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Background: Children with chronic illnesses pose a significant burden on parents who are directly involved in caregiving. Despite the high prevalence of chronic illnesses among children in Saudi Arabia, no study has examined caregiver burden and other related factors in the Saudi Population. Thus, this study determined the levels of caregiver burden, perceived social support, and perceived stress and their association among parents who provide care to their child with a chronic illness. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used for this study. Data were collected through an online survey using standardized scales from parents who had at least one child suffering from a chronic illness or disability for more than 12 months and requiring continuous medical treatment. Results: A total of 206 parents reported mild-to-moderate levels of caregiver burden, moderate levels of perceived stress, and high levels of perceived social support. Furthermore, perceived social support was significantly correlated with caregiver burden (rho = − 0.36, p < 0.01) and perceived stress (rho = − 0.45, p < 0.01), and caregiver burden was significantly associated with perceived stress (rho = 0.65, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Study findings suggest that social support could play a pivotal role in designing intervention programs to mitigate the stress caused by the caregiver burden. This insight underscores the urgent need for policymakers to develop psychosocial interventions and targeted programs for caregivers of children with chronic illnesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Nursing Activities Score. Methods: To validate the Turkish version of the Nursing Activities Score, a sample comprising 30 adult intensive care patients and 30 nurses was employed. After a pilot study, the internal consistency, Cronbach's alpha coefficient, was found to be p = 0.718. Following the significant internal consistency obtained in the pilot study, the correlation between Nursing Activities Score internal consistency and Critical Nursing Situation Index scores was examined in 150 adult intensive care patients and 150 nurses. Results: The assessment of inter-rater reliability showed a high level of agreement (99%) and an average Kappa index of 0.598 (p < 0.001). Concurrent validity was demonstrated through a statistically significant correlation between Nursing Activities Score and the Critical Nursing Situation Index (r = 0.71, p < 0.001) and multivariate regression analysis (R2 = 83%, p < 0.001). The validity is supported by the statistically significant relationship between Nursing Activities Score and Critical Nursing Situation Index. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that Nursing Activities Score is a valid and reliable tool for measuring nursing workload in Turkish intensive care units. Trial registration: Samsun University Samsun Training and Research Hospital, following ethics committee approval (Samsun University clinical research ethics committee (KAEK) 202312/2) and Clinical Trials (NCT04928040) registration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations Agenda 2030, inclusive of its 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs), serves as the global blueprint for sustainability for both present and future generations. Scientific research is entrusted with the responsibility of contributing by informing the current situation and future challenges in achieving the SDGs. This paper investigates the role of social psychology in contributing to the SDGs and the environmental, economic and social pillars of the UN Agenda. We analysed 4808 papers using Natural Language Processing to identify (i) the relevance of social psychology within the SDG‐related literature and (ii) the current and potential contribution of social psychology to the SDGs. Results highlight that social psychology contributes to the SDGs by addressing typical social issues, primarily those related to health and gender, while noting its under‐representation in some environmental and economic areas, despite social psychology well‐established research on these topics. This paper introduces a novel approach for assessing the SDGs, fostering a critical reflection on the SDG framework and social psychology to guide less explored research paths. This approach could potentially enhance the evaluation and advancement of the 2030 Agenda, facilitating a deeper dialogue between the scientific community and policymakers, driving social change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health systems need tools to assess patient's experience of service, but existing tools lack reliability and validity assessment. Our aim is to investigate the factor structure, reliability, validity, item parameters and interpretability of the parent version of the Experience of Service Questionnaire (ESQ) for practical use in Greece. Methods: A total of 265 caregivers that were using mental health services in Greece participated in this study as part of the Nationwide cross-sectional survey from the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Initiative (CAMHI). Confirmatory Factor Analysis was used to test factor structure. Reliability of all models were measured with omega coefficients. Tobit regression analysis was used to test for convergent and discriminant validity with specifically designed questions. Item parameters were assessed via Item Response Theory. Interpretability was assessed by means of IRT-based scores. Results: We found that ESQ is best represented and scored as a unidimensional construct, given potential subscales would not have enough reliability apart from a general factor. Convergent and discriminant validity was demonstrated, as caregivers who perceived that their child benefited from the received mental health care had 6.50 higher summed scores (SMD = 1.14, p < 0.001); while those who believed that their child needed additional help had 5.08 lower summed scores on the ESQ (SMD = −0.89, p < 0.001). Average z-scores provided five meaningful categories of services, in terms of user satisfaction, compared to the national average. Conclusions: Our study presents evidence for the reliability and validity of the ESQ and provides recommendations for its practical use in Greece. ESQ can be used to measure experience of service and might help drive improvements in service delivery in the Greek mental health sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manual decisions regarding the timing of surveillance endoscopy for premalignant Barrett's oesophagus (BO) is error-prone. This leads to inefficient resource usage and safety risks. To automate decision-making, we fine-tuned Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) models to categorize BO length (EndoBERT) and worst histopathological grade (PathBERT) on 4,831 endoscopy and 4,581 pathology reports from Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital (GSTT). The accuracies for EndoBERT test sets from GSTT, King's College Hospital (KCH), and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals (SWB) were 0.95, 0.86, and 0.99, respectively. Average accuracies for PathBERT were 0.93, 0.91, and 0.92, respectively. A retrospective analysis of 1640 GSTT reports revealed a 27% discrepancy between endoscopists' decisions and model recommendations. This study underscores the development and deployment of NLP-based software in BO surveillance, demonstrating high performance at multiple sites. The analysis emphasizes the potential efficiency of automation in enhancing precision and guideline adherence in clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Measuring intercultural attitudes can aid in understanding and addressing persistent inequities in healthcare. Instead of creating new instruments, several sources call for a more rigorous revalidation of existing instruments towards a more broad population. As an example of such an existing instrument, the EMP-3 (Ethnic Minority Patients) focuses on the attitudes of physicians towards ethnic minority patients. Starting from a robust theoretical underpinning and a rigorous methodological setup, the present study revalidates the EMP-3 instrument for physicians towards the REMP-3 instrument for graduate healthcare practitioners. Methods: We assessed the reliability and validity of the old EMP-3, which we then updated to a new REMP-3 instrument. We used structural equation modeling to model the framework of intercultural effectiveness on two waves of independent data, N2021 = 368 and N2022 = 390. Within this framework, we tested the new REMP-3 instrument as an operationalization of intercultural attitudes. We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis on the first wave, after which we made adaptations to the original EMP-3 instrument to obtain a new REMP-3 instrument. The new REMP-3 instrument was then cross-validated using the data of the second wave. Results: The new REMP-3 instrument is a psychometric upgrade compared to the EMP-3. The REMP-3 now has a cross-validated structure, with three subscale dimensions (i.e., task perception, background perception and the perceived need to communicate) and an overarching higher-order, full-scale dimension. Both the subscales as well as the full instrument show acceptable to good internal consistency reliability, with a reduced number of items from eighteen to ten. As theoretically predicted, the REMP-3 also functions as a measure of intercultural attitudes in an intercultural competence framework. Conclusion: Ultimately, the REMP-3 instrument can contribute to more equity in healthcare by concisely and reliably assessing and monitoring attitudes in healthcare practitioners. This attitude assessment represents the potential of learning new skills and knowledge to address interactions with ethnic minority patients, which is especially useful during training situations like an internship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have shown that overall sleep quality among Chinese nurses is relatively low, with a sleep disorder prevalence rate of approximately 66.4%. Against the backdrop of healthcare reforms, China has been striving to improve the mental health and sleep quality of nurses. Stress mindset can influence how individuals respond to stress, but there is limited research on how stress mindset affects nurses' sleep quality. This study aims to explore the impact of stress mindset on sleep quality among nurses, as well as the mediating roles of stress overload and anxiety in this relationship. Methods: The study was conducted online using a questionnaire from February 18 to February 22, 2024. It utilized the Stress Mindset Measure (SMM), the Stress Overload Scale-Short (SOS-S), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to survey 441 nurses in three regions of China: Chongqing, Hunan, and Shandong (M = 34.39, SD = 7.82, 95.7% female). A chain mediation model was employed to examine the mediating roles of stress overload and anxiety in the relationship between stress mindset and sleep quality. Results: The participants' average sleep quality score was 7.18 ± 3.47. Nurses' stress mindset was significantly negatively correlated with both stress overload and anxiety, and significantly positively correlated with sleep quality. Stress overload was significantly positively correlated with anxiety and significantly negatively correlated with sleep quality. Anxiety was also significantly negatively correlated with sleep quality. The direct effect of nurses' stress mindset on sleep quality was significant (effect size = -0.10, 95% CI: -0.19 to -0.01), as were the indirect effects through stress overload (effect size = -0.05, 95% CI: -0.11 to -0.01) and anxiety (effect size = -0.09, 95% CI: -0.13 to -0.05), along with their chain mediation effect (effect size = -0.10, 95% CI: -0.14 to -0.06). Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that a higher level of nurses' stress mindset is associated with better sleep quality, with stress overload and anxiety mediating this relationship. A positive stress mindset helps nurses cope more effectively with professional challenges and reduces anxiety, leading to improved sleep quality. Healthcare institutions should therefore prioritize fostering positive stress mindsets in nurses, encouraging regular psychological training and workshops to support the development of effective coping strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the psychometric properties of the Spanish King's Parkinson's Disease Pain Scale (KPPS). Design: A descriptive transversal study at a Spanish hospital. Methods: Fifty‐three Parkinson's disease (PD) patients suffering from otherwise explained pain (34 females, age = 63.42 ± 10.52 years, time with disease = 7.25 ± 4.65 years) were evaluated by the KPPS, Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), two Pain Pressure Thresholds (PPTs), Widespread Mechanical Hyperalgesia (WMH), and Conditioned Pain Modulation (CPM). A retest of the KPPS was performed 7–15 days later. Internal consistency, test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)), measurement error, factor structure, and criterion/convergent validity were assessed. Results: Internal consistency of the Spanish KPPS was acceptable (Cronbach's alpha = 0.77). The mean test and retest total KPPS scores were similar (test = 34.83 ± 23.50 points, retest = 35.87 ± 26.23 points), and test–retest reliability was good (ICC = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.75–0.91). Standard error of measurement (SEM) was 9.1 points and smallest detectable change (SDC) was 25.22 points. The sampling adequacy was not sufficient to perform factor analysis. The total KPPS score was not correlated to the BPI intensity subscale (r = 0.18, p = 0.19), but it was moderately and positively correlated to the interference subscale (r = 0.43, p = 0.001). The total KPPS was moderately and negatively correlated to both the remote PPT (r = −0.4, p = 0.003) and WMH (r = −0.38, p = 0.005). No statistical correlations were found with local PPT or CPM. Conclusion: The present study provides evidence that the Spanish KPPS effectively measures pain in individuals with PD, with its total score demonstrating good reliability, minimal measurement error, and adequate criterion and convergent validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To translate the Rushton Moral Resilience Scale (RMRS) into Japanese and validate its applicability among Japanese healthcare professionals. Background: To overcome daily challenges in the field of healthcare, in which moral difficulties are routinely encountered, the development of intervention methods to address moral suffering and moral distress is crucial. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional survey using a web‐based questionnaire. The RMRS‐16 was translated into Japanese and confirmed through back‐translation. Reliability analyses (Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]), confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs), correlation analyses, t‐tests, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to assess the validity of the scale. Results: Participants comprised 1295 healthcare professionals, including 498 nurses. All subscales and the total scale had acceptable reliability values (α ≥ 0.70). CFA supported the original four‐factor structure (response to moral adversity, personal integrity, relational integrity, and moral efficacy), with acceptable fit indices. The ANOVA results suggested that, among Japanese healthcare professionals, nurses and individuals from other professions showed lower average moral resilience scores compared to physicians, consistent with previous research on mental health and moral distress. In addition, women scored lower for moral resilience than men. However, the ICC values for the subscales of the RMRS were below acceptable levels, and the results of the standardized residual covariances also suggested a model misfit. Conclusion and Implications: The reliability, validity, and utility of the Japanese version of the RMRS were generally supported. However, there were areas at the item level that required structural examination. The current findings suggest that there are cultural differences in the concept of moral resilience. Therefore, for future cultural comparisons, the original four‐factor structure was maintained in the Japanese version without modifications. Further conceptual development of moral resilience is needed in Japanese healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non-invasive cuffless blood pressure devices have shown promising results in accurately estimating blood pressure when comparing measurements at rest. However, none of commercially available or prototype cuffless devices have yet been validated according to the appropriate standards. The aim of the present study was to bridge this gap and evaluate the ability of a prototype cuffless device, developed by Aidee Health AS, to track changes in blood pressure compared to a non-invasive, continuous blood pressure monitor (Human NIBP or Nexfin) in a laboratory set up. The performance was evaluated according to the metrics and statistical methodology described in the ISO 81060-3:2022 standard. However, the present study is not a validation study and thus the study was not conducted according to the ISO 81060-3:2022 protocol, e.g., non-invasive reference and distribution of age not fulfilled. Method: Data were sampled continuously, beat-to-beat, from both the cuffless and the reference device. The cuffless device was calibrated once using the reference BP measurement. Three different techniques (isometric exercise, mental stress, and cold pressor test) were used to induce blood pressure changes in 38 healthy adults. Results: The mean difference (standard deviation) was 0.3 (8.7) mmHg for systolic blood pressure, 0.04 (6.6) mmHg for diastolic blood pressure, and 0.8 (7.9) mmHg for mean arterial pressure, meeting the Accuracy requirement of ISO 81060-3:2022 (≤6.0 (10.0) mmHg). The corresponding results for the Stability criteria were 1.9 (9.2) mmHg, 2.9 (8.1) mmHg and 2.5 (9.5) mmHg. The acceptance criteria for the Change requirement were achieved for the 85th percentile of ≤50% error for diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure but were higher than the limit for systolic blood pressure (56% vs. ≤50%) and for all parameters for the 50th percentile (32%–39% vs. ≤25%). Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that the cuffless device could track blood pressure changes in healthy adults across different activities and showed promising results in achieving the acceptance criteria from ISO 81060-3:2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corneal transplantation is the primary treatment for irreversible corneal diseases, but due to limited donor availability, bioengineered corneal equivalents are being developed as a solution, with biocompatibility, structural integrity, and physical function considered key factors. Since conventional evaluation methods may not fully capture the complex properties of the cornea, there is a need for advanced imaging and assessment techniques. In this study, we proposed a deep learning-based automatic segmentation method for transplanted bioengineered corneal equivalents using optical coherence tomography to achieve a highly accurate evaluation of graft integrity and biocompatibility. Our method provides quantitative individual thickness values, detailed maps, and volume measurements of the bioengineered corneal equivalents, and has been validated through 14 days of monitoring. Based on the results, it is expected to have high clinical utility as a quantitative assessment method for human keratoplasties, including automatic opacity area segmentation and implanted graft part extraction, beyond animal studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients transitioning between different care contexts are at increased risk of experiencing adverse events. In particular, being discharged to home after inpatient treatment involves significant risks. However, there is a lack of valid and internationally comparable assessment tools on patients' experiences of difficulties following hospital discharge. Therefore, this study aimed to adapt and validate the German version of the post-discharge coping difficulty scale (PDCDS-G). Methods: Patients were recruited at a German university hospital. 815 adult patients participated in a self-report survey following an inpatient stay of at least three days. Factorial validity of the PDCDS-G was evaluated via factor analyses. Further, examination of measurement invariance was performed. To establish criterion validity, associations with patients' self-reported health status and occurrence of patient safety were determined. Further, group differences regarding patient characteristics, hospitalization factors, and survey-related variables were examined. Results: Factorial validity of the PDCDS-G was confirmed by a two-factorial model with good model fit. Both factors showed good to excellent reliability. The two-factor model achieved measurement invariance across all patient characteristics, hospitalization factors, and survey-related variables. Significant relationships with patients' health status and the occurrence of patient safety incidents corroborate criterion validity of the PDCDS-G. Differential associations of the two PDCDS-G factors regarding patient characteristics, hospitalization, and survey-related variables were found. Discussion: Construct and criterion validity, as well as the reliability of the PDCDS-G, were verified. Further, instrument's measurement invariance was confirmed allowing use of the scale for the interpretation of group differences and comparisons between studies. Conclusions: The PDCDS-G provides a validated and comparable patient-reported outcomes measure for patient experiences after hospital discharge to home. The PDCDS-G can be used for patient surveys in quality or patient safety improvement in care transition processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past decade, the progress of traditional bioprocess optimization technique has lagged far behind the rapid development of synthetic biology, which has hindered the industrialization process of synthetic biology achievements. Recently, more and more advanced equipment and sensors have been applied for bioprocess online inspection to improve the understanding and optimization efficiency of the process. This has resulted in large amounts of process data from various sources with different communication protocols and data formats, requiring the development of techniques for integration and fusion of these heterogeneous data. Here we describe a multi-source fusion platform (Biofuser) that is designed to collect and process multi-source heterogeneous data. Biofuser integrates various data to a unique format that facilitates data visualization, further analysis, model construction, and automatic process control. Moreover, Biofuser also provides additional APIs that support machine learning or deep learning using the integrated data. We illustrate the application of Biofuser with a case study on riboflavin fermentation process development, demonstrating its ability in device faulty identification, critical process factor identification, and bioprocess prediction. Biofuser has the potential to significantly enhance the development of fermentation optimization techniques and is expected to become an important infrastructure for artificial intelligent integration into bioprocess optimization, thereby promoting the development of intelligent biomanufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital health research often relies on case vignettes (descriptions of fictitious or real patients) to navigate ethical and practical challenges. Despite their utility, the quality and lack of standardization of these vignettes has often been criticized, especially in studies on symptom-assessment applications (SAAs) and self-triage decision-making. To address this, our paper introduces a method to refine an existing set of vignettes, drawing on principles from classical test theory. First, we removed any vignette with an item difficulty of zero and