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This study explores how the anthropomorphic attributes of service robots influence employees’ cognitive crafting through positive emotional responses, with particular attention to the moderating role of interaction frequency in this process. Two complementary research methods were designed for this study. After conducting a preliminary pilot experiment with 35 participants to initially validate our hypotheses, an experiment with 150 hospitality industry employees (Study 1) was conducted online to examine the hypothesized relations. Finally, a survey of 233 hotel employees (Study 2) was carried out online, and a moderated mediation model was used to analyze the relationships between robot anthropomorphism, interaction frequency, positive emotions, and cognitive crafting. The results show that the anthropomorphic features of service robots significantly enhance employees’ positive emotions, thereby promoting cognitive crafting, with increased interaction frequency further amplifying this mediating effect. This study provides empirical evidence for human-robot interaction optimization and insights for robotic system implementation in hospitality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pilot study aims to explore the experiences of grief and mourning practices of bereaved adults during the pandemic. Eleven adults who have lost a loved one since March 2020 participated in a semi-structured interview exploring the experiences of grief and mourning. Data were analyzed through Thematic Analysis. Participants experienced contrasting psycho-emotional reactions to loss, and they highlighted the restriction of being physically present to the dying loved one as the hardest aspect of losing someone during COVID-19. Moreover, they identified challenging factors during the funeral practices: the small number of mourners during ceremonies, abstinence from hugging and touching each other as a form of consolation, and wearing masks, which further made the ceremony impersonal. Finally, the alteration of the paying respects process has contributed to the mourners' experienced stress and sorrow. Findings are discussed per the current literature and recommendations based on cultural diversities are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We know much about people's problematic reactions—such as distressing intrusions—to negative, stressful, or traumatic past events. But emerging evidence suggests people react similarly to negative and potentially-traumatic future events. Given similar processes underlie remembering the past and imagining the future more generally, we wondered how similar involuntary memories, or intrusions, are for experienced vs. anticipated events. We focused primarily on intrusions because they are a transdiagnostic reaction to traumatic events. We asked subjects to report either a very stressful event they had experienced in the past 6 months, or one they anticipated they could experience in the next 6 months. We measured the frequency of intrusions about these reported events, and intrusions' phenomenological characteristics (such as emotional intensity), negative appraisals about their meaning, and reactions to them more generally. Overall, we found intrusions about experienced vs. anticipated autobiographical events were similarly troubling. This pattern supports the idea that anticipating the future can be aversive and elicit post-traumatic-stress-like symptoms, just as remembering the past can. Our findings have implications for theoretical models of traumatic-stress and treatment of traumatic-stress symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This pilot test of the 4Ms-Behavioral Health (4Ms-BH) training program was designed to assess knowledge gains, clinical behavior change, and acceptability among mental health clinicians and compile lessons to guide widespread implementation of the framework. The ultimate future goal is to improve care for older adults by expanding the 4Ms framework for behavioral health providers. Method: Fifteen mental health clinicians from Community Mental Health Centers in three states completed eight hours of live session training over six months: one three-hour introduction followed by five monthly application sessions. Clinicians completed knowledge and clinical behavior measures before and after training, along with follow-up discussion regarding acceptability and sustainability. Results: Although knowledge gains were not significant in the overall 4Ms knowledge assessment, knowledge in the Medication and Mobility domains improved at 17% and 15%, respectively. Participants completing the program demonstrated an increased frequency of clinical behaviors pertinent to older adult care with large effect sizes in each of the 4Ms assessment and action activities from pre-training to post-training (Cohen's d range = 0.82 − 1.66, p ≤ 0.01). Conclusion: The 4Ms-BH framework was well-received by participants, who demonstrated some significant knowledge gains and clinical behavior change. These pilot data suggest that this framework has strong potential to effectively train mental health clinicians with little geriatric training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: People with dementia have several unmet needs during the syndrome progression. More unmet needs are related to hospitalizations, injuries, and death. Little is known about the care needs for people living with dementia in Brazil. This study aims to translate and adapt the Johns Hopkins Dementia Care Needs Assessment (JHDCNA 2.0), a tool design to identify the dementia-related needs of people with dementia and their caregivers, to Brazilian Portuguese, and to verify psychometric properties. Method: JHDCNA 2.0 underwent a translation, back-translation, and cultural adaptation. Preliminary psychometric testing of the Brazilian version (JHDCNA-Br 2.0) included pilot testing and experts' assessment, analyses of reliability, evidence based on test content and relations to other variables. We conducted 140 in-home interviews to assess several sociodemographic and health aspects and to be able to complete the JHDCNA-Br 2.0. Results: The JHDCNA-Br 2.0 is reliable and has evidence based on test content and on relations to other variables for people living with dementia and caregivers. Preliminary results suggest high prevalence of unmet needs. Conclusion: JHDCNA-Br 2.0 is a reliable and valid tool. The availability of this tool brings new opportunities to the study of dementia care, taking into consideration cultural aspects and may help inform future approaches to dementia care delivery to support persons and families affected by these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Autistic individuals often display social-communicative differences affecting aspects of daily living. The present study assessed the feasibility and potential efficacy of a dance-based exergame for enhancing autistic children's social-communication skills. Methods: A mixed method, within-subject, pre-test/post-test study design was employed. Children in their home (n = 4; Mage = 8.25 years old, SD = 0.50) and school environments (n = 31; Mage = 10.87 years old, SD = 1.61) participated in a dance-based exergaming intervention (Just Dance) for six weeks. Results: A positive change in children's social-communication skills was observed (p < 0.01). Results suggest Just Dance was easy to implement and enjoyable. Conclusion: A larger randomised control trial is warranted to confirm the effectiveness of the dance-based exergame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disability with increasing prevalence worldwide. Its main challenges include poor social interaction and self-regulation skills. Effective interventions are required to improve children with ASD's social interaction skills and emotional regulation. This study aimed to develop and test the feasibility and short-term efficacy of home-based augmented reality (AR) training modules for preschool children with ASD. We recruited five and 15 preschool children (3–5 years old) with ASD, respectively. