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Introduction: Paper folding and punched hole tests are used to measure spatial abilities in humans. These abilities are relevant since they are associated with success in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). This study addresses the challenge of teaching spatial reasoning skills using an educational videogame, the Paper Folding Reasoning Game. Methods: The Paper Folding Reasoning Game is an interactive game which presents activities intended to help users train and understand how to fold a paper to get a specific shape (Part I) and the consequence of punching a hole on a folded paper (Part II). This educational videogame can automatically generate paper-folding-and-punched-hole questions with varying degrees of difficulty depending on the number of folds and holes made, thus producing additional levels for training due to its embedded reasoning mechanisms (Part III). Results: This manuscript presents the results of analyzing the gameplay data gathered by the Paper Folding Reasoning Game in its three parts. For Parts I and II, the data provided by 225 anonymous unique players are analyzed. For Part III (Mastermode), the data obtained from 894 gameplays by 311 anonymous unique players are analyzed. In our analysis, we found out a significant difference in performance regarding the players who trained (i.e., played Parts I and II) before playing the Mastermode (Part III) vs. the group of players who did not train. We also found a significant difference in players' performance who used the visual help (i.e., re-watch the animated sequence of paper folds) vs. the group of players who did not use it, confirming the effectiveness of the Paper Folding Reasoning Game to train paper-folding-and-punched-hole reasoning skills. Statistically significant gender differences in performance were also found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientometrics indicators are used to assess scientists, universities and research institutes for scientific policy-making. The aim of this research was to assess the status of top Iranian medical researchers using scientometric indicators. The study was carried out using scientometric methods. The statistical population included the top 500 Iranian researchers in the field of medicine who were ranked in the Iranian Scientometric Information Database (ISID) based on some scientometric indicators. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22 software and Pearson's correlation coefficient, stepwise regression analysis and Chi-square tests were applied for data analysis. Findings revealed that each researcher had an average h index of 24.04, g index of 40.15, and i10 index of 90.79. There was a positive significant relationship between the number of internationally-collaborated papers and the number of citations received (r = .606, p < .01). The stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that the three variables of paper number, citation counts and mean citation rate determined 72 % of the changes in the h-index. It can be concluded that researchers publishing more papers are more likely to be cited. However, their scientometric indexes are not always better than those of other scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To comparatively evaluate performances of tablet-based versus paper-based Venous Insufficiency Epidemiologic and Economic Study-Quality of Life/Symptom (VEINES-QOL/Sym) questionnaire. Methods: We prospectively evaluated 78 consecutive patients who completed tablet-based and paper-based VEINES-QOL/Sym questionnaires and compared their scores, completion time, data entry time, and ease of use. We used Student's t-test and Wilcoxon test for quantitative variables, Bland–Altman test and kappa coefficient for agreement between questionnaires and patients, respectively. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to assess correlations. Results: Most participants (83.3%) found it easier to use the tablet device. Less time was needed to complete the tablet-based (median, 4.75; IQR, 3–7 min) than the paper-based (median, 8.3; IQR, 6.3–11.3 min) questionnaire (p <.001). Better educated patients took less time to complete paper-based (p =.003) and tablet-based (p =.001) questionnaires and considered the latter easier to use (p =.010). Conclusions: The tablet-based VEINES-QOL/Sym proved to be an easy-to-use and time-saving tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the main scientific results of the XXV International Conference on Data Analytics and Management in Data-Intensive DomainsDomains, held on October 24–27, 2022 in Moscow, Russia. The motivation and goals of the conference, main areas of focus, related conferences, and associated events are considered. The program of the current year's conference is described, including the topics of invited and sectional reports. Conclusions are drawn based on the results of the analysis of the scientific contribution of the conference. A list of papers selected by the conference program committee for the special issue of the journal is attached. The papers relate to the areas of image analysis and processing, the application of machine learning methods in medicine, astronomy, materials science, and extracting information from texts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is an editorial celebrating the 50th anniversary of Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis (STH), a medical journal that first published in 1974. The editorial discusses the various celebratory issues that have been published over the years, which contain historical content related to the fields of thrombosis and hemostasis. The document also mentions the republishing of highly cited and downloaded papers from STH, along with accompanying commentaries from experts in the respective fields. Additionally, the document provides a list of the 50 most highly downloaded papers from STH between 2014 and 2023. [Extracted from the article]

Sensor data fusion analysis is a crucial process that integrates data from multiple sensors to provide more accurate and comprehensive information. This analysis has various applications in fields such as industry, medicine, robotics, transportation, and information systems. The article highlights sixteen high-quality papers that explore different aspects of sensor data fusion, including facial detection, object detection, odometry systems, geospatial data evaluation, and fault detection. The papers demonstrate the potential of sensor data fusion in improving decision-making, efficiency, and productivity in various industries. Future research in this area will focus on miniaturization, multi-sensor systems, and addressing challenges related to data quality in mobile sensors. [Extracted from the article]

The apps for drawing are present in our children's life. Nevertheless, little is known about the impact of mobile technology on the freehand drawing educational activity. There are few works which are contextualised within short periods of time, with teachers who are not theirs and, in some cases, outside the children's classroom. In this paper, we are focussed on the use of technology on freehand drawing activity. Thus, we have compared the graphics produced by 4- and 5-year-old children with paper&crayon in comparison with those with tablet-finger. Children made the drawings during a planned free-drawing activity, in their ordinary classrooms, with their teachers and during five sessions. Assessment of drawings has evidenced tablet feasibility for making graphics. Nevertheless, with the passing of time, quality of graphics (tablet-finger vs paper&crayons), are nearly matched, demonstrating the low impact level technology has on this activity. In addition, if drawings are analysed specifically according to ages, results have shown that both groups have to develop adaptation strategies of visual perceptual skills and fine motor skills for the touch screen in order to obtain the same quality in the drawings made on both support types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study traces the evolution of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) by