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Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Purpose: This study aimed to determine the validity of existing methods to estimate sedentary behavior (SB) under free-living conditions using ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometers (AG). Methods: Forty-eight young (18–25 yr) adults wore an AG on the right hip and nondominant wrist and were video recorded during four 1-h sessions in free-living settings (home, community, school, and exercise). Direct observation videos were coded for postural orientation, activity type (e.g., walking), and METs derived from the Compendium of Physical Activities, which served as the criterion measure of SB (sitting or lying posture, <1.5 METs). Thirteen methods using cut points from vertical counts per minute (CPM), counts per 15-s (CP15s), and vector magnitude (VM) counts (e.g., CPM1853VM), raw acceleration and arm angle (sedentary sphere), Euclidean norm minus one (ENMO) corrected for gravity (m g) thresholds, uni- or triaxial sojourn hybrid machine learning models (Soj1x and Soj3x), random forest (RF), and decision tree (TR) models were used to estimate SB minutes from AG data. Method bias, mean absolute percent error, and their 95% confidence intervals were estimated using repeated-measures linear mixed models. Results: On average, participants spent 34.1 min per session in SB. CPM100, CPM150, Soj1x, and Soj3x were the only methods to accurately estimate SB from the hip. Sedentary sphere and ENMO44.8 overestimated SB by 3.9 and 6.1 min, respectively, whereas the remaining wrist methods underestimated SB (range, 9.5–2.5 min). In general, mean absolute percent error was lower using hip methods compared with wrist methods. Conclusion: Accurate group-level estimates of SB from a hip-worn AG can be achieved using either simpler count-based approaches (CPM100 and CPM150) or machine learning models (Soj1x and Soj3x). Wrist methods did not provide accurate or precise estimates of SB. The development of large open-source free-living calibration data sets may lead to improvements in SB estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: To analyse weight-related communication prevalence and processes (content/context) between primary care practitioners (PCPs) and overweight patients within routine primary healthcare consultations.Methods: Consultations between 14 PCPs and 218 overweight patients (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) were video recorded. Weight communication was coded using the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) and the novel St Andrews Issue Response Analysis System (SAIRAS). Communication code frequencies were analysed.Results: Weight discussion occurred in 25% of consultations with overweight patients; 26% of these had weight-related consultation outcomes (e.g. weight-related counselling and referrals, stated weight-related intention from patients). Weight discussions were more likely to occur if PCPs provided space to patient attempts to discuss weight (p = 0.013). Longer weight discussions (p < 0.001) and contextualising weight as problematic when PCP/patient-initiated weight discussion (p < 0.001) were associated with weight-related consultation outcomes.Conclusion: Weight was rarely discussed with overweight patients, however PCP space provision to patient weight-discussion initiation attempts increased weight discussion. When weight was discussed, increased time and/or contextualising weight as a problem increased the likelihood of weight-related consultation outcomes.Practical Implication: PCP use of specific communication approaches when discussing, contextualising and responding to patient weight may facilitate weight-related discussion and consultation outcomes and could lead to more effective patient weight management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Systematic Observation of Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) was designed to estimate the number and characteristics of people using neighborhood parks by assessing them 4 times/day, 7 days/week. We tested whether this schedule was adequate and determined the minimum number of observations necessary to provide a robust estimate of park user characteristics and their physical activity levels. Methods: We conducted observations every hour for 14 hours per day during I summer and 1 autumn week in 10 urban neighborhood parks: 2 each in Los Angeles, CA; Albuquerque, NM; Columbus, OH; Durham, NC; and Philadelphia, PA. We counted park users by gender, age group, apparent race/ethnicity, and activity level. We used a standardized Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients to test the reliability of using fewer observations. Results: We observed 76,632 individuals, an average of 547/park/day (range 155-786). Interobserver reliability ranged from 0.80 to 0.99. Obtaining a robust estimate of park user characteristics and their physical activity required a schedule of 4 days/week, 4 times/day. Conclusion: An abbreviated schedule of SOPARC was sufficient for estimating park use, park user characteristics, and physical activity. Applying these observation methods can augment physical activity surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To examine demographic characteristics and physical activity (PA) behaviors of trail users on a newly constructed 2-mile urban rail/trail (ie, abandoned rail line converted to a recreational trail). Methods: A systematic evaluation process was initiated to monitor PA behaviors using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). Results: Slightly more males (n = 2578, 54%) than females (n = 2198, 46%) were observed using the rail/trail since its inception. A significant age group difference (F = 16.68, P < .001) was observed among users with the vast majority being adults (n = 3317, 69%). Women were 2.2 times more likely than men (95% CI 1.7-3.0) to be sedentary rather than vigorously active adjusted for age and race. Whites were 2.8 times more likely than nonwhites (95% CI 2.4-3.2) to engage in vigorous activity rather than walking, adjusted for age and gender. Rail/trail users resided on average 2.89 miles from the trail. Discussion: The most frequent users of the rail/trail were male, white adults, and observed PA varied for gender and age. More research is needed to better understand differences in patterns of trail use by various population groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children frequently engage in diverse activities that are broadly defined as play, but little research has