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Background: Microsurgical clipping is a delicate neurosurgical procedure used to treat complex Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms (UIAs) whose outcome is dependent on surgeon's experience. Simulations are emerging as excellent complements to standard training, but their adoption is limited by the realism they provide. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a microsurgical clipping simulator platform. Methods: Physical and holographic simulators of UIA clipping have been developed. The physical phantom consisted of a 3D printed hard skull and five (n = 5) rapidly interchangeable, perfused and fluorescence compatible 3D printed aneurysm silicone phantoms. The holographic clipping simulation included a real-time finite-element-model of the aneurysm sac, allowing interaction with a virtual clip and its occlusion. Validity, usability, usefulness and applications of the simulators have been assessed through clinical scores for aneurysm occlusion and a questionnaire study involving 14 neurosurgical residents (R) and specialists (S) for both the physical (p) and holographic (h) simulators by scores going from 1 (very poor) to 5 (excellent). Results: The physical simulator allowed to replicate successfully and accurately the patient-specific anatomy. UIA phantoms were manufactured with an average dimensional deviation from design of 0.096 mm and a dome thickness of 0.41 ± 0.11 mm. The holographic simulation executed at 25–50 fps allowing to gain unique insights on the anatomy and testing of the application of several clips without manufacturing costs. Aneurysm closure in the physical model evaluated by fluorescence simulation and post-operative CT revealed Raymond 1 (full) occlusion respectively in 68.89% and 73.33% of the cases. For both the simulators content validity, construct validity, usability and usefulness have been observed, with the highest scores observed in clip selection usefulness Rp=4.78, Sp=5.00 and Rh=4.00, Sh=5.00 for the printed and holographic simulators. Conclusions: Both the physical and the holographic simulators were validated and resulted usable and useful in selecting valid clips and discarding unsuitable ones. Thus, they represent ideal platforms for realistic patient-specific simulation-based training of neurosurgical residents and hold the potential for further applications in preoperative planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescents' extensive use of digital devices raises significant concerns about their visual health. This study aimed to adapt and validate the computer vision syndrome questionnaire (CVS-Q©) for adolescents aged 12–17 years. A mixed-method sequential design was used. First, a qualitative study was involved two nominal groups to assess the instrument's acceptability. A subsequent cross-sectional quantitative study with 277 randomly selected adolescents assessed reliability and validity. Participants completed the adapted CVS-Q©, an ad hoc questionnaire, and the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire. Repeatability was tested in 54 adolescents after 7–14 days. The Rasch-Andrich rating scale model was used. Instructions and symptoms were modified to obtain the 14-item CVS-Q teen©. It showed unidimensionality, no local dependence between items, and respected monotonicity. Adequate internal consistency (person reliability = 0.69, item reliability = 0.98) and intraobserver reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.77, Cohen's Kappa = 0.49) were observed. A significant correlation (0.782, p < 0.001) between CVS-Q teen© and OSDI supported construct validity. A score of ≥ 6 points indicated computer vision syndrome (CVS) (sensitivity = 85.2%, specificity = 76.5%, and area under the curve = 0.879). In conclusion, CVS-Q teen© is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing CVS in adolescents using digital devices, applicable in research and clinical practice for early identification and recommendations for visual health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, researchers from different fields have become increasingly interested in measuring individual differences in mind wandering as a psychological trait. Although there are several questionnaires that allow for an assessment of people’s perceptions of their mind wandering experiences, they either define mind wandering in a very broad sense or do not sufficiently separate different aspects of mind wandering. Here, we introduce the Brief Mind Wandering Three-Factor Scale (BMW-3), a 12-item questionnaire available in German and English. The BMW-3 conceptualizes mind wandering as task-unrelated thought and measures three dimensions of mind wandering: unintentional mind wandering, intentional mind wandering, and meta-awareness of mind wandering. Based on results from 1038 participants (823 German speakers, 215 English speakers), we found support for the proposed three-factorial structure of mind wandering and for scalar measurement invariance of the German and English versions. All subscales showed good internal consistencies and moderate to high test–retest correlations and thus provide an effective assessment of individual differences in mind wandering. Moreover, the BMW-3 showed good convergent validity when compared to existing retrospective measures of mind wandering and mindfulness and was related to conscientiousness, emotional stability, and openness as well as self-reported attentional control. Lastly, it predicted the propensity for mind wandering inside and outside the lab (as assessed by in-the-moment experience sampling), the frequency of experiencing depressive symptoms, and the use of functional and dysfunctional emotion regulation strategies. All in all, the BMW-3 provides a brief, reliable, and valid assessment of mind wandering for basic and clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 imposed significant shifts in global health, particularly in understanding and addressing anxiety disorders precipitated by pandemic-related stressors. The current study aimed to adapt and validate the COVID-19 Anxiety Questionnaire (C-19 A) for Arabic-speaking populations (C-19 A-A), assessing its structural integrity, concurrent validity, factorial validity, and reliability. Methods: The data of 571 individuals, including age range, educational history, gender, and marital status, were collected through online platforms. The translation process of C-19 A-A underwent rigorous verification by linguistic and subject matter experts. Several advanced statistical procedures were used to examine the C-19 A-A's reliability, validity, and measurement invariances across demographic subsets. Results: The results indicated robust internal consistency, with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.889, confirming the questionnaire's reliability. Concurrent validity showed significant and positive correlations between C-19-A and FCV-19S (r = 0.77, p < 0.000). EFA revealed a dominant factor explaining 60.4% of the variance, bolstering the questionnaire's factorial validity. CFA further validated the model's adequacy across different demographic groups. Specifically, demographic factors such as age, gender, and educational level showed distinct patterns of COVID-19-related anxiety. Conclusion: The validated Arabic version of the C-19 A-A represents a pivotal tool for assessing pandemic-induced anxiety within Arabic-speaking communities. Its deployment enables targeted identification of vulnerable individuals, facilitating tailored health interventions and informing clinical strategies. This research underscores the pivotal role of culturally attuned assessment instruments in shaping effective public health responses and therapeutic interventions aimed at mitigating the psychological sequelae of global health crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has caused pastoralists to face serious challenges all around the world. To reduce climate change vulnerability, adaptation strategies need to be adopted by pastoralists. In this regard, the present research was done to seek the reasons for the failure of the northeastern pastoralists of Iran in adopting climate change adaptation strategies. The study is descriptive, which conducted by a field survey. The target population included 249 pastoralists from 7 pastoral units, of whom 148 people were selected as sample size using the stratified random sampling technique. The survey instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire. The content validity and face validity of the questionnaire were checked by the experts. Convergent validity was