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The purpose of this paper is to provide a description and evaluation of a graduate-level Health Services Research Methods course offered at the University of Arizona R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy. This three-credit, round-table discussion-style course introduces students to fundamental concepts in healthcare study design and teaches them how to design and critique example studies for a variety of commonly encountered study designs. The course is assessed through essay-style examinations, development of a research proposal, and low-stakes weekly assignments. Twenty-seven students have completed the course in the past five years. Feedback from student course surveys was almost unanimously positive, with few meaningful suggestions for improvement. The description and evaluation of a graduate-level Health Services Research Methods course at one institution indicates that students had a largely favorable experience with the course. Considerations for future revisions to the course are discussed alongside other lessons learned.

The purpose of this paper is to provide a description and evaluation of a graduate-level Health Services Research Methods course offered at the University of Arizona R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy. This three-credit, round-table discussion-style course introduces students to fundamental concepts in healthcare study design and teaches them how to design and critique example studies for a variety of commonly encountered study designs. The course is assessed through essay-style examinations, development of a research proposal, and low-stakes weekly assignments. Twenty-seven students have completed the course in the past five years. Feedback from student course surveys was almost unanimously positive, with few meaningful suggestions for improvement. The description and evaluation of a graduate-level Health Services Research Methods course at one institution indicates that students had a largely favorable experience with the course. Considerations for future revisions to the course are discussed alongside other lessons learned.

Background: In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on enhancing frontline health professionals' ability to think and act innovatively, also known as their creative performance. However, previous research has had two limitations. First, only a few leadership styles and their associations with this capability have been examined. Second, there has been a lack of research on identifying potential process mediators and examining their role in the relationship between leadership styles and the professionals' capability. To address this knowledge gap, our study investigates the impact of ambidextrous leadership, a relatively new leadership style, on frontline health professionals' creative performance. Additionally, we explore whether frontline health professionals' learning orientation (an individual factor) and relationship learning (an organizational factor) act as process mediators in this association. No previous research has focused on these relationships. Thus, the study offers a unique contribution to health services research. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of N = 258 health professionals in nine Norwegian municipalities. The results of this study were analyzed using PLS-SEM with SmartPLS 3 software. The study examined both direct and indirect relationships through bootstrapping. Results: The results reveal a positive link between health professionals' creative performance and ambidextrous leadership = 0.224). Both relationship learning and learning orientation were found to operate as complementary process-mediating factors between health professionals' creative performance and ambidextrous leadership. The strength of the two individual relationships that constitute the process-mediating factors indicates that ambidextrous leadership has a stronger impact on relationship learning than on learning orientation = 0.504 versus = 0.276). However, when we examined the individual associations between the two factors and creative performance, the strength of the relationships was quite different. The findings reveal that learning orientation is significantly more positively associated with creative performance than relationship learning = 0.302 versus = 0.163). Ambidextrous leadership, learning orientation, and relationship learning explain 26% (R2 = 0.262) of the variance in professionals' creative performance. Conclusions: This study suggests that ambidextrous leadership can facilitate health professionals' creative performance directly and indirectly through the two process-mediating factors: relationship learning and learning orientation. Thus, a practical implication is the importance for health service organizations of clear awareness of the numerous advantages of having leaders who actively practice an ambidextrous leadership style. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Skilled nursing facility (SNF) care has historically been influenced by systemic issues that could impact speech-language pathology (SLP) service provision. However, there has been little study specifically on factors associated with SLP service provision in SNFs. Large administrative data sets are rarely analyzed in SLP research but can be used to understand real-world SLP services. This study investigated associations between patient and facility characteristics and SLP services. Method: Mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with SLP service provision in 2018 Medicare administrative data representing 833,653 beneficiaries. Results: Beneficiaries had higher odds of receiving SLP services when they had neurologic diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 3.32), had SLP-related functional impairments (ORs = 1.19-3.41), and received other rehabilitative services (ORs = 3.11- 3.78). Beneficiaries had lower odds of receiving SLP services when they received care from SNFs located in hospitals versus freestanding (OR = 0.45), with need for interpreter services (OR = 0.76) and with thresholding (OR = 0.68), a financially motivated practice. Direction of association varied across racial and ethnic groups and measures of location. Odds of being provided SLP services decreased with increasing communication impairment severity. Conclusions: The results suggest that clinicians are identifying patients