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To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2008.05.012 Byline: Mary J. Naus, Laura M. Philipp, Mekhala Samsi Keywords: Paper and computer formats in psychological assessment; Computers in psychological research; Quality of life; Depression; Personality Abstract: Internet based data collection methods have many advantages for psychological assessment when compared with more traditional paper formats, including, reduced costs, and greater convenience for both the researcher and the participant. However, prior to the wide-spread adoption of these methods, equivalence with paper tests formats must be established. The present study compared questionnaire data from the computer with that from a traditional paper format in a sample of college students both directly and through an opinion survey. Three types of questionnaires that represent distinct areas commonly assessed in psychological research included: quality of life (SF-36), depression (BDI-II) and personality (NEO). A within-subjects design counterbalanced order across the computer and paper formats. Overall the findings showed no differences for the Neuroticism and Extraversion facts of the NEO, for the BDI and for the subscales and composite scores of the SF-36. Significant differences were found between the paper and computer formats for the Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness facets of the NEO. Additionally, the computer was perceived to be convenient, user-friendly, comfortable, and secure. Results suggest that a computerized format is an efficient way to conduct quality of life research, especially for the assessment of distress levels and quality of life. Author Affiliation: Health Psychology Research Group, Department of Psychology, University of Houston, 126 Heyne Building, Houston, TX 77204-5022, United States

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2005.05.002 Byline: Per Carlbring (a), Sara Brunt (b), Susanne Bohman (b), David Austin (c), Jeffrey Richards (c), Lars-Goran Ast (d), Gerhard Andersson (a) Keywords: Internet administration; Panic disorder; Questionnaire; Psychometrics Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of Internet administered questionnaires used in panic research. Included were 494 people who had registered for an Internet-based treatment program for panic disorder (PD). Participants were randomly assigned to fill in the questionnaires either on the Internet or the paper-and-pencil versions, and then to fill in the same questionnaires again the next day using the other format. The questionnaires were the body sensations questionnaire [BSQ; Chambless, D. L., Caputo, G. C., Bright, P., & Gallagher, R. (1984). Assessment of fear of fear in agoraphobics: the body sensations questionnaire and the agoraphobic cognitions questionnaire. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 52, 1090-1097], agoraphobic cognitions questionnaire [ACQ; Chambless, D. L., Caputo, G. C., Bright, P., & Gallagher, R. (1984). Assessment of fear of fear in agoraphobics: the body sensations questionnaire and the agoraphobic cognitions questionnaire. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 52, 1090-1097], mobility inventory [MI; Chambless, D. L., Caputo, G., Jasin, S., Gracely, E. J., & Williams, C. (1985). The mobility inventory for agoraphobia. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 23, 35-44], beck anxiety inventory [BAI; Beck, A. T., Epstein, N., Brown, G., & Steer, R. A. (1988). An inventory for measuring clinical anxiety: psychometric properties. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 56, 893-897], beck depression inventory II [Beck, A. T., & Steer, R. A. (1996). Beck Depression Inventory. Manual, Svensk version (Swedish version). Fagernes, Norway: Psykologiforlaget, AB], quality of life inventory [QOLI; Frisch, M. B., Cornell, J., Villanueva, M., & Retzlaff, P. J. (1992). Clinical validation of the quality of life inventory. A measure of life satisfaction for use in treatment planning and outcome assessment. Psychological Assessment, 4, 92-101], and montgomery a'sberg depression rating scale [MADRS; Svanborg, P., & a'sberg, M. (1994). A new self-rating scale for depression and anxiety states based on the comprehensive psychopathological rating scale. ACTA Psychiatrica Scandinavica, 89, 21-28]. Results showed largely equivalent psychometric properties for the two administration formats (Cronbach's [alpha] between 0.79 and 0.95). The results also showed high and significant correlations between the Internet and the paper-and-pencil versions. Analyses of order effects showed an interaction effect for the BSQ and the MI (subscale Accompanied), a main effect was identified for ACQ, MI-Alone, BAI and BDI II. However, in contrast to previous research, the Internet version did not consistently generate higher scores and effect sizes for the differences were generally low. Given the presence of an interaction effect, we recommend that the administration format should be stable in research across measurement points. Finally, the findings suggest that Internet versions of questionnaires used in PD research can be used with confidence. Author Affiliation: (a) Department of Behavioural Sciences, Linkoping University, 581 83 Linkoping, Sweden (b) Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (c) School of Primary Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (d) Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2004.12.008 Byline: Kristine H. Luce, Andrew J. Winzelberg, Smita Das, Megan I. Osborne, Susan W. Bryson, C. Barr Taylor Keywords: Online assessment; Reliability; Female; Adolescent; Screening; Weight concerns Abstract: This investigation compared online and paper administration of self-report measures of weight and shape concerns, mood, weight and height. The former was designed as a screening instrument for adolescent students to determine risk for eating disorders. Participants were female sophomores (N =74) from a San Francisco Bay area private high school. A counterbalanced designed was used to control for order effects. Four classes were randomly assigned to one of four conditions: (1) online-paper; (2) paper-online; (3) online-online; and (4) paper-paper. Participants completed self-report questionnaires twice, online and/or on paper, separated by 1 week. Agreement between online and paper assessment of weight and shape concerns and BMI ranged from 0.73 to 0.97 and 0.80 to 1.0, respectively. Agreement for positive mood ranged from 0.58 to 0.85 and negative mood from 0.59 to 0.82. Mean scores for weight and shape concerns and mood variables were significantly lower at the second testing. Online and paper assessment of weight and shape concerns was significantly correlated. However, there was a significant time effect. Mood was less stable and correlations between the two modes of self-report were less correlated. Online assessment may be beneficial and appropriate for many settings. Author Affiliation: Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305-5722, USA