also confirmed based on the average variance extracted (AVE). Cronbach's α coefficient and composite reliability (CR) were used to evaluate the internal consistency of the questionnaire. The results showed that social and, regulatory and insurance components were the most critical internal and external weaknesses of the pastoralists' failure in adopting climate change adaptation strategies, respectively. Structural equation modeling showed that external weaknesses had positive and significant effects on internal weaknesses of the pastoralists' failure in adopting climate change adaptation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current quantum key distribution (QKD) networks focus almost exclusively on transporting secret keys at the highest possible rate. Consequently, they are built as mostly fixed, ad hoc, logically, and physically isolated infrastructures designed to avoid any penalty to the quantum channel. This architecture is neither scalable nor cost-effective and future, real-world deployments will differ considerably. The structure of the MadQCI QKD network presented here is based on disaggregated components and modern paradigms especially designed for flexibility, upgradability, and facilitating the integration of QKD in the security and telecommunications-networks ecosystem. These underlying ideas have been tested by deploying many QKD systems from several manufacturers in a real-world, multi-tenant telecommunications network, installed in production facilities and sharing the infrastructure with commercial traffic. Different technologies have been used in different links to address the variety of situations and needs that arise in real networks, exploring a wide range of possibilities. Finally, a set of realistic use cases has been implemented to demonstrate the validity and performance of the network. The testing took place during a period close to three years, where most of the nodes were continuously active. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to translate and validate the "Music-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire" into Spanish (sMuRQoL) and assess its convergent validity and discriminative capacity by comparing its scores with the outcomes of the musical perception test Meludia. Methods: The sMuRQoL was completed by 129 patients: 55 cochlear implant (CI) users and 74 normal hearing (NH) individuals. Conducted in this study were an exploratory factor analysis, an evaluation of internal consistency, an assessment of score stability through test–retest reliability, a comparison of sMuRQoL scores between CI users and NH individuals and an examination of potential evidence of convergent validity and discriminative capacity of sMuRQoL in relation to other tools. This involved the comparison of the questionnaire scores with the Meludia outcomes. Results: The sMuRQoL demonstrated a two-dimensional structure. All the dimensions displayed high internal consistency (α = 0.879–0.945) and score stability (ICC = 0.890–0.942). There were significant differences in the Frequency test between NH and CI users (d = 1.19–1.45). There's evidence of convergent validity between the scores of the Frequency test and the results of Meludia (r = 0.242–0.645). Additionally, the Frequency test demonstrate a good discriminative capacity to identify patients with poorer musical perception. Conclusions: The sMuRQoL is a reliable questionnaire, with adequate evidence of validity based on internal structure. This study provides an accessible, cost-effective, and quick-to-administer instrument in Spanish, optimizing available healthcare resources and bringing us closer to the patient needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gambling Craving Scale (GACS) is a multifaceted measure of gambling craving. Initial validation work by Young and Wohl (2009) in university student samples showed that the GACS had a three-factor structure capturing dimensions of Desire, Anticipation, and Relief. Despite its potential clinical utility as a measure of craving, the GACS has yet to be validated in people seeking treatment for gambling problems. Accordingly, we examined the psychometric properties in a sample of people (N = 209; Mage = 37.66; 62.2% female) participating in a randomized controlled trial testing a novel online treatment for problem gambling. We predicted the GACS would have a three-factor structure. In addition, we also examined measurement invariance across sex and problem gambling risk status. Finally, we assessed concurrent validity of the factors with other measures of problem gambling severity and involvement. Exploratory structural equation modeling findings supported a three-factor structure that was invariant across the groups tested. Each of the Desire, Anticipation, and Relief subscales were significant positive predictors of problem gambling severity and symptoms, and some form of gambling behaviour. Findings show the GACS is a promising scale to assess multidimensional craving experiences among people in treatment for gambling problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) is an individualised tool designed for adults but used with children without any evidence of validation in this population. Individualised instruments are patient-specific rather than disease-specific and therefore can be applied across various health conditions. This study sought to adapt, and content validate the MYMOP for application in 7–11 year old children. Methods: There were two main phases of the four iterations: expert consultation (three rounds) and interviews with child-parent pairs at the Outpatient clinics of a Children's Hospital. Thematic analysis was undertaken using an inductive, interpretative approach. Results: Four paediatricians completed the first survey, five paediatricians participated in the focus group, and four paediatric health-related quality of life (HRQOL) research experts completed the second survey. Several changes were recommended to the MYMOP by the expert groups. Twenty-five children (17 general medicine, and 8 diabetes/endocrine clinic) aged 7–11 years completed the draft paediatric MYMOP (P-MYMOP) and were interviewed. Results demonstrated that the majority of participants were able to identify their own problems and activity limitations, and all participants understood the 7-point faces scale. Most parents and children perceived that the P-MYMOP would be useful to complete before clinic appointments. Conclusions: The P-MYMOP is the first content-validated generic individualised HRQOL measure for children 7–11 years old. Given that validation is an iterative process, further research to assess its feasibility, reliability, and construct validity is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We provide an initial description and validation of some public domain patient-reported outcome (PRO) items to assess cancer symptom burden to address immediate barriers to symptom assessment use in clinical practice and facilitate future research. Methods: We created the Open Symptom Framework (OSF), a flexible tool for clinical cancer-related symptom assessment. The items comprise six components: recall period, concept, symptom, qualifier(s), a definition, and a 5-point Likert-type response. We recruited patients receiving cancer therapy in the United States and United Kingdom. We assessed external construct validity by comparing OSF scores to the PRO-CTCAE measure and assessed reliability, scalability, dimensionality, and item ordering within a non-parametric item response theory framework. We tested differential item functioning for country, age, gender, and level of education. Results: We developed a framework alongside clinical and psychometric experts and debrieifed with 10 patients. For validation, we recruited 331patients. All items correlated with the PRO-CTCAE equivalents (r = 0.55–0.96, all p < 0.01). Mokken analysis confirmed the scalability and unidimensionality of all symptom scales with multiple items at the scale (Ho = 0.61–0.75) and item level (Hi = 0.60–0.76). Items are interpreted consistently between demographic groups (Crit = 0 for all groups). Conclusion: The public domain OSF has excellent psychometric properties including face, content, and criterion validity and can facilitate the development of flexible, robust measurements to fulfil stakeholder need. The OSF was designed specifically to support clinical assessment but will function well for research. Further work is planned to increase the number of symptoms and number of questions per symptom within the framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research in psychology, sociology, economics, and