with diagnoses most likely to warrant SLP services. However, association disparities and weakening association of service provision with increasing impairment severity have concerning clinical implications. Health services research methods can be used to further explore SLP practices in SNFs to support equitable service provision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at identifying applications of learning curve (LC) modelling at individual, group, and organisational levels in Industry 4.0 (I4.0) environments. For that, a scoping review on four databases was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Our results indicated that LCs are more prominently adopted in I4.0 to model learning at the individual level using technologies oriented to sensing and communication (e.g. big data, IoT, wireless sensors, cloud computing, remote control, or monitoring). However, the effect of a few processing and actuation technologies, such as augmented/virtual reality, collaborative robots, and machine learning/AI, on learning seems promising. Further, despite the number of studies investigated, few explicitly described the LC model used to represent the impact of I4.0 technologies on learning. Our findings allowed the proposition of five research directions. Literature on both LC and I4.0 is still fragmented, poorly addressing their relationship. As I4.0 is an innovative approach that allows more extensive information exchange and processing, new ways of using I4.0 technologies to expedite data collection, which has always constrained LC practical applications, should be devised to close the gap between I4.0 and learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the performance of the Regional Public Service Agency (BLUD) at the Tanara Community Health Center in Serang Regency using the Balance Scorecard approach. The Balance Scorecard emphasizes the importance of balancing various aspects such as financial and non-financial, short-term and long-term, as well as internal and external factors. The performance analysis of the BLUD is viewed from four perspectives: growth and learning, internal processes, customer satisfaction, and financial perspectives. This research adopts a quantitative approach. Data collection is conducted through surveys to gather insights into the growth and learning perspective, the internal process perspective, and the customer satisfaction perspective. Secondary data is used to analyze the BLUD's performance from the financial perspective. The results of this study indicate that the health center has not yet met the target scores set by the government. Although some indikators have been achieved, there is still a need for improvement, particularly in internal processes and customer satisfaction. To enhance the performance of the BLUD at this health center, integrated efforts are required, such as improving services and internal processes as well as fostering innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This perspective paper contemplates the nuances of engaging with literature ethically in conducting a scoping review based on the researchers' project on girlhood studies in Indonesia. We assert that the ethical perspective extends beyond conventional primary data collection from human participants, further emphasizing the essence of a feminist methodology in this scholarly investigation. We discuss the interplay between the role of rigor and the dynamics of power relations in research, shedding light on reconciling between the pursuit of facts and acknowledgment of biases in knowledge production. This reflection offers insights into the methodological process and the researcher's role, contributing to the broader discourse on how research can effectively address issues of gender equity and social inclusion. Through this paper, we underscore the necessity of an intentional approach in unifying the domains of science and advocacy because only then can we truly catalyze transformative change. In doing so, we seek to foster a more comprehensive, objective, and empathetic understanding of the researched: in this case, the experiences of girls and young women -and, by extension, marginalized individuals in Indonesia and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nurturing professional identities instils behavioural standards of physicians, and this in turn facilitates consistent professional attitudes, practice and patient care. Identities are socioculturally constructed efforts; therefore, we must account for the social, cultural and local healthcare factors that shape physicians' roles, responsibilities and expectations. This study aimed to forward a programme to nurture professionalism among physicians in Singapore. Methods: A three-phase, evidenced-based approach was used. First, a systematic scoping review (SSR) was conducted to identify professionalism elements. Second, a questionnaire was created based on the findings of the SSR. Third, a modified Delphi approach, which involved local experts to identify socioculturally appropriate elements to nurture professionalism, was used. Results: A total of 124 articles were identified from the SSR; these articles revealed definitions, knowledge, skills and approaches to nurturing professionalism. Through the modified Delphi approach, we identified professional traits, virtues, communication, ethical, self-care, teaching and assessment methods, and support mechanisms. Conclusion: The results of this study formed the basis for a holistic and longitudinal programme focused on instilling professional traits and competencies over time through personalised and holistic support of physicians. The findings will be of interest to medical communities in the region and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a qualitative study based on a systematic scoping review that aimed to identify and analyse approaches to explore and model ecosystem dimensions of education. Seventy-six publications indexed in the Scopus database from the period 1999-2024 were selected and analysed. The results demonstrate that the study of educational ecosystems is based on mixed paradigm approaches combining constructivist and connectivist principles and constructs, and their modelling integrates two sets of characteristics - structural and value-functional - in a leading way. Structurally, the underlying ecosystem centres on school and higher education, lifelong learning and business-oriented