documented children's activity levels during play and how they are influenced by social contexts. Assessing potentially modifiable conditions that influence play behavior is needed to design optimal physical activity interventions. Methods: System for Observing Children's Activity and Relationships during Play (SOCARP) was developed to simultaneously assess children's physical activity, social group sizes, activity type, and social behavior during play. One hundred and fourteen children (48 boys, 66 girls; 42% overweight) from 8 elementary schools were observed during recess over 24 days, with 12 days videotaped for reliability purposes. Ninety-nine children wore a uni-axial accelerometer during their observation period. Results: Estimated energy expenditure rates from SOCARP observations and mean accelerometer counts were significantly correlated (r = .67; P < .01), and interobserver reliabilities (ie, percentage agreement) for activity level (89%), group size (88%), activity type (90%) and interactions (88%) met acceptable criteria. Both physical activity and social interactions were influenced by group size, activity type, and child gender and body weight status. Conclusions: SOCARP is a valid and reliable observation system for assessing physical activity and play behavior in a recess context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To better measure physical activity (PA) in outdoor environments, McKenzie and colleagues developed the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). However, previous SOPARC research has focused on adults, seniors, teens and children. One avenue for extending this work is to expand the child age group code to capture important nuances that can influence children's PA and their environments. This study reports on the reliability of a measure designed to account for PA in parks among children in different childhood age groups. Methods: Three groups were developed: 0 to 5 years old (Young Children); 6 to 12 (Middle Childhood) and 13 to 18 (Older Children) based on Erikson's stages of child development. Data were obtained by direct observation in 3 neighborhood parks in Raleigh, NC and 20 neighborhood parks in Durham, NC. Results: Kappa coefficients showed high agreement for all age group, gender, and PA codes. For the 3 assessments, the results show that the 3 age group category exhibit acceptable reliability for measuring PA in parks among children. Conclusions: The reliability of measuring PA among children by segmenting children by 3 age groups was established. This approach is recommended for future studies of PA among children in parks and other outdoor environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The goal of this study was to examine activity behavior differences between users of natural-surface versus paved trails. Methods: The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) direct observation instrument was used to measure activity and demographic information. Survey data were used to compare perception difference and body mass index (BMI) values among trail users. Results: Significantly more pavedtrail users were female (F = 10.63, P = .001). A larger percentage of paved-trail users reported it to be very safe (F = 4.462, P = .036). Natural-surface-trail users participated in more vigorous activity (F = 83.93, P = .000). Natural surface trail users reported participating in longer activity bouts (F = 5.133; P = .024). Conclusion: Natural-surface-trail users engaged in more vigorous activity, for a longer duration, and had lower self-reported BMI values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity (PA) during physical education is important for health purposes and for developing physical fitness and movement skills. To examine PA levels and how PA was influenced by environmental and instructor-related characteristics, we assessed children's activity during 368 lessons taught by 105 physical education specialists in 42 randomly selected schools in Hong Kong. Trained observers used SOFIT in randomly selected classes, grades 4-6, during three climatic seasons. Results indicated children's PA levels met the U.S. Healthy People 2010 objective of 50% engagement time and were higher than comparable U.S. populations. Multiple regression analyses revealed that temperature, teacher behavior, and two lesson characteristics (subject matter and mode of delivery) were significantly associated with the PA levels. Most of these factors are modifiable, and changes could improve the quantity and intensity of children's PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filter cake-induced resistance is a significant contributor to energy consumption in dust filtration processes. This can be optimized by adjusting inlet gas composition, membrane characteristics, and back-flushing parameters. In this study, calcium carbonate (CaCO 3) dust with varying hygroscopicity was utilized to investigate the evolution mechanism of the filter cake on SiC membranes under different humidity conditions. The interacting force between particles and between the cake and membrane were analyzed to elucidate the fragmentation mechanism of the cake. It was observed that particles at higher relative humidity (increased RH from 40 % to 85 %) tend to form a more loosely packed cake (hydrophilic filter cake porosity and hydrophobic filter cake porosity increased from 70.8 % to 80.5 % and from 61.4 % to 69 %, respectively) with greater fragility (reduced cohesive force). This characteristic is advantageous for efficient backflushing operations. The strong adhesion between the filter cake and membrane hindered the recovery of the initial filtration resistance. For SiC membrane, the optimized back-flushing parameter is reservoir pressures of 0.2 and 0.15 MPa and pluse-jet intervals of 40 min to hydrophilic and hydrophobic dusts, respectively. [Display omitted] • Established a direct observation method for the dynamic evolution of filter cakes. • Revealed the impact of dust properties and external factors on cake removal process. • Explored the removal mechanisms of different filter cakes by sic membrane. • Optimized the best backflushing parameters, enhancing overall membrane performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background An online version of the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes (Abbreviated) tool was adapted to virtually audit built environment features supportive of physical activity. The current study assessed inter-rater reliability of MAPS Online between in-person raters and online raters unfamiliar with the regions. Methods