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2004.03.038 Byline: Alina Suris (a)(b), Patricia D. Borman (b), Lisa Lind (a), T. Michael Kashner (a)(b) Keywords: Aggression; Impulsivity; Veterans; Computers; Physical health; Assessment Abstract: The present study examined the equivalency and test-retest reliability of two administration methods (paper-and-pencil and computerized) of the Aggression Questionnaire (AQ), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (BIS-11), and SF-36 Health Survey (SF-36) in a sample of 97 veterans. The two-week test-retest reliability for the conventional paper-and-pencil administrations of the AQ, BIS-11, and the SF-36 in the veteran population were generally reliable and comparable to the test-retest reliability of these measures noted in the research for other populations. Equivalence of the computer vs. paper-and-pencil administrations were examined and results indicated that for the AQ, ICCs for all four subscales and total score were substantially lower for the PC administration. For the BIS-11, ICCs were comparable with the exception of the Motor subscale, which was lower in the PC condition. For the SF-36, two of the domains were higher in the PC condition, with four more being comparable. Overall, the computerized administration of the BIS-11 and SF-36 was found to be equivalent to the 'gold standard' paper-and-pencil administration of these measures and can be utilized successfully among veterans. The computerized administration of the AQ, however, was not found to be equivalent to the paper-and-pencil administration of the measure. Author Affiliation: (a) Department of Veterans Affairs, North Texas Health Care System, Research Service (151), Mental Heath Service (116A), 4500 South Lancaster Road, Dallas, TX 75216, USA (b) University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA Article Note: (footnote) [star] This projected was funded by a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs Integrated Service Network - 17 (Protocol #99-104 to Alina Suris) and an HSR&D Career Scientist Award (RCS 92-403 to T. Michael Kashner).

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2004.10.020 Byline: Stephanie Booth-Kewley (a), Gerald E. Larson (a), Dina K. Miyoshi (b) Abstract: The objectives of the present study were to determine the impact of computer administration of questionnaires on impression management (IM) and self-deceptive enhancement (SDE) and on the disclosure of sensitive information such as alcohol use and risky sex. College students (N =301) completed several questionnaires in either a computer-administered or paper-and-pencil condition. Respondents who completed the survey on the computer scored significantly higher on SDE than those completing the survey on paper. No differences were found for IM. Respondents in the computer condition also reported a higher level of alcohol consumption and riskier sexual behaviors than those in the paper-and-pencil condition. It is possible that computer administration of surveys creates a social situation that produces a sense of disinhibition in respondents, and this sense of disinhibition may lead to greater reports of risky behaviors. Author Affiliation: (a) Naval Health Research Center, Behavioral Science and Epidemiology Department, P.O. Box 85122, San Diego, CA 92186-5122, USA (b) San Diego Mesa College, Psychology Department, 7250 Mesa College Dr., San Diego, CA 92111, USA Article Note: (footnote) [star] This report was supported by the Office of Naval Research, under Work Unit No. 60212. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Navy, Department of Defense, or the US Government. Approved for public release; distribution unlimited. This research has been conducted in compliance with all applicable federal regulations governing the protection of human subjects in research.