investigating published research articles (RAs) in four major CALL journals: ReCALL, Computer Assisted Language Learning, Language Learning & Technology, and CALICO Journal. All 2,397 RAs published over four decades (1983-2019) were included in the pool of data, and the Google Scholar citation metric was adopted to assess the impact of the papers. By selecting the top 15% of widely cited papers from each individual year, we minimized the time bias between years, enabling a balanced narration of the history of CALL through a representative dataset of 426 high-impact RAs. To identify the evolution of research trends, the contexts, methodologies, theoretical underpinnings and research foci of all 426 RAs were investigated using NVivo 12 and AntConc. The analysis of the data yielded encouraging results such as the upward trend in the number of publications and the international reach of CALL in the last two decades, the physical or virtual presence of language learners with diverse language profiles, and the growing tendency to triangulate methodology for increased complexity. However, long-standing issues such as the heavy reliance on traditional research contexts, poor reporting practices of basic demographic information, the large number of atheoretical papers and the concentration on a limited number of research foci continue to pose challenges in CALL research. Based on the findings, the paper suggests solutions for the controversies and addresses key issues for future research in CALL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper offers an analysis of data from the second phase of a project entitled Understanding and Addressing Everyday Sexisms in Australian Universities, which involved interviewing key stakeholders with an understanding of and/or experiences of 'Everyday Sexisms' within the academy. The paper demonstrates how women understand themselves as inherently unwelcome within higher education in Australia, and illustrates how this manifests through experiences, complaints procedures and seemingly banal everyday gendered and racilaised interactions. The authors show how complaints procedures often operate to further harass women who have experienced sexist harassment at work. The paper concludes by considering how the shared experiences of minoritised people within universities can pave the way for new ways of understanding diversity and working together to co-create a more equitable Higher Education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When a wheel passes over a rail surface irregularity, the resulting vehicle excitations lead to the application of additional system forces to both the track and the vehicle. These forces contribute to an accelerated track geometry deterioration, which in turn results in increased costs. In a recent paper, a clear correlation between the presence of rail irregularities and poor track geometry quality was demonstrated. Rail surface irregularities thereby were quantified by raw data of a chord-based optical measurement system mounted on the regular track recording vehicle in Austria. This paper deals with deconvolution of the recorded data in order to guarantee irregularity quantification without any distortion. Two different deconvolution approaches are developed and validated by additional measurements. Using the deconvoluted data, previously published evaluations were repeated, and the impact of using deconvoluted data instead of chord values was analysed. The correlation between short-wave effects and track geometry quality can not only be confirmed; it is even stronger than predicted by the chord data. The results of the analysis demonstrate that irregularities with amplitudes exceeding 0.08 mm contribute to an accelerated deterioration in track geometry. Amplitudes of a greater severity result in track geometry levels that are up to 120% inferior to the average. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papers including articles that are produced because of the activities of LifeWatch ERIC, in the context of its second implementation period (2022 - 2026) and through the implementation of its new Strategic Working Plan, are published in this special collection. The articles include data papers, papers describing the development and functioning of analytical services and papers describing any other research outcome, produced either by LifeWatch ERIC or by any collaboration with any other ERIC, Research Infrastructure, global aggregator or other legal entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate associations between digital urine color and paper urine color with other urine indices to assess hydration status. Methods: Twelve male subjects (mean ± standard deviation; age, 26 ± 8 years; body mass, 57.8 ± 5.3 kg; height, 177.5 ± 8.9 cm; VO2max, 57.8 ± 5.8 ml·kg−1·min−1) performed four exercise trials in the heat. Before and following exercise trials, subjects provide urine samples. Urine samples were measured using a digital urine color chart on a portable device screen. Urine samples were also assessed with urine specific gravity (USG), urine osmolality (UOsmo), and a validated paper urine color chart. Results: There were extremely large associations found between digital urine color and paper urine color (r = 0.926, p < 0.001). Correlation coefficients showing associations with USG and UOsmo were similar between digital urine color (USG, r = 0.695, p < 0.001; UOsmo, r = 0.555, p < 0.001) and paper urine color (USG, r = 0.713, p < 0.001; UOsmo, r = 0.570, p < 0.001). Bland–Altman analysis indicated that no proportional bias was observed between digital and paper urine colors (bias, − 0.148; SD of bias, 0.492; 95% LOA, − 1.11, 0.817; p = 0.094). Conclusions: Strong associations were found between digital and paper urine colors with no proportional bias. Furthermore, the degree of associations with USG and UOsmo was similar between digital and paper urine color. These results indicate that digital urine color is a useful tool to assess hydration status and this method could be used as an alternative method to using paper urine color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the roles of tactile materials and origami models in the perception of concept definitions and representations in geometry applications of individuals with visual impairments. This case study draws on data from eight individuals with visual impairments selected according to the purposive sampling method in a mathematics village. Video recordings of focus group interviews conducted with tactile materials and origami models were analyzed by content analysis. Tactile materials made it possible for them to perceive concept definitions and visual representations, while the construction of origami models made every component designable, such as the relationship between concepts, visual prototypes and sub-concepts. Individuals with visual impairments have been quite successful in designing different representations and strategies for geometric concepts with perfect folding. Thus, it has been determined that origami is an accessible material for individuals with visual impairments to do geometry with creases and models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Blood clots are formed when blood vessels are injured. They help stop bleeding and heal wounds, but can also cause serious problems if they block blood flow or break off and travel to other organs. This study investigates how blood clots differ in people with cancer compared to healthy or non-cancerous individuals. This study found that cancer patients have higher levels of histones in their blood, which make their clots stiffer and resistant to lysis. Further, clots formed in cancer patients have higher viscoelastic properties, and hence are harder to break down. These findings suggest that cancer patients have abnormal clotting properties that may increase their risk of developing thrombosis, and evaluating these properties can be helpful in detecting cancer. Background: Blood viscoelasticity and plasma protein levels can play an important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. However, the role of histones and DNA in modulating blood clot properties remains to be investigated. This study investigates the differences in blood viscoelasticity and plasma protein levels among cancer patients, individuals with other diseases, and healthy individuals. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 101 participants, including 45 cancer patients, 22 healthy individuals, and 34 individuals with other diseases. Rheological properties of clots formed in vitro by reconstituted elements of fibrinogen or plasma were analyzed with an Anton Paar Rheometer, USA. Plasma protein levels of D-dimer, TPA, EPCR, fibrinogen, and histone H3 were measured through ELISA. Blood clots were formed with or without DNA and histones (H3) by adding thrombin and calcium to plasma samples, and were evaluated for viscoelasticity, permeability, and degradation. Results: Cancer patients show higher blood viscoelasticity and plasma D-dimer levels compared to healthy individuals and individuals with other diseases. Our in vitro analysis showed that the addition of histone to the plasma results in a significant decrease in viscoelasticity and mean fiber thickness of the clot formed thereafter. In parallel studies, using plasma from patients, DNA and histones were detected in fibrin clots and were associated with less degradation by t-PA. Moreover, our results show that the presence of DNA and histones not only increases clots' permeability, but also makes them more prone to degradation. Conclusions: Plasma histones and DNA affect the structure of the clot formed and induce defective fibrinolysis. Moreover, the increased viscoelastic properties of plasma from cancer patients can be used as potential biomarkers in cancer prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severity of plastic pollution is increasing, and delaying sustainable development is not an option. China is a large consumer of plastic, so it is essential to encourage the use of eco-friendly shopping bags there. The paper focuses on the recognition and use of eco-friendly shopping bags among young people in Guangdong Province, China, and determines what factors can lead to a rise in the use of these bags. A questionnaire was utilized to gather data from 392 young people in Guangdong Province using a quantitative research approach. According to the data from the questionnaire, they generally are supportive of eco-friendly shopping bags. Ultimately, the paper's data emphasize the positive effects of materials (paper material), function (internal compartment), and design (green label). For the purpose of advocating sustainable development, this paper provides helpful guidance for the design of eco-friendly shopping bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the findings of two studies that critically analysed teachers' perspectives on the operation of the standards and inclusion agenda in primary schools in England. The studies were carried out in 2010–2011 and 2019, respectively. Through the application of Q methodology, the paper examines whether teachers' perspectives of standards and inclusion have changed over time. Analysis of the data strongly suggests that teachers have experienced significant difficulties including children with SEND while at the same time trying to operationalise the objectives of the standards agenda. The research concludes that there needs to be a focus on developing effective strategies to include children with SEND within the hostile environment of the standards agenda. Within such an environment it is suggested that focus needs to move away from concentrating on 'children with SEND having difficulties' to the creation of inclusive educational settings which welcome all learners. In addition, it is argued that Statutory Assessment Tests (SATs) should also be revised to consider the needs of all learners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multivariate time series forecasting is widely used in various fields in real life. Many time series prediction models have been proposed. The current forecasting model lacks the mining of correlation between sequences based on different periods and correlation of periodical features between different periods when dealing with data. In this paper, we propose a multivariate data prediction model FAFTransformer based on the reorganization of multi‐periodic features, which first extracts the multi‐periodic information of the time series using the method of frequency domain analysis. The temporal dependencies within sequences are then captured using convolution based on different periods, and the correlations between sequences are learned by combining the multivariate attention mechanism to obtain the intra‐sequence and inter‐sequence correlations under the same period. Finally, period fusion is proposed to capture the correlation of period characteristics between different periods. The experimental results show that the model achieves the best results on multiple datasets compared to the latest seven predictive models for time‐series data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For effective copyright protection of digital images, this paper proposes a zero-watermarking algorithm based on local image feature information. The feature matrix of the algorithm is derived from the keypoint set determined by the Speeded-Up Robust Features (SURF) algorithm, and it calculates both the gradient feature descriptors and the vortex-like texture feature (VTF) descriptors of the keypoint set. Unlike traditional texture feature descriptors, the vortex-like texture feature descriptors proposed in this paper contain richer information and exhibit better stability. The advantage of this algorithm lies in its ability to calculate the keypoints of the digital image and provide a stable vector description of the local features of these keypoints, thereby reducing the amount of erroneous information introduced during attacks. Analysis of experimental data shows that the algorithm has good effectiveness, distinguishability, security, and robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issues 1 and 2 of 2024 are composed of papers selected for the special section in memory of Dr. Jean-Marie Proth. Some papers are extended versions of articles presented at the 10th IFAC MIM 2022 conference (hub.imt-atlantique.fr/mim2022/) in the invited sessions in memory of Dr. Proth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides empirical evidence using two studies to explain the primary factors facilitating electronic health record (EHR) systems adoption through the lens of the resource advantage theory. We aim to address the following research questions: What are the main organizational antecedents of EHR implementation? What is the role of monitoring in EHR system implementation? What are the current themes and people's attitudes toward EHR systems? This paper includes two empirical studies. Study 1 presents a research model based on data collected from four different archival datasets. Drawing upon the resource advantage theory, this paper uses archival data from 200 Texas hospitals, thus mitigating potential response bias and enhancing the validity of the findings. Study 2 includes a text analysis of 5154 textual data, sentiment analysis, and topic modeling. Study 1's findings reveal that joint ventures and ownership are the two main enablers of adopting EHR systems in 200 Texas hospitals. Moreover, the results offer a moderating role of monitoring in strengthening the relationship between joint-venture capability and the implementation of EHR systems. Study 2's results indicate a positive attitude toward EHR systems. The U.S. was unique in the sample due to its slower adoption of EHR systems than other developed countries. Physician burnout also emerged as a significant concern in the context of EHR adoption. Topic modeling identified three themes: training, healthcare interoperability, and organizational barriers. In a multimethod design, this paper contributes to prior work by offering two new EHR antecedents: hospital ownership and joint-venture capability. Moreover, this paper suggests that the monitoring mechanism moderates the adoption of EHR systems in Texas hospitals. Moreover, this paper