In-person and online audits were conducted for a total of 120 quarter-mile routes (60 per site) in Phoenix, AZ and San Diego, CA. Routes in each city included 40 residential origins stratified by walkability and SES, and 20 commercial centers. In-person audits were conducted by raters residing in their region. Online audits were conducted by raters in the alternate location using Google Maps (Aerial and Street View) images. The MAPS Abbreviated Online tool consisted of four sections: overall route, street segments, crossings and cul-de-sacs. Items within each section were grouped into subscales, and inter-rater reliability (ICCs) was assessed for subscales at multiple levels of aggregation. Results Online and in-person audits showed excellent agreement for overall positive microscale (ICC = 0.86, 95% CI [0.80, 0.90]) and grand scores (ICC = 0.93, 95% CI [0.89, 0.95]). Substantial to near-perfect agreement was found for 21 of 30 (70%) subscales, valence, and subsection scores, with ICCs ranging from 0.62, 95% CI [0.50, 0.72] to 0.95, 95% CI [0.93, 0.97]. Lowest agreement was found for the aesthetics and social characteristics scores, with ICCs ranging from 0.07, 95% CI [−0.12, 0.24] to 0.27, 95% CI [0.10, 0.43]. Conclusions Results support use of the MAPS Abbreviated Online tool to reliably assess microscale neighborhood features that support physical activity and may be used by raters residing in different geographic regions and unfamiliar with the audit areas.

Abstract Background Video-based feedback has been shown to aid knowledge retention, skills learning and improve team functionality. We explored the use of video-based feedback and low fidelity simulation for training rural healthcare workers along the Thailand-Myanmar border and Papua New Guinea (PNG) to manage medical emergencies effectively. Methods Twenty-four study participants were recruited from three Shoklo Malaria Research Unit clinics along the Thailand-Myanmar border and eight participants from Kudjip Nazarene Hospital, PNG. The teams were recorded on video managing a simulated medical emergency scenario and the video was used to aid feedback and assess performance using Observed Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) scoring and Team Emergency Assessment Measure (TEAM) questionnaire. The process was repeated post-feedback at both sites and at 6 weeks at the Thailand-Myanmar border site. Thailand-Myanmar border participants’ individual confidence levels and baseline knowledge (using OSCE scoring) were assessed before team assessment and feedback at week 1 and repeated post-feedback and at 6 weeks. Focus group discussions (FGD) were held at each Thailand-Myanmar border clinic at week 1 (8 participants at each clinic). Results Individual paired tests of OSCE scores showed significant improvement post-feedback at week 1 (p

Background and Objectives: Feeding problems occur more frequently among children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aim of this study was to analyse eating difficulties of ASD children through the direct observation of the caregiver-child co-regulation system.Methods: We compared 60 ASD children with a control group of 50 typically developing Italian children on the Scale for the Assessment of Feeding Interaction (SVIA). The Brief Autism Mealtime Behaviour Inventory (BAMBI) was used to define the presence of an eating disorder.Results: The ASD group showed higher scores on all dimensions of the SVIA compared to the control group. The SVIA and the BAMBI showed significant correlations. In a second step, the ASD sample was divided into two subgroups, children with and without feeding difficulties. The comparison between the ASD subgroups with the control group on the SVIA scales showed significant differences on all dimensions. Finally, significant differences emerged between the two ASD subgroups in three SVIA dimensions.Conclusion: These data suggest the importance of direct observation of feeding in the assessment of children with ASD. The SVIA seems to be able to point out some feeding difficulties in these subjects and to discriminate ASD with and without an eating disorder. Critical aspects of the application of SVIA to autistic children are discussed.

The direct observation of the doping sites of deep-level impurities in hyperdoped silicon is essential to determine the impurity diffusion, distribution, and precipitation via different hyperdoping processes or thermal annealing conditions. This is crucial to clarify the functioning of a mechanism, which can improve the impurity electroactivity. However, this observation, which is usually performed by using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), is limited by some restrictions in the microscopic imaging conditions, such as the microscope resolution, the defocus of the objective lens, the specimen thickness, and the projected orientation of the specimen (i.e. the zone axis). Therefore, to eliminate these restrictions, conventional field-emission-gun HRTEM images in combination with image processing (deconvolution) were investigated in order to obtain structure images with atomic resolution. Both the substitutional and the interstitial doping sites of oxygen, chalcogen (sulfur and selenium), and transition metal (titanium and cobalt) impurities in silicon were determined by image contrast analysis. Finally, the favorable conditions for the direct observation of doping sites were defined. Image 1 • Doping sites determination is crucial to improve the hyperdoping impurity electroactivity. • Spectrometric methods estimate doping sites, whereas HRTEM can directly observe them. • Atomic-resolution structure images are restored from conventional HRTEM images by deconvolution. • Contrast analysis of [001] deconvoluted images is more suitable to distinguish atoms. • Sites of different dopant atoms in hyperdoped Si, such as O, S, Se, Ti, and Co, are determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the United States Supreme Court ruling in Dusky v. United States (1960), to be competent to proceed, criminal defendants must factually and rationally understand the charges against them and be able to assist and consult in their own defense. Our focus is on possible impaired ability to assist and consult. Although a substantial portion of psycholegal research has been dedicated to validly and reliably assessing a criminal defendant's competency, one area that has been largely unexplored is observation of attorney-defendant interactions. External validity of this observation is arguably more valuable than clinical interviewing and