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2004.03.007 Byline: Juan Herrero (a), Julio Meneses (b) Keywords: Computer; Internet; Web-based questionnaires; Perceived stress; Depression Abstract: This study reports results from a format comparison between Web-based and pencil and paper questionnaires measuring two well-validated measures of psychological distress among 530 frequent Internet users studying at an on-line University (Open University of Catalonia, UOC). A four-item version of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and a seven-item version of the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CESD) were randomly administered in Web-based and pencil and paper format. Internal consistency analyses showed that these two brief versions were reliable for on-line assessment. Also, no differences in Cronbach [alpha]s were found between formats. Exploratory as well as multigroup factor analysis techniques showed that factor structures were invariant across formats. Overall, results revealed that respondents did not bias their responses in the Web-based condition. As these findings suggest, when familiarity with technology is high among respondents and sample procedures are followed to maximize control for potential participants, Web-based and paper and pencil formats are virtually equivalent, as in the two brief measures of psychological distress used in this study. Author Affiliation: (a) Facultad de Psicologia, University of Oviedo, Despacho 211, Plaza Feijoo s/n, 33003 Oviedo, Spain (b) Estudis de Psicologia i Ciencies de l'EducaciA[sup.2], Avinguda Tibidabo 39-43, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, 08035 Barcelona, Spain

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2006.02.005 Byline: K. Wijndaele (a), L. Matton (b), N. Duvigneaud (c), J. Lefevre (b), W. Duquet (c), M. Thomis (b), I. De Bourdeaudhuij (a), R. Philippaerts (a) Keywords: Computer; Paper-and-pencil; Assessment; Reliability; Equivalence; Questionnaire Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability, equivalence and respondent preference of a computerized version of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), Symptom Checklist (SCL-90-R), Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOSSSS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Utrecht Coping List (UCL) in comparison with the original version in a general adult population. Internal consistency, equivalence and preference between both administration modes was assessed in a group of participants (n =130) who first completed the computerized questionnaire, followed by the traditional questionnaire and a post-assessment evaluation measure. Test-retest reliability was measured in a second group of participants (n =115), who completed the computerized questionnaire twice. In both groups, the interval between first and second administration was set at one week. Reliability of the PC versions was acceptable to excellent; internal consistency ranged from [alpha] =0.52-0.98, ICC's for test-retest reliability ranged from 0.58-0.92. Equivalence was fair to excellent with ICC's ranging from 0.54-0.91. Interestingly, more subjects preferred the computerized instead of the traditional questionnaires (computerized: 39.2%, traditional: 21.6%, no preference: 39.2%). These results support the use of computerized assessment for these five instruments in a general population of adults. Author Affiliation: (a) Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Watersportlaan 2, B-9000 Gent, Belgium (b) Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, K.U. Leuven, Tervuursevest 101, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium (c) Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussel, Belgium

