median age = 7 years) showed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.89) and test–retest reliability (Pearson r = 0.99; Spearman r = 0.96). A total of 30% of children were classified as having a high risk of penetration/aspiration. The Italian PEDI‐EAT‐10 mean total score of the clinical group was significantly different from that resulting from healthy participants. Conclusions & Implications: The PEDI‐EAT‐10 was successfully translated into Italian, validated and found to be a reliable one‐page rapid screening tool to identify dysphagia in children and adolescents with special needs. What this paper adds: What is already known on the subject: The PEDI‐EAT‐10 is a valid and reliable quick discriminative paediatric tool for identifying penetration/aspiration risks. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge: In the present study we successfully translated and adapted the PEDI‐EAT‐10 into the Italian language. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: This translation and adaptation increase access to valid feeding and swallowing assessment for children of Italian‐speaking families. In addition, the I‐PEDI‐EAT‐10 can suggest further assessment of patients' swallowing abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Speech Language Therapy First Point of Contact Clinic (SLT‐FPOCC) models can assist assessment of low‐risk patient populations referred to ear, nose and throat (ENT) services. To further improve ENT waitlist management and compliance with best‐practice care, consideration of other low‐risk populations that could be safely managed through this service model is needed. The aims of this paper are to evaluate the clinical and service outcomes of completing vocal cord check (VCC) assessments for patients' pre and post thyroid/parathyroid surgery within an SLT‐FPOCC model and examine consumer perceptions. Methods & Procedures: The service followed existing SLT‐FPOCC procedures, with ENT triaging referrals, then SLT completing pre‐ and postoperative VCC assessment (interview, perceptual assessment, flexible nasendoscopy), with assessment data later reviewed by ENT to diagnose laryngeal pathology. Clinical and service outcomes were collected prospectively. Patients completed an anonymous post‐service satisfaction survey. Results: Of the first 100 patients referred for preoperative VCCs, SLT assessment identified 42 with dysphonia and 30 reporting dysphagia, while ENT confirmed 9 with significant preoperative anatomical findings. Eighty‐three underwent surgery, with 63 (95 nerves at surgical risk) returning for a postoperative VCC. Postoperative VCC identified three temporary neuropraxias (3.2%) and three unilateral vocal fold paresis (3.2%). Patients were highly satisfied with the service. All 163 pre‐/postoperative VCCs were completed with no adverse events. Conclusion & Implications: The current data support SLT‐FPOCC service expansion to include pre and post thyroid/parathyroid surgery VCC checks, with positive consumer perception. The model supports delivery of best practice management (i.e., pre‐ and postoperative VCC) for patients receiving surgery for thyroid/parathyroid dysfunction, and associated efficiencies for ENT services. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known: Assessment of laryngeal function via flexible nasoendoscopy is recommended best practice for patients pre and postthyroid/parathyroid surgery, as recurrent laryngeal nerve injury is a low incidence (<10%), yet well‐recognised risk of these surgeries. Traditionally, general surgeons refer presurgical patients to ear, nose and throat (ENT) for vocal cord check (VCC) assessment. However, with access to specialist outpatient services under increasing pressure, there is growing support for utilisation of other health professionals, such as speech‐language therapists working in first point of contact (FPOCC) models, to assist with the administration of pre‐ and postsurgical assessments of such low‐risk populations. What this study adds: This work expands on the emerging body of evidence for speech language therapy (SLT) led FPOCC models within ENT outpatient services, providing clinical and service outcomes to support the safety of a new model designed to administer VCCs for patients pre and post thyroid/parathyroid surgery. Adopting a similar model to a prior published SLT‐led FPOCC model, the trained SLT completes the pre‐ and postsurgical VCC including flexible nasoendoscopy and videostroboscopy, with images and clinical information then presented to ENT for diagnosis and management planning. This study also provides the first data on consumer perceptions of this type of service model. Clinical implications of this study: Data on 100 consecutive presurgical patients revealed positive service findings, supporting the safety of this model. Nature and incidence of clinical findings pre and post surgery were consistent with previously published studies using traditional models of care (i.e., ENT completing the flexible nasendoscopy). Consumer perception was positive. This model enables delivery of pre‐and postsurgical assessments for patients receiving thyroid/parathyroid surgery, consistent with best practice care, and reduces burden on ENT services. In total 163 ENT