standardized testing, alone or in conjunction. We propose that direct observation is a meaningful approach to assessing ability to assist and consult counsel. In addition, we offer suggestions for clinical practice, discuss potential limitations, and present recommendations for future research. This article argues that evaluators should consider directly observing a defendant-attorney interaction when conducting a competency to proceed with trial evaluation. To be considered competent to proceed with criminal adjudication, a defendant must be able to assist in their own defense and consult with their attorney. While acknowledging potential limitations and shortcomings, we argue that evaluators should directly observe the defendant-attorney dyad for a more comprehensive and valid understanding for their capacity to assist in their own defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High quality of care (QoC) for antiretroviral treatment (ART) is essential to prevent treatment failure. Uganda, as many sub-Saharan African countries, increased access to ART by decentralizing provision to districts. However, little is known whether this rapid scale-up maintained high-quality clinical services. We assess the quality of ART in the Acholi and Lango sub-regions of northern Uganda to identify whether the technical quality of critical ART sub-system needs improvement. We conducted a randomized cross-sectional survey among health facilities (HF) in Acholi (n = 11) and Lango (n = 10). Applying lot quality assurance sampling principles with a rapid health facility assessment tool, we assessed ART services vis-à-vis national treatment guidelines using 37 indicators. We interviewed health workers (n = 21) using structured questionnaires, directly observed clinical consultations (n = 126) and assessed HF infrastructure, human resources, medical supplies and patient records in each health facility (n = 21). The district QoC performance standard was 80% of HF had to comply with each guideline. Neither sub-region complied with treatment guidelines. No HF displayed adequate: patient monitoring, physical examination, training, supervision and regular monitoring of patients' immunology. The full range of first and second line antiretroviral (ARV) medication was not available in Acholi while Lango had sufficient stocks. Clinicians dispensed available ARVs without benefit of physical examination or immunological monitoring. Patients reported compliance with drug use (>80%). Patients' knowledge of preventing HIV/AIDS transmission concentrated on condom use; otherwise it was poor. The poor ART QoC in northern Uganda raises major questions about ART quality although ARVs were dispensed. Poor clinical care renders patients' reports of treatment compliance as insufficient evidence that it takes place. Further studies need to test patients' immunological status and QoC in more regions of Uganda and elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa to identify topical and geographical areas which are priorities for improving HIV care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The usability of digital platforms assumes an important role in the support of health business processes. This is particularly relevant when these platforms automate previously manually-executed activities in a certain process, with the purpose of bringing time, cost and quality benefits both to end-users and health professionals. This is the main objective of the Help2Care e-Health digital platform, where informal caregivers can use a mobile app to access digital training materials on how to properly take care of their patients. Health professionals can, in turn, suggest these materials to their caregivers through a web application, communicate directly with them through a messaging system, and even perform remote health assessment and monitoring. However, the informal caregiver population presents specific attributes which, in general, require special attention for usability. Health professionals can also be challenged by such platforms and their inherent complexity. In this paper, we report the results and challenges of the usability studies performed on both mobile and web applications of the Help2Care platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the food habits of the Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) in alpine habitats using direct observations at Mount Asama, central Japan. We observed the feeding behavior of 13 identified adult serows throughout the year, from April 2016 to October 2017. The animals' food habits were evaluated by the feeding probability among 2129 observation bouts. The most important food throughout the year was grasses (feeding probability, 57.6%), followed by forbs (43.5%) and dwarf bamboos (11.4%). However, the feeding probability for each food category drastically changed in relation to the season; in particular, grasses and forbs were especially important foods from spring to autumn, whereas dwarf bamboos and conifers were important in winter. These results suggest that the food habits of the serow are flexible and will vary according to seasonal changes in vegetation. The findings also suggest that the feeding ecology of the serow in an alpine area tends to match that of an intermediate feeder rather than a browser, as was reported by several previous studies conducted in forested habitats. However, the food habits of the serows in the alpine habitats were similar to those of other alpine caprids, such as the mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus), alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) and Pyrenean chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica). This is the first study to demonstrate that the food habits of the serow are variable according to the season and/or population. Similar to other alpine caprids, the flexible food habits of the serow in alpine habitats are likely an adaptation to an environment with a characteristically unstable food supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Evaluations of treatments using applied behavior analysis (ABA) for challenging behavior have relied mostly on direct behavioral observation. While observation is crucial, qualitative information can also be beneficial. In this study, we describe methods for using qualitative information in ABA treatments for challenging behavior. Method: Three participants were undergoing treatment for challenging behavior. Information was collected through caregiver interviews at the start and end of the admission. Directed content analysis identified themes