The large body of literature on the comparability of mean scores for self-report survey responses gathered using paper-and-pencil and computer data collection methodologies has yielded inconclusive results. However, no comprehensive meta-analysis has been conducted in this field, and those that are available for specific measures have typically not differentiated between studies using between-groups and within-subjects designs. Also, few individual studies, and no meta-analyses, have used correct statistical procedures to determine the equivalence of the two methodologies. Consequently, we conducted two meta-analyses assessing quantitative equivalence (i.e., mean scores), with the first consisting of 144 independent effect sizes from studies with between-groups designs and the second including 70 independent effect sizes from studies using within-subjects designs. Both meta-analyses assessing mean scores indicated equivalence across conditions, with large heterogeneity of variance in the between-groups analysis. Presence of others in both the paper-and-pencil and computer conditions accounted for a significant portion of this variance. Heterogeneity of variance was small for the within-subjects design analysis. Overall, results indicated that the mean scores for self-report surveys using paper-and-pencil and the computer are comparable, although heterogeneity differs for the study designs. Equivalence testing was demonstrated to be the recommended statistical procedure for this type of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic review of 34 articles published within the last 20 years, that explored the implications of increased use of computer-based summative assessments revealed six key themes. Specifically: shifts in assessment design; impact on teachers; variation in computer familiarity; student experience; logistics and infrastructure; and hardware and software issues. Findings relating to comparability of results between the assessment modes are also discussed. This review evaluates the computer-based assessment (CBA) literature to identify the advantages and challenges for introducing CBA within educational institutions. The findings of this review will be of particular interest to those affected by a steady trend towards the introduction of CBA affecting both teachers and students. The review also provides a coherent summary of the existing literature in this rapidly changing field for researchers. • CBA promotes student learning, engagement and motivation. • Students prefer CBA and request to complete assessments digitally. • Multiple benefits to teachers of CBA, including automated marking and record keeping. • Using assessments with digital tools better assess a student's performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computerized techniques for conducting psychological research are examined, focusing on a comparison between a survey that was conducted using an Internet site and a survey on the same topic that was conducted using paper-and-pencil methods. The survey used pictures of men and women and asked respondents to rate how sexually attractive the men and women were.

[Display omitted] • Computer numerical control printed disposable paper electrodes for electrochemical sensing. • Proof-of-concept demonstrated by detecting Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factor pyocyanin. • Satisfactory analytical performance and validated with gold standard. Disposable paper electrodes (PPE) have significant advantages in biosensor research considering the cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and easy batch manufacturing opportunity. An increase in communicable and non-communicable diseases demands for custom-made sensor platforms. Herein, we report an alternative method for the fabrication of PPE through simple and rapid computer numerical controlled (CNC) printing technique. The fabricated electrodes were electrochemically characterised, and by detecting antibiotic resistant pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factor pyocyanin, the sensing application is demonstrated. Finally, the sensor is validated with a gold-standard culture-based assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on the implementation of a self - assessment procedure in a Physics class, extended during a seven weeks period in a European secondary level school. The researchers used three modes of assessment based on paper and pencil, computer-web and mobile devices respectively. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of each mode of assessment on students' motivation and achievement. Analysis of pre- and post-motivation tests revealed a more positive motivational orientation of students towards computers and mobile devices as assessment delivery mediums. Also, student evaluation implemented after the phase of the experimental procedure showed a significant increase in learning achievement for low-achieving students who participated in the mobile-based and computer-based assessment. The positive effects of computers and mobile devices on students' learning motivation suggest that they can be used as a promising alternative to paper and pencil assessment procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research is lacking on the equivalence of paper-and-pencil and computer-administered surveys in older adult samples. In addition, few comparability studies have used best practices for examining equivalence. The current study investigated quantitative (means), qualitative (internal consistency and intercorrelations), and auxiliary (missing items, completion time, and comfort) equivalence for completing self-report surveys in paper-and-pencil or computerized conditions in an older adult sample. One hundred and eight older adults ages 60 and over were randomly assigned to a paper-and-pencil or computer condition and completed questionnaires assessing personality, social desirability, and computer self-efficacy. Results generally showed qualitative equivalence, with some notable differences for quantitative and auxiliary equivalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two experiments were performed to investigate the influence of video display terminals (VDT) and paper presentation of text on consumption of information measured in the form of convergent production and production of information measured in form of divergent production. The results show that performance in the VDT presentation condition was inferior to that of the paper presentation condition for both consumption and production of information.

One hundred participants of a study reviewed a resume, either in paper or electronic form and also reviewed a job description for a position either specifying the need for Internet research experience (technical reference group) or not (non-technical reference group), rating the applicant on seven attributes. Analysis revealed the paper resume applicant was perceived as more friendly and the other as more intelligent, technologically advanced, and possessing better overall qualifications.

The acceptance of the usage of computer instruments in assessing seriously impaired psychiatric inpatients particularly compared to the use of paper-and-pencil techniques are discussed. Analysis was made using Operation and Preference Questionnaire (OPQ), which showed that computerized assessment was well accepted and was even found to be superior to conventional paper-and-pencil techniques.