other disciplines investigating social justice has identified associations between fair treatment and human well-being. However, the lack of a practical and valid instrument for measuring individual experiences of fair treatment in multiple areas of life has limited the ability to understand the relationship between fairness and wellness. The purpose of these studies was to develop and establish the initial psychometric properties and convergent validity of a scale measuring personal experiences of fairness across various life domains. Development and validation occurred across three studies. Scale development in Study 1 included the generation of items, item revision, and analysis of content validity. A review of existing literature and qualitative data derived from focus group discussions informed the initial pool of items. Cognitive interviews and expert input aided in analysis of content validity and revision of items. Study 2 consisted of confirmatory factor analyses to evaluate the performance of items and determine the underlying factor structure of the scale. In Study 3, factor analyses were used to evaluate convergent validity with other fairness-related instruments. Results of the first study supported the conceptualization of fairness along a social-ecological spectrum: experiences of fairness existed in multiple distinct life domains (e.g., interpersonal, occupational, community). Results from the second study revealed a bifactor model with one general Fairness factor and four Interpersonal, Occupational, Community, and Societal ecological group factors. Results from the third study suggested acceptable convergent validity among some subscales and other established instruments, while also suggesting that refinements to the Community fairness subscale might improve the scale. The final 12-item scale demonstrated good reliability. Results of this study produced an instrument able to measure individual experiences of fair treatment across four life domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) are often accompanied by varied and complex multisystemic comorbid symptoms/conditions. The Spider questionnaire was developed to evaluate the presence and impact of eight common multisystemic comorbidities. Thirty-one questions across eight symptom domains assess neuromusculoskeletal, pain, fatigue, cardiac dysautonomia, urogenital, gastrointestinal, anxiety, and depression symptoms. This study aimed to evaluate the Spider's construct validity in adults. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over four stages. Three international patient charities aided recruitment of participants through social media and website advertisements. Adults aged 18 to 65 years, with and without HSD/hEDS, were invited to participate. Validated, frequently used comparator questionnaires were used to establish convergent validity of Spider symptom domains. A control group was recruited for known-group validity analysis. Participants answered each Spider domain and the corresponding comparator questionnaire via surveys hosted by REDCap. Anonymous data were analysed using SPSS. Convergent validity was assessed through Spearman's correlational analysis and known-group validity through Mann–Whitney U analysis. Results: A total of 11,151 participants were recruited across the four stages. Statistically significant, moderate-to-strong correlations were found between all Spider domains and their comparators (p < 0.001, r = 0.63 to 0.80). Known-group validity analysis showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) between the hypermobile and control groups in all eight domains. Conclusions: Convergent and known-group validity of the Spider was established with adults. These results suggest the Spider can measure the presence and impact of multisystemic comorbid symptoms/conditions in adults with HSD/hEDS, providing a tool which guides multidisciplinary management. Key Points • The Spider questionnaire is a novel tool assessing the presence and impact of the multisystemic comorbid symptoms/conditions associated with HSD/hEDS. • Convergent and known-group validity of the Spider questionnaire was established in adults aged 18 to 65. • This tool provides a quick and easy method to visualise the symptom profile of those with HSD/hEDS to guide symptom management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of children eligible for Paediatric Palliative Care has dramatically increased over the years, with few tools that can help with early identification. The Paediatric Palliative Screening Scale is a dedicated German, English, and Portuguese screening tool. We aimed to translate and perform a cultural adaptation to the Italian setting of the Paediatric Palliative Screening Scale. This paper was a descriptive observational cross-sectional study. We carried it out in two consecutive steps: (1) translation and back translation and (2) cultural adaptation through a Delphi process. Twenty Paediatric Palliative Care national experts were invited to judge the content and structure of the translated scale and to assess the appropriateness and clarity of each question. Consensus was defined as 70% or more of experts agreeing with each item's appropriateness and clarity. The Italian version of the Paediatric Palliative Screening Scale was obtained after two rounds of Delphi. After the second round of consultation, a substantial increase in experts' consensus was found, especially for questions 1.1, 3.2 and 3.3 (from 56.3 to 93.8%), and reaching more than 83% for all the revised items. Conclusions: The Paediatric Palliative Screening Scale is a reliable tool that can assist in timely evaluating children who qualify for Paediatric Palliative Care. The tool can be used in Italian healthcare settings with its cultural adaptation. What is Known: • Despite the lack of early diagnosis techniques, there is a significant increase in the number of children entitled to Paediatric Palliative Care. • A specific screening tool called the Paediatric Palliative Screening Scale determines a child's suitability for paediatric palliative treatment. What is New: • The Paediatric Palliative Screening Scale is necessary to assess the psychosocial needs of patients eligible for Paediatric Palliative Care. The Italian scale has good content and face validity ensuring equivalence between the original and target populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To develop an index to assess capacity to work in relation to common mental disorders (CMDs) in the general working population and field test its psychometric properties. Methods: Content analysis of three qualitative studies on people (n = 49) with their own experiences of working with CMD guided the items selected for the index. Face and content validity and test-retest reliability were performed. The index was field tested in two versions with 26 and 17 items, respectively, among health care professionals regarding internal reliability, component structure and concurrent validity. Results: The final version of the Capacity to Work Index (C2WI; 17 items) was normally distributed in the field test with high internal reliability (Cronbach's alpha, 0.84). Missing responses were randomly distributed and nonspecific. Principal component analysis showed one clear component with negatively framed items. Concurrent validity showed high correlation with the WHO-5 Well-Being Scale (Pearson's r, 0.68), but lower correlation for the general health question (r, − 0.44), one item of the Work Ability Index (r, − 0.33), and the Stress of Conscience constructs (r, 0.44). Conclusion: The C2WI showed promising psychometric qualities. Low and negative correlation with the item from Work Ability Index suggests that the C2WI measures additional dimensions, but further testing in larger and more diverse samples is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For many decision makers in Health Technology Assessment the EQ-5D-5L is the standard measure of health-related quality of life (HRQL). However, evidence has shown the limitations of the measure in certain disease areas, including dermatology. Alopecia areata (AA) is associated with a significant HRQL impact, partly due to the emotional impact of hair loss. Objectives: This study explores the psychometric properties of the EQ-5D-5L in people with AA in reference to the short-form 36 version 2 (SF-36v2), the Alopecia Areata Patient Priority Outcomes (AAPPO), the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) and the Patient Global Impressions of Change (PGI-C). Methods: Data from participants with AA enrolled in the ALLEGRO-2b/3 trial (NCT03732807) of