in the interviews and we compared treatment outcomes using qualitative and quantitative measures. Results: Three themes emerged: description, frequency, and impact of the behavior. Quantitative and qualitative measures both suggested successful interventions for two participants. For the third, direct observation suggested treatment was effective while caregiver report did not. Conclusion: Incorporation of qualitative information into outcomes allowed for a more comprehensive view of treatment success and guided assessment and treatment decisions. Treatments based on applied behavior analysis (ABA) are commonly studied for the treatment of challenging behavior, but these studies rely mostly on direct behavioral observation. While observation is crucial, qualitative information is also useful in ensuring meaningful results. In this study, we describe a method of collecting, analyzing, and using qualitative information collected from caregivers and compare qualitative to quantitative outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Feeding problems occur more frequently among children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aim of this study was to analyse eating difficulties of ASD children through the direct observation of the caregiver-child co-regulation system. Methods: We compared 60 ASD children with a control group of 50 typically developing Italian children on the Scale for the Assessment of Feeding Interaction (SVIA). The Brief Autism Mealtime Behaviour Inventory (BAMBI) was used to define the presence of an eating disorder. Results: The ASD group showed higher scores on all dimensions of the SVIA compared to the control group. The SVIA and the BAMBI showed significant correlations. In a second step, the ASD sample was divided into two subgroups, children with and without feeding difficulties. The comparison between the ASD subgroups with the control group on the SVIA scales showed significant differences on all dimensions. Finally, significant differences emerged between the two ASD subgroups in three SVIA dimensions. Conclusion: These data suggest the importance of direct observation of feeding in the assessment of children with ASD. The SVIA seems to be able to point out some feeding difficulties in these subjects and to discriminate ASD with and without an eating disorder. Critical aspects of the application of SVIA to autistic children are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) in the Ugalla savanna woodland area of Tanzania from 1995 to 2012. Ugalla is the eastern-most chimpanzee habitat and is one of the driest and most open areas. From 52 direct observations of unhabituated chimpanzees, we found 59.6% of parties (temporal sub-groups in a unit-group) in trees and 32.7% on the ground; 59.6% of parties were observed in forests, 38.5% in woodlands, and none in grasslands. The mean±SD party size (excluding infants) was 3.1±2.2 (range 1-10) individuals. Party sizes were smaller in the rainy season (2.0 individuals) than in the dry season (3.6 individuals). This suggests that chimpanzees reduce feeding competition by forming smaller parties, especially in the rainy season when fruit availability is low and/or food patches are small. We found a lone male eight times, whereas we found a lone female only once. Mixed parties contained more females (1.9 individuals) than males (1.4 individuals). Mothers with infants might join a mixed party to reduce predation risk. The size of mixed parties with oestrous female(s) averaged 5.7 individuals, whereas that with no oestrous female averaged 4.0 individuals. We found four consort parties but no all-male party. This suggests that male chimpanzees in Ugalla frequently foraged with oestrous females but did not patrol their territory because their home range is huge and their population density is very low. Chimpanzees in Ugalla changed their party size and composition according to their feeding, anti-predation, and reproductive strategies to adapt to a savanna woodland area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Behaviour was estimated in grazing cattle using sensors and direct observations. • High correlations found for the activities feeding, ruminating, standing and lying. • Correlations for drinking and walking were moderate and weak, respectively. • Sensors only partially valid for behavioural assessment in grazing cattle. The use of automated sensors, that record feeding and locomotion behaviour in livestock, become more and more prominent, for example for the early detection of diseases in dairy cows. Their application may be also significant in extensive beef cattle production systems, where there is an infrequent farmer-to-animal contact. The aim of the present study was to determine the ability of a three dimensions accelerometer, compiled by a halter and a pedometer, to accurately discriminate and estimate behavioural activities in grazing beef cattle using direct observations (DO) as the golden standard. Eight beef cattle grazing in a vineyard were used in the present study, six animals were at the age of one year (283 ± 42 kg), and two above two years of age (643 ± 35 kg). The animals were equipped with halters and pedometers for an experimental period of 8 consecutive days. During that period, DO were also performed for 6 days for 6 h per day to estimate the accuracy of the sensors to correctly define and determine feeding, ruminating, drinking, walking, standing and lying. The instantaneous scan sampling technique with 10-minute intervals was used to record the mentioned behavioural parameters. Spearman correlation coefficients between accelerometer data and DO were calculated for each behavioural activity. Correlation coefficients (r s) between accelerometers and DO for feeding, ruminating, standing and lying were high (r s > 0.68), while for drinking and walking they were moderate and weak, respectively. In conclusion, the use of sensors is a promising method to predict feeding, ruminating, standing and lying behaviours of grazing beef cattle, while further research is needed to improve their ability to accurately estimate all behavioural activities and possibly evaluate their further use as health indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opportunities for practice play a critical role in learning complex behaviors. In the context of explicit mathematics instruction, practice facilitates systematic opportunities for students with mathematics difficulties (MD) to learn new mathematics content and apply such knowledge and skills to novel mathematics problems. This study explored whether there