The comparison between a paper-and-pencil and a web-based version of the Ansell-Casey Life Skills Assessment is presented. The equivalence of Internet and paper-and-pencil formats for all three Ansell-Casey Life Skills Assessment levels and a predictable learning effect across the first and second testings are demonstrated.

Highlights: [•] This meta-analysis compares social desirability between paper and computer surveys. [•] Social desirability in computer (Internet/offline) and paper surveys is the same. [•] Some of the large effects found in the past may have been due to sampling error. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

One of the three survey methods, namely, paper mail-in, Internet survey and automated touch-tone telephone response system was used to compare responses to personally sensitive questions. Results of the survey method are presented.

Abstract: Product-oriented policies gain more and more attention in environmental policies. In this framework, we studied cases (here presented only housing and computers and paper) in a life cycle perspective in order to determine their environmental impacts (in terms of GHG emissions, resource use and waste production) over the period 1990–2010. We also evaluated their potential for improvement up to 2010 by applying product-oriented strategies. We identified clear technical (theoretical) potential for improvement, especially for housing, packaging and computers and paper in offices. We then carried out a Delphi-based survey among stakeholders in order to investigate potential measures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Efforts made to examine Steel's Psychology self-affirmation theory is presented by checking the effects of different levels of manipulated control on participants' performance on personality tests. The impact of participants' level of control and the paper-and-pencil versus computerized testing conditions are also assessed.

The study hypothesized that writing longhand and typing about a stressful experience are equivalent in terms of emotional arousal and essay content. The results indicate that writing and typing about a stressful event are similar on dependent measures including negative affect, perceived benefit, and level of disclosure.

Abstract: People often attribute their reluctance to study texts on screen to technology-related factors rooted in hardware or software. However, previous studies have pointed to screen inferiority in the metacognitive regulation of learning. The study examined the effects of time pressure on learning texts on screen relative to paper among undergraduates who report only moderate paper preference. In Experiment 1, test scores on screen were lower than on paper under time pressure, with no difference under free regulation. In Experiment 2 the time condition was manipulated within participants to include time pressure, free regulation, and an interrupted condition where study was unexpectedly stopped after the time allotted under time pressure. No media effects were found under the interrupted study condition, although technology-related barriers should have taken their effect also in this condition. Paper learners who preferred this learning medium improved their scores when the time constraints were known in advance. No such adaptation was found on screen regardless of the medium preference. Beyond that, paper learning was more efficient and self-assessments of knowledge were better calibrated under most conditions. The results reinforce the inferiority of self-regulation of learning on screen and argue against technology-related factors as the main reason for this. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Computer-based interventions are being used more in the classroom. Student responses to these interventions often contribute to decisions making regarding important outcomes. It is important to understand the effect of these interventions within the context of the intervention as well as across related context. The current study examined the generalization of math fact fluency gains resulting from a computer-based intervention to paper-and-pencil performance. A total of 31 second grade students completed fluency drills on the computer or with paper and pencil. Pretest–posttest performance on both computer and paper and pencil for all students was evaluated using a doubly multivariate repeated measure ANOVA. Results indicated that gains achieved on the computer did not generalize to paper-and-pencil performance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Purpose:: To assess the utility of personal digital assistants for documentation at the bedside on an acute pain service. Methods:: This reality-based unblinded randomized trial recruited 35 patients on the personal digital assistant (PDA) arm and 39 patients on the paper arm. The primary outcome measure was assessment time and comprehensiveness between patient visits documented on paper versus the PDA. Secondary objectives were to gather qualitative information about the use of PDAs at the point-of-care. Results:: The median time to complete the initial patient assessment was 2.8min on the PDA arm and 2.7min on the paper arm. The median total patient encounter time (assessment and recording) was 6.1 and 4.6min on the PDA and paper arms, respectively (Z = −2.28, P-value = 0.00). Pain scores were documented on 65% of assessments on the PDA arm and 44% of the assessments on the paper arm. Nausea, pruritis and sedation were collected on 100% of PDA assessments, compared to 13–33% of paper assessments. Conclusions:: This study found that patient encounter time was longer but more information was collected on the PDA compared to paper. Non-PDA owners took significantly longer to document on the PDA compared to paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Proteinoids – thermal proteins – are produced by heating amino acids to their melting point and initiation of polymerisation to produce polymeric chains. Proteinoids swell in aqueous solution into hollow microspheres. The proteinoid microspheres produce endogenous burst of electrical potential spikes and change patterns of their electrical activity in response to illumination. The microspheres can interconnect by pores and tubes and form networks with a programmable growth. We speculate on how ensembles of the proteinoid microspheres can be developed into unconventional computing devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the above paper some equations are wrong. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Tzeng et al. proposed a new threshold multi-proxy multi-signature scheme with threshold verification. In their scheme, a subset of original signers authenticates a designated proxy group to sign on behalf of the original group. A message m has to be signed by a subset of proxy signers who can represent the proxy group. Then, the proxy signature is sent to the verifier group. A subset of verifiers in the verifier group can also represent the group to authenticate the proxy signature. Subsequently, there are two improved schemes to eliminate the security leak of Tzeng et al.’s scheme. In this paper, we have pointed out the security leakage of the three schemes and further proposed a novel threshold multi-proxy multi-signature scheme with threshold verification. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