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare emotional functioning and adaptive behavior differences. The children received 8-week home-based AR training modules—sessions were 20 min four times a week. After using the home-based AR training modules, the overall adaptive function, socialization skills, and emotional functioning of children with ASD significantly improved. The findings of this study provide promising evidence supporting the feasibility and applicability of home-based AR training modules. Practitioners and researchers could assist caregivers in implementing AR training modules at home to increase the emotional functioning and adaptive behavior of preschool children with ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of qualified and student speech-language pathologists (SLPs) on the clinical utility of informant report and observation tools following a 1-day workshop using a decision tree. Method: Each participant group (qualified [n = 4] or student SLP [n = 8]) attended a 1-day workshop where they engaged with informant report and structured observation tools using video case studies. Each workshop concluded in a focus group conducted by an independent researcher. NVivo 12 software supported inductive coding and subsequent thematic analysis of transcribed data. Result: Thematic analysis revealed that participants' perceptions of tools' clinical utility could be conceptualised as three themes (a) tool characteristics, (b) external clinical work demands, and (c) clinician preparedness. Conclusion: Participants' views on the utility of informant report and structured observation were influenced by tensions between their desires, the realities of clinical practice, and their own capabilities. This has implications for workforce development in the field in providing clinician guidance, training, and support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early childhood teachers receive some training related to overall classroom management but report receiving little training and support when working with children who engage in challenging behaviour. To alleviate the barriers to supporting students who engage in challenging behaviour, it may be helpful to implement a technology tool that provides early childhood teachers with evidence-based prevention and intervention supports for their students. One such tool, the Family Behavior Support App (FBSApp), has been previously used with families of young children who engage in challenging behaviour. The FBSApp has been shown to be effective in increasing families' use of strategies, but the effects of the app in educational settings are currently unknown. The purposes of this single-case study are to see if there is a functional relation between the use of the FBSApp-created behaviour plan and teachers' use of function-based behaviour strategies, as well as teachers' perceptions of the FBSApp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pilot project examines the experiences of a small sample (n = 4) of elementary pre-service teachers (PSTs) as they designed and attempted to implement a series of short lessons, or mini-units, using Ozobots or Makey Makeys during their field experience. Results indicated that, despite the fact that none of the PSTs were able to deliver their mini-units as originally planned, all were able to gain comfort with the tools, recognise their adaptability and articulate how they might be used in future practice. An unanticipated finding, PSTs also reported on cooperating teachers' (CTs) technological learning, with CTs relying heavily on PSTs for general technological training during the COVID-19 pandemic. These results have important implications regarding PST training and field experiences, namely, providing PSTs with the opportunity to see technology use enacted during their field experiences and matching PSTs with CTs interested in and trained on technological integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractProblem, research strategy, and findingsTakeaway for practicePilot projects are an increasingly popular tool for dealing with opposition to new ideas. The premise is simple—let experience change minds—but it belies considerable uncertainty. How do opinions evolve during a pilot project? How do planners make sense of shifting opinions, and what strategies do they employ to successfully navigate through it? In this study, we took a longitudinal lens to explore these dynamics in the context of a single project: a shared e-scooter pilot in Eugene (OR). We surveyed the public before, during, and after the pilot, focusing on respondents’ overall support for the pilot and their views on its positive and negative attributes. We complemented survey responses with interviews of local practitioners before and during the pilot to explore how they made sense of shifting public opinions and how they worked strategically to help the project succeed. We found that direct experience as a rider tended to increase support, though it could sour initial support if someone had a bad experience like a crash or other issue. For nonriders, mere exposure to e-scooters improved perceptions on average for those who were initially most skeptical. However, exposure tempered expectations for those who were most enthusiastic at the outset.Well-run and well-received pilot projects can help overcome initial public opposition to new policies or projects. Planners should use four strategies to maximize the potential of their pilots. First, conduct meaningful outreach to build trust and create space for change. Second, rather than relying on unsolicited public input, most of which is likely to be negative, systematically survey the public to gauge overall support. Third, carefully correct common public misconceptions. Fourth, help public officials ride the wave of public opinion including interpreting and responding to initial opposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionsTo evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual therapeutic writing intervention for AYAs with cancer.A single-arm pilot study of the intervention was conducted at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego. The six-session intervention was facilitated by a writing coach over two to three months, during which time participants produced written work regarding their experiences with cancer. Primary outcomes were measures of acceptability and feasibility, assessed via quantitative and qualitative methods.Study enrollment and retention rates were 75% and 83%, respectively. Participants rated all intervention sessions as highly enjoyable, helpful, useful, and satisfactory. Qualitatively, participants reported that the intervention helped them cope with their cancer and they would recommend the study to others with cancer.This virtual therapeutic writing study is feasible and acceptable among AYAs with cancer. A randomized controlled trial should be conducted to test the efficacy of the intervention for improving psychosocial outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale-29 (MSIS-29) is a patient self-reported outcome (PRO) that measures patients' quality of life, and it is divided into two sub-scales for the physical (PHYS) and psychological (PSYCH) domains. This study aimed to translate the MSIS-29 into Arabic, cross-culturally adapt it, and examine its psychometric properties. Materials and Methods: One hundred fifty patients with MS completed the MSIS-29-Ar, the Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis (FAMS), and the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). After one week, 60 participants were asked to complete the MSIS-29-Ar again to examine test-retest reliability. Results: The MSIS-29-Ar was clear and understandable among patients with MS in Saudi Arabia. The internal consistency for the MSIS-29-Ar-PHYS was excellent, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.955, and was good for the MSIS-29-Ar-PSYCH, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.891. The test-retest reliability for MSIS-29-Ar-PHYS was ICC2,1 = 0.97; 95% confidence interval (0.93, 0.99) and ICC2,1 = 0.95.; 95% confidence interval (0.897, 0.976) for MSIS-29-Ar-PSYCH domains. The minimal detectable change with 95% confidence (MDC95) was 10.28 and 13.37 for the MSIS-29-Ar-PHYS and MSIS-29-Ar-PSYCH, respectively. No floor and ceiling effects were observed. Convergent and divergent validity was supported by 75% of the predefined hypotheses and correlated with the other health-related quality-of-life measures, SF-36 and FAMS. Conclusion: The MSIS-29-Ar questionnaire is a valid and reliable outcome measure among Saudi patients with MS. IMPLICATION FOR REHABILITATION: Rehabilitation specialists can confidently interpret patient scores in the MSIS-29-Ar to measure physical and psychological factors impacting patients' quality of life with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Patients with unchanged clinical status will have similar scores in the MSIS-29-Ar with repeated scale administrations over time. The MSIS-29-Ar can be used in clinical practice and research studies to measure factors that impact the quality of life in Arabic-speaking patients with MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionMany people experience prolonged symptoms following a concussive event. The origin of these symptoms can be difficult to identify and subsequently treat based on the interconnected nature of the brain and cervical spine.The purpose of this review was to identify and describe the current scope of cervical spine physical rehabilitation interventions literature relative to potential outcomes in (1) different categories of cervical spine pathology and (2) in the context of concussion rehabilitation specifically.Studies were included if they were peer reviewed, in English, included human participants, incorporated a physical rehabilitation intervention to address cervical spine-related pathology, and were published between March 2010 and November 2023. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist was used to synthesize the results. Further, each study was classified within an intervention-outcome pairing group based on the final included studies.The initial search yielded 4,275 potential articles with 149 being included. Final results included 50 systematic reviews, 60 randomized clinical trials, 9 observational studies, 10 pilot studies, and 20 case studies/series. Out of the 149 total studies, 9 addressed the cervical spine in context of concussion.Many studies of varying levels of evidence support that physical rehabilitation interventions for cervical spine dysfunction may improve outcomes in patients with and without concussive injuries. However, further research is necessary to determine the most appropriate and effective cervical spine interventions for patients experiencing concussive events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractResearch suggests that the workplace is an effective platform for delivering disaster interventions, highlighting the benefits of implementing early and brief post-disaster interventions both within and outside of workplace settings. This pilot study sought to expand empirical knowledge of a unique brief disaster intervention—the single-session cognitive behavioral and art-based (CB-ART) intervention—by exploring its online use in a workplace setting during wartime conditions. In this single-session intervention, 12 employees sequentially drew three images: their disaster-related stress, their resources, and an integration of these. The aims of the study were to (1) identify the strategies participants employed to mitigate their distress, as evidenced by their drawings and accompanying narratives; (2) assess whether participants experienced a significant reduction of distress levels post-intervention; and (3) explore the resources utilized by participants after the intervention. Results highlight participants’ compositional transformations of the stressful image, including changes in size, color, and placement within the integrative drawing, which enabled them to modify its emotional content. Further support for the significance of the CB-ART intervention is evident in the significant decrease in participants’ distress levels after the intervention, measured by the Subjective Units of Distress Scale, as well as in the illustrative examples of the resources used several months post-intervention. On a practical level, our study offers a tool that can be easily implemented online during disaster times, ensuring that workplace support remains accessible despite disruptions. Our findings may encourage health policymakers to consider workplace settings as valuable platforms for disaster interventions, thereby conserving resources needed during crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Law enforcement personnel are often first to respond to calls involving behavioral health emergencies. However, encounters with law enforcement are more dangerous and lethal for people with behavioral health conditions. Co-responding models, wherein law enforcement and behavioral health professionals respond to calls together, are among the top programs developed to improve responding to behavioral health crises. The current study describes a qualitative process evaluation of a co-responding pilot program in New Jersey: "Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence & Escalation" (ARRIVE Together). The evaluation centered on the experience of the co-responding team as to their perceptions of specific deployments and of the program implementation overall. Semi-structured interviews were conducted following 10 consecutive encounters (three interviews per encounter; February-March 2022). Transcripts were transcribed and thematically analyzed by two trained researchers independently. Once thematically analyzed, researchers determined a consensus and developed a SWOT analysis report. Thematic analysis produced six major themes: communication, staffing, training, resources, community outreach, and deployments with minors. Overall, participants were enthusiastic about the program, but they shared numerous observations about ways in which the program could be improved. Sample size, the brief follow-up window, and lack of generalizability to other contexts were among the most limiting factors. Further research should include an effectiveness evaluation and extend to urban and suburban communities and communities of color. Future research should also explore after-response affects including accessibility to follow-up care. The current study gives insight into piloting a co-responding model for approaching behavioral health crisis calls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of research dedicated to understanding and evaluating how African Americans engage in spiritual creativity as a form of cultural empowerment in order to thrive in the face of systemic oppression. The Black Spiritual Creativity Scale (BSCS) is a new measure that was designed to address this gap in the literature. The BSCS measures the experience of creativity, rhythm, and soul as spiritual forces that contribute to a sense of personal transformation as well as resistance and liberation among African Americans. The present pilot exploratory factor analysis study was conducted with a pilot sample of 126 participants and produced a 15-item, two-factor model. Reliability and validity analyses supported the initial promise of this new scale. Future research implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adoption: Beginning of New Bonds is a six-week online parenting program specifically designed to enhance Parental Reflective Functioning (PRF) with the goal of improving Emotional bond, parental satisfaction, and reducing general and parental stress levels. In 2021, a pilot study of this program was conducted with 30 Brazilian couples who had adopted one or two children aged up to five years and 11 months at the time the training began. Further analysis of the training program-related variables could refine research hypotheses and improve the assessment process before proceeding with larger-scale replications. Thus, this study aimed to measure various parental variables associated with the Emotional bond, including PRF, Emotional bond, general stress, parental stress, and stress related to parental satisfaction, before and after participation in the pilot. The findings revealed that participants exhibited low levels of PRF. Furthermore, a significant improvement in the Emotional bond and parental satisfaction was observed between the pre- and post-tests. This study highlights the importance of testing the assessment of the variables of interest in a pilot to enhance evaluation. The study also discussed future directions for parenting programs aimed at enhancing the parent-child Emotional bond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop and validate the Counselor Self-Reflection Inventory (CSRI) from a Transformative Learning Theory framework for counselors, and counselors-in-training to use in clinical and training settings. Method: A sample of 351, mostly female (86.89%), white (85.19%), counselors with MS or MA (88.08%) graduate degrees completed the online survey to assess their self-reflective practice. Results: The 39-item CSRI was validated using Confirmatory Factor Analysis. A one factor model of counselor self-reflection suggested indices are acceptable and indicate an overall good model fit (CFI = 0.961, TLI = 0.958, RMSEA = 0.04 (90% CI[0.033; 0.049]), and SRMR = 0.065.) with standardized covariance between the CSRI, self-reflection, and awareness at 0.508. Conclusions: Counselors and counselor educators can use the CSRI to understand strengths and areas of growth in their work. Counselors and counselors-in-training can take the CSRI to enhance self-reflective practice that promote positive identity development. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The development and validation of the Counselor Self-Reflection Inventory (CSRI) can help counselors, counselor educators, and counselors-in-training understand their self-reflective practice. Facilitating deeper understanding of counselor and counselor-in-training self-reflective practice can improve work with clients and counselor identity development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Music therapy has been widely applied to aid individuals both psychologically and physically, including as rehabilitation training for stroke patients. Recently, the use of novel technologies such as Digital Musical Instruments (DMIs) and Virtual Reality (VR) has become more common in this field. To broaden the application of music therapy with these technologies to neurological patients, it is important to understand their effects on the brain. Method: The aim of this propositional study is to present a quantitative evaluation of brain network changes, using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), occurring in individuals who used an XR-based Extended DMI (EDMI), namely, BehCreative. BehCreative is an immersive EDMI that provides sound and visual feedback based on the user's body movements. Five healthy individuals underwent ten training sessions with BehCreative and resting-state fMRI scans (before the first and after the last session). Results: Functional connectivity changes between those scans were examined. A strengthened connection between brain areas associated with movement and audiovisual feedback processing was identified, possibly associated with an increase in motivation and cognitive engagement during audio-visual tasks. In general, connectivity changes pointed to an increase in arousal in the tested subjects, which may have been linked to the activation of the reward system during the use of the EDMI. Discussion: These results are in line with our initial hypothesis, which was that training with BehCreative stimulates the neuroplasticity of the reward system. This study builds upon our previous research, on the therapeutic potential of DMIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children with