learning. In value-functional terms, the guiding priorities are digitalisation, inclusion, good governance, innovation and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymorphous low-grade neuroepithelial tumor of the young (PLNTY) is considered one of the low-grade neuroepithelial tumors, as per the World Health Organization 2021 classification of brain tumors. First described in 2016, these morphologically variable tumors are characterized by oligodendroglioma-like cellular components, infiltrative growth patterns, and cluster of differentiation 34 immunopositivity. A literature search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, ScienceDirect, and COCHRANE databases (from inception to 20th June 2022) was carried out to identify relevant studies. To identify additional studies, we performed a recursive search of the bibliographies of the selected articles and published systematic reviews on this topic. The search yielded a total of 64 results. After removing duplicates, 26 articles were eligible for the review. The diagnostic criteria for these glioneuronal variants, representing a broad neuropathological spectrum, are not distinct and hence impede proper diagnosis and prognosis. Frequent genetic abnormalities involving mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway constituents, such as B-Raf proto-oncogene or fibroblast growth receptor 2/3, are harbored by PLNTYs. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics have resulted in more accurate tumor classification systems, based on gene expression profiles and DNA methylation patterns. Gross total resection seems curative, with a low recurrence rate. Malignant transformation is rare; however, adjuvant radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be beneficial in selected cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The selection of data elements is a decisive task within the development of a health registry. Having the right metadata is crucial for answering the particular research questions. Furthermore, the set of data elements determines the registries' readiness of interoperability and data reusability to a major extent. Six health registries shared and published their metadata within a German funding initiative. As one step in the direction of a common set of data elements, a selection of those metadata was evaluated with regard to their appropriateness for a broader usage. Methods: Each registry was asked to contribute a 10%-selection of their data elements to an evaluation sample. The survey was set up with the online survey tool „LimeSurvey Cloud". The registries and an accompanying project participated in the survey with one vote for each project. The data elements were offered in content groups along with the question of whether the data element is appropriate for health registries on a broader scale. The question could be answered using a Likert scale with five options. Furthermore, "no answer" was allowed. The level of agreement was assessed using weighted Cohen's kappa and Kendall's coefficient of concordance. Results: The evaluation sample consisted of 269 data elements. With a grade of "perhaps recommendable" or higher in the mean, 169 data elements were selected. These data elements belong preferably to groups' demography, education/occupation, medication, and nutrition. Half of the registries lost significance compared with their percentage of data elements in the evaluation sample, one remained stable. The level of concordance was adequate. Conclusions: The survey revealed a set of 169 data elements recommended for health registries. When developing a registry, this set could be valuable help in selecting the metadata appropriate to answer the registry's research questions. However, due to the high specificity of research questions, data elements beyond this set will be needed to cover the whole range of interests of a register. A broader discussion and subsequent surveys are needed to establish a common set of data elements on an international scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Sport schools have increased in popularity over the past three decades, and research in the area has proliferated. This study presents an overview of sport school literature, by investigating peer-reviewed articles, summarising the findings of relevant articles, and identifying possible gaps in this research area. In total, 55 articles are included. The descriptive summary reports publication year, study location, research design, methods, theoretical perspectives, population, and sport(s) studied. The thematic overview comprises two primary sections – research about sport schools and research in sport schools. The former cover 'outside' perspectives, such as socio-political and educational policy issues while the latter cover 'inside' perspectives focusing on the actors – student athletes and coaches. In the discussion it is acknowledged that pedagogical perspectives in sport school literature are limited, that research on sport schools' admissions processes is overlooked, and concerns raised as to if sport schools are or should be socially inclusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of design, empathy, which is often addressed in design research and practice, has also become an essential aspect of design education. It is both one of the core components of learning processes and a foundation for teaching activities. This paper aims to explore and discuss the impacts of empathy on learning and teaching in the relevant design education literature. Regarding this, eight themes appear in this study as cognitive, affective, interactive, collaborative, operative, perceptive, formative and connective impacts. While all these themes have considerable effects on the learning process, the impacts of empathy on teaching activities are relatively limited. In relation to the themes, research gaps are addressed, methodological and pedagogical implications for further studies are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on enhancing frontline health professionals’ ability to think and act innovatively, also known as their creative performance. However, previous research has had two limitations. First, only a few leadership styles and their associations with this capability have been examined. Second, there has been a lack of research on identifying potential process mediators and examining their role in the relationship between leadership styles and