t-Testing is a common component of inferential statistics when comparing two means. This paper explains the central limit theorem and the concept of the null hypothesis as well as types of errors. On the practical side, this paper outlines how different t-tests may be performed in Microsoft Excel, for different purposes, both statically as well as dynamically, with Excel's functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data collection for the purposes of analysis, after the planning and execution of a research study, commences with data input and validation. The process of data entry and analysis may appear daunting to the uninitiated, but as pointed out in the 1970s in a series of papers by British Medical Journal Deputy Editor TDV Swinscow, modern hardware and software (he was then referring to the availability of hand calculators) permits the performance of statistical testing outside a computer laboratory. In this day and age, modern software, such as the ubiquitous and almost universally familiar Microsoft Excel™ greatly facilitates this process. This first paper comprises the first of a collection of papers which will emulate Swinscow's series, in his own words, "addressed to readers who want to start at the beginning, not to those who are already skilled statisticians." These papers will have less focus on the actual arithmetic, and more emphasis on how to actually implement simple statistics, step by step, using Excel, thereby constituting the equivalent of Swinscow's papers in the personal computer age. Data entry can be facilitated by several underutilised features in Excel. This paper will explain Excel's little-known form function, data validation implementation at input stage, simple coding tips and data cleaning tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correlation and regression measure the closeness of association between two continuous variables. This paper explains how to perform these tests in Microsoft Excel and their interpretation, as well as how to apply these tests dynamically using Excel's functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plotting data into graphs is a crucial step in data analysis as part of an initial descriptive statistics exercise since it gives the researcher an overview of the shape and nature of the data. Outlier values may also be identified, and these may be incorrect data, or true and important outliers. This paper explains how to access Microsoft Excel's Analysis Toolpak and provides some pointers for the utilisation of the histogram tool within the Toolpak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The adoption and use of health information technology (IT) continues to grow around the globe. In Switzerland, the government nor professional associations have to this day provided incentives for health IT adoption.Objective: We aim to assess the proportion of physicians who are routinely working with electronic health data and describe to what extent physicians exchange electronic health data with peers and other health care providers. Additionally, we aim to estimate the effect of physicians' attitude towards health IT on the adoption of electronic workflows.Methods: Between May and July 2013, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of 1200 practice based physicians in Switzerland. Respondents were asked to report on their technical means and where applicable their paper-based workarounds to process laboratory data, examination results, referral letters and physician's letters. Physicians' view of barriers and facilitators towards health IT use was determined by a composite score.Results: A response rate of 57.1% (n=685) was reached. The sample was considered to be representative for physicians in Swiss ambulatory care. 35.2% of the respondents documented patients' health status with the help of a longitudinal semi-structured electronic text record generated by one or more encounters in the practice. Depending on the task within a workflow, around 11-46% of the respondents stated to rely on electronic workflow practices to process laboratory and examination data and dispatch referral notes and physician's letters. The permanent use of electronic workflow processes was infrequent. Instead, respondents reported paper-based workarounds affecting specific tasks within a workflow. Physicians' attitude towards health IT was significantly associated with the adoption of electronic workflows (OR 1.04-1.31, p<0.05), but the effect sizes of factors related to the working environment (e.g., regional factors, medical specialty, type of practice) were larger.Conclusion: At present, only a few physicians in Swiss ambulatory care routinely work with electronic health data. Until more of their peers participate in electronic exchange of structured clinical information, most physicians will continue to stay in paper-based systems and workarounds. The survey found that physicians with a positive attitude towards health IT were more likely to adopt electronic workflows, but the impact is minor. It will likely be necessary to introduce financial incentives and develop national standards in order to promote the adoption by a critical mass of practicing clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of variance (ANOVA) may be required by researchers as an inferential statistical test when more than two means require comparison. This paper explains how to perform ANOVA in Microsoft Excel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculation of descriptive statistics includes the calculation of standard error and confidence interval, an inevitable component of data analysis