is an optimal amount of student practice that teachers should provide in core mathematics instruction to maximize the mathematics achievement of kindergarten students with MD, a so called "Goldilocks effect," as opposed to simply "more is better." Results from observation data collected in a large-scale efficacy trial supported the latter rather than the former. Specifically, we found that three individual practice opportunities for every explicit teacher demonstration of mathematical content was associated with increased mathematics achievement for students with MD relative to fewer practice opportunities. Implications for facilitating frequent student practice opportunities during core mathematics instruction and designing professional development for teachers who work with students with MD are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the amyloid plaques, a signature of AD, abnormally high Cu2+ concentrations are found bound to Aβ. Most of previous studies reported that Cu-Aβ could contribute to oxidative stress, as H 2 O 2 and •OH are catalytically generated by Cu-Aβ with the assistance of biological reductant, with only one recent report stated that free O 2 •- is also generated in the Cu-Aβ catalyzed processes, where an indirect technique was applied. To comprehensively investigate the free radicals produced during this Cu-Aβ-mediated process with a biological reductant, DNA-cleavage assay, an indirect method, and two direct methods including electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS), both having qualitative and quantitative power, were employed in this work. All the experimental results obtained from the three methods demonstrated that Cu-Aβ in the biological reducing environment was not only able to catalyze the production of H 2 O 2 and •OH, but also to generate free O 2 •-. The results further indicated that O 2 •- was the precursor of H 2 O 2 and •OH. It is also important to note that the results obtained from EPR spectroscopy and TAS provided direct evidence for the presence of O 2 •- and •OH. By virtue of the direct techniques, we also found that the longest peptide fragments of Aβ 16 , Aβ 40 , and Aβ 42 produced the least radicals with a lowest rate. More interestingly, the fibrillar forms of Aβ generated less O 2 •- and •OH compared with oligomeric and monomeric forms. We have systematically investigated the Cu-Aβ-catalyzed redox cycling processes using three different methods including DNA-cleavage assay, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and transient absorption spectroscopy. All the experimental results strongly confirm the generation of both free O 2 •- and •OH in the Cu-Aβ-catalyzed processes. Image 1 • The Cu-Aβ-catalyzed redox cycling processes had been systematically investigated using three different methods. • The results obtained by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and transient absorption spectroscopy showed direct evidence of the presence of O 2 •- and •OH. • The effects of various Aβ fragments/forms complexed with Cu2+ on the generation of O 2 •- and •OH was studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information obtained via direct observation of children's sleep disturbance throughout the night in their home can guide the assessment and treatment process, but watching live or via recorded video might be impractical in terms of time expenditures. In Experiment 1, we assessed the accuracy and reliability of a motion‐detection camera with human motor movements. In Experiment 2, we tested the system's generality by using it to obtain in‐home measures of sleep disturbance for three children with autism spectrum disorder and compared the accuracy to a continuous measurement system. We also measured scoring efficiency and assessed parents' acceptability of the camera. Results provide preliminary support for motion detection in measuring sleep disturbance, but further evaluation of motion detection to improve accuracy is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct observation of clinical skills is central to assessment in a competency-based medical education model, yet little is known about how direct observation is experienced by trainees and observers. The objective of the study is to explore how direct observation was experienced by residents and faculty in the context of the I-PASS Handoff Study. In this multi-center qualitative study, we conducted focus groups and semi-structured interviews of residents and faculty members at eight tertiary pediatric centers in North America that implemented the I-PASS Handoff Bundle. We employed qualitative thematic analysis to interpret the data. Barriers to and strategies for direct observation were described relating to the observer, trainee, and clinical environment. Residents and faculty described a mutual awareness that residents change their performance of handoffs when observed, in contrast to their usual behavior in a clinical setting. Changes in handoff performance may depend on the nature of the observer or 'audience'. Direct observation also highlighted the importance of handoffs to participants, recognized as a clinical activity that warrants feedback and assessment. Dramaturgical theory can be used to understand our finding of 'front-stage' (observed) versus 'backstage' (unobserved) handoffs as distinct performances, tailored to an "audience". Educators must be cognizant of changes in performance of routine clinical activities when using direct observation to assess clinical competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective To describe a direct observational approach (ie, interactive family board game) to measure familyfunctioning and parenting behaviors of relevance to child weight and weight-related behaviors and to examine family functioning and parenting factors from multiple family dyads (eg, siblings, parent–child) and their associations with child weight and weight-related behaviors. Design Cross-sectional, mixed-methods study. Setting Two home visits were conducted with families 10days apart with a 7-day observational period between home visits. Participants Children (n = 150) aged 5–7years and their families from 1 of 6 racial and ethnic or immigrant and refugee groups, including African American, Hispanic, Hmong, Native American, Somali, and white, participated in the Family Matters study between 2014 and 2016. Main Outcome Measure Child weight status and weight-related behaviors (ie, diet quality, physical activity). Analysis Adjusted logistic and linear regression models with robust SEs were used in analysis. Results