the professionals’ capability. To address this knowledge gap, our study investigates the impact of ambidextrous leadership, a relatively new leadership style, on frontline health professionals’ creative performance. Additionally, we explore whether frontline health professionals’ learning orientation (an individual factor) and relationship learning (an organizational factor) act as process mediators in this association. No previous research has focused on these relationships. Thus, the study offers a unique contribution to health services research. Methods This is a cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of N = 258 health professionals in nine Norwegian municipalities. The results of this study were analyzed using PLS-SEM with SmartPLS 3 software. The study examined both direct and indirect relationships through bootstrapping. Results The results reveal a positive link between health professionals’ creative performance and ambidextrous leadership $$ (\beta $$ = 0.224). Both relationship learning and learning orientation were found to operate as complementary process-mediating factors between health professionals’ creative performance and ambidextrous leadership. The strength of the two individual relationships that constitute the process-mediating factors indicates that ambidextrous leadership has a stronger impact on relationship learning than on learning orientation $$ (\beta $$ = 0.504 versus $$ \beta $$ = 0.276). However, when we examined the individual associations between the two factors and creative performance, the strength of the relationships was quite different. The findings reveal that learning orientation is significantly more positively associated with creative performance than relationship learning $$ (\beta $$ = 0.302 versus $$ \beta $$ = 0.163). Ambidextrous leadership, learning orientation, and relationship learning explain 26% (R 2 = 0.262) of the variance in professionals’ creative performance. Conclusions This study suggests that ambidextrous leadership can facilitate health professionals’ creative performance directly and indirectly through the two process-mediating factors: relationship learning and learning orientation. Thus, a practical implication is the importance for health service organizations of clear awareness of the numerous advantages of having leaders who actively practice an ambidextrous leadership style.

Background: In prosperous nations like Ireland, home support workers (HSWs) play an increasingly vital role in providing person-centred care to ageing populations. However, challenges such as workforce shortages, role ambiguity, low pay, and limited career advancement, hinder workforce development and career building. Method: A scoping review using key terms for "HSWs" and "career pathways" was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute Methodology, examining electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PscyINFO, Social Care Online, Social Sciences Citation Index). Inclusion criteria were applied, and a thematic analysis followed and inductive-deductive approach. Results: The review encompassed 261 relevant articles from different countries. Four key themes were identified: (1) Data-driven decision-making on the future workforce, (2) Attracting and developing a competent and motivated home support workforce, (3) Enhancing working lives and retention at every stage of career pathways, and (4) Crafting career pathways to improve quality and impact. Discussion: Leadership, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making across policy, research and practice are pivotal for expanding and enhancing home support. Emphasising a shift towards preventative self-management models, supported by digitally skilled and regulated HSWs, could enhance independence and quality of care. Clear career structures, professional development, and inclusive organisational environments are essential to attract, retain, and empower a competent and motivated workforce, fostering quality and impact. Conclusion: This scoping review provides foundational evidence to establish career pathways for HSWs, identifying key areas for development such as data collection, care model transformation, career progression structures, and systems for safety and quality improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used scoping review as an approach to examine and determine the extent of studies undertaken in civic engagement roles of libraries and librarians in times of rapid growth of information disorders in the social media environment. The research identified concepts, and methods by providing a systematic examination of academic and scientific literature published in the field. The scoping review was prepared based on Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis. After careful synthesis, a total of 22 documents were analyzed, and found that most research done in this area apply qualitative methods. The main concepts captured revolve around democracy, public sphere, civic engagement, and critical literacy. It is hoped that this scoping review provides a background understanding of the related concepts that appeared in this study. This study helps Library and Information Science (LIS) educators and librarians to discuss and collaborate in strengthening the practice of critical and information literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Through a review of the literature, this article seeks to outline and understand the evolution and extent of user–participant involvement in the existing library and information science (LIS) research to identify gaps and existing research approaches that might inform further methodological development in participant-oriented and design-based LIS research. Design/methodology/approach: A scoping literature review of LIS research, from the 1960s onward, was conducted, assessing the themes and trends in understanding the user/participant within the LIS field. It traces LIS research from its early focus on information and relevancy to the "user turn", to the rise of participatory research, especially design-based, as well as the recent inclusion of Indigenous and decolonial methodologies. Findings: The literature review indicates that despite the reported "user turn", LIS research often does not include the user as an active and equal participant within research projects. Originality/value: The findings from this review support the development of alternative design