contributes to prior EHR works by performing text analysis of textual data to carry out sentiment analysis and topic modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Journals, regardless of their quality, may facilitate the publication of studies of affiliated authors or those of researchers in their close networks, this exhibiting biased behaviors in favor of insider researchers during peer review. The aim of this research was to determine insider authors' motivations for obtaining high and fast rates of acceptance of studies published by their affiliated institutions. A total of 11 Turkish dentistry journals with regular publishing schedules between 2017 and 2021 were examined. The publication language of the papers was either English or Turkish, and the papers were of four groups: original articles, reviews, case reports, and short communications. The submission date, acceptance date, and time from submission to acceptance of each paper were examined. The number of authors and the corresponding authors' countries of origin were noted, and the papers were analyzed to determine whether the researchers were insiders. The findings show that insider authors both publish in large numbers in their affiliated universities' journals (15.6% - 65.0%) and have significantly faster speeds (up to 82 days). The average time from submission to acceptance significantly differed for insider and outsider researchers in all journals except four. As in most areas of the health sciences, dentistry also lacks research on bias and the literature contains no study examining this issue in the field of dentistry both in Turkey and in the world. This study invokes a new discussion in this area by focusing on national dentistry journals and the bias inherent in editorial attitudes. In the future studies, it would be better to compare data on insiders and outsiders by incorporating both national and international dentistry papers in the future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of the present paper is to investigate the problem of the nonparametric estimation of the expectile regression in which the response variable is scalar while the covariate is a random function. More precisely, an estimator is constructed by using the local linear k Nearest Neighbor procedures (kNN). The main contribution of this study is the establishment of the Uniform consistency in Number of Neighbors of the constructed estimators. These results are established under fairly general structural conditions on the classes of functions and the underlying models. The usefulness of our result for the smoothing parameter automatic selection is discussed. Some simulation studies are carried out to show the finite sample performances of the kNN estimator. The theoretical uniform consistency results, established in this paper, are (or will be) key tools for many further developments in functional data analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite numerous studies that adopt text analysis in tourism and hospitality published in the past decade, a comprehensive review of this topic is still lacking. This study endeavors to bridge this gap by conducting a systematic review of text analysis research published in the top five journals in tourism and hospitality between 2013 and 2023. From a thematic analysis perspective, this paper provides an elaborate description of how text data can be utilized for prediction and understanding purposes. Specifically, the prediction scenarios encompass hotels, destinations, and restaurants, while the understanding aspect focuses on tourists, firms, destinations, and academic researches within this domain. From a methodological perspective, this paper offers an in-depth exploration of data sources, tools or methodologies, processing procedures, and commonly utilized metrics in text analysis. The paper concludes by proposing a summary framework for text analysis research while highlighting future research trends, opportunities, and challenges in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human mobility, encompassing the movement of individuals and/or groups across space and time, significantly impacts various aspects of society, with intra-urban mobility being a major research focus of scholars in diverse disciplines. Bike-sharing systems have become an alternatives in cities for achieving more sustainable transportation. Hence, bike-sharing-related data are considered an important data source to study intra-urban human mobility. To better understand human mobility in cities, it is essential to characterize the typical patterns involved in intra-urban human mobility. This paper mainly focuses on characterizing the temporal patterns of intra-urban human mobility on bike-sharing based on the trip information of the acquired bike-sharing data. To achieve this, on the one hand, we adopted an exploratory data analysis (EDA) method to describe the temporal patterns by performing exploratory analyses of bike-sharing trips. On the other hand, we used the continuous triangular model (CTM) to conduct multi-temporal-scale analysis of bike-sharing trips for further explorations of the temporal patterns where necessary. The data of bike-sharing trips in Shanghai, China, were adopted as the dataset for the case study. Generally, the study was conducted at two different levels: the trip level and the bike level. Specifically, at each level, the explorations were conducted from varying perspectives. According to the analyses, numerous meaningful temporal patterns were discovered, and several distinctive findings were acquired. The results of this study show the effectiveness of the EDA and CTM methods in characterizing temporal patterns of intra-urban human mobility, based on which potentially insightful information and suggestions can be provided to assist related actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to analyse the relationship between fear of COVID‐19 and hand hygiene beliefs and practices of surgical nurses. Method: This article is a descriptive correlational study. It was conducted between February and May 2021 with 306 surgical nurses working at public and private hospitals in Northern Cyprus. A personal information form, Fear of COVID‐19 Scale, Hand Hygiene Belief Scale and Hand Hygiene Practices Inventory were used for data collection. Results: Of the participants in the study, 25.41% were 29 years old or younger and 85.15% were female. The mean scores obtained from the Fear of COVID‐19 Scale, Hand Hygiene Belief Scale and the Hand Hygiene Practices Inventory were 23.12 ± 8.03, 81.33 ± 7.67 and 69.15 ± 1.94, respectively. The Fear of COVID‐19 Scale scores were negatively correlated with the Hand Hygiene Belief Scale scores and positively correlated with the Hand Hygiene Practices Inventory scores. Conclusion: Hand hygiene practices were better for nurses with higher level of COVID‐19 fear. Therefore, a high level of seriousness and awareness of nurses about hand hygiene, which was achieved during the COVID‐19 pandemic, should be sustained to maintain proper hand hygiene practices. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Hand hygiene is one of the primary ways to control the COVID‐19 pandemic.Adherence to hand hygiene may be influenced by various factors, including personal traits.Hand hygiene adherence among health professionals was low prior to the COVID‐19 pandemic. What this paper adds? The Fear of COVID‐19 Scale scores of surgical nurses were above average.This study found that the fear of COVID‐19 was positively linked to hand hygiene practices of surgical nurses. The implications of this paper: Seriousness and awareness of nurses about hand hygiene during the COVID‐19 pandemic should be sustained in order to maintain good hand hygiene practices.Visual and printed education materials may emphasize disease and mortality rates during the COVID‐19 pandemic.Health institutions have the responsibility to provide appropriate antiseptic products to prevent hand skin problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of implementing a psychological first aid intervention for psychological distress, resilience capacity, quality and meaning of life among survivors affected by earthquake adversity in Northern Syria. Methods: A quasi‐experimental, pre‐posttest, two‐group research design was utilized. A convenience sample of 95 survivors (46 in the study group and 49 in the control group) was recruited for the psychological First Aid intervention at a 1:1 ratio. The psychological first aid intervention was delivered in 10 sessions, twice weekly, followed by 3‐month follow‐up. Results: A statistically significant improvement in the mean scores of resilience capacity, quality and meaning of life among survivors, along with a significant reduction in psychological distress, was registered among the study group compared with the control group. Conclusion: Our work verified the suitability of implementing psychological first aid following the catastrophic temblors which struck Northern Syria. Given that the psychological first aid intervention is grounded in psychological safety, cognitive reframing, mobilization of social support and installation of hope, the feasibility of its path following public health emergency, traumatic events or even a personal crisis can be favourable. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? On 6 February 2023, a massive earthquake devastated large portions of war‐torn northwest Syria and southern Turkey, leaving millions in these regions battling to reconstruct their lives.In northwest Syria, strong aftershocks left more than 4500 people dead, injured hundreds more and demolished at least 10 000 structures.Disasters such as earthquakes can have a significant impact on the mental health and well‐being of those affected. Survivors may experience high levels of psychological distress and other negative mental health recovery outcomes.There is a need for psychologically supportive interventions such as the psychological first aid intervention to help survivors cope with the aftermath of such disasters.What this paper adds? A statistically significant improvement in the mean scores of resilience capacity, quality and meaning of life among survivors, along with a significant reduction in psychological distress, was registered among the study group compared to the control group.Our work verified the suitability of implementing the psychological first aid intervention following the catastrophic temblors which struck Northern Syria.The implications of this paper: Being ready for disasters is critical; health care professionals, including nurses, are one of the most frequently requested actors in disaster interventions.Nurses are an indispensable part in ascertaining the psychological repercussions of disasters on survivors, families and communities.Due to their training and professional experience, nurses can take the lead in reducing health‐threatening risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of the bladder stimulation technique (BST) to collect urine samples from newborns and its effects on physiological parameters and comfort of the newborn. Design: This was a randomized controlled trial conducted in a NICU. A total of 64 newborns were divided into 2 groups: 32 newborns in the experimental group and 32 newborns in the control group. Methods: Newborns in the experimental group (EG) were subjected to the BST, and in the control group (CG), urine collection was via sterile urine bags, which is routine practice. Procedural success was defined as the collection of urine samples within 3 min of beginning the stimulation technique in the experimental group and of placing the sterile urine bag in the control group. Results: The success rate of the procedure in 3 min was 62.5% in the EG and 28% in the CG (P = 0.006, absolute difference: 35%, 95% confidence interval 27% to 42%, NNT: 3). According to the comparison of the overall mean COMFORTneo scale and pain and distress subscale scores at the 1‐ and 3‐min marks, there was a significant difference between the EG and CG (p < 0.05). The mean scores in the EG were higher than those in the CG. The mean oxygen‐saturation was significantly lower in the EG than in the CG (p < 0.05), and the increase in heart rate was significantly higher in the EG (p = 0.018). Conclusions: BST is a more successful method within 3 min for collecting urine samples from newborns compared to sterile urine bags. However, the newborns' comfort levels minimally decreased at 3 min, and they had moderate pain and distress, while the BST was being implemented. This increase in physiologic parameters was statistically significant but not clinically significant. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Urinary tract infection is a commonly diagnosed bacterial infection in young infants with fever. However, the symptoms of this infection are non‐specific, so urine samples are needed to accurately diagnose and exclude it.There are multiple methods available for collecting urine samples, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.The bladder stimulation technique is a noninvasive and efficient method for collecting urine samples. However, few studies have examined the pain and distress effects of this technique, and these studies have reported varying results. What this paper adds? This study found that bladder stimulation techniques were more effective than sterile urine bags in collecting urine samples within 3 min from newborns.The bladder stimulation technique led to decreased saturation and comfort levels, increased heart rate, and increased pain and distress in the newborns during urine sampling; these increases in physiologic parameters were statistically significant but not clinically significant. The implications of this paper: The bladder stimulation technique is an effective noninvasive method for quickly collecting urine samples.Considering the pain and distress‐increasing properties of the technique, it may be recommended before invasive interventions (bladder catheterization and suprapubic aspiration) when urine sample collection with urine bags is not possible; it can be used in cases where urgent urine collection is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The research was conducted to measure the effect of health literacy‐grounded web‐based education program on health literacy, nutrition and exercise behaviours in adolescents. Background: The increasing prevalence of obesity in adolescents is explained by a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet. Health literacy is essential for adolescents to maintain their healthy behaviours. Methods: The research was conducted as a parallel group randomized controlled trial. The study was completed by 114 adolescents (experimental = 42, control = 72). The Personal Information Form, the Health Literacy Scale for School‐Age Children and the Nutrition and Exercise Subscales were used to collect data. A web‐based education program was implemented. Two‐way mixed design ANOVA with Bonferroni test was used to examine the group, time and group * time interaction of the measurements. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups regarding health literacy level, nutrition and exercise behaviours pre‐test mean scores (p > 0.05). In the post‐test, the mean scores of health literacy and nutrition behaviours in the experimental group were higher than the control group (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in exercise behaviours (p > 0.05). The power and effect size in mean scores changes for health literacy (99.8%, η2 = 0.039) and nutrition (99.8%, η2 = 0.039) were moderate. Conclusion: The study concluded that health literacy‐grounded web‐based education program increased the health literacy levels of adolescents and improved their nutritional behaviours; however, there was no sufficient change in exercise behaviours. Summary statement: What is already known about the topic? The health literacy level of adolescents is inadequate or limited.Obesity and sedentary lifestyle are more common problems among adolescents.Interventions such as wellness coaching and health education were used to improve nutrition or exercise behaviours. What this paper adds? Health literacy‐grounded web‐based education program helps to increase the health literacy levels of adolescents.Health literacy‐grounded