appointments were avoided with this model, with positive implications for ENT waitlist management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People who have communication difficulties may benefit from using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Understanding and measuring outcomes from the use of AAC is an important part of evaluating the impact of devices and services. Outcome measurement needs to reflect the changing nature of the impact of using AAC on an individual's ability to participate in activities of daily life. There is a limited understanding of the concepts that should inform the evaluation of outcomes from AAC device provision, nor how people's expectations from AAC may change over time. Aims: To inform the development of a patient‐reported outcome measure for AAC by understanding more about people's expectations from AAC and how these change over time. Methods & Procedures: A longitudinal qualitative research study was designed and carried out with seven participants over a period of 2 years. Participants were recruited from a regional specialist assessment service for AAC in the south‐west of the UK. Four semi‐structured interviews were carried out: (1) before assessment for AAC, (2) after assessment, (3) directly after provision of an AAC device and (4) between 6 and 12 months after provision. An original analytic method was used in this study that built on the principles of longitudinal interpretative phenomenology analysis, applied with a dialogic theoretical lens. This approach enabled the inclusion of a range of multimodal and embodied data collected to this study and allowed the research team to draw out salient themes across the cohort group while attending to the influence of time and context on experience. Outcomes & Results: The results confirm and extend the three core concepts that were used to guide analysis: changes; contexts; future possibilities. The contextual and temporal influences on outcomes attainable from AAC for this cohort were also identified and illustrated through cross‐case comparison. Deeper, analytic, and conceptual engagement with theory, which was then applied to analysis of the data, provided methodological rigour in the study. The results enhance our understanding of people's hopes and expectations from AAC and how these change over time. Conclusions & Implications: This qualitative longitudinal research study provides new insights into the journeys of people who experience communication disability, and the shifting nature of their sense of identity as they engage with, and learn from using, AAC. The study is significant as it attends to the dynamic nature of experience and how contextual and experiential factors influence people's hopes and expectations from AAC. The paper presents an original application of longitudinal qualitative research methodology with people who use AAC which can be further applied and tested in the field of communication disability research. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on this subject: We did not know the impact that time has on the concepts that have been identified to represent important outcomes from AAC. The existing concepts used to define outcomes from AAC were not adequately conceptualized to develop a patient‐reported outcome measure. This study sought to extend our knowledge about outcomes from AAC. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge: This study adds to the methodological toolkit available for qualitative inquiry in the field of communication disability research by presenting a longitudinal qualitative research methodology. It adds depth to our understanding of the concepts that underpin outcomes from AAC and highlights the dynamic nature of contexts and how this influences desired outcomes. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: This longitudinal qualitative research study provides a broader perspective on the experience of getting AAC. It will enable clinicians to better navigate the contextual and transitionary factors that influence people's experience of acquiring AAC devices. The enhanced concepts described will also support clinical conversations that consider the wider facets of communication and what AAC can add to existing communicative tool kits beyond getting a message across. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there are numerous performance metrics that have been developed for the evaluation of distracted driving prevention programs, there is little information on how to select them depending on the requirements and/or objectives of the study. This paper describes a systematic literature review that was conducted on the metrics for evaluating distracted driving countermeasures in order to bridge this research gap. A summary of the evaluation metrics used for the existing distracted driving countermeasures was provided. Guidance for choosing an evaluation measure was provided by analyzing the metrics from the perspectives of functionality, spatial-temporal dimension, and equity. Three examples of distracted driving countermeasure evaluation processes were thoroughly reviewed in order to offer insight into metric selection and measurement. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by discussing the implications for policy on how to enhance the thoroughness and accuracy of the evaluation of distracted driving countermeasures. Analysis from multiple angles, the development of data collection tools and direct behavior indicators, taking into account temporal dimensions, and equity considerations, are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This paper discusses the challenges in treating high-grade gliomas, particularly glioblastomas, which are aggressive brain tumors with high recurrence rates. It highlights the limitations of current diagnostic imaging modalities, such as gadolinium-based MRI, in accurately detecting tumor recurrence versus treatment-related changes. The paper explores the emerging role of positron emission tomography (PET) in glioma imaging, especially with the use of radiotracers like PSMA, which can help differentiate between tumor recurrence and treatment effects. Furthermore, the paper reviews the concept of theranostics, which integrates diagnostics and therapy, offering a targeted approach to glioma treatment. It discusses various radioligands, including PSMA, 213Bi-DOTA-substance P, 90Y-DOTATOC, 18F-FDOPA, p-[131I]-iodo-L-phenylalanine, and 18F-GE-180, which have shown promise in diagnosing and treating recurrent gliomas. The potential of theranostics to minimize systemic toxicity and improve treatment outcomes is emphasized. Moreover, the paper highlights the importance of considering quality-of-life (QOL) outcomes in glioma patients, as conventional treatments often have significant impacts on patients' well-being. While theranostics offers a personalized approach to treatment, its potential promise for functional outcomes and QOL needs further investigation. The paper suggests that future research should focus on understanding the broader implications of theranostics on patient well-being, incorporating factors such as demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatment-related effects into QOL assessments. Overall, the paper underscores the potential of theranostics to revolutionize glioma management and improve patient outcomes in the future. Gliomas represent the most commonly occurring tumors in the central nervous system and account for approximately 80% of all malignant primary brain tumors. With a high malignancy and recurrence risk, the prognosis of high-grade gliomas is poor, with a mean survival time of 12–18 months. While contrast-enhanced MRI serves as the standard diagnostic imaging modality for gliomas, it faces limitations in the evaluation of recurrent gliomas, failing to distinguish between treatment-related changes and tumor progression, and offers no direct therapeutic options. Recent advances in imaging modalities have attempted to address some of these limitations, including positron emission tomography (PET), which has demonstrated success in delineating tumor margins and guiding the treatment of recurrent gliomas. Additionally, with the advent of theranostics in nuclear medicine, PET tracers, when combined with therapeutic agents, have also evolved beyond a purely diagnostic modality, serving both diagnostic and therapeutic roles. This review will discuss the growing involvement of theranostics in diagnosing and treating recurrent gliomas and address the associated impact on quality of life and functional recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The continuous generation of industrial waste and the environmental problems it causes make it necessary to seek alternative methods for treating waste. The development of ceramic materials seems to be one such alternative. In this paper, we study the possibility of recovering two forms of waste from the paper industry, sludge from the purification of waste water and residue from cleaning the pulp. The sludge and residue can be used in ceramics, whose properties and composition permit the incorporation of such waste in their manufacture. This addition enables savings in both raw materials and energy, as these waste products have high calorific content. In both cases, the results show that increasing the content of waste increases linear expansion and water absorption and in turn reduces resistance to compression. The decrease in resistance to compression is more pronounced in the specimens prepared with paper waste than in those prepared with sludge. The results also show a decrease in thermal conductivity that is attributable to the lightening quality of both residues. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This introduction to the special feature describes the development and application of a "full-spectrum sustainability" evaluation framework that emerged from a transdisciplinary research process. The framework and corresponding case studies described in this paper originated in the work of a Canadian Fisheries Research Network project that sought to enhance fisheries management by including diverse social-ecological considerations in fisheries management evaluation. The first section discusses the tendency of sustainability evaluation frameworks in fisheries to focus on ecological and economic considerations and introduces the Canadian Fisheries Research Network's four pillar approach, which includes ecological, economic, social and cultural, and institutional/ governance categories. To illustrate the comprehensive nature of this framework, the second section provides a comparison of the framework with elements in the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals. The third section provides an overview of the eight papers in this special feature that explore the development and application of full-spectrum sustainability. The conclusion synthesizes some key findings, highlighting four overall critical and ongoing challenges associated with advancing full-spectrum sustainability evaluation in Canada and elsewhere: the politics of transdisciplinary research; integrating social considerations into management agencies reluctant to move beyond ecological and economic considerations; dynamic and diverse issues involved in supporting robust and inclusive governance processes; and translating technical frameworks into usable practical instruments for different societal actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceramic paper discs were made by employing a dual papermaking technique and by partially substituting cellulosic fibres by SiO 2 -Al 2 O 3 ceramic ones. Ulexite (NaCaB 5 O 6 (OH) 6 ·5(H 2 O)), extracted from the natural mineral, was added as a binder to give ceramic paper the necessary strength for its manipulation and catalytic use. Either La,Co or Ba,Co was incorporated in order to give ceramic paper the capability of trapping NOx and oxidizing soot particles. Structured catalysts were characterised by SEM, FTIR and XRD, and the mechanical properties were also determined. Lanthanum was deposited on ceramic fibres as La 2 O 2 CO 3 aggregates and barium as BaCO 3 filaments, being cobalt deposited as Co 3 O 4 flakes. Mechanical properties indicated that the ceramic paper obtained from natural ulexite proved to be stronger, though less flexible than those prepared using colloidal suspensions as a binder. Diesel soot oxidation activity was determined by TPO either adding or not 0.1% NO into the feeding stream. The thus prepared systems resulted in being active towards soot oxidation, being the value of maximum combustion rate 420 °C, which is within the temperature range of diesel exhaust gases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investments in training and development programs are steadily increasing in organizations. Along with them, the concern of companies in analyzing the results of their programs grows. This study has the objective of building an evaluation model of training results, proposed for the Coil Finishing area of a Pulp and Paper company, using the Kirkpatrick methodology, which proposes the division of the evaluation into 4 levels, which are: Reaction, Learning, Behavior and Results. The final model is presented, and may guide other studies in the creation of their own models, however, indicators and data should be adapted to each organizational situation, considering their particularities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Developments in information and communication technologies have enabled electronic health and seen a huge expansion over the last decade. This has increased the possibility of self-management of health issues. Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of the Baby Buddy app on maternal self-efficacy and mental well-being three months post-birth in a sample of mothers recruited antenatally. In addition, to explore when, why and how mothers use the app and consider any benefits the app may offer them in relation to their parenting, health, relationships or communication with their child, friends, family members or health professionals. Methods: We will use a mixed-methods approach, a cohort study, a qualitative element and analysis of in-app data. Participants will be first-time pregnant women, aged 16 years and over, between 12 and 16 weeks of gestation and recruited from five English study sites. Evaluation plan: We will compare maternal self-efficacy and mental health at three months post-delivery in mothers who have downloaded the Baby Buddy app compared with those that have not downloaded the app, controlling for confounding factors. Women will be recruited antenatally between 12 and 16 weeks of gestation. Further follow-ups will take place at 35 weeks of gestation and three months post-birth. Data from the cohort study will be supplemented by in-app data that will include, for example, patterns of usage. Qualitative data will assess the impact of the app on the lives of pregnant women and health professionals using both focus groups and interviews. Ethics: Approval from the West Midlands-South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee (NRES) (16/WM/0029) and the University of the West of England, Bristol, Research Ethics Committee (HAS.16.08.001). Dissemination: Findings of the study will be published in peer reviewed and professional journals, presented locally, nationally and at international conferences. Participants will receive a summary of the findings and the results will be published on Best Beginnings' website. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Alternative Uses Test is a measure of divergent thinking in which participants are asked to list non-obvious uses for a common object in a fixed amount of time. The goals of this study were to better understand this creativity test, explore how original ideas emerge, and provide suggestions for improvement to the test. Participants were asked to list alternative uses for a paperclip in three minutes. 293 participants, including engineers, designers and students, were tested and evaluated. Using infrequency of responses as a measure of originality, it was found that participants that produced more responses had more original responses. Later responses were significantly more original than early responses and originality of responses increased with quantity. On average, a participant would list 9 responses before arriving at highly original responses. Participants that did not reach 9 responses in the study were likely to have few if any highly original responses. Participants that were more elaborate in their responses had fewer responses in total and therefore fewer original responses. If this test maps to real world idea generation, it suggests that the first ideas we think of are likely to have been suggested already by others and thus not original. The results of this study can help restructure the format of the Alternative Uses Test and provide a database for a digital version of this test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application-oriented papers provide an important way to invigorate and cross-pollinate the visualization field, but the exact criteria for judging an application paper's merit remain an open question. This article builds on a panel at the 2016 IEEE Visualization Conference entitled "Application Papers: What Are They, and How Should They Be Evaluated?" that sought to gain a better understanding of prevalent views in the visualization community. This article surveys current trends that favor application papers, reviews the benefits and contributions of this paper type, and discusses their assessment in the review process. It concludes with recommendations to ensure that the visualization community is more inclusive to application papers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In 2003, Bloom, Hill, and Riccio (BHR) published an influential paper introducing novel methods for explaining the variation in local impacts observed in multi-site randomized control trials of socio-economic interventions in terms of site-level mediators. This paper seeks to improve upon this previous work by using student-level data to measure site-level mediators and confounders. Development of asymptotic behavior backed up with simulations and an empirical example. Students and training providers. Two simulations and an empirical application to data from an evaluation of the Health Professions Opportunity Grants (HPOG) Program. This empirical analysis involved roughly 6600 participants across 37 local sites. We examine bias and mean square error of estimates of mediation coefficients as well as the true coverage of nominal 95-percent confidence intervals on the mediation coefficients. Simulations suggest that the new methods generally improve the quality of inferences even when there is no confounding. Applying this methodology to the HPOG study shows that program-average FTE months of study by month six was a significant mediator of both career progress and long-term degree/credential receipt. Evaluators can robustify their BHR-style analyses by the use of the methods proposed here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We recently each completed doctoral programs where the major focus of our work was in mixed methods research. In the first part of this three-part commentary, we present an overview of mixed methods research. In the second part, we present a summary of our primary and secondary research findings from our doctoral work involving mixed methods. In a third paper, we will discuss integrating qualitative research with randomized controlled trials and how this mixed methods study design can be applied to research within the chiropractic profession. Our aim with these papers is to increase awareness amongst the chiropractic community of the value (and challenges) of using this unique methodology. We also make recommendations for improving the quality of reporting and conduct of future chiropractic mixed methods studies. Further dissemination of this work will occur through online webinars and conference presentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to (i) evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness‐based interventions in improving self‐efficacy, reducing stress and anxiety among peritoneal dialysis patients, and (ii) compare the most effective method of mindfulness based interventions. Methods: This randomized three‐arm controlled trial recruited first‐time peritoneal dialysis patients from the peritoneal dialysis outpatient clinic in Singapore. Patients were randomly allocated to either video‐assisted mindfulness training, therapist‐assisted mindfulness training or treatment‐as‐usual. All groups received 4.5 days of structured peritoneal dialysis training at the peritoneal dialysis centre, while video‐assisted mindfulness training and therapist‐assisted mindfulness training groups were taught additional mindfulness‐based techniques. The perceived stress scale, self‐efficacy, and anxiety (State and Trait Anxiety Inventory) were measured at baseline, 4‐ and 12 weeks post‐randomization, using reliable and valid instruments. Results: Thirty‐nine patients were recruited (13 in each group). All the therapies showed a significant time trend in anxiety. Only therapist‐ and video‐assisted mindfulness training showed a significant trend in perceived stress scale scores but not treatment‐as‐usual. All Intervention X Time interactions were not significant. Patients in therapist‐ and video‐assisted mindfulness training groups had reduced perceived stress scale scores compared to treatment‐as‐usual at week 12. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the potential of mindfulness‐based interventions in reducing stress among first‐time PD patients. Summary Statement: What is already known about this topic? Mindfulness‐based interventions have been recommended to mediate stressful events.Mindfulness‐based interventions as complementary therapy can be taught to patients who are starting peritoneal dialysis for the first time; however, the best method to guide mindfulness‐based interventions is unknown. What this paper adds? The findings showed that mindfulness‐based interventions can potentially reduce stress and anxiety but have no statistically significant effect on self‐efficacy for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis for the first time.Video‐ or therapist‐guided mindfulness training is just as effective in teaching mindfulness‐based interventions. The implications of this paper: Nurses hold an essential role in improving the experience of patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis by advocating and facilitating the use of MBI during dialysis, especially those who display high levels of stress and anxiety, as well as signs of coping issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed to assess the impact of Tai Chi interventions on individuals with essential hypertension and to compare the effects of Tai Chi versus control in this population. Background: Tai Chi has been extensively utilized in the prevention of essential hypertension. Nevertheless, there is a lack of consensus regarding its benefits for treating essential hypertension. Design: A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted. Data Sources We conducted a systematic literature search of the Medline, Scholar, Elsevier, Wiley Online Library, Chinese Academic Journal (CNKI) and Wanfang databases from January 2003 to August 2023. Review Methods: Using the methods of the Cochrane Collaboration Handbook, a meta‐analysis was conducted to assess the collective impact of Tai Chi exercise in controlling hypertension. The primary outcomes measured included blood pressure and nitric oxide levels. Results: The participants consisted of adults with an average age of 57.1 years who had hypertension (mean ± standard deviation systolic blood pressure at 148.2 ± 12.1 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure at 89.2 ± 8.3 mmHg). Individuals who practiced Tai Chi experienced reductions in systolic blood pressure of 10.6 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure of 4.7 mmHg and an increase in nitric oxide levels. Conclusions: Tai Chi can be a viable lifestyle intervention for managing hypertension. Greater promotion of Tai Chi by medical professionals could extend these benefits to a larger patient population. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Hypertension is the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease.Essential hypertension accounts for 90% of the overall prevalence of hypertension.Tai Chi has been employed for the prevention and treatment of essential hypertension. What this paper adds: The study reveals that the efficacy of 24‐style Tai Chi intervention in combating hypertension surpasses that of traditional aerobic exercises and conventional drug therapy.The statistical significance of anti‐hypertensive effects is notably higher when practicing middle‐intensity 24‐style Tai Chi for 1 h. Implications of this paper: The findings suggest that 24‐style Tai Chi holds clinical significance for patients, nurses and healthcare decision‐makers involved in the prevention and treatment of hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the demand for subjective evaluation of driveability for fuel cell vehicles, the modeling and evaluation method of driveability for fuel cell vehicles were studied in this paper. Firstly, a real-time model of the fuel cell vehicle powertrain system was established, which included the fuel cell model, power battery model, DC/DC converter model and drive motor model. Secondly, it was integrated with the vehicle dynamics model to form a virtual prototype of a fuel cell vehicle. And a virtual subjective evaluation platform for fuel cell vehicles was built by combining the virtual prototype and high-fidelity driving simulator. Thirdly, a subjective evaluation method of driveability for fuel cell vehicles was proposed, which included the starting performance, acceleration performance, uniform speed performance and tip-in/tip-out performance. Finally, the paper used the platform and method mentioned above to conduct subjective evaluations of the fuel cell vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]