research methodologies in LIS that fully include and involve research participants as full partners – from planning through dissemination of results – and suggests avenues for continuing the development of such design-based research. To that end, it lays the foundations for the introduction of a novel methodology, Action Partnership Research Design (APRD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Scoping reviews have emerged as a valuable method for synthesizing emerging evidence, providing a comprehensive contextual overview, and influencing policy and practice developments. The objective of this study is to provide an overview of scoping reviews conducted in Chinese academic institutions over the last decades. Method: We conducted a comprehensive search of nine databases and six grey literature databases for scoping reviews conducted in Chinese academic institutions. The reporting quality of the included reviews was assessed using the Preferred Reporting Items for PRISMA-ScR checklist. We performed both quantitative and qualitative analyses, examining the conduct of the scoping reviews and exploring the breadth of research topics covered. We used Chi-squared and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests to compare methodological issues and reporting quality in English and Chinese-language reviews. Results: A total of 392 reviews published between 2013 and 2022 were included, 238 English-reported reviews and 154 Chinese-reported reviews, respectively. The primary purposes of these reviews were to map and summarize the evidence, with a particular focus on health and nursing topics. 98.7% of reviews explicitly used the term "scoping review", and the Arksey and O'Malley framework was the most frequently cited framework. Thirty-five English-reported scoping reviews provided a protocol for scoping review. PubMed was the most common source in English-reported reviews and CNKI in Chinese-reported reviews. Reviews published in English were more likely to search the grey literature (P = 0.005), consult information specialists (P < 0.001) and conduct an updated search (P = 0.012) than those in Chinese. Reviews published in English had a significantly high score compared to those published in Chinese (16 vs. 14; P < 0.001). The reporting rates in English-reported reviews were higher than those in Chinese reviews for seven items, but lower for structured summary (P < 0.001), eligibility criteria (P < 0.001), data charting process (P = 0.009) and data items (P = 0.015). Conclusion: There has been a significant increase in the number of scoping reviews conducted in Chinese academic institutions each year since 2020. While the research topics covered are diverse, the overall reporting quality of these reviews is need to be improved. And there is a need for greater standardization in the conduct of scoping reviews in Chinese academic institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Education systems worldwide have been significantly disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, creating an immediate need for a revamp of conventional teaching and learning techniques. To explore how this has affected the educational landscape, a scoping review was conducted. This scoping review aimed to examine the changes that occurred in the education field and to explore how it has transformed the educational landscape review. Using Arksey and O'Malley's methodology, 51 articles were selected for analysis from two leading databases: Scopus and Web of Science. All chosen articles were then subjected to thematic analysis. Three main aspects impacted by this global event were uncovered, which are technological advancements and digital transformation, changes in pedagogy and teaching methods, and mental health and well-being issues. This scoping review provides valuable insights into one of the most critical sectors affected by COVID-19, which can assist with planning future strategies for similar crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese higher education institutions have adopted a US-style tenure track system since the 1990s. This is an important reform aimed at modernizing China's higher education system. In response, authors have begun to carry out close examination of the career system and analyse its implications in a national context (Republic of China). This study aims to present the key research themes, identify research gaps and offer recommendations from the increasing pool of Chinese-language literature on the tenure track system. A scoping review of Chinese language papers was conducted using the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (including the China Academic Journals Full-text Database, China Core Newspapers Full-text Database, China Doctoral Dissertations Full-text Database, China Masters' Thesis Full-text Database, and China Yearbooks Fulltext Database) (CNKI) database. Four major research themes were identified in Chinese discourse: (1) examining the tenure track system, (2) providing suggestions for better adaptation of the tenure track system in the Chinese context, (3) analysing the negative effects of the tenure track system, and (4) analysing the positive effects of the tenure track system. Generally, authors were concerned with the adaptation and cultivation of the US-originated tenure track system in the Chinese context and emphasized the importance of acknowledging its perceived negative influences on early-career scholars who have not received adequate attention. Overall, the authors demonstrate increasing interest in the tenure track system in China, and the literature is of variable quality. Further empirical studies are needed to analyse, evaluate and guide future improvement of the career system in the Chinese context in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the ongoing shift to a knowledge society, the idea of a technology-enabled lifelong learning has frequently been discussed. The shift also requires a transformation of higher education with new forms for teaching and learning deployment. This ongoing transformation was formulated in a research question that has guided this study: 1) Which key themes of lifelong learning emerge from higher education literature? This study was carried out as a scoping literature review to map literature in the field. Findings from a thematic analysis pointed out seven main themes or perspectives: The Policy perspective, The Value perspective, The