an item-total correlation below zero. Second, we stratified the remaining vignettes to reflect the natural base rates of symptoms that SAAs are typically approached with, selecting those vignettes with the highest item-total correlation in each quota. Although this two-step procedure reduced the size of the original vignette set by 40%, comparing self-triage performance on the reduced and the original vignette sets, we found a strong correlation (r = 0.747 to r = 0.997, p <.001). This indicates that using our refinement method helps identifying vignettes with high predictive power of an agent's self-triage performance while simultaneously increasing cost-efficiency of vignette-based evaluation studies. This might ultimately lead to higher research quality and more reliable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the Spanish and Catalan context, there is currently a lack of standardized, linguistically adapted tools to assess people with communication disorders. This lack is especially evident when it comes to instruments designed to assess functional communication. Aims: The main objective of this study is to adapt the instrument entitled Communication Activities of Daily Living 3rd edition (CADL‐3) into European Spanish (CADL‐3VE) and Catalan (CADL‐3VC), thus providing a new tool to assess the functional communication of patients with aphasia in the Spanish and Catalan populations. Methods & Procedures: A total of 152 people, all residents of Catalonia, took part in the study. The CADL‐3VE test was administered to 125 Spanish‐speaking participants, who were divided into two groups, one consisting of patients with aphasia and the other a control group. The CADL‐3VC test was administered to 27 Catalan‐speaking patients with aphasia. Other tests and assessment scales were used for the external validation of the test. Outcomes & Results: Reliability scores were recorded for both new versions of the test. There was a very strong correlation between the CADL‐3VE test and external criteria. The scores for both of the new versions showed significant differences in terms of performance between the aphasia and control groups. Both versions displayed similarities with the original test with respect to most of the psychometric analyses carried out. Conclusion & Implications: The test makes it possible to assess everyday communicative functioning and participation in real‐world contexts. As such, it helps inform the creation of personalized, interdisciplinary treatment plans aimed at functional objectives that consider the patient's context. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: In order to effectively assess aphasia based on a bio‐psycho‐social perspective, it is necessary to examine functional communication. In other words, there is a need to explore the kinds of communication difficulties that people face in their everyday lives. Communication Activities of Daily Living (CADL‐3) is an English‐language test that was developed to assess functional communication by simulating certain everyday activities. What this study adds: This paper offers an analysis of the items, reliability and validity of the Spanish and Catalan versions of the CADL‐3 test. What are the clinical implications of this work?: This new instrument has the potential to play an essential role in assessing the everyday functional communication of people with aphasia in Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Typically developing children assigned male at birth (AMAB) and children assigned female at birth (AFAB) produce the fricative /s/ differently: AFAB children produce /s/ with a higher spectral peak frequency. This study examined whether implicit knowledge of these differences affects speech‐language pathologists'/speech and language therapists' (SLPs'/SLTs') ratings of /s/ accuracy, by comparing ratings made in conditions where SLPs/SLTs were blind to children's sex assigned at birth (SAB) to conditions in which they were told this information. Methods: SLPs (n = 95) varying in clinical experience rated the accuracy of word‐initial /s/ productions (n = 87) of eight children with speech sound disorder in one of four conditions: one in which no information about the children was revealed, one in which children's SAB was revealed, one in which children's age was revealed, and one in which both were revealed. Results: Despite there being no statistically significant differences between AFAB and AMAB children's /s/ production in researcher‐determined accuracy or in one acoustic characteristic, spectral centroid, SLPs in all four conditions judged the /s/ productions of AFAB children as more accurate than AMAB children. Listeners were significantly less likely to judge the productions of AMAB children to be inaccurate in the conditions in which age or age and SAB were revealed. These effects were consistent across SLPs with greatly varying levels of clinical experience. Conclusion: Knowing or imputing children's age and SAB can affect ratings of /s/ accuracy. Clinicians should be mindful of these potential effects. Future research should understand how expectations about sociolinguistic variation in speech affect appraisals of their speech and language. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: Adult men and women produce /s/ differently. A consensus is that these differences reflect sociolinguistic gender marking, rather than being the passive consequence of vocal‐tract differences. Recent studies have shown that children assigned female at birth (AFAB) and those assigned male at birth (AMAB) produce /s/ differently in ways that mirror the differences between adult men and women, and which presumably reflect gender marking. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: We asked whether US‐based speech‐language pathologists' (SLPs) ratings of the accuracy of /s/ differ depending on whether they are rating an AFAB or an AMAB child, and whether these differences are greater in conditions in which people are told the sex assigned at birth of the child being rated. We found that SLPs were more likely to judge AFAB children's /s/ productions to be more accurate than AMAB children's, even though the productions from the AMAB and AFAB children that were used as stimuli were matched for accuracy as determined by trained researchers. What are the clinical implications of this work?: SLPs/speech‐language therapists should be sensitive to the influence of social variables when assessing /s/. SLPs/speech‐language therapists might rate children's productions differently depending on whether they believe they are rating an AFAB or an AMAB child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People with communication problems experience challenges in participation. Optimizing communicative participation for this population is an important outcome of speech and language therapy. Participation experiences are best assessed from the patient's perspective, using a patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM). The Communicative Participation Item Bank (CPIB) has been developed to identify perceived problems in communicative participation. However, previous research has shown that the item bank does not cover all domains and concepts of communicative participation, contains general communication items, and is not suitable for all people with communication problems. Aims: To develop a comprehensive PROM aimed at measuring communicative participation for all adults with communication problems and test its content validity. Methods & Procedures: An initial pool of 242 items was based on three sources: relevant content from an earlier literature review and concept elicitation study, and the translation of the items of the CPIB. This item pool was pilot‐tested for comprehensibility and comprehensiveness using cognitive debriefing interviews in adults with different communication problems (speech, language, voice, hearing and cognitive communication disorders). This resulted in a second version of the item bank. The content validity of this version was tested in a group of professionals. The last (third) version of 133 items was tested for content validity in a second, new group of adults with various communication problems. Outcomes & Results: The initial pool of 242 items was developed and pilot‐tested in 27 adults with different communication problems. After modifications, 161 items remained, which were tested in a content validity study with 25 people with different communication problems and five professionals (in the field of speech and language therapy and speech and language research). The professionals considered 91.9% of the item bank relevant and comprehensible, and comprehensive by adding two items. The item bank was then considered relevant, comprehensible and comprehensive by the group of adults with communication problems. A total of 133 items remained in the item bank, related to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Activities and Participation domains 'mobility', 'self‐care', 'domestic life', 'interpersonal interactions and relationships', 'major life areas' and 'community, social and civic life'. Conclusions & Implications: MyCommunication—Adults is an item bank for measuring communicative participation in adults with communication difficulties. The next step is to test the psychometric properties of the item bank, in order to establish a final item bank. The refined description of the construct of communicative participation can already be used for participation‐focused goal‐setting between individuals with communication problems and speech and language therapists. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: The CPIB was developed to measure communicative participation in community‐dwelling adults with communication problems. The item bank does not cover all domains and concepts of communicative participation, contains general communication items and not all questions seem to be relevant for specific target groups (e.g., hearing population). What this paper adds to the existing knowledge: This study presents a refined description of the construct of communicative participation and the development of a new comprehensive PROM aimed at measuring this construct for all adults with communication difficulties. The development of the PROM is based on a previously conducted literature review and concept elicitation study. This study describes the development process of this new PROM, called MyCommunication‐Adults, and the assessment of its content validity. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: The refined description of the construct of communicative participation can be used for participation‐focused goal‐setting between individuals with communication problems and speech and language therapists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Phonological difficulties are prevalent in children with speech and/or language disorders and may hamper their later language outcomes and academic achievements. These children often form a significant proportion of speech and language therapists' caseloads. There is a shortage of information on evidence‐based interventions for improving phonological skills in children and adolescents with speech and language disorder. Aims: The aim of this systematic literature review and meta‐analysis was to systematically examine the effects of different intervention approaches on speech production accuracy and phonological representation skills in children with speech and language disorders. Methods: A preregistered systematic review (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews ID: CRD42017076075) adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines was completed. Seven electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, ERIC, PsychINFO, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS and Linguistics & Language Behavior Abstracts) were searched for studies related to oral language interventions with children with developmental speech and/or language disorder (mean age ranging from 3–18 years) published between January 2006 and August 2022. The included articles reported intervention studies with a group design in which speech production accuracy was the outcome measure. Studies were appraised using the Cochrane risk of bias tool, and individual effect sizes were calculated using standardised means differences when enough data was available. A meta‐analysis was conducted obtaining the average standardised mean difference d. Heterogeneity, influence of possible moderator variables and publication bias were explored. Results: The 23 studies that met the inclusion criteria presented low‐medium risk of bias. Nine effect sizes were obtained from seven of these studies that presented a pre‐post‐test with a control group design. Medium‐high average effect sizes were found in phonological accuracy. Heterogeneity was found between individual effect sizes. Significant moderator variables and publication bias were not detected. Conclusions: The results of this meta‐analysis indicate positive effects on speech production accuracy. Based on this review, further improvements in the quality of reporting for intervention research are required in developing the evidence base for practice. What this paper adds: What is already known on the subject: An increasing number of interventions is available for children and adolescents with developmental speech and/or language disorders. Previous reviews suggest relatively low levels of evidence of interventions having phonology as an outcome measure. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge: This review and meta‐analysis summarise the intervention evidence from a substantial body of group design studies, indicating positive results from a range of interventions with phonological outcomes. It highlights the need to systematically implement and replicate different intervention procedures to understand factors that will maximise positive outcomes and to grow the evidence base for best practice. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this study?: Tentative evidence is emerging for the effectiveness of various approaches in enhancing speech production accuracy skills of children and adolescents with developmental speech and/or language disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For over 30 years, parental reports have been used to study the vocabulary of children under 4 years of age. Research exploring parental checklists as a measure of vocabulary in older children is very limited. Typically, authors of parental checklists report the reliability of the developed tools but do not explore validity in terms of the agreement between parental assessments and the children's actual word knowledge. Aims: We aimed to explore the reliability and validity of a parental checklist for assessing vocabulary in children aged between 3 and 6 years. Furthermore, we aimed to evaluate the agreement between indirect (parental checklist) and direct (picture naming and picture recognition tasks) assessments of children's vocabulary. Methods and Procedures: A group of 94 typically developing monolingual Polish‐speaking children aged between 3 and 6 years were first directly tested onsite with picture naming and picture recognition tasks (Cross‐Linguistic Lexical Tasks). Subsequently, the participants' parents completed an online checklist containing the same set of 128 items and marked all the words that they had ever heard in their child's spontaneous speech. Outcomes and Results: The parental checklist demonstrated very high internal consistency. The scores of the parental checklist and vocabulary tasks were moderately correlated. We compared the total number of words marked by parents and the number of items correctly identified by children in the picture naming and picture recognition tasks. In picture naming, we found no difference between the children's scores and the number of words selected by parents. However, parents selected significantly fewer words than children correctly recognised in the picture recognition task. When data were analysed at the level of individual items (i.e., whether parents selected exactly the same items that children answered correctly), we found that the level of agreement was low. The level of agreement correlated negatively with the children's vocabulary; that is, the more words a child knew, the lower the agreement between the direct measure and the parental checklist. Conclusions and Implications: Parental checklists should be used with caution in children aged between 3 and 6 years, especially if the assessed children have a large vocabulary and if item analysis is planned. Such checklists may be of more use in younger children or in children with limited vocabulary. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: Parental checklists are commonly used to assess the vocabulary of children younger than 4 years of age. Previous research has indicated that parental checklists are reliable in terms of internal consistency and valid in terms of predictive and convergent validity. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge: This study introduces a parental checklist designed for assessing the vocabulary of monolingual Polish‐speaking children aged between 3 and 6 years. Statistical analyses reveal that while the parental checklist exhibits high reliability, and the scores on the checklist correlate with direct measures of vocabulary, the agreement between parental reports and direct vocabulary measures (i.e., validity) is notably low, particularly when examining individual test items. What are the clinical implications of this work?: These findings underscore the importance of exercising caution when using parental vocabulary checklists with children aged between 3 and 6 years. These checklists can serve as a replacement for direct vocabulary tests only when the general/overall score is needed. However, when specific words are the subject of interest, parental reports may not be a valid measure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The dialect spoken by children influences diagnostic decision‐making regarding the identification and severity of speech sound disorder (SSD). Aims: The primary objective was to review papers that examined the influence of dialect on the identification of SSD in Vietnamese‐speaking children. Methods & Procedures: Five studies of mono‐ and multilingual Vietnamese‐speaking children living in Vietnam and Australia were reviewed to examine the influence of dialect on the assessment and analysis children's speech. The main Vietnamese dialects (Standard, Northern, Central, Southern) differ in the production of consonants, vowels and tones. Main contribution: Most speech assessments define correct production using the standard dialect of a language. Insights from recent studies of Vietnamese provide recommendations for also considering dialect in diagnostic decision‐making. First, we recommend adding column(s) to the assessment score sheet that includes the dialectal variants spoken by adults in the child's family or community. Second, we calculate the accuracy of production twice, based on the standard form and dialectal form. Third, we report the percentage of consonants correct—standard (PCC‐S) and percentage of consonants correct—dialect (PCC‐D). Conclusions & Implications: Diagnostic decision‐making is influenced by dialectal variation in children's speech, so speech and language therapists need to compare standard and dialectal productions when undertaking assessments, analysis and diagnostic decision‐making. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on the subject: Most speech assessments use the standard form of a dialect as the correct production. The standard dialect is used for diagnosis of SSD and identification of intervention targets. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge: This paper examines five research studies of Vietnamese to identify ways to consider dialect in speech and language therapy assessment and analysis. Vietnamese provides a complex environment for this examination since there are numerous Vietnamese dialects and they differ according to consonants, vowels and tones. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: Speech and language therapists are encouraged to add column(s) to their assessment score sheet that includes the dialectal variants spoken by adults and to report the PCC‐S and PCC‐D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To assess test–retest reliability of both food photography and food diary methods and validity of these data against known values derived from food labels. Methods: Test–retest reliability analyses of food diary and food photography were compared using single foodstuffs using intra‐class correlation coefficients, coefficients of variation, and limits of agreement. For food diaries, 24‐h test–retest reliability was also examined. Validity was assessed against weighed analyses. As part of habitual intake, a single foodstuff (randomly allocated from 14 common foods) was consumed by 26 participants over 24‐h. On two occasions (14 days apart), single‐blind dietary analyses allowed estimation of foodstuff‐specific energy and macronutrient content and 24‐h intakes. Results: For food diaries, test–retest reliability was acceptable (weight, energy, carbohydrate, protein, and fat: all intra‐class correlation coefficients: >0.990, coefficient of variation percentage: <0.1%, limits of agreements: <0.1 to <0.1, p > 0.05, and effect size: <0.01). For food photography, test–retest reliability was acceptable for weight, energy, carbohydrate, and protein (all intra‐class correlation coefficients: >0.898, coefficient of variation percentage: 3.6%–6.2%, limits of agreements: 1.1 to – 44.9, and effect size: 0.01–0.12). Food photography validity was worse than food diaries for all variables (percentage difference: 8.8%–15.3%, coefficient of variation percentage: 7.5%–13.8%, all p ≤ 0.05, and effect size: 0.001–0.11). Conclusions: Greater reliability and validity occurred in food diaries versus food photography. These findings suggest that using food photography may lead to an underestimation of energy and macronutrient content, which may have implications for dietary interventions and nutritional strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To describe an Aboriginal cultural immersion delivered to dietetics students at a large university in Australia and assess its effectiveness as a method to teach Aboriginal history, culture, diet, and health in dietetics. Methods: Taking a strength‐based approach, Aboriginal processes of learning were privileged, with the cultural immersion being co‐designed with immersion educators, a First Nations researcher, and dietetics academic. The cultural immersion consisted of an opening ceremony and four stations of yarning, weaving, bush tucker, and artefacts/medicines. A mixed‐methods approach was used, with triangulation of data from pre‐ and postsurveys, station mapping, and focus group interviews. Quantitative and qualitative data were simultaneously analysed from participating first‐year Master of Nutrition and Dietetics students and then drawn together for an integrated understanding of the impact of the cultural immersion on student learnings. Results: Fifty‐three students completed pre‐ and postsurveys and 36 participated in focus groups. Through sharing lived experiences, learning through culture, and keeping sessions practical and Aboriginal leadership, each cultural immersion station utilised Aboriginal processes of learning that meaningfully engaged students with Aboriginal education content, appreciate holistic health and increased their general knowledge on Aboriginal history, culture, diet, and health (all p < 0.001). Conclusion: Cultural immersion is one teaching method to enhance student knowledges and can be a part of a programmatic and integrated approach that embeds Aboriginal content throughout the whole curriculum. It is necessary that institutions recognise the value of cultural immersions to student learnings and commit to providing ongoing support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Objective structured clinical examinations have long been used in dietetics education. This observational study aims to describe the development, deployment, feasibility and validity of assessment using an oral interview in place of traditional objective structured clinical examinations, and to determine the ability of this assessment to identify students who are either not ready for placement or may require early support and/or remediation. Methods: Student assessment data were collected over a two‐and‐a‐half‐year period and used to test the predictive ability of an oral interview to determine dietetic placement outcomes and highlight a need for early remediation. Descriptive statistics as well as a between‐group one‐way ANOVA was used to describe results. Results: A total of 169 students participated in the oral interview and subsequent medical nutrition therapy placement over the study period. Significant differences in oral interview score were seen between students who passed placement and students who passed with remediation or those who failed. Oral interview performance was able to predict placement outcome, yet required less resources than traditional objective structured clinical examinations. Conclusion: An oral interview may provide the same utility as the objective structured clinical examination in dietetics education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study examines the factorial structure and psychometric properties of the Eating Disorder‐15 questionnaire (ED‐15) in a large clinical sample, as well as the instrument's sensitivity to early clinical change in therapy and ability to measure remission. Method: Participants with eating disorders (N = 278) referred to the Flinders University Services for Eating Disorders in South Australia completed the ED‐15 as well as other measures of eating disorder symptoms and co‐occurring psychopathology, including depression, anxiety, and stress. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) revealed a two‐factor model for the ED‐15. The ED‐15 had good internal consistency. It showed satisfactory concurrent validity with moderate correlations with the EDE‐Q global score and contribution of unique variance to that score. Correlations indicated good convergent validity with clinical impairment and good divergent validity from depression, anxiety, and stress. The ED‐15 showed a significant medium effect size change within the first four sessions of therapy. Good discriminant validity was indicated by cut‐off scores used for remission, with significantly different levels of ED psychopathology and other impairments between the two groups. Discussion: This study adds to the four previous psychometric studies of the ED‐15, confirming robustness of the English version in a clinical sample. The brevity and psychometric robustness of the ED‐15 makes it a preferable measure to the Eating Disorder Examination for sessional assessment of progress in treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Interpersonal problems have been identified as a plausible mechanism underlying the onset and maintenance of eating disorders. The Interpersonal Relationships in Eating Disorders (IR‐ED) scale is the first eating disorders‐specific measure of interpersonal problems, which was developed in a nonclinical sample. The aims of the current study were to (a) confirm the factor structure of the IR‐ED within a large clinical sample, (b) investigate measurement invariance of the IR‐ED across nonclinical and clinical samples, (c) examine the convergent validity of the IR‐ED using a generic measure of interpersonal problems, and (d) investigate the incremental clinical utility of the IR‐ED in uniquely predicting eating disorder symptomatology. Method: Treatment‐seeking individuals (N = 437) completed the IR‐ED at their initial assessment appointment at a specialist eating disorder outpatient service. Results: A multiple‐group confirmatory factor analysis supported an invariant bifactor structure comprising a general interpersonal problems factor and two group factors—Avoidance of Body Evaluation and Food‐Related Interpersonal Tension. Convergent validity was demonstrated by a large, statistically significant correlation with a generic measure of interpersonal problems (r = 0.62, p < 0.001). A series of structural equation models further revealed unique incremental predictive utility of the IR‐ED for eating disorder symptomatology. Discussion: The IR‐ED has strong psychometric properties and may prove beneficial in the assessment, formulation, and treatment of eating‐specific interpersonal problems among patients with eating disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the short version of the Spanish Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire (SACQ-50, Spanish version). Participants: 1513 students from 14 universities in Peru, mainly females (61.5%), aged between 18 and 30 years. Method: Cross-sectional study with the questionnaire administered in person. Confirmatory factorial analysis was conducted to confirm the scale validity. Results: adequate fits were obtained for the multidimensional structure and for the second order factor of the test. Alpha and omega coefficients indicated adequate test reliability. Conclusions: The Spanish version of the SACQ-50 is a multidimensional scale displaying adequate reliability and validity. The scale may be useful for researchers and other professionals working in the university context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a new measure of academic stressors (the ASM) in college students. Participants: The ASM was given to 677 undergraduate students at three universities along with measures of anxiety/depression, Big Five personality traits, and study skills. Methods: Tests of factorability and an exploratory factor analysis were completed. The internal and test-retest reliability of the measure was also evaluated. Results: The ASM is a concise, valid, and reliable tool for assessing college students' academic stressors. Conclusions: ASM scores predicted anxiety and depression symptoms. Therefore, the ASM can be used by colleges and university to assess students' levels of academic stressors to identify meaningful resources for support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study examined (1) the validity and reliability of the 3 × 2 achievement goal questionnaire (3 × 2 AGQ) in a college physical activity (PA) setting, and (2) relationships between achievement goals and students' persistence/effort. Methods: Participants were 556 students (M = 20.31 years, SD = 1.34; 305 males; 251 females) enrolled in PA classes at a major university in the southwest U.S. Results: Results indicated that the 3 × 2 AGQ failed to assess six achievement goals as construed in the 3 × 2 model of achievement goals in academic settings. However, it served as a reliable and valid measure assessing task/self-approach, task/self-avoidance, other-approach, and other-avoidance goals in a college PA setting. All except other-avoidance goals were found motivationally beneficial and positively predicted persistence/effort. Conclusions: Instructors are encouraged to figure out how to use their influences and peers' influences to help students endorse achievement goals that contribute to positive motivation, such as task/self-approach goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To discuss the engagement of patients and stakeholders (ie, faculty, staff, healthcare providers, and university administrators) in capacity building activities to prepare for future patient-centered research on collegiate recovery. Participants: 502 attended capacity building activities and provided input on priorities for future research in collegiate recovery and 77 participated in the deliberative democracy forum process. Methods: We used surveys and the deliberative democracy forum method, which includes framing sessions and forums for data collection. This method enables individuals with diverse backgrounds to share and learn about differing viewpoints to build consensus for decision making. Results: Forum participants prioritized barriers to recovery for future research and discussed the need to address diversity in collegiate recovery programs, including racial/ethnic diversity in the student recovery population and diversity in pathways to recovery, to decrease barriers to recovery. Conclusions: Institutional support for research on collegiate recovery is critical to move the field forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Background: A discrepancy between the true and measured value of stretched penile length (SPL) may be a result of errors that can either be systematic or random. Hence, it becomes important to focus on the quality of measurements to prevent any iatrogenic harm to the patients. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the magnitude of intra- and interobserver variations in the measurement of SPL with the SPLINT technique. Materials and Methods: SPL was measured prospectively in a cohort of 449 boys aged 0–14 years including 68 infants (substratified into Group I: >4 years, Group II: 4–8 years, and Group III: >8 years) with the SPLINT technique by expert (E: E1 and E2) and trainee (T: T1 and T2) surgeons after completing a three-tiered training module. Intra- and interobserver variability was assessed through descriptive statistics, intraclass correlation (ICC), relative technical error of measurement (rTEM), and reliability or R (%). Results: Intraobserver variability: the mean difference between the two readings (E1 and E2) is 0.08 cm (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.073–0.087), ICC was 0.998 (95% CI: 0.997–0.998), and intraobserver variability ≤0.1 cm in 85% of the participants (n = 370 of 433). The rTEM and reliability (%) were 1.82% and 98.1% (Group I), 1.65% and 98.9% (Group II), and 1.09% and 99.7% (Group III), respectively. The intraobserver variability was observed to be inversely proportional to the age of the participants (correlation coefficient = −0.56). Interobserver variability was calculated separately for expert versus trainee and trainee versus trainee (T-vs-T) measurements. For expert versus expert, ICC, rTEM, and reliability (%) were 0.984, 2.4%, and 96.8% (Group 1), 0.992, 2.07%, and 98.3% (Group 2), and 0.997, 1.38%, and 99.05% (Group 3), respectively. A similar pattern of variability was observed for T-vs-T measurements. The reliability (%) of the SPL by experts is consistently more than that of trainees across all age groups; however, the difference ameliorates with the age of participant. Conclusions: The study has validated the SPLINT technique by demonstrating a high level of intra- and interobserver reliability. The adequacy of the training modules for SPL measurements described in this study has also been established. Evidence that the SPL can be used as an objective marker of penile dimensions is herewith furnished. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perinatal depression (PD) affects individuals during pregnancy and early parenthood, resembling major depression. Recent research highlights paternal perinatal depression (PPD) in fathers. PPD has adverse effects on fathers and their children. This study assesses the Turkish version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for Turkish fathers, aiming to provide a tool for PPD identification. This methodological study validates the EPDS for Turkish fathers and explores associations with demographic and psychosocial factors. The study involved 295 fathers with infants aged 2 weeks to 12 months. The EPDS, originally designed for perinatal depression and validated in Turkish women, was used. Fathers completed a participant information questionnaire, the EPDS, and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) during clinic visits. Data on sociodemographic factors, paternal roles, and pregnancy and postpartum support were collected. Mothers also completed the EPDS. Descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and correlation tests were used. The study included fathers with an average age of 30.5 years, mostly with a high school education or higher. The EPDS had a mean total score of 3.1. Factor analysis suggested a three-factor structure for the EPDS in Turkish fathers, including anhedonia, anxiety, and depression. Confirmatory factor analysis validated the three-factor structure, with acceptable model fit indices. Positive correlations were found between fathers' EPDS scores, maternal EPDS scores, and paternal BDI scores. The EPDS effectively discriminated between different levels of depression severity. Various factors, such as education level and lack of support during pregnancy and after childbirth, were associated with higher EPDS scores. These findings emphasize the significance of assessing and addressing PPD in fathers, supporting the use of the EPDS as a valid tool in the Turkish context. The three-factor structure aligns with international research, highlighting the importance of a multi-dimensional approach to PPD assessment. Early intervention can mitigate PPD's impact on fathers, mothers, and children, benefiting mental health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical parameters along with echocardiographic markers are used to interrogate the haemodynamics in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). The aim of this study was to compare different echocardiographic markers in recent cohort of newborn infants with and without PPHN. In this retrospective study, common echocardiographic markers were examined in infants>34 weeks' gestation with PPHN (cases) and without PPHN (controls). Infants with congenital heart disease were excluded. Binary regression testing was used to evaluate echocardiographic markers predicting PPHN and death. In addition, diagnostic accuracy testing of echocardiographic markers using ROC was also performed. Intra-observer reliability for echocardiographic markers was examined using coefficient of variation (CoV) and intraclass correlation. Fifty-two infants were studied; 22 (42 %) infants with PPHN had significantly higher oxygen requirement, oxygenation index and ventilation days when compared with controls. Echocardiographic markers such as TR Vmax, S/D TR, PAAT, TAPSE and eccentricity index (EI) were significantly different between cases and controls. Receiver operator characteristics analysis of echocardiographic markers revealed TR Vmax 0.96 (0.9–1.0), S/D TR 0.95 (0.87–1.0) and end systolic EI 0.94 (0.87–1.0). These markers were found to predict death in this cohort of infants. CoV and Intra-observer reliability was good for various echocardiographic markers. Among the various echocardiographic markers studied, TR Vmax when present along with S/D TR and end systolic EI had good intra-observer reliability and were diagnostic of PPHN and predicted death in this cohort. Future trials could use these markers in studies examining PPHN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross‐cultural adaptation and validation of measures are necessary to provide evidence‐based educational intervention services among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across countries. Language plays an integral role in the cross‐cultural adaptation and validation process of measures. Currently, there are limited validated tools in Chinese available to assess special education teachers' skills in functional behavior assessments and interventions in Mainland China to effectively support students with ASD. This study aimed to validate a Chinese version of the Skills and Needs Inventories in Functional Behavior Assessments and Interventions (SNI‐FBAI‐CN) in mainland China. The SNI‐FBAI, originally developed and validated in Singapore, in the English language, was translated, culturally adapted, and then administered to 239 special education teachers in two schools for children with ASD in China. Results show that the SNI‐FBAI‐CN has a three‐factor structure (i.e., skills in behavioral assessment, skills in behavioral interventions, and needs for training) that fits the data well, with good reliability for the overall scale, as well as the three subscales. Partial measurement invariance was established between the Chinese and the original Singapore samples, providing additional construct validity evidence for this tool. Limitations of this study and directions for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few years, digitalisation has accelerated its pace, fuelling the creation of a massive amount of data. This has resulted in a need to introduce legal mechanisms to protect the privacy and security of data being exchanged between people and organisations. However, little is known about the individuals' perspective on such mechanisms. Given the gap in the literature, this research investigated the drivers and the implications of individuals' attitude towards GDPR compliance. To test the research model, structural equational modelling was employed using 540 responses. The result showed that perceived threat severity, self-efficacy and response efficacy determine a positive attitude towards GDPR compliance, which results in emotional empowerment. The findings contribute to the literature on legal privacy-preserving mechanisms, by providing a user's view on the coping and threat appraisal factors underpinning attitude and demonstrating the implications for driving confidence in control over personal data. The findings also contribute to the literature on protection motivation by demonstrating that attitude towards adaptive behaviour drives emotional empowerment. The study offers suggestions to policymakers on how to enhance public perception of the GDPR. The findings also provide guidelines for organisations on how to inform individuals' understanding of compliance with the legal framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This mixed-methods study explores the incidence, manifestations, and drivers of secondary traumatic stress among service providers who work with Syrian refugees in Istanbul, Turkey. A survey of 104 social workers and other providers working in 17 public and civil society agencies in Istanbul in 2018 demonstrates that 54.81% had Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale scores indicating mild to severe secondary traumatic stress. In total, 28 qualitative interviews showed manifestations and possible drivers of secondary traumatic stress including weak supervision, heavy caseloads, and insecure working conditions. The findings suggest supervision and peer-support should be strengthened to address secondary traumatic stress among providers serving refugees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate cortical tracking of speech (CTS) in adults who stutter (AWS) compared to typically fluent adults (TFAs) to test the involvement of the speech-motor network in tracking rhythmic speech information. Method: Participants' electroencephalogram was recorded while they simply listened to sentences (listening only) or completed them by naming a picture (listening for speaking), thus manipulating the upcoming involvement of speech production. We analyzed speech-brain coherence and brain connectivity during listening. Results: During the listening-for-speaking task, AWS exhibited reduced CTS in the 3- to 5-Hz range (theta), corresponding to the syllabic rhythm. The effect was localized in the left inferior parietal and right pre/supplementary motor regions. Connectivity analyses revealed that TFAs had stronger information transfer in the theta range in both tasks in fronto-temporo-parietal regions. When considering the whole sample of participants, increased connectivity from the right superior temporal cortex to the left sensorimotor cortex was correlated with faster naming times in the listening-for-speaking task. Conclusions: Atypical speech-motor functioning in stuttering impacts speech perception, especially in situations requiring articulatory alertness. The involvement of frontal and (pre)motor regions in CTS in TFAs is highlighted. Further investigation is needed into speech perception in individuals with speech-motor deficits, especially when smooth transitioning between listening and speaking is required, such as in real-life conversational settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: There is a noticeable underrepresentation of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) men in the existing empirical literature examining the sociocultural influences on body image concerns. To fill the gap, this study aimed to gain a better understanding of how sociocultural factors correlated with body dissatisfaction among BIPOC men living within the U.S. Design: Structural equation modeling was used to address this gap by examining how multiple sociocultural factors – interpersonal appearance pressure, media appearance pressure, ethnic-racial identity attitudes (including ethnic-racial salience, stereotype endorsement, and nationalistic assimilation) and ethnic self-hatred towards one's ethnic group – were linked to dissatisfaction with muscularity, body fat and height in a sample of 181 BIPOC men participants. Results: The proposed cross-sectional path model achieved satisfactory model fit and explained 31.9% in muscularity dissatisfaction, 36.2% in body fat dissatisfaction, and 26.4% in height dissatisfaction. Among direct relationships, interpersonal appearance pressure emerged most prominently associated with height dissatisfaction, whereas media appearance pressure and ethnic self-hatred were more related to muscularity and body fat dissatisfaction. Regarding the mediation effects, media appearance pressure was found to partially mediate the relationship between interpersonal appearance pressure and body dissatisfaction, as well as the relationship between ethnic self-hatred and body dissatisfaction. Furthermore, ethnic self-hatred was found to be predicted by ethnic-racial identity attitudes. Conclusion: This research profoundly expands our understanding of the ethnic and racial complexities surrounding body dissatisfaction among BIPOC men and encourages health practitioners to acknowledge the unique sociocultural and systemic dynamics (ethnic-racial identities and associated stressors) when working with BIPOC men who present with body image concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Background Parenchymal Enhancement (BPE) on breast MRI holds promise as an imaging biomarker for breast cancer risk and prognosis. Machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI) techniques have the potential to quantify BPE more accurately and objectively. This paper will review the current machine learning/AI methods to determine BPE, and the clinical applications of BPE as an imaging biomarker for breast cancer risk prediction and prognosis. Background Parenchymal Enhancement (BPE) on breast MRI holds promise as an imaging biomarker for breast cancer risk and prognosis. The ability to identify those at greatest risk can inform clinical decisions, promoting early diagnosis and potentially guiding strategies for prevention such as risk-reduction interventions with the use of selective estrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors. Currently, the standard method of assessing BPE is based on the Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS), which involves a radiologist's qualitative categorization of BPE as minimal, mild, moderate, or marked on contrast-enhanced MRI. This approach can be subjective and prone to inter/intra-observer variability, and compromises accuracy and reproducibility. In addition, this approach limits qualitative assessment to 4 categories. More recently developed methods using machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI) techniques have the potential to quantify BPE more accurately and objectively. This paper will review the current machine learning/AI methods to determine BPE, and the clinical applications of BPE as an imaging biomarker for breast cancer risk prediction and prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers are often diagnosed at advanced stages due to nonspecific symptoms. This makes early detection challenging and impacts patient outcomes. This study sought to clarify the role of HE4 and CA125 in the follow-up of ovarian cancer patients and, potentially, improve early detection and management of recurrences. By monitoring changes in these markers over time, the researchers