in inferential statistics. This paper provides pointers as to how to do this in Microsoft Excel™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculation of descriptive statistics after data collection provides researchers with an overview of the shape and nature of their datasets, along with basic descriptors, and may help identify true or incorrect outlier values. This exercise should always precede inferential statistics, when possible. This paper provides some pointers for doing so in Microsoft Excel, both statically and dynamically, with Excel's functions, including the calculation of standard deviation and variance and the relevance of the t-distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plotting of data into graphs should be a mandatory step in all data analysis as part of a descriptive statistics exercise, since it gives the researcher an overview of the shape and nature of the data. Moreover, outlier values may be identified, which may be incorrect data, or true outliers, from which important findings (and publications) may arise. This exercise should always precede inferential statistics, when possible, and this paper in the Early Human Development WASP series provides some pointers for doing so in Microsoft Excel™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contingency tables may be required to perform chi-test analyses. This provides pointers as to how to do this in Microsoft Excel and explains how to set up methods to calculate confidence intervals for proportions, including proportions with zero numerators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by the natural intelligence of humans and bio-evolution, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has seen accelerated growth since the beginning of the 21st century. Successful AI applications have been broadly reported, with Industry 4.0 providing a thematic platform for AI-related research and development in manufacturing. This paper highlights applications of AI in manufacturing, ranging from production system design and planning to process modeling, optimization, quality assurance, maintenance, automated assembly and disassembly. In addition, the paper presents an overview of representative manufacturing problems and matching AI solutions, and a perspective of future research to leverage AI towards the realization of smart manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to write a scientific paper (WASP) is becoming progressively more critical because the "publish or perish" mantra is increasingly valid in today's world where success is judged by number of publications and quality of publications based on journals which publish the researcher's work. These metrics are used to gauge applicants in often cut-throat competitions for jobs and/or career advancement. However, the science and art of paper-writing comprise a vast panoply of different skills, from writing a proposal, to ethics and data protection applications, to data collection and analysis, to writing and dealing with editors and authors, and so on. Over the next few issues, Early Human Development will embark on a series of Best Practice Guidelines that will outline and explain the various requisite WASP skills while providing practical guidelines for paper writing. The purpose is to impart the authors' collective experience to trainees in this crucial aspect of career progress. This first set of WASP papers will mainly focus on statistical analysis using Excel™. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: As valued members and decision makers of the health care team, registered dietitians and dietetic technicians, registered, practice in a wide variety of settings from corporate wellness to the intensive care unit. Each of these work settings has unique information needs, but all require that dietetics practitioners have immediate access to accurate information. Successful dietetics practice in today''s rapidly changing environment requires skills in finding, evaluating, and sharing accurate food and nutrition information. The term informatics is used to describe the science of managing, storing, and communicating information. While not required for informatics practice, use of computers greatly facilitates management of large amounts of information. Health informatics focuses on the application of information science within the health care arena. The field of health informatics includes medical, nursing, pharmacy, dental, public health, and now nutrition informatics. Registered dietitians and dietetic technicians, registered, are now creating nutrition informatics as a new area of dietetics practice. Current use of informatics in health care includes electronic health records, outcomes research, and knowledge acquisition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Data protection (DP) protects crucial and humane fundamentals - the respect of human rights, particularly protecting aspects of privacy and confidentiality for living and identifiable persons. DP is enshrined in legislation, and this paper will outline the duties of potential data controllers (researchers) when applying for access to data, when processing said data, and what to do with it at the end of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper outlines Binomial and Poisson distributions which are both used to measure the occurrence of a number of random events within a certain period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calculation of various test characteristics may be required as part of a data analysis exercise. This paper explains how to set up these calculations in Microsoft