ritlecitinib were analysed. Participants completed the AAPPO measure (an AA-specific measure assessing emotional symptoms and activity limitations), PGI-C, EQ-5D-5L and SF-36v2 across 48-weeks of follow up. Extent of scalp hair loss was assessed using the SALT. Ceiling effects, known groups validity, convergent validity and responsiveness were examined. Known groups were defined by SALT score and a PGI-C defined response from baseline. Exploratory factor analysis was also performed. Results: Data were available from 612 adult participants. Ceiling effects were observed for the EQ-5D-5L (55.3–61.2%) and analyses suggested that the EQ-5D did not capture important differences between patients that the SF-36v2 did. The EQ-5D-5L very weakly correlated with SALT score, whereas the AAPPO correlated more strongly with the extent of hair loss. Compared with the EQ-5D-5L, the AAPPO was better able to discriminate between known groups defined by SALT and PGI-C. An exploratory factor analysis suggested that the EQ-5D-5L had limitations in content validity compared with the AAPPO. Conclusions: The EQ-5D-5L may not adequately measure the burden of AA on patients' HRQL. Insensitivity to the burden of AA suggests that the EQ-5D-5L may not measure treatment-related benefit with hair regrowth. Data from other measures could be considered if they are shown to be more relevant. Plain Language Summary (PLS): Do frequently used health-related quality of life questionnaires accurately measure the impact of alopecia areata? Alopecia areata (AA) is a disease that causes hair loss on the scalp and, in some cases, other parts of the body. It affects 18.4 million people worldwide. We know that AA can have a significant impact on a person's health-related quality of life (HRQL). Understanding the impact of AA on HRQL is important, but frequently used questionnaires to assess HRQL may not accurately measure the impact of the condition. This study uses data from a clinical trial (ALLEGRO-2b/3 trial) conducted in patients with AA from multiple countries to examine whether frequently used HRQL questionnaires can measure the impact of AA. We compared the HRQL of people with different levels of hair loss to see how well these questionnaires measure the impact of AA. We used data from 612 participants who took part in the trial. We found that some of the frequently used questionnaires did not detect differences between people with different levels of hair loss or those who thought their condition had improved compared with those who did not, suggesting that they may not accurately measure the impact of AA. Overall, some frequently used questionnaires to assess HRQL may not be appropriate for use in people with AA. Other ways of measuring HRQL may be more appropriate for understanding the full impact of AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reading comprehension is one of the most valuable academic skills taught in school. Selecting the appropriate assessment instrument to ensure early identification and intervention is important as there is an amalgam of cognitive abilities and academic skills involved in reading comprehension. The GORT-5 is the most recent edition of a test that measures reading rate, accuracy, fluency, and comprehension among school-age children and young adults. The current study evaluated the concurrent validity of the GORT-5 with the WJ-IV ACH for a group of referred students. Findings indicate that Pearson correlation coefficients for all GORT-5 and WJ-IV ACH score comparisons were very large (0.70-0.89). Generally, GORT-5 scores were 2-3 points higher than WJ-IV ACH cluster scores. The diagnostic accuracy of the GORT-5 is excellent, with very few students' scores yielding a false negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curriculum-based measurement in reading (CBM-R) is a commonly used tool for universal screening and progress monitoring in K-12 education and is one that can add value to decision-making. However, the social validity of this measure among teachers is often questioned. Reasons some teachers have traditionally opposed the use of CBM-R have included lack of time, resources, and concerns with the face validity of CBM-R. Further exploration of factors that predict teacher acceptability of CBM-R is anticipated to offer guidance for improving data-based decision-making in schools. The purpose of this study was to extend existing research on teacher acceptability of CBM-R by exploring the extent to which the specific reading skills teachers value and their perceptions of available time are related to their CBM-R acceptability. First to sixth-grade teachers (N = 164) from a midwestern state completed a corresponding survey. Multiple regression analyses indicated that teachers' perceptions of time and values positively predicted the acceptability of CBM-R for both universal screening and progress monitoring purposes. Related implications for improving data-based decision-making will be offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significance of teachers' self-efficacy in coding education within K-12 settings has grown substantially. However, the literature lacks subject-specific measurement tools tailored to assess teachers' self-efficacy in coding instruction. This study adopted a mixed methods approach to develop a reliable and valid instrument for measuring computer science (CS) teachers' self-efficacy in teaching coding. The scale development involved a rigorous process encompassing item generation, expert validation, and pilot testing. Importantly, this process unfolded in seven steps with two distinct phases, and each phase involved independent sample groups. Subsequently, a comprehensive survey was administered to two samples of CS teachers (n = 318, n = 295) to assess the scale's psychometric properties. The results revealed robust internal consistency and construct validity of the 20-item Coding Teaching Self-Efficacy Scale (CTSES) with four intercorrelated dimensions: student motivation, subject knowledge, classroom management, and material development. Furthermore, additional analyses revealed the significant impact of teaching experience and self-reported coding knowledge level on teachers' self-efficacy in teaching coding. The implications of this study hold significance for both practitioners and researchers to understand teachers' self-efficacy in teaching coding and to explore its relation to teacher training, curriculum development, and the broader advancement of coding education within school settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The reliability and validity of the traditional Chinese version of the Cancer Survivors' Self-Efficacy Scale (CS-SES-TC) has not been assessed. Objective: To assess the psychometric properties of the Traditional Chinese version of the CS-SES-TC. Methods: Participants were recruited from the outpatient departments of a hospital in Taiwan. A single questionnaire was administered to 300 genitourinary cancer survivors. The scales included in the initial questionnaire were the CS-SES-TC, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General scale (FACT-G). Data obtained from 300 survivors were used to confirm the structure through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Results: The CFA results indicate that the 11-item CS-SES-TC is consistent with the original scale. Furthermore, it was identified as a unidimensional scale, with the model showing acceptable goodness-of-fit (CFI = 0.99, TLI = 0.97). The factor loading of each item in the CS-SES-TC was above 0.6 and had convergent validity. Based on multiple-group CFA testing, the change (ΔCFI) between the unconstrained and constrained models was ≤ 0.01, indicating that measurement invariance holds for gender. The participants' CS-SES-TC scores were positively correlated with their FACT-G scores and negatively correlated with their CES-D scores. The scales exhibited concurrent validity and discriminant validity. The CS-SES-TC had a Cronbach's α in the range of.97–.98. Conclusion: The CS-SES-TC had acceptable reliability and validity. Healthcare workers can use this scale for ongoing assessment of the cancer-related self-efficacy of cancer survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early Adaptive Schemas have been proposed as adaptive counterparts to Early Maladaptive Schemas, which are longstanding dysfunctional psychological structures associated with psychopathology. The Young Positive Schema Questionnaire (YPSQ) was recently developed to complement the Young Schema Questionnaire 3 Short-Form. This study describes the cultural adaptation of YPSQ to European Portuguese. A sample of European Portuguese-speaking participants (N = 430, Mage = 30.31, DP = 12.75), fulfilled self-report questionnaires in a cross-sectional/transversal design. Confirmatory Factor Analysis, multi-group confirmatory group analysis and Pearson correlations were used to explore the psychometric properties of the YPSQ. A 14-factorial model was identified with 56 items with excellent goodness-of-fit indices χ2(426) = 3252.165, TLI = 0.92, CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.056[0.053 − 0.058]. Almost all the positive schemas correlated negatively with symptomatic domains (e.g., depression, anxiety), assessed using the Brief Symptomatic Inventory, which supported adequate construct validity. Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis using the original samples from Asia and the West when YPSQ was initially developed and the portuguese sample, showed invariance of the factor structure across these cultures including Portugal. The factor structure of the YPSQ was confirmed, suggesting that this measure may be adequate to assess positive schemas in the European Portuguese-speaking Population. More research is still required to demonstrate other psychometric properties of the instrument using clinical populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have started to probe into workplace emotional blackmail (WEB); however, the constructs of the concept are still unclear, and no scales with good credibility and validity have been developed. This study is divided into three parts, namely establishing the concept of WEB, developing measuring tools for WEB, and probing into its operating mechanism. In Research 1, the definition and dimensions of WEB were proposed, item-sort task and subject-matter experts were invited to examine the content validity of the construct, and a total of two WEB dimensions were extracted. In Research 2, three separate samples were employed to assess the psychometric properties of a 10-item self-reported WEB scale. In Research 3, the influences of WEB on workers' job outcome were further examined, and its psychological mechanism was discussed from the perspective of stress theory to establish a nomological network accordingly. The results can provide evidences regarding the psychometric soundness of WEB, which can be used to evaluate workers' confrontation of WEB. In the final stage of this study, the theoretical and practical contributions of WEB are discussed, and the research directions for applying new measures in the future are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The KOJI AWARENESS (KA) screening test assesses motor function in humans. We aimed to analyze the correlation between age and KA screening scores and to identify the specific age at which a significant decline occurs. A total of 793 healthy participants (234 females) were interviewed for basic information on age and sex and completed the KA screening test. In addition to calculating the total score from the KA test, the scores were calculated for the neck-scapula-upper extremity-complex (NSU), trunk, and lower extremity (LE) segments. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was used to assess the validity of the test. Additionally, Bayesian linear regression was employed to estimate the change point in KA scores, facilitating the identification of a critical age associated with a notable decline in motor function. KA screening total and separate body segment scores were negatively correlated with age in both gender (for female and male, KA total score, ρ = − 0.443, ρ = − 0.344; NSU segment, ρ = − 0.431, ρ = − 0.427; trunk segment, ρ = − 0.210, ρ = − 0.473; LE segment: ρ = − 0.43, ρ = − 0.507). Furthermore, a change-point analysis using linear regression analysis showed that KA screening total scores declined sharply at the age of 49.1(95% credible interval: 37.503, 68.366). The result show that total KA scores decrease − 0.196 (95% credible interval: − 0.335, − 0.049) for every 1 year of age increase, and for ages over 49.1, total KA scores additionally decrease − 0.255 (95% credible interval: − 0.485, − 0.054) for every 1 year of age increase. In the NSU segment, females showed a more rapid decline than males from the age of 50 years. KA screening test total scores declined sharply at the age of 49.1. These results may be useful in setting treatment goals, exercise, and lifestyle programs for age-related decline in motor function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is devoted to examining the measurement invariance of the Utrecht Homesickness Scale (UHS) across four countries while considering cultural characteristics. The sample consisted of 899 first- and second-year students: Indonesia (N = 182), Mexico (N = 142), Russia (N = 379), and Ukraine (N = 196) (Mage = 18.29, SDage = 2.48); female-dominant at 74% (Mage = 18.56, SDage = 2.49). In the original version, the UHS consisted of twenty items and five subscales: Adjustment difficulties, Missing family, Loneliness, Missing friends, and Ruminations about home. As hypothesized, the initial five-factor structure of the UHS was upheld but the HS pattern was specific in each country investigated. After removing three items via CFA, the original structure was restored. Convergent validity, reliability, configural, metric, and partial scalar measurement invariance of the UHS modified (UHS-M) instrument were achieved. The specific patterns of homesickness in each country are presented. It is concluded that the UHS-M can be recommended both for research and support programs for students suffering from homesickness while accounting for cultural characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Methods Results Conclusion Level of Evidence The existing knee‐specific pediatric patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) lack content and construct validity for children with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This impairs their accuracy which can lead to false interpretations of data and inaccurate clinical guidelines. The purpose of this study was to develop a content‐valid PROM for children with an ACL injury.The process adhered to the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments guidelines for PROM development. Informants were children with ACL deficiency and sampled based on age, sex, and treatment. Semistructured interviews were conducted exploring themes within the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health model. Interviews continued beyond data saturation. By thematic analysis and by probing items from the adult PROM ‘KNEES‐ACL’, new themes and items emerged. Content coverage, relevance and understandability were continuously evaluated. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The NVivo 12 software was used for data analysis and coding of items.A PROM of 60 items across nine subscales was formed. From cognitive interviews, 19 new items emerged. Forty‐one of 55 items from KNEES‐ACL were endorsed as relevant; however, all required rewording to ensure understandability. Substantial differences in the psychosocial impact between adults and children were observed. The children experienced a more considerable negative psychosocial impact caused by a loss of participation in sports, lower self‐confidence and loss of social networks. This resulted in four new domains. The physical issues were similar to adults, with few exceptions.The ‘KIDS‐KNEES‐ACL’ 1.0 (qualitative version) was developed. This version will be subjected to psychometric analysis, resulting in adequate measurement properties of the final KIDS‐KNEES‐ACL 2.0. As the only adequate pediatric ACL‐specific PROM, its use in clinical trials and databases will enhance PROM data quality, and strengthen clinical guidelines and thus the treatment of children with ACL injury.Not applicable [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surge in economic growth and increased agricultural output can augment societal well-being whilst proliferating environmental stressors. So, the study tests the validity of the "agriculture-induced Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis" (AEKC) by assessing the varied environmental proxies that have yet to be accounted for earlier in the case of BRICS economies. Furthermore, most studies have utilised "first-generation econometric approaches" as the "cross-sectional dependency" has not been deemed in estimation. On account of this, the research employed "second-generation CIPS and CADF unit root test", "Westerlund cointegration test", "fully modified ordinary least square" (FMOLS) and "dynamic ordinary least square" (DOLS) to test the validity of AEKC in "BRICS countries" for 30 years. A positive association between agriculture and "ecological footprint" has been found which evidences the presence of an "inverted U-shaped AEKC" in BRICS nations. Another finding shows that the favourable impact of agriculture towards climate change can be moderated by illustrating the interaction effect of "human capital" and "renewable energy" with "agriculture". Lastly, the investigation brings forth the policy repercussions and acumens for the BRICS governments and policymakers in halting climate change by using renewable energy in agriculture and building human capital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The EQ Health and Wellbeing (EQ-HWB) is a new questionnaire for measuring quality of life (QoL) from a broad perspective. The items of the EQ-HWB were derived based on a 'qualitative review' of literature, which reported primarily on Western studies. It can be argued that the QoL is a cultural-related concept and therefore people from China have a different understanding of the QoL. This study aimed to explore whether Chinese citizens could understand the EQ-HWB's candidate items and what they thought of those items. In doing so, we wanted to examine the face validity of the candidate items and explore if further cultural adaptation is necessary. Methods: This research was part of the E-QALY project, in which 36 candidate items were selected for the EQ-HWB from a 97-item pool. In China, three interviewers investigated the face validity of these EQ-HWB candidate items in semi-structured qualitative face-to-face interviews. Respondents were invited to report 'problems' with regard to the interpretation of the items and these problems were grouped into themes. We explored to what extent those themes related to specific cultural aspects in China. We also classified the rates of reported problems for each item into three groups: 1) less than 20%, 2) from 20–50%, and 3) over 50%. Results: For 17 items the rate of reported problems was less than 20%, 15 items fell into the second group (with 20 − 50%) and for 4 items the rate of problems reported was more than 50%. The thematic analysis revealed eight themes: ambiguous problems in the interpretation of 16 items; difficult to understand (11); contained a complex negative expression (10); examples used seemed inappropriate (7); misleading connotation in Chinese (2); long and complex (2); complex response options (1); and use of non-colloquial language (1). Discussion: Our research shows that EQ-HWB candidate items require careful examination to make them more comprehensible. Most of the reported problem themes were generic problems related to the items, and only a few face validity issues appeared to relate to specific cultural aspects in China, even though most of the items were based on Western studies. Our findings are reassuring for the instrument's international application, especially in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing literature on measuring well-being (WB) indicates that The Short Depression-Happiness Scale (SDHS) is the only measure built on the negative–positive affect continuum. However, since the previous studies highlighted the psychometric properties of the SDHS exclusively using classical test theory (CTT), this research aims to fill this gap. By investigating the validity of this scale using both CTT and item response theory (IRT) approaches, this study aims to identify the precision of SDHS measurement. The sample consisted of 1326 Romanian participants (44.26% males, ages ranging from 18 to 64 years, Mage = 34.09, SD = 9.4). Results confirmed construct, convergent, and concurrent validity of the SDHS Romanian version. CFA replicated the unidimensionality found in the original study. The investigation of the scale precision through IRT showed that the SDHS is a highly reliable and accurate tool for capturing clinically low and moderate levels of WB, namely in the area of − 3.5 SD and + 1 SD from the mean of the latent trait. However, the scale does not perform well for higher levels of WB because there is no reliable information in the range between + 2 SD and + 3 SD of the latent trait continuum. Previous literature emphasized a similar pattern when measuring WB using the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS). Additionally, the current study found that the SDHS has the advantage of measuring clinically low WB while the WEMWBS does not. The present research proposes a preliminary cut-off (< 7), before clinical assessment confirmation. Future clinical studies are needed. The findings of the current research should be useful for further psychometric developments of WB scales. Adding items of high difficulty would contribute to more measurement precision for higher levels of WB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with Voice problems are frequently encountered in clinics. There is no tool available in Punjabi language for evaluation of impact of voice disorder on patient's life. The aim of this study was to adapt Voice Handicap Index in Punjabi language and to obtain validity, reliability and consistency of the developed tool. The study also aims to compare the scores of VHI-Punjabi between patients with voice problems and asymptomatic age-matched controls. The study follows qualitative research design with purposive sampling. The study was conducted at the Audiology and SLP unit of ENT, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab. A total of 200 subjects in the age group of 20–50 years were included, 100 each in study and control group. Combination of reverse translation, committee, and bilingual models were used for development of VHI-Punjabi. The construct validity was very good (r = 0.91). A statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) was obtained between the study group and control group in all the subtest scores and on the total scores of VHI-Punjabi. Statistical significant correlation is found in two administrations of VHI-Punjabi after a gap of 2 weeks in both study group and control group (p < 0.001). To find the internal consistency of VHI-Punjabi, Chronbach alpha was calculated, which came to be 0.97. The internal consistency was high. The results of the present study indicate that VHI-Punjabi is a valid and reliable tool that can be used for evaluation of patients with different types of voice problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The present study aimed to explore the suitability of the vocabulary knowledge (VOC) test as an accurate and reliable proxy of cognitive reserve (CR) by evaluating its psychometric properties and discrimination accuracy compared with other CR measures in multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: Sixty-eight consecutive people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), followed at our MS outpatient clinic, completed a clinical evaluation and neuropsychological assessment including: VOC, Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests (BRB-N), Cognitive Reserve Index Questionnaire (CRIq), Beck Depression Inventory-II, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Reliability, convergent and divergent validity, and discrimination accuracy of the VOC were assessed using educational level as reference standard. The possible effects of sociodemographic and clinical factors on VOC and their role in predicting global cognitive status were also explored. Results: VOC demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.894) and adequate construct validity. It showed an acceptable level of discrimination between pwMS with high and low CR, comparable to the CRIq score. Education strongly affected VOC scores, which in turn were independent of MS features. VOC emerged as an independent predictor of global cognitive status together with MS-related disability. Conclusion: We demonstrated the validity of VOC as a reliable CR measure in pwMS. Thus, CR may also be estimated using fixed objective measures, independent of brain pathology and clinical features. Early CR estimation may help clinicians identify pwMS at a higher risk of cognitive decline and plan strict neuropsychological monitoring and cognitive interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The linear encoder and the Calf Raise App have been shown to be valid for measurements of plantar flexor muscular endurance in the heel raise test when compared with gold standard equipment. However, the validity of the Calf Raise App has not yet been compared with a linear encoder, an instrument commonly used in clinical and research settings. The purpose of this study was to determine the concurrent validity of