Higher family functioning scores across the majority of family dyads were significantly associated with lower child weight status (P <.05). In addition, some family functioning scores were associated with child diet and physical activity, but not consistently. Parenting behavior scores were inconsistently associated with child weight and weight-related outcomes. Conclusions and Implications Results suggest that the interactive family board game task is a direct observational approach that researchers can use with family members to measure family functioning and parenting behaviors related to childhood obesity. Future interventions may want to consider including multiple family members in both measurement and intervention development to target childhood obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Communication and other nontechnical skills can affect the number of adverse events occurring in perioperative areas. Our study assessed the properties of the Scrub Practitioners' List of Intraoperative Non‐Technical Skills (SPLINTS) used to assess nontechnical skills of scrub nurses in a diverse Asian ophthalmic ambulatory setting. We evaluated the content validation index, cultural equivalence index, concurrent validity, interrater reliability, test‐retest reliability, internal consistency, and concurrent validity. The content validity and cultural equivalence indices were 0.93 and 0.91, respectively. We found that the tool showed acceptable interrater reliability, acceptable test‐retest reliability, and an appropriate Cronbach alpha ranging from 0.80 to 0.88. We found satisfactory concurrent validity between the SPLINTS and the communication and teamwork scale assessment (rs = 0.73, P <.001) and clinical teamwork scale (rs = 0.64, P <.001). We concluded that SPLINTS is a sound psychometric tool for assessing the nontechnical skills of culturally‐diverse scrub persons in ambulatory surgery settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hand hygiene (HH) plays an important role in infection prevention but is often suboptimal.Aim: To test the potential of goal setting and performance feedback in improving HH.Methods: A prospective controlled intervention study was conducted at a German hospital. The study involved four phases: habituation to novel count dispensers and observers (T0), baseline (T1), intervention (T2) and postintervention (T3). Four non-intensive-care units were assigned to one of four conditions: goal setting, performance feedback, both goal setting and performance feedback, or none (control). During all phases, dispenser usage was electronically recorded 24/7. In addition, randomly sampled direct observation was conducted by trained external observers during each phase. The main outcome measure was the daily average of electronically counted hand hygiene events (HHEs) per patient room.Findings: In the feedback condition, a marginally significant increase in HHEs was found from T1 to T2 (MT1 = 7.3, MT2 = 10.3, MT3 = 8.2). In the goal-setting condition, HHEs increased only descriptively from T1 to T2 (MT1 = 6.8, MT2 = 8.7, MT3 = 7.8). In the combined condition, HHEs increased significantly from T1 to T2, and were still significantly elevated at T3 (MT1 = 7.9, MT2 = 17.0, MT3= 12.9). Over all wards and study phases, count dispenser usage frequency was highly correlated with HH compliance (ρ = 0.766, P<0.001).Conclusion: This study suggests that combining goal setting and feedback is a useful approach for improving HH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological advances have allowed professionals to obtain extended recordings of caregiver–client interactions in natural settings, but scoring recorded video at normal speed to identify instances of low‐rate problem behavior is impractical in terms of scoring time. Fast forwarding is a continuous measurement system in which all seconds of an observation are viewed at a speed faster than normal. In Study 1, we evaluated whether three groups of five observers could discriminate problem behavior at three fast‐forwarding speeds across 10‐min observations. We analyzed the efficiency of using fast forwarding compared to continuous scoring, and interobserver agreement across the fast‐forwarding speeds. In Study 2, we compared the accuracy, efficiency, and social acceptability of fast forwarding (3.5x) and momentary time sampling (3.5 s) across 90‐min observations. Results support the use of 3.5x fast forwarding as a viable measurement system of improving the practicality of scoring problem behavior from video. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose: To investigate the effect of generalization of engagement in parkour from physical education (PE) to organized and supervised recess on voluntary participation and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).Method: Children received a 6-day parkour unit in PE and every two lessons they could voluntarily participate in 20-min parkour recess. Fourteen elementary school classes constituting 281 children (8-10 years old) and 16 PE teachers were randomized to either three supervised or three organized parkour recess sessions. During supervised recess, PE teachers supervised to ensure safety, and children could play freely on the parkour landscape. During organized recess, PE teachers provided instructional tasks as well as supervision for safety on the parkour landscape. The parkour landscape in the gymnasium was identical in both recess conditions and similar to previous parkour landscape in PE. Participation and MVPA were measured using systematic observation.Results: Significantly more children from organized compared to supervised recess participated in all three sessions (60% vs. 43%, p = .008, V = .16). Children showed significantly less sedentary behavior (24% vs. 30%, p = .013, η2 = .063) and more MVPA (76% vs. 70%, p = .012, η2 = .066) during organized compared to supervised recess. The proportion of total MVPA spent doing parkour was significantly higher in organized compared to supervised recess for low- (36% vs. 24%, p = .005, η2 = .082) and high-skilled children (33% vs. 26%, p = .034, η2 = .048).Conclusion: Generalization of engagement in parkour was higher in organized compared to supervised recess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Human animal interaction (HAI) is key to get reliable data on behavioural studies. • We propose a protocol to habituate kids and lambs to the presence of human observers. • Reduction of the flight distance/number of followers indicate habituation progress. • Challenge manoeuvre was successful when animals