web‐based education program was found effective in improving nutrition behaviours. The implications of this paper: Nurses could implement web‐based education programs to prevent the negative consequences of unhealthy behaviours of adolescents.Nurses could provide opportunities to access health‐related information via web‐based interventions.Nurses could collaborate with school administrators to integrate nutrition and exercise behaviours into comprehensive and coordinated school‐based programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The present study aimed to examine the effects of a mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR) program and deep relaxation exercises on pregnancy‐related anxiety levels. Materials and Methods: This randomized parallel‐group controlled trial was conducted with 95 pregnant women (MBSR: n = 32, deep relaxation exercises: n = 31, control: n = 32) between 1 August and 15 October 2022 with pregnant women who were registered at the pregnancy outpatient clinics of a hospital in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye. CONSORT guidelines were followed in our study. The participants in the MBSR group were given an eight‐session MBSR program, consisting of two sessions per week for 4 weeks, whereas the participants in the deep relaxation exercises group were asked to do exercises at home with deep relaxation videos four times a week for 4 weeks. The participants in the control group received only routine prenatal care. Results: The mean PRAQ‐R2 Fear of Giving Birth subscale scores of the participants in the MBSR and deep relaxation exercises groups after the intervention were lower than that of the participants in the control group. Additionally, the mean total PRAQ‐R2, PRAQ‐R2 Worries about Bearing a Physically or Mentally Handicapped Child subscale and PRAQ‐R2 Concern about One's Own Appearance subscale scores of the participants in the MBSR group were found to be significantly lower than the scores of those in the deep relaxation exercises and control groups (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The MBSR program is an effective method for reducing pregnancy‐related anxiety levels. Additionally, deep relaxation exercises are alternative practices for reducing the fear of giving birth among pregnant women. Trial registration: NCT05447000 Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Anxiety is common during pregnancy.Alternative methods are becoming important considering the effects of complications of medical treatment on the mother and the fetus from treatments for anxiety in the prenatal period.What this paper adds? The MBSR program is an effective method for reducing pregnancy‐related anxiety levels.Deep relaxation exercises are alternative practices for reducing the fear of giving birth among pregnant women.The implications of this paper: This research provides a solid basis for the use of an MBSR program during midwifery and nursing practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index, an instrument to assess nurses' empathy. Background: A practical empathic approach is valuable for planning nursing interventions suitable for the patient's conditions and needs and increasing patient satisfaction. Design: This is a methodological study. Methods: The study was carried out at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University Training and Research Hospital, recruiting a total of 358 nurses between January and February 2023. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to determine and validate the factor structure of the Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index. Results: The exploratory factor analysis extracted three factors. According to the confirmatory factor analysis, all goodness of fit measures were within acceptable limits. Cronbach's α values were 0.89 for the total scale with 17 items and between 0.73 and 0.81 for the factors. In test–retest analyses, all intra‐class correlation coefficients were higher than 0.7, and the correlations between the first and second applications of the scale were between 0.61 and 0.73. Conclusion: The Turkish version of the Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index can be applied as a valid and reliable measurement tool to evaluate empathy in Turkish nurses. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? In order for nurses to provide adequate care and help to their patients, their empathy skills should be developed at the desired level, and they should have an empathetic disposition.Numerous empathy scales have been developed to measure empathy, a crucial element in interpersonal relationships, but since these scales have an excessive number of items and explanatory texts, their evaluation takes a long time. The Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index, which was originally developed in English, has been designed so that nurses can quickly assess their empathic abilities and perspectives reflecting their respective helping actions. What does this paper add? The factor structure determined as a result of'the confirmatory factor analysis of the Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index has three factors, and the factor structure in the original scale has two factors.The Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index has 17 items in the present study and 27 in the original scale.The Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index is a reliable and valid scale for the Turkish culture. The implications of this paper: The Turkish version of the Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index can be used as a self‐assessment tool to evaluate empathic dispositions and practices among Turkish nurses.Nurse educators can also use the Clinical Interpersonal Reactivity Index to evaluate empathy education programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The aim of this study is to introduce the Copenhagen Multi‐Centre Psychosocial Infertility (COMPI)‐Fertility Problem Stress Scales (COMPI‐FPSS) into China and test its applicability in Chinese infertile population. Background: Infertility‐related stress not only influences patients' psychological well‐being but is also strongly associated with reduced pregnancy rates and poorer assisted conception outcomes, thus warranting focussed attention. Design: The design used in this study is a cross‐sectional survey. Methods: A total of 418 participants were recruited by convenience sampling from March to July 2022. The data were randomly divided into two parts: one for item analysis and exploratory factor analysis and the other for confirmatory factor analysis and reliability test. The critical ratio and homogeneity test were used to verify the differentiation and homogeneity of the COMPI‐FPSS; the construct validity was determined by explanatory and confirmatory factor analyses; Cronbach's α coefficient and Spearman–Brown coefficient were used to assess the reliability; and criterion validity was expressed using correlation coefficients for the Perceived Stress Scale and the Negative Affect Scale as the validity criteria. Results: The revised Chinese version of COMPI‐FPSS has 11 items and 2 dimensions (i.e., personal stress domain and social stress domain). Exploratory factor analysis showed that the cumulative variance contribution rate of the two factors was 68.6%, and confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the model fitted well. The score of the COMPI‐FPSS was significantly and positively associated with perceived stress and negative affect. The Cronbach's α coefficient of the total scale was 0.905, and the Spearman–Brown coefficient was 0.836, explaining excellent reliability. Conclusion: The revised Chinese version of COMPI‐FPSS shows good reliability and validity, and it can be used to evaluate the infertility‐related stress of infertile patients in China. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? With the number of infertile people on the rise globally, infertility‐related stress needs attention.Copenhagen Multi‐Centre Psychosocial Infertility (COMPI)‐Fertility Problem Stress Scales (COMPI‐FPSS) with its brief and accessible entries is extensively applied abroad.China currently lacks such a tool. What this paper adds? This study translated the COMPI‐FPSS into Chinese and the Chinese version of COMPI‐FPSS contains 11 items and 2 dimensions, including personal stress domain and social stress domain, which has good reliability and validity. The implications of this paper: The Chinese version of COMPI‐FPSS could provide a short and reliable tool for clinical practice and research, which will reduce the burden on researchers and patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, there is a growing momentum toward achieving universal access to clean energy, particularly electricity, as it plays a crucial role in improving the overall quality of life. Addressing the challenge of universal electricity access requires the development of various mechanisms that enable individuals to access electricity at affordable rates while having the freedom to choose their service providers. In many countries, governments are actively involved in enhancing electricity access, but this effort can put strain on state finances, leading to increased fiscal deficits. This paper aims to investigate the relationship between power expenditure and state finances in Jammu and Kashmir, India, in light of the push for improved electricity access. Using data from the RBI Bulletins for the period 1990–91 to 2019–20, the paper employs panel data analysis to investigate the relationship between power expenditure and gross fiscal deficit. Results indicate a positive and significant correlation between expenditure on power and state gross fiscal deficit in Jammu and Kashmir, indicating lower fiscal sustainability with higher power expenditure. For the purpose of reducing the pressure on state finances caused by enormous domestic power subsidies, the study recommended targeted subsidies with a focus on small energy projects utilizing renewable energy sources and energy-saving technologies, as well as incentives and regulations to promote energy conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to discover the benefits of integrating machine translation in language learning, translating tasks in particular. By a qualitative methodology, the paper aims at drawing some groundbreaking results about undergraduate English students attending the Translation course. Moreover, the paper also explores the opportunities provided by AntConc to analyze their translations and to find frequent MT signals such as literal translations or unnatural syntax patterns. Many advantages noted by the students associated with MT will be explored in this research, including the ease of translation and ability to grasp the new vocabulary, the access to unknown text which previously led to misunderstanding and uncertainty, the flexibility and adaptability of different machine translation applications which give them the opportunity to engage in independent learning and much more. Some analysis of translated tasks used by more than one student will focus on the use of MT tools reflected in the same literal meanings and ungrammatically correct structures. Furthermore, the paper will provide insights from both the students’ perceptions and translation practices serving as future data which can be reorganized and carefully incorporated into the framework of language learning in order to enhance the process of language acquisition and learners’ active engagement in and out of educational environments. However, the current research offers only some introductory ideas which can further be developed for future research in the respective area of the relation between machine translation and language learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores young English-speaking children’s usage and acquisition patterns of the how come- and why-constructions on the basis of authentic data from the CHILDES (Child Language Data Exchange System) subcorpora. In doing so, it particularly focuses on whether young children show the same or similar acquisition processes of the two constructions which have similar meanings and if not, in what aspects they display different behavior, and what implications they have in children’s acquisition of wh-question constructions in general. A detailed analysis of the data shows that 1) children start to use and acquire the how come-construction later than the why-construction in general; 2) although they use and acquire the two constructions in a similar way to some extent, their usage and acquisition patterns differ rather significantly, regarding the dependent category/construction types, the illocutionary function distributions/preferences; 3) children’s difficulty in employing SAI in the why-construction is demonstrated in a large number of underdeveloped/erroneous instances with a finite sentence dependent at early acquisition stages and frequent occurrences of the small clause dependent in spite of the lack of parents’ input; 4) children use and acquire the why-construction earlier in the positive contexts than in the negative contexts; 5) parents’ input does not play a sole determining role in accounting for children’s usage and acquisition patterns of the two constructions. The findings of this paper thus make a significant contribution to the body of irregular wh-questions including the how come-construction and typical wh-questions such as the why-construction at the same time, inviting further subsequent empirical studies on the related constructions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthquakes are major catastrophes that cause great life and economic losses to human society and environment. This paper reviews and synthesizes relevant studies, drawing from a systematic examination of 4229 articles from the Web of Science core collection (1982--2023). Employing the CiteSpace visualization and analysis tool, current research and emerging trends in seismic risk assessment are discussed and analyzed. This paper provides a holistic overview of principal contributions, knowledge sources, interdisciplinary characteristics, and principal research topics in this field. Additionally, we propose key technologies that are in urgent need of enhancement, including data availability, quantity and quality of data, interpretability of machine learning models, performance improvement of machine learning methods and application of foundation models, as well as real-time risk assessment techniques. These insights support both theoretical understanding and practical applications of seismic risk assessment and damage analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital life is an integral part of our life these days. Intelligently crafted front ends of platforms often make us addicted to it. In this scenario, the research concerning digital nudging requires our attention. This paper attempts to mine insights from the research done so far using bibliometric analysis. Data was collected from the Scopus database based on the publications from 2005 to 2024. The study's objective is to perform performance analysis and co-occurrence analysis of obtained data to discover the themes and emerging research areas concerning digital nudging. VOSviewer software is used for analysing the data. Four themes relating to digital nudging could be identified through the study. Interestingly, the study also uncovered the increase of study among student groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The advent of blockchain technology has revolutionized various sectors by providing transparency, immutability, and automation. Central to this revolution are smart contracts, which facilitate trustless and automated transactions across diverse domains. However, the proliferation of smart contracts has exposed significant security vulnerabilities, necessitating advanced analysis techniques. Data dependency analysis is a critical program analysis method used to enhance the testing and security of smart contracts. This paper introduces Sligpt, an innovative methodology that integrates a large language model (LLM), specifically GPT-4o, with the static analysis tool Slither, to perform data dependency analyses on Solidity smart contracts. Our approach leverages both the