hoped to find a more reliable way to identify cancer recurrence before it is visible on CT scans. The findings suggest that tracking increases in these markers can predict a relapse earlier than CT scans, potentially allowing for earlier treatment. Further research is required to refine follow-up strategies and enhance outcomes for ovarian cancer patients. Background: Ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers often share clinical characteristics and are typically diagnosed at advanced stages due to nonspecific symptoms. The utility of tumor markers, particularly CA125 and HE4, in the diagnosis and follow-up of these cancers remains an area of active investigation. Objectives: The CEEGOG (Central and Eastern European Gynecologic Oncology Group) OX-01 study aimed to evaluate HE4's role alongside CA125 in follow-up for advanced-stage ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers. It assessed the potential for detecting recurrence using marker elevation and imaging methods, examining the necessity of dynamic monitoring and current cut-off values' accuracy for early relapse detection. Methods: In this multicenter prospective cohort study, 117 eligible patients with Stage III–IV cancers were included. Patients had elevated CA125 or HE4 at diagnosis and achieved complete remission after first-line treatment. HE4 and CA125 levels were monitored every 3–4 months in the first two years and every six months thereafter. CT scans were performed if markers exceeded set thresholds or increased by over 20%. Results: During a median follow-up of 13.7 months, 73% of patients relapsed. Median HE4 levels were significantly higher in relapsed patients. A 10 IU/mL increase from baseline in CA125 had a sensitivity of 83% and specificity of 93%, while a 15 pmol/L increase in HE4 had a sensitivity of 74% and specificity of 92% for predicting relapse up to three months before CT scan detection. Conclusions: The study found that dynamic changes in HE4 and CA125 levels, rather than predefined cut-off values, are crucial for early relapse detection. These markers may offer a significant lead time over imaging, potentially enabling earlier intervention. Further research is needed to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine sex differences in clinical profiles and treatment outcomes in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension. Background: Spontaneous intracranial hypotension is associated with considerable functional disability and potentially fatal complications, and it is uncertain whether males and females should be managed differently. Methods: This was a cohort study of consecutive patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension enrolled from a medical center. Medical records and imaging findings were reviewed. The outcome of treatment responses to epidural blood patches and risks of subdural hematoma were measured. Results: In total, 442 patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (165 males, 277 females) were included in the analysis. Males were more likely to have a delayed (>30 days) initial presentation than females (32.1% [53/165] vs. 19.9% [55/277], p = 0.004), and males were less likely to have nausea (55.8% [92/165] vs. 67.1% [186/277], p = 0.016), vomiting (43.0% [71/165] vs. 54.2% [150/277], p = 0.024), photophobia (9.7% [16/165] vs. 17.0% [47/277], p = 0.034), and tinnitus (26.7% [44/165] vs. 39.7% [110/277], p = 0.005) compared with females despite comparable radiologic findings. Among the 374 patients treated with epidural blood patches, males were more likely to be nonresponders to the first epidural blood patch (58.0% [80/138] vs. 39.0% [92/236], OR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.4–3.3, p < 0.001). Males were at a higher risk of having subdural hematoma (29.7% [49/165] vs. 10.8% [30/277], OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 2.1–5.8, p < 0.001). Among patients with subdural hematoma, males had greater thickness (12.8 ± 4.3 vs. 8.1 ± 5.9 mm, p < 0.001) and were more likely to receive surgical drainage (55.1% [27/49] vs. 10.0% [3/30], OR = 11.0, 95% CI = 3.0–41.3, p < 0.001) than females. Conclusion: In the present study, spontaneous intracranial hypotension in males was characterized by a delayed presentation, poorer response to the first epidural blood patch, and a higher risk of subdural hematoma. Caution should be exercised in the management of males with spontaneous intracranial hypotension. The generalizability of the findings needs to be further confirmed. Plain Language Summary: Spontaneous intracranial hypotension is associated with considerable functional disability and potentially fatal complications, and it is uncertain whether management of this condition should differ between males and females. In this large cohort of 442 patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension, we found that males had a longer delay in presentation, poorer response to the first epidural blood patch, and higher risks for developing subdural hematoma and having surgical drainage compared to females. The findings suggest that spontaneous intracranial hypotension in males should be managed with great caution; more aggressive measures, such as early or multiple epidural blood patches, might be necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past decade, various recommendations have been published to enhance the methodological rigor and publication standards in psychological science. However, adhering to these recommendations may have limited impact on the reproducibility of causal effects as long as psychological phenomena continue to be viewed as decomposable into separate and additive statistical structures of causal relationships. In this article, we show that (a) psychological phenomena are patterns emerging from nondecomposable and nonisolable complex processes that obey idiosyncratic nonlinear dynamics, (b) these processual features jeopardize the chances of standard reproducibility of statistical results, and (c) these features call on researchers to reconsider what can and should be reproduced, that is, the psychological processes per se, and the signatures of their complexity and dynamics. Accordingly, we argue for a greater consideration of process causality of psychological phenomena reflected by key properties of complex dynamical systems (CDSs). This implies developing and testing formal models of psychological dynamics, which can be implemented by computer simulation. The scope of the CDS paradigm and its convergences with other paradigms are discussed regarding the reproducibility issue. Ironically, the CDS approach could account for both reproducibility and nonreproducibility of the statistical effects usually sought in mainstream psychological science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Distal femoral varus osteotomy (DFVO) is an established surgical procedure for addressing valgus malalignment across various knee conditions. However, the effect of DFVO on stress distribution within the femorotibial joint has not been explored through in vivo studies. Purpose: To (1) explore the distribution pattern of subchondral bone density across the proximal tibia in nonarthritic knees without arthritis and in those of patients with valgus knees, (2) assess changes in the pattern of bone density distribution in patients with valgus knees before and after medial closing-wedge (MCW) DFVO, and (3) determine the correlation between leg alignment and changes in bone density distribution. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The authors retrospectively analyzed clinical and radiographic data from 14 patients (14 knees; mean age, 44 years; 3 men, 11 women) treated with MCW-DFVO for lateral compartment osteoarthritis (OA) due to valgus malalignment, alongside a control group of 18 patients (18 knees; mean age, 21 years; 4 men, 14 women) without OA. The distribution patterns of subchondral bone density distribution on the femorotibial articular surface of the tibia were examined both preoperatively and >1 year postoperatively using computed tomography osteoabsorptiometry. Quantitative analyses were conducted on the locations and percentages of the high-density areas (HDAs) on the articular surface. The mean time between surgery and the postoperative radiograph and computed tomography absorptiometry imaging was 13.6 months (range, 11-19 months). The mean length of clinical follow-up was 28.7 months (range, 14-62 months) after surgery. Results: The mean proportion of HDA in the lateral compartment relative to the total HDA (lateral ratio) was significantly greater in the preoperative OA group (58.8%) compared with the control group (41.1%) (P <.001). After MCW-DFVO, the mean lateral ratio in the OA group notably declined to 45.3% (P <.001). The lateral ratio exhibited a significant correlation with the hip-knee-ankle angle in both the control (r = 0.630; P =.011) and OA (r = 0.537; P =.047) groups. Moreover, the alteration in the lateral ratio after MCW-DFVO showed a significant relationship with changes in the hip-knee-ankle angle (r = 0.742; P =.002) and the mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (r = −0.752; P =.002). Within the lateral compartment, HDAs in the 3 lateral regions of the 4 lateral subregions diminished after MCW-DFVO, whereas in the medial compartment, HDAs in the 3 lateral subregions saw an increase. Conclusion: The mean lateral ratio was significantly greater in the preoperative OA group compared with the control group. MCW-DFVO resulted in a redistribution of HDA from the lateral to the medial compartment of the proximal tibial articular surface. The extent of alignment correction after MCW-DFVO was closely linked to the shifts in HDA distribution, reflecting changes in stress distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Banff Patellofemoral Instability Instrument 2.0 (BPII 2.0) is a disease-specific, quality of life patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) that is valid and reliable in patients with recurrent lateral patellofemoral instability (LPI). Quality of life encompasses the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of patient functioning and recovery. Purposes: To concurrently validate the BPII 2.0 to the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-11), the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), and the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport after Injury Scale (ACL-RSI) in patients presenting with recurrent LPI and to assess baseline values for the PROMs in patients with LPI. Study Design: Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods: A total of 107 consecutive patients with recurrent LPI were assessed between January and October 2021. Patients completed the BPII 2.0, TSK-11, PCS, and ACL-RSI. A Pearson r correlation coefficient was employed to examine relationships between the PROMs. Baseline values, as well as floor and ceiling effects and Cronbach alpha, were assessed for all PROMs. Results: All 107 patients completed the 4 PROMs. Patients included 28 men (26.2%) and 79 women (73.8%), with a mean (SD) age of 25.7 (9.8) years. The mean (SD) age at first dislocation was 14.8 (6.3) years. The TSK-11, PCS, and ACL-RSI were all statistically significantly correlated with the BPII 2.0 (P <.01; 2-tailed), with moderate correlations (r = -0.361-0.628) The R 2 values indicated an overlap of the constructs measured by the PROMs. Conclusion: A statistically significant correlation was evident between the BPII 2.0 and the other PROMs. The BPII 2.0 does not explicitly measure kinesiophobia or pain catastrophizing; however, the significant statistical relationship of the TSK-11 and PCS to the BPII 2.0 suggests that this information is being captured and reflected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently studied in randomized trials, observational and registry studies. The aim of this expert opinion is to provide guidance for clinicians and industry regarding the development of future clinical studies on catheter ablation of AF, implement lessons learned from previous studies, and promote a higher degree of consistency across studies. Background: Studies on catheter ablation of AF may benefit from well‐described definitions of endpoints and consistent methodology and documentation of outcomes related to efficacy, safety and cost‐effectiveness. The availably of new, innovative technologies warrants further consideration about their application and impact on study design and the choice of endpoints. Moreover, recent insights gained from AF ablation studies suggest a reconsideration of some methodological aspects. Methods: A panel of clinical experts on catheter ablation of AF and designing and conducting clinical studies developed an expert opinion on the design and endpoints for studies on catheter ablation of AF. Discussions within the expert panel with the aim to reach consensus on predefined topics were based on outcomes reported in the literature and experiences from recent clinical trials. Results: A comprehensive set of recommendations is presented. Key elements include the documentation of clinical AF, medication during the study, repeated ablations and their effect on endpoint assessments, postablation blanking and the choice of rhythm‐related and other endpoints. Conclusion: This expert opinion provides guidance and promotes consistency regarding design of AF catheter ablation studies and identified aspects requiring further research to optimize study design and methodology. Recent insights from studies on catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) and the availability of new innovative technologies warrant reconsideration of methodological aspects related to study design and the choice and assessment of endpoints. This expert opinion, developed by clinical experts on catheter ablation of AF provides a comprehensive set of recommendations related to these methodological aspects. The aim of this expert opinion is to provide guidance for clinicians and industry regarding the development of clinical studies, implement lessons learned from previous studies, and promote a higher degree of consistency across studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: In response to the growing popularity of mobile devices among older adults in Japan, this study aimed to establish a reliable and valid measure of mobile device proficiency by developing a Japanese version of the Mobile Device Proficiency Questionnaire (MDPQ‐J) for the Japanese population. Methods: To evaluate the reliability and validity of the MDPQ‐J, we administered the questionnaire to 100 young or middle‐aged participants (37.78 ± 13.90 years, 57.00% women), and 62 older participants (75.90 ± 6.01 years; 59.68% women). Results: The MDPQ‐J showed a high degree of internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.98). Moreover, MDPQ‐J scores in older participants tended to be lower than those in young or middle‐aged participants. In terms of validity, the MDPQ‐J score of older participants was significantly associated with age (ρ = −0.31), the amount of time using a mobile device per day (ρ = 0.64), and the system usability scale (ρ = 0.39). Additionally, the MDPQ‐J scores were significantly positively associated with the importance (ρ = 0.37), performance (ρ = 0.57), and satisfaction (ρ = 0.29) associated with daily mobile device use in older participants. Conclusions: The high reliability and validity of the MDPQ‐J in the Japanese population highlight its utility in adapting mobile devices for older adults, which is crucial in an increasingly digital society. Further research should explore the mediating role of mobile device proficiency in various health‐related outcomes. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1223–1232. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to develop and evaluate the Brief Older Adults' Physical Activity Questionnaire (BOPAQ), which was designed to quickly assess moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in community‐dwelling older adults. Methods: We used a cross‐sectional study design involving 165 older participants. The BOPAQ calculated weekly MVPA duration based on two questions regarding the number of days per week engaged in MVPA and the daily duration of activity. Validity was assessed by correlating the MVPA durations derived from the BOPAQ with those obtained from the ActiGraph and International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form. Reliability was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient, and measurement errors were analyzed using Bland–Altman plots. Results: The BOPAQ reasonably correlated with accelerometer‐based MVPA (rho = 0.297) and showed good test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.78, 95% CI 0.64–0.87). In contrast, the correlation between the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form and accelerometer‐based MVPA was poor (rho = 0.139). The cut‐off value for the BOPAQ was set to identify participants engaging in <150 min of objectively measured physical activity per week, corresponding to the 150‐min threshold. However, the area under the curve in the receiver operating characteristic analyses was not significantly high (0.601, 95% CI 0.514–0.688). The Bland–Altman plots showed an underestimation bias of 51.72 min/week (95% CI 1.61–101.84) and showed heteroscedasticity. Conclusion: Despite some measurement errors, the BOPAQ is an available tool for assessing MVPA in community‐dwelling older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1150–1155. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anthropometric data quality in large multicentre nutrition surveys is seldom adequately assessed. In preparation for the South African National Dietary Intake Survey (NDIS-2022), this study assessed site leads' and fieldworkers' intra- and inter-rater reliability for measuring weight, length/height, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), waist circumference (WC) and calf circumference (CC). Methods: Standardised training materials and measurement protocols were developed, and new anthropometric equipment was procured. Following two training rounds (12 site lead teams, 46 fieldworker teams), measurement reliability was assessed for both groups, using repeated measurements of volunteers similar to the survey target population. Reliability was statistically assessed using the technical error of measurement (TEM), relative TEM (%TEM), intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of reliability (R). Agreement was visualised with Bland-Altman analysis. Results: By %TEM, the best reliability was achieved for weight (%TEM = 0.260–0.923) and length/height (%TEM = 0.434–0.855), and the poorest for MUAC by fieldworkers (%TEM = 2.592–3.199) and WC (%TEM = 2.353–2.945). Whole-sample ICC and R were excellent (> 0.90) for all parameters except site leads' CC inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.896, R = 0.889) and fieldworkers' inter-rater reliability for MUAC in children under two (ICC = 0.851, R = 0.881). Bland-Altman analysis revealed no significant bias except in fieldworkers' intra-rater reliability of length/height measurement in adolescents/adults (+ 0.220 (0.042, 0.400) cm). Reliability was higher for site leads vs. fieldworkers, for intra-rater vs. inter-rater assessment, and for weight and length/height vs. circumference measurements. Conclusion: NDIS-2022 site leads and fieldworkers displayed acceptable reliability in performing anthropometric measurements, highlighting the importance of intensive training and standardised measurement protocols. Ongoing reliability assessment during data collection is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-world evidence (RWE) studies are increasingly used to inform policy and clinical decisions. However, there remain concerns about the credibility and reproducibility of RWE studies. While there is universal agreement on the critical importance of transparent and reproducible science, the building blocks of open science practice that are common across many disciplines have not yet been built into routine workflows for pharmacoepidemiology and outcomes researchers. Observational researchers should highlight the level of transparency of their studies by providing a succinct statement addressing study transparency with the publication of every paper, poster, or presentation that reports on an RWE study. In this paper, we propose a framework for an explicit transparency statement that declares the level of transparency a given RWE study has achieved across 5 key domains: (1) protocol, (2) preregistration, (3) data, (4) code-sharing, and (5) reporting checklists. The transparency statement outlined in the present paper can be used by research teams to proudly display the open science practices that were used to generate evidence designed to inform public health policy and practice. While transparency does not guarantee validity, such a statement signals confidence from the research team in the scientific choices that were made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinicians, researchers, regulators, and other decision-makers increasingly rely on evidence from real-world data (RWD), including data routinely accumulating in health and administrative databases. RWD studies often rely on algorithms to operationalize variable definitions. An algorithm is a combination of codes or concepts used to identify persons with a specific health condition or characteristic. Establishing the validity of algorithms is a prerequisite for generating valid study findings that can ultimately inform evidence-based health care. In this paper, we aim to systematize terminology, methods, and practical considerations relevant to the conduct of validation studies of RWD-based algorithms. We discuss measures of algorithm accuracy, gold/reference standards, study size, prioritization of accuracy measures, algorithm portability, and implications for interpretation. Information bias is common in epidemiologic studies, underscoring the importance of transparency in decisions regarding choice and prioritizing measures of algorithm validity. The validity of an algorithm should be judged in the context of a data source, and one size does not fit all. Prioritizing validity measures within a given data source depends on the role of a given variable in the analysis (eligibility criterion, exposure, outcome, or covariate). Validation work should be part of routine maintenance of RWD sources. This article is part of a Special Collection on Pharmacoepidemiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arts participation has been linked to positive health outcomes around the globe. As more research is taking place on this topic, there is heightened need for definitions for the complex concepts involved. While significant work to define "arts participation" has taken place in the arts sector, less work has been undertaken for the purpose of researching the arts in public health. This study developed a definition for "arts participation" to guide a national arts in public health research agenda and to advance and make more inclusive previous work to define the term. A convergent mixed-methods study design with sequential elements was used to iteratively develop a definition that integrated the perspectives of field experts as well as the general public. Literature review was followed by four iterative phases of data collection, analysis, and integration, and a proposed definition was iteratively revised at each stage. The final definition includes modes, or ways, in which people engage with the arts, and includes examples of various art forms intended to frame arts participation broadly and inclusively. This definition has the potential to help advance the quality and precision of research aimed at evaluating relationships between arts participation and health, as well as outcomes of arts-based health programs and interventions in communities. With its more inclusive framing than previous definitions, it can also help guide the development of more inclusive search strategies for evidence synthesis in this rapidly growing arena and assist researchers in developing more effective survey questions and instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]