muscular dystrophy go through the challenge of moving into adolescence compounded with the challenge of living with a debilitating muscle disease. This paper describes the process evaluation of a group leadership program for adolescents with muscular dystrophy. A five-day online program was conducted for 14 participants, 12 males, and 2 females, between 13 and 18 years, beneficiaries of Mobility in Dystrophy (MIND) trust, Kerala, India. The sessions, which lasted around one and a half hours each, focused on self-discovery through a participatory strength-based approach. The participants' feedback was thematically analyzed. The process evaluation parameters, fidelity, dose delivered and received, reach, and context were found to be effective. The 100% attendance of the participants and their perceived improvement in self-confidence, self-awareness, friends circle, skills-set, and leadership were identified as positive outcomes. Psychosocial intervention programs through the online platform, with structured follow-ups for adolescents with life-limiting conditions would be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on a multi-phase study conducted on the World Health Organization's (WHO) age-friendly cities program, healthy-cities program, and global sustainable-cities initiatives, this paper assesses how older adults – particularly those living with chronic health conditions and disabilities – discuss mobility challenges in qualitative research. Initial results indicate that demobilizing levels of travel cost and travel risk are implied, with older adults refraining from direct discussion. Reflective analysis is performed on marginalized older adults' conceptual associations, ideologies, and response to social norms, to identify sources of pressure which may lead to downplaying or self-censorship on transport disadvantage. Results highlight that inequalities may arise from both the built environment and how research trainees communicate in research. Despite literature which suggests severe impacts of transport disadvantage, older adults may face difficulties in voicing their needs when research trainees adhere to the following social norms. First, physical access and feasibility may be minimized as mere matters of convenience to the able-bodied individual; second, overcoming transportation barriers may be seen as based on one's effort – as opposed to the disabling effects of the built environment; third, health and fitness in general may be also associated with one's effort, and increasingly also to one's commitment to environmental-sustainability; fourth, older adults may feel pressure to align perspectives with more privileged stakeholders, or with the general public; fifth, money and income may be delegitimized as apt research topics, regardless of how inability to overcome travel costs may impact daily-wellbeing. Implications for educating future gerontology-research trainees conclude the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a minority of the bereaved, the loss of a significant other can trigger an overwhelming emotional reaction and impaired functioning across life domains, known as prolonged grief disorder (PGD). Hence, ongoing efforts have been made to refine existing treatments to increase their efficacy and to accommodate the idiosyncrasies of grief reactions. This study presents the results of an open clinical trial of the feasibility and effectiveness of the Meaning in Loss (MIL) protocol in an online format. The brief intervention of 12 to 16 sessions combines constructivist and narrative strategies to explore and work through impediments to meaning reconstruction in loss. The sample included 25 participants diagnosed with PGD who were treated by six therapists. Baseline and post-therapy comparisons showed a significant improvement in all clinical measures (grief symptomatology, depression and general distress) and an increase of meaning making regarding the loss. Meaning making was found to be a prospective mediator of symptomatic improvement in grief across the course of therapy. These findings suggest the effectiveness of the MIL protocol in decreasing grief specific and associated symptomatology and argue for the relevance of further controlled evaluations of its efficacy. Moreover, results confirm previous findings that meaning making is a relevant factor in the evolution of grief reactions, including in the context of psychotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Insomnia and repetitive negative thinking (RNT) are both prevalent among cancer survivors, yet little work has investigated their interrelationship. To explore the hypothesis that RNT and insomnia are related, we conducted secondary analyses on data from a pilot clinical trial of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) for cancer survivors. Methods: This study analyzed survey data from 40 cancer survivors with insomnia who participated in a pilot randomized trial of CBT-I. Correlations and linear regression models were used to determine associations between aspects of RNT and related constructs (fear of cancer recurrence [FCR], cancer-specific rumination, worry, and intolerance of uncertainty) and sleep (insomnia and sleep quality), while accounting for psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Treatment-related change in RNT was examined using a series of linear mixed models. Results: Evidence for an association between RNT and insomnia among cancer survivors emerged. Higher levels of FCR and cancer-related rumination were correlated with more severe insomnia symptoms and worse sleep quality. Notably, FCR levels predicted insomnia, even after controlling for anxiety and depression. Results identified potential benefits and limitations of CBT-I in addressing RNT that should be examined more thoroughly in future research. Conclusions: RNT is a potential target to consider in insomnia treatment for cancer survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Patient education materials regarding self-management of chemotherapy-related side effects are limited, which may result in patients using disreputable sources. We created a brochure that educates patients on common side effects, tools to address problems themselves, and guidance on when to contact their oncologist or seek emergency care. This mixed-methods study conducted at Penn State Cancer Institute evaluates the feasibility of using an educational brochure to improve patient outcomes through education. Methods: Chemotherapy naïve patients with breast or gastrointestinal (GI) cancer were enrolled in a single-arm clinical trial from December 2021 to 2022. Participants received the educational brochure and were asked to provide their initial impressions. They completed The Emotional Thermometer Scale (ETS) and the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS) to measure changes in patient symptoms and mental health throughout their chemotherapy course at 0, 6, and 12-week intervals. The drop-out rate was recorded as a measure of study feasibility. Results: The study participants were split between the following cancer types: 77.8% breast and 22.2% GI cancer. A significant decrease in overall mean ETS score was observed between baseline and week 6 (p = 0.001) and 12 (p = 0.0004), respectively. Moreover, the mean MSAS psychological symptoms decreased significantly at week 12 compared to baseline (p = 0.005), while no change was observed in physical symptoms (p = 0.101). Of the 40 participants who completed baseline surveys, 37 had at least one additional visit for a drop-out rate of 7.5%. Conclusion: This mixed-methods pilot study was successful in demonstrating the feasibility of distributing a standardized educational brochure as an intervention for chemotherapy patients. While participants' emotional scores and psychological symptoms decreased over time, physical symptoms did not, which aligns with side effect progression from cumulative chemotherapy burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament injury in female soccer players has been attributed to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle (MC), with injury incidence greatest during the follicular phase. Eight, eumenorrheic, collegiate soccer players (19.5 ± 0.75 years, 1.62 ± 4.90 cm, 61.12 ± 7.6 kg mean ± SD) completed eccentric knee flexor and concentric knee extensor trials at 60 and 240°·s−1 during the follicular, ovulation and luteal phases of their MC. Peak torque and corresponding angle of peak torque were maintained across all phases of the MC, irrespective of testing modality and speed (p ≥ 0.149). Strength ratios defined using peak torque were also not sensitive to MC phase (p ≥ 0.933). However, Functional Range in eccentric knee flexion was significantly lower during the follicular phase (p = 0.017), at both testing speeds. This supports epidemiological observations but highlights the importance of analysing isokinetic data beyond the peak of the strength curve. Interpretation of isokinetic data should therefore focus on points of "weakness" as opposed to maximum strength, whilst (p)rehabilitative strategies should consider strength through range of motion, and at different speeds. Eccentric hamstring strength was observed to decrease significantly at the higher speed, contrary to observations in elite male players, and potentially reflecting a differential training adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While