advanced code comprehension capabilities of GPT-4o and the advantages of a traditional analysis tool. We empirically evaluate Sligpt using a curated dataset of Ethereum smart contracts. Sligpt achieves significant improvements in precision, recall, and overall analysis depth compared with Slither and GPT-4o, providing a robust solution for data dependency analysis. This paper also discusses the challenges encountered, such as the computational resource requirements and the inherent variability in LLM outputs, while proposing future research directions to further enhance the methodology. Sligpt represents a significant advancement in the field of static analysis on smart contracts, offering a practical framework for integrating LLMs with static analysis tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Froth flotation predominantly separates particles according to their differences in wettability. However, other particle properties such as size, shape or density significantly influence the separation outcome as well. Froth flotation is most efficient for particles within a size range of about 20–200 μm, but challenges arise for very fine or coarse particles that are accompanied by low recoveries and poor selectivity. While the impact of particle size on the separation behavior in flotation is well known by now, the effect of particle shape is less studied and varies based on the investigated zone (suspension or froth) and separation apparatus used. Beyond these complexities, many particle properties are correlated, making it challenging to analyze the isolated impact of individual properties on the separation behavior. Therefore, a multidimensional perspective on the separation process, considering multiple particle properties, enhances the understanding of their collective influence. In this paper, the two-dimensional case is studied; i.e., a parametric modeling approach is applied to determine bivariate Tromp functions from scanning electron microscopy-based image data of the feed and the separated fractions. With these functions it is possible to characterize the separation behavior of particle systems. Using a model system of ultrafine (<10 μm) particles, consisting of either glass spheres or glass fragments with different wettability states as the floatable fraction and magnetite as the non-floatable fraction, allows for the investigation of the influence of descriptor vectors consisting of size, shape and wettability, on the separation. In this way, the present paper contributes to a better understanding of the complex interplay between certain descriptor vectors for the case of ultrafine particles. Furthermore, it demonstrates the benefits of using multivariate Tromp functions for evaluating separation processes and points out the limitations of SEM-based image measurements by means of mineral liberation analysis (MLA) for the studied particle size fraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates whether and how export growth to China varies following shocks in bilateral political relations between China and six Southeast Asian countries—Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam—between 2000 and 2019. High‐frequency news data is used to quantify bilateral political relations between each of the six countries and China. Then, a net cooperation index, plus separate indices of political cooperation and conflict, are placed in an augmented gravity model of trade situated in a vector autoregression framework alongside real exchange rate and industrial production variables to examine the short‐ (months) and long‐run (years) effects of shocks to bilateral political relations on each countryʼs exports growth to China. The results reveal that political relations with China played a role in Thailandʼs and Vietnamʼs exports growth to China but not in Indonesiaʼs, Malaysiaʼs, the Philippinesʼ and Singaporeʼs, and contribute new findings to the literature on politics and trade. Code and data for the analysis is available at: https://github.com/tradepolsrepository/tradepols.git. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studied the spatial pattern of supergentrification in the core area of Shanghai. The area is divided into 23 subdistricts based on the standard pattern of subdistrict division provided by CREIS (China Real Estate Index System) and then the 23 subdistricts are taken as objects for analysis. By establishing the evaluation index system of supergentrification level, the integrated analysis method entropy weight method and exploratory spatial data analysis is used to explore the general characteristics of the spatial pattern, spatial agglomeration characteristics, and spatial agglomeration hotspots of supergentrification in the core area of Shanghai. The research results of the spatial pattern reveal that the level of supergentrification in the core area of Shanghai is high in Puxi and low in Pudong. The Puxi district, represented by the People's Square subdistrict, West Nanjing Road subdistrict, and Hengshan Road subdistrict, has a higher level of supergentrification, while the Pudong district, represented by the Tangqiao subdistrict, Yangjing subdistrict, and Huamu subdistrict, has a lower level of supergentrification. The results of spatial autocorrelation analysis reveal that supergentrification in the core area of Shanghai presents obvious spatial agglomeration characteristics on the subdistrict scale and that the significantly high-high subdistricts are mainly distributed in the core area of Puxi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the Greek wiretappings scandal, which was revealed in 2022 and attracted significant attention from the press and citizens. Specifically, we propose a methodology for collecting data and analyzing patterns of online public discussions on Twitter. We apply our methodology to the Greek wiretappings use case and present findings related to the evolution of the discussion over time, its polarization, and the role of the Media. The methodology can be of wider use and replicated to other topics. Finally, we publicly provide an open dataset and online resources with the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pavement infrastructure is vital in providing services and links between various sectors of society. Therefore, the preservation and maintenance of these roads are critical to attaining a pavement network in good condition throughout its service life. Various performance indicators like the international roughness index (IRI), pavement condition index (PCI), and present serviceability rating (PSR) have been used by the state department of transportation (DOT) and highway agencies for evaluating pavement surface conditions and planning future maintenance strategies. Limited data availability, multiple distresses depending on region, lack of correlation of these condition indices to maintenance strategies, and data collection limitations pose a challenge for applying these indices to local conditions. This paper compares condition indices of different states for rigid pavements. Further, using a specific condition index for local conditions is also highlighted. For this purpose, five states and their corresponding condition indices were evaluated and compared to the Michigan DOT distress index (DI). These states include Virginia, Minnesota, North Dakota, Louisiana, and Oregon. The corresponding distresses of each condition index were converted to make them compatible with the MDOT DI. This study used the MDOT's pavement management system (PMS) database to evaluate each condition index for 433 rigid pavement sections. Each distress index was plotted against MDOT DI and compared using a paired t-test. Results show that the condition indices of Virginia and Minnesota are comparable to DI in terms of the Spearman correlation value. The t-test results show that except for Virgina, condition indices from other states statistically differ from DI. Therefore, one can't use those directly for local conditions in Michigan. This paper presents the evaluation and data requirements for each condition index and its impact on selecting a maintenance treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]