Employability perspective, The Reform perspective, The Collaborative perspective, The Student perspective and The Workplace learning and Professional development perspectives. Five publications of the 26 selected publications from the literature search will be further used and analysed as part of a Delphi study. This Delphi study will involve a group of leading researchers in the field of lifelong learning as an expert panel to further explore and expand the key themes of lifelong learning in higher education and digital trends in higher education reforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction projects in Kuwait's Ministry of Public Works (MPW) involve numerous resources and stakeholders, necessitating effective communication and data sharing to avoid errors, conflicts, and resource wastage. Integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) into the traditional procurement management approach has the potential to revolutionise the construction industry, enabling remote access to information and waste prevention, particularly for megaprojects. Despite its benefits, BIM adoption has been slow in MPW projects. This study investigates the reasons behind this reluctance and proposes a framework to integrate BIM into MPW projects. A qualitative research method of narrative analysis on semi-structured open interviews with key stakeholders in MPW was conducted to identify the benefits and barriers of BIM implementation. The study found that while tangible barriers were absent, challenges included a lack of senior management support, an inadequate BIM-skilled workforce, adherence to traditional processes, and limited awareness of BIM's importance in circularity and sustainability. Nevertheless, a pilot project demonstrated improvements in collaboration, visualisation, budget estimation, and information sharing through BIM. This study proposes a framework for incorporating BIM into the MPW tendering process to address these issues, validated through interviews with tender managers. This framework aligns with Kuwait's Vision 2035 for sustainable buildings and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations by encouraging the implementation of BIM. Since BIM has the potential to be an effective instrument in reaching these global goals, Kuwait's construction industry should embrace and deploy BIM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Since its inception in 2003, the Project Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) tele-education model has reached and improved outcomes for patients, providers, and health centers through interventions in >180 countries. Utilization of this model has recently increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a higher demand for remote education. However, limited research has examined the methodologies used to evaluate Project ECHO interventions., Methods: We conducted a scoping review to determine the extent and types of research methods used to evaluate outcomes and implementation success of Project ECHO interventions and to identify gaps and opportunities for future investigation. Using Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review framework and the PRISMA-ScR checklist, we reviewed study designs, temporality, analysis methods, data sources, and levels and types of data in 121 articles evaluating Project ECHO interventions., Results: Most interventions addressed substance use disorders (24.8%, n = 30), infectious diseases (24%, n = 29), psychiatric and behavioral health conditions (21.5%, n = 26), and chronic diseases (19%, n = 23). The most frequently reported evaluation methods included cohort studies (86.8%, n = 105), longitudinal designs (74.4%, n = 90), mixed methods analysis (52.1%, n = 63), surveys (61.2%, n = 74), process evaluation measures (98.3%, n = 119), and provider-level outcome measures (84.3%, n = 102). Few evaluations used experimental designs (1.7%, n = 2), randomization (5.8%, n = 7), or comparison groups (14%, n = 17), indicating limited rigor., Discussion: This scoping review demonstrates the need for more rigorous evaluation methods to test the effectiveness of the Project ECHO model at improving outcomes and standardized reporting guidelines to enhance the dissemination of evaluation data from future Project ECHO interventions., Competing Interests: Disclosures: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 The Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions, the Association for Hospital Medical Education, and the Society for Academic Continuing Medical Education.)

Background: Major abdominal surgery (MAS) can have a profound impact on the patient but there is currently no consensus as to which surgical procedures constitute MAS. The main objective of this work is to ascertain the terminology used to describe MAS procedures and to apply these findings in order to propose a definition of MAS., Methods: The following databases were searched: Ovid MEDLINE (R) ALL, Embase Classic and Embase (via OvidSP), Global Health (via OvidSP), Health Management Information Consortium (via OvidSP), APA PsycInfo (via OvidSP), PubMed and Web of Science. Original research articles, published between 1980 and April 26, 2022 that contained a description of MAS procedure were included in this study. Article screening and data extraction was undertaken independently by 3 authors. Content analysis was performed to identify key terminology used to describe MAS., Results: Five thousand six hundred and sixty three articles were identified, of which 767 underwent full-text review and 312 were included in the scoping review. Content analysis resulted in 4 main categories: (1) pre-operative factors, (2) intraoperative factors, (3) operation-related factors, (4) post-operative factors. Operation-related factors was the predominant category (1137 references coded). The gastrointestinal resection made the vast majority of the references coded (591)., Conclusions: Based on these results, the term "major abdominal surgery" should be defined as an intra-peritoneal operation with no primary involvement of the thorax, involving either luminal resection and/or resection of a solid organ associated with the gastrointestinal tract. However, further work is required to verify this definition using real world data., (© 2024 The Authors. World Journal of Surgery published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Surgery/Société Internationale de Chirurgie (ISS/SIC).)