a whole-body warm-up may not adequately prepare the inspiratory muscles for exercise, inspiratory warm-up is an effective approach in preparing the inspiratory muscles for exertion. Objectives: To investigate the effects of inspiratory muscle warm-up performed prior to inspiratory muscle training (IMT) during pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and inspiratory muscle weakness. Methods: Pulmonary function tests, maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP), 6-minute walk test distance (6MWD), modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale(mMRC), St. George's respiratory questionnaire and the 36-item short-form health survey were evaluated. Both groups performed IMT during PR for 8 weeks. The warm-up group (n = 15), in addition to the standard IMT group (n = 15), performed an inspiratory muscle warm-up protocol before each IMT session. Results: At the end of the 8-week intervention, improvements in dyspnea (mMRC in score, p =0.033, effect size =0.76); exercise capacity (6MWD in meters, p =0.001, effect size =1.30); pulmonary function [forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) in %predicted, p =0.006, effect size =1.10]; and inspiratory muscle strength (MIP in cmH2O, p =0.001, effect siz e = 1.35) were significantly greater in the warm-up group. Moreover, there were significant improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) sub-scores after the training in both groups (p <0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrated improvements in both groups, surpassing or closely approaching the established minimal clinically important difference values for the respective outcomes. Performing a warm-up for inspiratory muscles before IMT boosts benefits for pulmonary function, inspiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, dyspnea, and HRQoL in subjects with moderate-to-severe COPD and inspiratory muscle weakness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construct: The McMaster Narrative Comment Rating Tool aims to capture critical features reflecting the quality of written narrative comments provided in the medical education context: valence/tone of language, degree of correction versus reinforcement, specificity, actionability, and overall usefulness. Background: Despite their role in competency-based medical education, not all narrative comments contribute meaningfully to the development of learners' competence. To develop solutions to mitigate this problem, robust measures of narrative comment quality are needed. While some tools exist, most were created in specialty-specific contexts, have focused on one or two features of feedback, or have focused on faculty perceptions of feedback, excluding learners from the validation process. In this study, we aimed to develop a detailed, broadly applicable narrative comment quality assessment tool that drew upon features of high-quality assessment and feedback and could be used by a variety of raters to inform future research, including applications related to automated analysis of narrative comment quality. Approach: In Phase 1, we used the literature to identify five critical features of feedback. We then developed rating scales for each of the features, and collected 670 competency-based assessments completed by first-year surgical residents in the first six-weeks of training. Residents were from nine different programs at a Canadian institution. In Phase 2, we randomly selected 50 assessments with written feedback from the dataset. Two education researchers used the scale to independently score the written comments and refine the rating tool. In Phase 3, 10 raters, including two medical education researchers, two medical students, two residents, two clinical faculty members, and two laypersons from the community, used the tool to independently and blindly rate written comments from another 50 randomly selected assessments from the dataset. We compared scores between and across rater pairs to assess reliability. Findings: Single and average measures intraclass correlation (ICC) scores ranged from moderate to excellent (ICCs =.51–.83 and.91–.98) across all categories and rater pairs. All tool domains were significantly correlated (p's <.05), apart from valence, which was only significantly correlated with degree of correction versus reinforcement. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the McMaster Narrative Comment Rating Tool can reliably be used by multiple raters, across a variety of rater types, and in different surgical contexts. As such, it has the potential to support faculty development initiatives on assessment and feedback, and may be used as a tool to conduct research on different assessment strategies, including automated analysis of narrative comments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Severe posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in older adults (≥60 years) has been found to be associated with maladaptive personality functioning and personality disorders (PD). Emerging evidence in adults supports that reprocessing adverse events with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) could improve personality functioning and reduce full PDdiagnosis. Methods: A multicenterfeasibilitystudy in 24 older PTSD-patients receiving weekly EMDR-sessions for either 3, 6 or 9 months. A linear-mixed-model was used with personality functioning (SIPP-SF) as dependent variable and time, PTSD-severity (CAPS-5), and "othertreatment" as predictor variables. Secondary, pre- and posttreatment percentages were calculated for the PDspresence. Results: Symptom changes over time showed a significant influence of CAPS-5 on SIPP-SF (b = −1.40, 95% CI=[−2.48 to −0.33], p =.012), no significant effect of time for total SIPP-SF, and a significant improvement of SIPP-SF "identityintegration"-scale over time (b = 9.20, 95% CI=[0.97–17.42], p =.029). There was a marginal significant effect of "othertreatment" (b = 8.42, 95% CI=[−0.30–17.13], p =.058). There was 31% full PDs-decrease. Conclusions: Observed improvements in personality functioning from pre to post EMDRtreatment were explained by PTSD-severity. Identityintegration improved significantly over time. Results suggest that participants with "othertreatment" showed more severe baseline-pathology and thus lower personality functioning. Clinical implications: EMDR, in addition to being a feasible treatment option for older adults with PTSD, improves personality functioning and reduces the presence of PDs over time.' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after exposure to multiple (childhood) trauma's is strongly associated with accelerated aging and high psychiatric and somatic comorbidity, influencing frailty and Quality of Life (QoL) in older adults. Eye Movement Desensitization therapy (EMDR) addresses psychological and physiologic symptoms stemming from adverse life events and therefore could influence frailty and QoL in older adults. Methods: We conducted a multi-center feasibility study (two psychiatric hospitals) in Dutch older outpatients (N = 24; ≥60 years) with PTSD. Participants received weekly EMDR-treatment during the course of the trial (3 months to a maximum of 9 months). Frailty (Groninger Frailty Indicator) and QoL (EuroQol 5D-3L), were assessed pre- and posttreatment. Results: A linear mixed-model approach showed significant reduction of frailty (F(1,23) = 9.019, p =.006) and improvement of QoL (F(1,23) = 13.787, p =.001). For both frailty and QoL, there was no significant influence of Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5) pre-treatment score, therapy duration, and neither an interaction effect of therapy duration x CAPS-5 pre-treatment score. Conclusions: EMDR with older adults with PTSD showed a significant reduction of frailty and improvement of QoL. Randomized controlled studies are needed to more precisely study the impact of trauma-focused treatment in older adults on frailty and QoL and the implications this might have for lessening disease burden. Clinical implications: Screening for PTSD in older frail adults is important to treat PTSD as a possible way to reduce frailty and improve QoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The fear of childbirth (FOC) causes negativities such as increased an need for analgesia and interventions related to labour, prolonged labor, and childbirth dissatisfaction. It has been shown that birth support can be an effective strategy for reducing these negative outcomes. Also, labour support based on a nursing theory can help improve care outcomes. Aim: This study aimed to examine the effects of nursing care structured according to Kolcaba's theory on duration, pain, and comfort of childbirth. Methods: This pilot study was a randomised controlled study. Before the participants were randomized, their FOC levels were determined using the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Scale A (WDEQ-A). Ninety women who had a FOC (WDEQ-A >66) were randomised into groups. The study was completed with 46 women (21 intervention, 25 control). The intervention group received the labour support based on Kolcaba's Theory of Comfort. The control group received standard care at birth.The data were collected using the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Scale A and the Comfort Behavior Checklist during pregnancy and labour. They were analysed using non-parametric tests. Results: The women in the intervention group had shorter latent and active phases (p = 0.002), lower pain scores (p = 0.000), and higher levels of birth comfort (p = 0.002). Relevance for the Clinical Practice: Labor support structured according to Kolcaba's Theory of Comfort contributes to increased comfort and decreases childbirth pain. This study can guide healthcare professionals who provide labour support on how to plan, provide, and assess care for woman who are giving birth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Even though the development of an emotional bond to the child involves both parents, studies on the development of paternal bonding and the influencing factors are scarce. This pilot study examines the quality of paternal postnatal bonding in association with paternal depressive and anxiety symptoms before and after birth. Methods: Expecting parents (n = 81) were recruited from maternity services in Frankfurt, Germany. At recruitment and 3 months postpartum (pp) mothers and fathers completed an interview including sociodemographic and pregnancy data. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were screened using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. At 3-month pp, fathers also completed the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire for the assessment of bonding difficulties. A total of 63 couples, from whom data were available for both time points, were included in the final study group. Results: Depressive and anxiety symptoms before birth are the best predictors for the quality of paternal bonding pp (Total score R2.402 p =.001; Impaired bonding R2.299 p =.019; Rejection and Anger R2.353 p =.005; Anxiety about care R2.457 p =.000). Maternal depression and sociodemographic variables were not significantly associated. Limitations: High selected small study group. Conclusions: Paternal depressive and anxiety symptoms during pregnancy are highly predictive for the quality of bonding as well as for the presence of depressive and anxiety symptoms 3 month pp. It is necessary to identify these symptoms as soon as possible in order to prevent later negative impacts on parental mental health and on child developmental outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This pilot study aimed to (a) investigate opportunities for immersive Virtual Reality (VR) technology in communication, physical, and visual rehabilitation by examining the interaction of people without disabilities in a range of structured virtual environments; and (b) validate research protocols that might be used to evaluate the physical, visual, and verbal interaction of users in virtual worlds, and their safety while using the technology. Methods: Thirteen adults identifying as people without disability were exposed to VR via a head-mounted display. A video-review method was used to qualitatively code and analyse each participant's communication, movement, orientation, and support needs. Results: All participants oriented to their virtual environments sufficiently to use applications. Their spoken language was effective for interaction, although unconventional social behaviours were also observed. Two participants reported minor adverse reactions consistent with mild cybersickness. Conclusion: The results provide insight into the types of environments and characters that support the greatest communicative, physical, and visual interaction in immersive VR. The tested protocols are useful to assess safety when using VR, and to observe communicative, physical, and visual interaction with virtual environments and characters. Implications for future research and use of VR with people with communication, physical and visual disability are discussed. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Safe use of virtual reality in rehabilitation requires careful assessment. Comprehensive observational protocols were sufficient to manage safety concerns. Rehabilitation applications need rapid responsivity in verbal interactions to ensure users are immersed in interactions. Non-verbal cues from virtual avatars best direct user attention in the environment. Novice virtual reality users largely controlled technology using their dominant hand. They could control VR successfully with one hand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Locomotor experiences in upright postures are essential for developing toddlers' mobility and social functions. This pilot randomised controlled trial aimed to examine the effectiveness of using a modified ride-on car (ROC) with postural combinations of standing and sitting on mobility and social function in toddlers with motor delays. Materials and methods: Nineteen participants aged 1–3 years with mild, moderate or severe motor delays were randomly assigned to four ROC groups. The ROC groups had different combinations of standing and sitting, namely standing for 70 min (ROC-Stand70, five participants), standing for 45 min (ROC-Stand45, four participants), standing for 25 min (ROC-Stand25, five participants) and sitting for 70 min (ROC-Sit70, five participants). All participants participated in 2-h sessions twice a week for 12 weeks. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory, Goal Attainment Scaling and Bayley-III tests were administered before and after the intervention, and after 12 weeks of follow-up. A mixed-model analysis of variance was used to compare inter- and intra-group differences. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03707405). Results: All groups showed significantly improved mobility, social function and goal achievement at the post-test (p <.001). However, no significant changes were observed in Bayley scores. Conclusions: Combining physical and social environmental modifications with active exploration is crucial for early power mobility training in toddlers with motor delays. To enhance the robustness and generalisability of our findings, future studies should include larger sample sizes, consider variations in motor delays, and measure energy expenditure during the intervention. Implications for rehabilitation: Providing active exploratory experience using ride-on cars (ROCs) with various postural combinations can improve a child's mobility. The ROC training with various postural combinations can improve social function, and the degree of improvement may depend on the severity of motor delays. Setting goals with caregivers and incorporating their roles in the training process can empower them to interact with children more frequently and actively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the RAW Wellbeing program in vocational schools. This 6-week program aims to improve the mental distress and wellbeing of adolescents at-risk of not being in education, employment, or training (NEET). Participants were 57 senior students (23 females; mean age 16.19 years, SD = 0.89) attending two vocational schools in Queensland, Australia. Students completed two baseline surveys (week 0, week 4) before receiving the RAW Wellbeing program and two follow-up surveys (week 13, week 17). An interrupted time-series design evaluated the outcomes of the RAW program. Results revealed significant reductions in mental distress at 4 weeks follow-up and a significant increase in mental wellbeing post-intervention. No improvements in resilience, self-esteem, sense of belongingness, or functioning were found. A randomized controlled trial is now required to confirm the efficacy of the program on mental health, school, and NEET outcomes in a larger sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Case management (CM) aims to facilitate access to and integration of health care and social services. We investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of CM. Methods: Randomized controlled trial with 219 patients and 114 caregivers randomly allocated to CM (109/59) or care as usual (110/55). CM was based on early and continuous online monitoring of problems and needs. Outcomes were assessed every 6 months with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Secondary outcome domains were participant restrictions, life satisfaction, self-efficacy, caregiver burden, and needs. Multilevel modeling was used. Feasibility aspects were protocol delivery, participants' and case managers' satisfaction, and factors affecting implementation. Results: There were no significant differences between groups. Participation restrictions and unmet needs decreased in both groups within 6 months. Monitoring was successful in 38, and 10 participants asked the CM for support. CM consisted mostly of providing information. Discussion: CM based on early and continuous online monitoring does not have benefit in identifying and addressing problems early after relatively mild injury. Unsuccessful monitoring may have hindered access to the case manager and prevented us from evaluating CM as a complex intervention. It remains a challenge to early identify those who could benefit from care coordination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The delivery of Intensive Comprehensive Aphasia Programs (ICAPs) via telerehabilitation is a potential solution to the ongoing geographical, transport, and mobility barriers that people with aphasia (PWA) face in accessing this service model. To ensure the ICAP retains its evidence-based elements, configuration of the telerehabilitation system requires consideration of user and therapy task requirements. The human-centred design (HCD) process incorporates user and task considerations when developing technological systems. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use the HCD process to translate the Comprehensive High-dose Aphasia Therapy (CHAT) program for delivery via telerehabilitation (TeleCHAT). Methods: The HCD translation process used consisted of five iterative stages. Relevant literature was reviewed, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) experienced in delivering ICAPs were consulted to understand the therapy context. Researchers gathered therapy task and user requirements of PWA, support people (SP) and SLPs to engage in therapy. Technology that met user and therapy task requirements were identified and a preliminary technology configuration was tested in a simulated environment. The finalised system was tested in a pilot trial of TeleCHAT with a cohort of four PWA, two SPs, and two SLPs. Feedback and technical and user issues were collated from users and analysed to inform improvements to the TeleCHAT configuration and protocol. Results: User and therapy task requirements to deliver TeleCHAT were identified with consideration of communication and participation supports for PWA. The configured technology system comprised of Zoom© as the videoconferencing platform of choice, and additional critical technical functions including screen and audio sharing of therapy content, and multi-point interaction using remote control and annotation tools. Simulation testing and a pilot trial of the configuration confirmed system operability and identified modifications to optimise functioning. Conclusion: The HCD framework was used to successfully configure an optimal technology system for the delivery of TeleCHAT. The HCD framework can be used by clinicians to identify patient needs and configure optimal telerehabilitation systems for delivery of complex interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite growing evidence supporting the clinical efficacy of Intensive Comprehensive Aphasia Programs (ICAPs), there are implementation challenges that may prevent widespread adoption of ICAPs by healthcare services. To address these barriers, a tailored implementation intervention was developed to facilitate the delivery of a modified-ICAP called the Comprehensive, High-dose Aphasia Treatment (CHAT) program within the Australian healthcare context. Aims: 1) To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and potential effectiveness of a tailored implementation intervention to support the delivery of CHAT within a clinical service. 2) To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and the potential effectiveness of delivering CHAT with respect to clinician and patient outcome measures. Methods and Procedure: This Phase 1 feasibility study utilised a mixed-methods hybrid Type III implementation effectiveness design. A single health service was recruited for the implementation trial and two speech pathologists received training and resources to support the delivery of CHAT. Four adults with chronic post-stroke aphasia were recruited to participate in the eight-week CHAT program. Qualitative data, obtained through in-depth interviews, were used to explore speech pathologists' perspectives of the tailored implementation strategy and to identify the potential barriers and facilitators to delivering CHAT. Furthermore, quantitative data evaluated the feasibility (i.e., dose of intervention), acceptability (i.e., satisfaction ratings) and potential effectiveness (i.e., clinical outcomes) of the CHAT program. Outcomes and Results: Speech pathologists perceived CHAT to be feasible, acceptable, and potentially effective to implement into the healthcare service. Improvements across measures of patients' language impairment, functional communication and quality of life post-CHAT were observed. Reported facilitators to implementation included the provision of support and access to information and resources, while barriers included time constraints, scheduling issues and clinician fatigue. Conclusions: This is the first study to report the successful clinical implementation of a modified-ICAP into a health service. Findings from this study will be used to inform future adoption of the ICAP model into rehabilitation services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small sample sizes pose a severe threat to convergence and accuracy of between-group level parameter estimates in multilevel structural equation modeling (SEM). However, in certain situations, such as pilot studies or when populations are inherently small, increasing samples sizes is not feasible. As a remedy, we propose a two-stage regularized estimation approach designed for scenarios with both a small number of groups and small group sizes, and a low ICC. The method employs the wide format approach to multilevel SEM, where, at first, the sample covariance matrix is replaced by a shrinkage estimate, and then, this estimate is used to fit the SEM. By means of a simulation study, we evaluated the effectiveness of our two-stage approach. Our findings demonstrate that this method consistently ensures model convergence, provides more accurate between-level estimates, and even improves accuracy of within-level estimates in cases of very small group sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Well-designed score reports can support therapists to accurately interpret assessments. We piloted a score report for the Pediatric Evaluation Disability Inventory-Patient Reported Outcome (PEDI-PRO) and evaluated: 1) To what extent can occupational and physical therapists (OT, PT) accurately interpret item-response theory (IRT)-based PEDI-PRO assessment results? 2) What is the perceived clinical utility of the pilot score report? Methods: Exploratory, sequential mixed methods design. Focus groups with OT and PTs (n = 20) informed the development of the final score report; revisions were made in response to feedback. Next, OTs and PTs (n = 33) reviewed score reports from two fictional clients and answered survey questions about the interpretation of the PEDI-PRO results. Additional questions evaluated clinical utility. Results: Focus groups: Visual cues supported score interpretation, but therapists requested additional explanations for advanced IRT measurement concepts. Survey: Therapists accurately interpreted foundational IRT concepts (e.g. identifying most/least difficult items, highest scores), but were less accurate when interpreting advanced concepts (e.g. fit, unexpected responses). Therapists anticipated sharing different components of the score report with family members, clinicians, and payers to support their clinical practice. Conclusions: The pilot PEDI-PRO score report was highly endorsed by therapists, but therapists may need additional training to interpret advanced IRT concepts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To increase our knowledge related to student wellness programs, the current studies examined interest in wellness and wellness programs among university students and piloted a newly developed wellness program targeting students in higher education. Participants/Methods: In Study 1, 93 undergraduate students answered questions related to their wellness and mental health (e.g. psychological wellbeing, satisfaction with life, optimism, and stress) and to wellness programs (e.g. interest, barriers, duration, and topics). In Study 2, 13 undergraduate and graduate students participated in a 9-week pilot wellness program focused on specific wellness topics (e.g. relaxation, yoga, gratitude and self-compassion, and emotion regulation). Results/Conclusions: Study 1 results support a strong interest in wellness and wellness programs among undergraduate students. Study 2 results suggest that students who participated in an on-campus wellness program reported higher levels of overall psychological wellbeing and optimism and lower levels of mental health issues relative to baseline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Focusing on body functionality – what the body can do – may benefit women's body image. This pilot study examined the effects of focusing on body functionality appreciation during an audio-guided mirror gazing task (F-MGT). Participants: 101 college women, M(SD)AGE = 19.49(1.31), were alternately assigned to F-MGT or a comparison with no guidance on how to examine the body, directed attention mirror gazing task (DA-MGT). Methods: Participants self-reported pre- and post-MGT body appreciation, state appearance satisfaction, and orientation to and satisfaction with physical functionality. Results: Group interactions were significant for body appreciation and functionality orientation. DA-MGT decreased body appreciation from pre- to post-MGT; F-MGT did not change. There were no significant interactions in post-MGT state appearance satisfaction or functionality satisfaction, though state appearance satisfaction increased significantly in F-MGT. Conclusions: Integrating body functionality may buffer against harmful effects of mirror gazing. Given F-MGT's brevity, additional work must assess its potential as an intervention technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the feasibility and utility of a tolerance break (T-Break) guide on young adults' cannabis use. Participants: Young adults aged 18–29 (n = 125) who