reduced flight distances to 1 m. • Evasion manoeuvre was successful when number of followers was reduced. Abstract Animal habituation is key to obtain reliable data on behavioural studies but detailed procedures to achieve it are scarce. This study designed a set of actions to habituate sheep and goats to human observers. Pelibuey sheep (n = 15) and Criollo goats (n = 10) were classified as (a) avoider, flight from human interaction, or (b) follower, seek human interaction. Habituation was measured by the reduction of flight distance by avoiders, or number of followers in the presence of observers. The habituation protocol consisted of a gradually increased series of five manoeuvres, either challenge (for avoiders) or evasion (for seekers), performed first inside a pen and subsequently in a grass paddock. Habituation was considered successful when animals could be observed from a 1-m distance without flight or following the observer. In the pen, habituation took 12 and 13 days for sheep and goats, respectively. Meanwhile, in the grass paddock habituation took 10 days, for both species. The number of challenge and evasion series was negatively correlated with the flight distance in sheep and with the number of followers in goats. This protocol is simple and practical to implement and enables animal habituation for behavioural studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Girl Scouts (GS) is a setting with large reach to target increased moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in girls. The Scouting Nutrition and Activity Program (SNAP) increased MVPA during intervention troop meetings; therefore, further examination of implementation of SNAP components is warranted to determine the processes contributing to intervention success. The purpose of this study is to examine variability in implementation of an active recreation (AR) policy into GS troop meetings. Troop leaders (n = 7) were randomized to receive SNAP, an intervention training on implementing a policy promoting AR, or a standard control. Meetings (seven meetings/ troop) were observed, and girls in attendance (n = 76, 9-13 years, mean ± SD = 10.51 ± 1.19 years) wore ActiGraph GT1M accelerometers. Two observers attended each meeting and recorded start/stop points of AR time segments, as well as other tasks (i.e., opening/closing, snack, and Girl Scout curriculum [GSC]). Time-segmented accelerometer data were analyzed using Evenson cut points and paired with observation data. Researchers observed 181 segments (mean/day ± SD = 3.77 ± 1.24). Intervention troops implemented more AR segments/day (mean/day = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.62-1.09) than control troops (mean/day = 0.18; 95% CI = 0.00-0.39). A greater percentage of time (%time) was spent in MVPA during AR segments (mean = 10.99; 95% CI = 7.16-14.82) compared with GSC segments (mean = 0.73; 95% CI = 0.00- 4.10), opening/closing (mean = 3.96; 95% CI = 0.54-7.38), and snack (mean = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.00-4.10) segments, and during opening/closing segments compared with GSC and snack segments. Intervention troops implemented more AR segments than control troops. Troop meeting patterns of PA were influenced by task. Adding time segments conducive to PA could increase the %time spent in MVPA during GS troop meetings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When early childhood educators are not adequately trained in evidence-based behavior management strategies or do not have access to consultation supports, preschool students are at an increased risk of school failure and expulsion. Research suggests that supporting in-service teachers with praise training increases their use of praise and positively impacts student behavior. However, it is unclear to what extent preservice early childhood teachers use praise, in the absence of training. This study examined 13, preservice, early educators’ natural use and acceptability of praise. Praise and reprimand rates were collected during preservice educators’ field-based practicum via direct observation. In addition, the Behavior Intervention Rating Scale for Praise (BIRS-P) was used to measure preservice educators’ praise acceptability. On average, preservice educators reported high acceptability of praise; however, they used praise infrequently, compared to preschool, in-service teachers. Preservice educators used praise infrequently, suggesting they need direct training and support to use this evidence-based strategy. Implications and future research directions are offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Medical students at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland, have the opportunity to practice clinical skills with simulated patients during formative sessions in preparation for clerkships. These sessions are given in two formats: 1) direct observation of an encounter followed by verbal feedback (direct feedback) and 2) subsequent review of the videotaped encounter by both student and supervisor (video-based feedback). The aim of the study was to evaluate whether content and process of feedback differed between both formats. Methods: In 2013, all second- and third-year medical students and clinical supervisors involved in formative sessions were asked to take part in the study. A sample of audiotaped feedback sessions involving supervisors who gave feedback in both formats were analyzed (content and process of the feedback) using a 21-item feedback scale. Results: Forty-eight audiotaped feedback sessions involving 12 supervisors were analyzed (2 direct and 2 video-based sessions per supervisor). When adjusted for the length of feedback, there were significant differences in terms of content and process between both formats; the number of communication skills and clinical reasoning items addressed were higher in the video-based format (11.29 vs. 7.71, p=0.002 and 3.71 vs. 2.04, p=0.010, respectively). Supervisors engaged students more actively during the video-based sessions than during direct feedback sessions (self-assessment: 4.00 vs. 3.17, p=0.007; active problem-solving: 3.92 vs. 3.42, p=0.009). Students made similar observations and tended to consider that the video feedback was more useful for improving some clinical skills. Conclusion: Video-based feedback facilitates discussion of clinical reasoning, communication, and professionalism issues while at the same time actively engaging students. Different time and conceptual frameworks may explain observed differences. The choice of feedback format should depend on the educational goal.