Excel in order to obtain sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, diagnostic accuracy and prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of the computer and what is now known as artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved over more than two centuries in a long series of steps. The date of the invention of the first computer is estimated at 1822, when Charles Babbage (1791-1871) developed his first design of a working computer on paper, based mainly on a Jacquard loom. He worked on his project together with Augusta Ada King, Countess Lovelace (née Byron) (Ada Lovelace) (1815-1852), whom he called the "Sorceress of Numbers." This work will present the profile and achievements of Charles Babbage, Augusta Ada King, Countess Lovelace, and Alan Mathison Turing (1912 - 1954), who is considered the father of computer science and artificial intelligence, and then provide an outline of the tumultuous events affecting AI up to the present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, variation of temperature and velocity in the x-direction and the angular velocity of the nanofluids flow through triangular and rectangular and chamfer fins are investigated in the existence of a uniform magnetic field. The innovation of this paper is to investigate parameters of Mwcnt and TiO2 nanofluids passing from the different fins and blades on the stretching surface and compare their results together. Also by using FlexPDE and Design software, we were able to show all temperature and angular velocity counters in the form of diagrams and 3D images. The finite Element Method is selected for solving governing equations. The second part of the description relates to the use RSM method in the Design-Expert software. In this paper by using the RSM method, optimized the nanofluid velocity and heat transfer passing from the stretching sheet. Based on the results obtained from the angular velocity graphs and the heat transfer cantors in the Design-Expert software, the best optimization occurred for nanofluid velocity and nanofluid temperature, and angular velocity with u = 1.19 and T = 21.15 and N = 117.28. By comparison between the passing of MWCNT and TiO2 nanofluids flow on the different fins and blades, the results show that the temperature of MWCNT nanofluid around the fins has a greater value than the TiO2 nanofluids. The maximum heat transfer and temperature occurs near the rectangular fins for TiO2, and is 0.14% bigger than triangular and chamfer fins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, the problem of providing a fully predictable execution environment for critical and hard real-time applications on embedded and DSP-based platforms is studied from the viewpoint of system architecture and operation. We introduce a set of homogenous models for time, signals and tasks, which will further serve as a basis for describing the architecture and operation of a particular hard real-time kernel – “HARETICK”. The kernel provides support for concurrent operation of hard real-time tasks (the HRT execution environment), using non-preemptive scheduling algorithms, along with soft real-time tasks (the SRT environment), using classical, preemptive, priority-based scheduling algorithms. A set of applications has been developed to test the correct operation of the HARETICK kernel according to the theoretical models and to evaluate its abilities to provide high predictability of execution for critical applications. Some of the main testing results are also discussed in the paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper examines the relationship among Research and Development (R&D) expenditure, government effectiveness, and voice accountability in 15 Latin American countries. R&D expenditure is a crucial driver of innovation and economic growth, and effective governance and voice accountability are essential for promoting transparency and citizen participation in decision-making processes. The study utilizes a panel dataset from 2002 to 2021 and employs computer data analysis to estimate the effects of changes in government effectiveness and voice accountability on R&D expenditure. The findings reveal a positive impact of government effectiveness and voice accountability on R&D expenditure. A 1% increase in government effectiveness is associated with a 0.618% increase in research development expenditure, while a 1% rise in voice accountability corresponds to a 0.625% increase. These results highlight the importance of effective governance and citizen engagement in fostering R&D investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing performance of computer hardware and the resulting computing capabilities, machine learning more and more transforms into a common tool for automating a wide range of applications. While today's society is aware of the potential and possibilities this technology provides, most small companies often lack the manpower, problem solving imagination or basic knowledge to implement and use machine learning for those purposes, which is why many process steps are still carried out manually. Consequences are increasing expenses and manufacturing time caused by process delays. The use case described in this paper regards the manufacturability check (feasibility of the coating process) of sheet metal objects; a task that still has to be performed by an expert. The system proposed in this paper aims to fully automate this process by applying convolutional neural networks (CNN) on transformed computer-aided design (CAD) objects in order to determine their coatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]