were current cannabis users. Methods: Participants recruited through posters and listservs at various universities were offered the T-Break Guide—daily activities, advice, and encouragement—to help complete a 21-day cannabis break. Bivariate analyses examined associations between Guide use and follow-up measures. Results: Compared to non-Guide users, participants who used the Guide "a lot" were more likely to complete the 21-day abstinence break (84% vs. 57%), revise their personal definition of balance to mean less cannabis (84% vs. 62%), and plan a future break (32% vs. 11%). Conclusion: Use of this self-directed T-Break Guide may help young adults take a break from cannabis use and reduce future use. Further research using more rigorous designs to test the Guide's efficacy and assess longer-term maintenance of effects is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective physician-nurse communication is critical to patient safety, yet internal medicine trainees are rarely given feedback on this skill. In order to address this gap, we developed a 4-week simulated paging curriculum for senior medical students. Standardized Registered Nurses administered five acute inpatient paging cases to students via telephone and scored communication on a 10-point global scale (1 = highly ineffective to 10 = highly effective) and seven communication domains using a 5-point Likert-type scale. The domains included precision/clarity, instructive, directing, assertive, ability to solicit information, engaged, and structured communication. Students received verbal and written feedback from the nurses on communication skills and clinical decision-making. Our primary goal was to determine if student-nurse communication improved throughout the curriculum. Data were analyzed using multivariate ANOVAs with repeated measures. Twenty-seven students participated. Global communication scores increased significantly from case 1 to case 5 (7.1 to 8.7, p <.01). The following communication domains increased significantly: precision (3.8 to 4.4, p <.01), instructive (3.6 to 4.7, p <.01), directing (4.0 to 4.6, p =.02), assertiveness (4.0 to 4.7, p =.04), engaged (4.1 to 4.7, p <.01). In conclusion, this curriculum can be an innovative approach to improve physician-nurse communication using standardized registered nurses to deliver structured feedback to medical trainees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of social determinants of health (SDH) can help students reduce health disparities and advance health equity and quality of life. This pilot study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Strategies for Health, an interprofessional game, in improving student knowledge regarding SDH as well as attitudes toward interprofessional collaboration when compared to or combined with didactic coursework. A mixed methods approach was utilized. Participants (N = 42) were divided into one of four groups: Control (A), gameplay (B), didactic module (C), and a combined didactic module followed by gameplay (D). Data was collected using a knowledge base test of SDH, the Interprofessional Attitudes Scale (IPAS), and qualitative feedback during gameplay and debriefing. SDH results indicated no significant differences within groups, but a combined pre-post indicated a significant improvement among Group D (p =.04). IPAS results indicated a statistically significant improvement in interprofessional attitudes of teamwork, roles, and responsibilities among Groups B and D. A combination of didactic learning and gameplay was the most effective approach to improving and maintaining SDH knowledge and attitudes toward IPE over time. These findings inform the need for interprofessional curricula that aim to improve health outcomes and advance health equity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with severe mental illnesses have complex needs that require coordinated care. However, students in different health professions are usually educated in silos without an emphasis on collaborative skills. Students would benefit from exposure to other disciplines that would increase appreciation of collaboration. This pilot study sought to understand how a mental health simulation (SIM) would influence a student's perception of collaboration. The mental health SIM involved nursing, social work, occupational therapy and public health students who worked with standardized patients. Students were given the Interprofessional Socialization and Valuing Scale-21 (ISVS-21) that measures attitudes, values, and feelings about interprofessional collaboration. A baseline of 113 students in the four health professions were administered the pretest and a subset of nine who participated in the SIM completed the posttest. This study suggests that SIM may be a promising way of improving attitudes toward collaborative care, though it is important for the SIM to reflect real life treatment conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the feasibility and acceptability of an online mindfulness-based intervention (O-MBI) for stress prevention and reduction among frontline child protection social workers (F-CPSWs) in England. In Phase I, a non-randomized, one-arm feasibility study (N=104) demonstrated post-O-MBI reductions in perceived stress and increased mindfulness. Phase II employed a phenomenological approach using semi-structured interviews (n=7). Participants suggested adjustments to content, delivery, and design, highlighting the need for customization. Despite promising results, the study underscores the importance of tailoring interventions to individual needs and circumstances. Future research should delve into O-MBI effectiveness with a more diverse F-CPSW sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shared parenting, when adults collaborate in childrearing, is a practice of interest for children in out-of-home care. Yet, little is known about its feasibility and outcomes for kinship families who have preexisting relationships with birth parents. This article shares qualitative results from focus groups that explored participants' experiences and attitudes toward shared parenting. The sample comprised 25 kinship caregivers and 34 child welfare professionals. Findings revealed that shared parenting within kinship families is often less feasible than desired. This article identifies barriers and facilitators of shared parenting, offers a shared parenting typology, and explores implications for policy and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested that psychiatrists undergo posttraumatic growth after experiencing patient suicide. However, research remains scant on the posttraumatic growth of psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide. Thus, this study examined the factors associated with the posttraumatic growth of psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide. The sample comprised 39 psychiatrists, and data were collected through an online self-report survey. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency analysis, Pearson's correlation analysis, and Mann-Whitney U tests. Study results demonstrate that being older, having more clinical experience, having more experience with patient suicide, and receiving supportive supervision were associated with higher levels of posttraumatic growth among psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide. However, higher levels of posttraumatic stress were associated with lower levels of posttraumatic growth. In conclusion, there is a need to increase support for psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide to help them overcome occupational trauma and enhance posttraumatic growth. This study suggests several policy and practical implications for enhancing the posttraumatic growth of psychiatrists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging research indicates that yoga is a promising adjunct to psychological trauma treatment. The current pilot study examined the associations between psychophysiological stress, diaphragmatic breathing (DB), and a trauma-sensitive yoga (TSY) regimen developed specifically for trauma-exposed service members in alignment with recent calls for precision in reporting therapeutic yoga protocols. Participants were 31 service members enrolled in a trauma-focused intensive outpatient program (IOP). Service members participated in a brief diaphragmatic breathing (DB) session using the Breathe2Relax (B2R) app followed by the TSY session. Heart rate (HR) and perceived stress were measured at baseline and after both the DB practice and the TSY session. We assessed Yoga and DB expectancies at baseline and post TSY. Participants also rated the acceptability and usability of the B2R app. Results of linear mixed effects regression models showed decreases in HR and perceived stress, compared to baseline, following DB (HR, b = −8.68, CI 95% = −13.34, −4.02; perceived stress, b = −1.77, CI 95% = −2.35, −1.18) and TSY (HR, b = −12.44, CI 95% = −17.15, −7.73; perceived stress b = −3.69, CI 95% = −4.29, −3.08). Higher levels of expectancies, compared to lower levels, related to stronger decreases in HR and perceived stress, particularly after TSY. Overall, participants rated the B2R usability as high; virtually all participants reported that "most would learn to use the app quickly," and 76.6% reported that they would use it frequently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]