the Calf Raise App compared with a linear encoder for the measurement of average heel raise height and total concentric work in the heel raise test. Methods: Fifty TeamGym athletes (82% females) from an on‐going prospective study were included (mean [SD] age: 20 [7] years; body mass index (BMI) = 21.3 [2.5]). Concurrent validity was analysed with single measures intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) using a two‐way mixed effects, consistency model. Results: Ninety‐eight samples were included in the analysis. The mean (SD) average heel raise height and total concentric work measured by the linear encoder and Calf Raise App were 9.9 (1.4) and 7.5 (1.2) cm, and 1728 (584) and 1291 (450) J, respectively. The mean (SD) number of unilateral heel raises was 30 (7.5). The results showed poor to moderate concurrent validity for the measurement of average heel raise height (ICC: 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.48–0.73). Good to excellent concurrent validity was shown for the measurement of total concentric work (ICC: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.84–0.93). Conclusion: The Calf Raise App shows good concurrent validity in the heel raise test compared with a linear encoder in measuring total concentric work but not average height. While caution is recommended when comparing results from the different instruments, each instrument can be used separately to compare between‐limb differences or changes over time in plantar flexor muscular endurance in clinical and research settings. Level of Evidence: Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safe and effective vaccines have been developed that protect against high-risk strains of HPV, but uptake is relatively low. We previously identified factors such as sexual attitudes and HPV knowledge that impact the intent of Christian parents to vaccinate their children against HPV. We hypothesized that culturally specific interventions in the form of short videos would be effective at improving HPV vaccine intentions and attitudes. We made three short educational videos, one with a Christian focus, one informational about HPV, and one control. Videos were distributed electronically with accompanying surveys, and responses were measured before and after watching a randomly selected video. The religious-focused and educational interventions significantly (p < 0.0001, p = 0.0015) improved intentions towards HPV vaccination. The religiously-focused video also significantly diminished the belief that the HPV vaccine is unnecessary because of a family's values (p = 0.014). Parents significantly credited both interventions with improving their intent to vaccinate their children against HPV (p < 0.001 for both). These results suggest that culturally focused educational interventions are effective at influencing vaccine intentions and attitudes, even when those are based on religious or cultural feelings. Highly specific interventions are likely to be necessary for optimal improvement in vaccine hesitancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Literature reviews outline minimally invasive approaches for abdominal diastasis in patients without skin excess. However, few surgeons are trained in endoscopic rectus sheath plication, and no simulated training programs exist for this method. This study aimed to develop and validate a synthetic simulation model for the training of skills in this approach under the Messick validity framework. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the participants' previous level of laparoscopic/endoscopic skills by a questionnaire. Participants performed an endoscopic plication on the model and their performance was evaluated by one blinded observer using the global rating scale OSATS and a procedure specific checklist (PSC) scale. A 5-level Likert survey was applied to 5 experts and 4 plastic surgeons to assess Face and Content validity. Results: Fifteen non-experts and 5 experts in abdominal wall endoscopic surgery were recruited. A median OSATS score [25 (range 24–25) vs 14 (range 5–22); p < 0.05 of maximum 25 points] and a median PSC score [11 (range 10–11) vs 8 (range 3–10); p < 0.05 of maximum 11 points] was significantly higher for experts compared with nonexperts. All experts agreed or strongly agreed that the model simulates a real scenario of endoscopic plication of the rectus sheath. Conclusion: Our simulation model met all validation criteria outlined in the Messick framework, demonstrating its ability to differentiate between experts and non-experts based on their baseline endoscopic surgical skills. This model stands as a valuable tool for evaluating skills in endoscopic rectus sheath plication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of deep learning (DL) in medicine introduces transformative tools with the potential to enhance prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment planning. However, ensuring transparent documentation is essential for researchers to enhance reproducibility and refine techniques. Our study addresses the unique challenges presented by DL in medical imaging by developing a comprehensive checklist using the Delphi method to enhance reproducibility and reliability in this dynamic field. We compiled a preliminary checklist based on a comprehensive review of existing checklists and relevant literature. A panel of 11 experts in medical imaging and DL assessed these items using Likert scales, with two survey rounds to refine responses and gauge consensus. We also employed the content validity ratio with a cutoff of 0.59 to determine item face and content validity. Round 1 included a 27-item questionnaire, with 12 items demonstrating high consensus for face and content validity that were then left out of round 2. Round 2 involved refining the checklist, resulting in an additional 17 items. In the last round, 3 items were deemed non-essential or infeasible, while 2 newly suggested items received unanimous agreement for inclusion, resulting in a final 26-item DL model reporting checklist derived from the Delphi process. The 26-item checklist facilitates the reproducible reporting of DL tools and enables scientists to replicate the study's results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on paranoid beliefs in adolescents is in its infancy. Valid and reliable assessments are essential to advancing the field, yet there is no current consensus as to which are optimal to use in this population. This study compared the psychometric properties of two measures of paranoia in a general population adolescent sample. A cross-sectional study with quota sampling (gender and age) recruited adolescents (14–17 years) from the UK (n = 262) and USA (n = 200), who completed the Revised Green et al. Paranoid Thoughts Scale (R-GPTS) and the Bird Checklist for Adolescent Paranoia (B-CAP). We assessed factor structures, intercorrelations, overlap of participants identified as at-risk for paranoid thoughts via both scales, convergent validity (scales with one another) and discriminant validity (distress, wellbeing, bullying and discrimination). Both scales performed equally well in terms of factorial validity. Intercorrelations between the subscales and with general distress were high for both measures. However, a substantial percentage of participants were identified as having paranoid beliefs according to the R-GPTS but not the B-CAP. Furthermore, the B-CAP showed a very high correlations (0.69 ≤ r ≤ 0.79) with self-reported bullying experiences, which bordered on multicollinearity. Findings highlight the possibility that B-CAP may risk confounding paranoid beliefs with exposure to bullying more so than R-GPTS, and that B-CAP may miss instances of elevated paranoia that are captured by the R-GPTS. Future research needs to further explore this by validating both scales with an external (e.g., interview-based) criterion for paranoia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the relationship among foreign language enjoyment (FLE), second language L2 grit, online learning self-efficacy (OLSE), and online learning engagement among Iranian English as a foreign language (EFL) learners. The study involved 578 Iranian EFL learners who completed self-report measures of the four constructs. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were employed to confirm the validity of the scales and test the hypothesized model. The findings indicate that FLE positively affects online learning engagement and OLSE positively influences online learning engagement. Additionally, the study found that online self-efficacy mediates the relationship between L2 grit and online learning engagement. These results highlight the importance of FLE and OLSE in promoting online learning engagement, and the mediating role of online self-efficacy in the interplay between L2 grit and online learning engagement. This research sheds more light on the understanding of the factors that influence online learning engagement among EFL learners and has important implications for both theory and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Falls are a significant public health problem and constitute a major cause of injuries and mortality. Risk factors for falls are multifactorial and include medication use. Aim: To develop and investigate the content validity of the Medication-Related fall (MRF) screening and scoring tool. Method: The MRF tool was developed from clinical practice guidelines addressing medication-related problems, and additional medications identified by specialist pharmacists across a region of the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland). Medication classes were categorised according to their 'potential to cause falls' as: high-risk (three points), moderate-risk (two points) or low-risk (one point). The overall medication-related falls risk for the patient was determined by summing the scores for all medications. The MRF was validated using Delphi consensus methodology, whereby three iterative rounds of surveys were conducted using SurveyMonkey®. Twenty-two experts from 10 countries determined their agreement with the falls risk associated with each medication on a 5-point Likert scale. Only medications with at least 75% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing were retained in the next round. Results: Consensus was reached for 19 medications/medication classes to be included in the final version of the MRF tool; ten were classified as high-risk, eight as moderate-risk and one as low-risk. Conclusion: The MRF tool is simple and has the potential to be integrated into medicines optimisation to reduce falls risk and negative fall-related outcomes. The score from the MRF tool can be used as a clinical parameter to assess the need for medication review and clinical interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research evaluates the psychometric properties of the Romanian version of the Police Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), featuring operational and organizational stress scales for police officers. We conducted three studies to test the reliability and validity of this questionnaire. The first study (N = 744) aimed at adapting and validating the Romanian version on the specific population. Confirmatory factor analysis of our two-factor model, each with 20 items grouped in a second-order factor, showed the good value of the fit indices: χ²(738) = 1420.11, p <.001; CFI = 0.992; TLI = 0.992; RMSEA = 0.035 [90% CI 0.033, 0.038]; SRMR = 0.059. Subsequently, we tested measurement invariance, demonstrating that the Romanian version of this questionnaire measures workplace stress (including operational and organizational stress factors) independently of the work environment (police officers vs. correctional officers). The second study (N = 394) confirmed PSQ's convergent validity through positive correlations with stress perception, burnout, mental health complaints, and psychological distress and its discriminant validity through negative correlations with job satisfaction and work engagement. The third study tested the longitudinal invariance of the stress questionnaire for police (N = 317). The findings suggest that the PSQ is a reliable and valid tool, highlighting its significant impact on the well-being of Romanian police officers by facilitating stress management interventions through baseline and ongoing stress assessment. Future research should longitudinally assess police stress, incorporating multi-source data and diverse units, as well as exploring the impact of socio-demographic aspects for broader insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterogeneity in lying behaviors is well documented in previous studies. However, previous assessment tools mainly lack consideration of various types of lies that would substantially change the nature of lies. The study developed the LYin Lying Tendency Scale (LTS) to assess individuals' behavioral tendencies in telling selfish, altruistic, and social-acceptance lies. The test–retest reliability, construct, convergent, and discriminant validity were examined in Studies 1–3. Criterion validity was tested by conducting a lying game in Study 4 and measuring participants' moral decisions and speculations on three types of lying contexts in Studies 5 and 6. Study 5 with three substudies measured participants' personal decisions in hypothetical daily-life situations and their self-report lying frequency. Study 6 provided hypothetical daily-life situations and measured participants' speculations of others' choices. All six studies provided sufficient psychometric support for the LYin LTS. Our study provides a sound assessment tool to measure three types of lying tendencies and sheds light on how individuals' variations in honesty traits, self-centered, other-regarding, and need-to-belong characteristics link to variations in lying tendencies. Our findings suggest that an individual's honesty-associated characteristics are various in terms of the consideration of honesty as a moral virtue and the application of deception as a strategy to achieve diverse purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on forgiveness has received growing academic interest. The Enright Forgiveness Inventory (EFI) is one of the most widely used interpersonal forgiveness measures in the world. However, its validation study had not been conducted in Latin America. This study aimed to investigate the structural validity of the EFI 30-item version (EFI-30) in Argentina. An online survey was administrated including the EFI-30 and a social desirability scale, as well as demographic questions. A convenience sample (N = 472) was recruited. All participants were originally from Argentina, and 47.2% were married or cohabiting in a relationship. Factor analysis was used to evaluate structural validity. Part of the EFI-30 is a single-item forgiveness question that was used to examine the inventory's convergent validity. Other conventional psychometric tests were also performed to validate the previous analyses. The results confirmed the six-factor structure of the EFI-30, namely, positive affect, negative affect, positive behaviour, negative behaviour, positive cognition, and negative cognition. Findings are consistent with previous validation studies across countries. The strong scalability of the Argentine EFI-30 provides multiple avenues for future research. The study might be replicated among other demographic groups (e.g., adolescents) in Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research addresses the construct of fantasy proneness that is unexplored in the context of Turkey by adapting and assessing the psychometric properties of the widely accepted Creative Experiences Questionnaire (CEQ), aiming to fill a significant gap in existing literature and contribute to the understanding of this construct and its correlates in a population aged between 18 and 60 years. The Turkish version of the CEQ demonstrated face validity, aligning participant responses with fantasy, imagination, and dissociation (n = 15). Exploratory Factor Analysis confirmed a single-factor solution based on the scree plot graphic, without item removal (n = 310). Reliability and validity analyses (N = 464) affirmed robustness with adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's Alpha = 0.78, McDonald's Omega = 0.77) and test-retest reliability (n = 110, r =.72). Convergent validity was supported by correlations with dissociative experiences (r =.51) and magical ideation (r =.51). Discriminant validity was evident in negative correlations with social desirability (r = -.10, p <.05), notably, impression management (r = -.12, p <.05), indicating unbiased capture of fantasy experiences. Predictive validity was supported by a positive correlation observed between fantasy proneness and interest in creative activities (r =.21). Participants engaged in or aspiring to engage in creative activities professionally scored notably higher, broadening implications for creativity research. Similarities between the original and Turkish versions suggested cultural variations do not significantly affect fantasy proneness in adults. Considering limitations, future research should explore age-related variations of fantasy proneness as well as its association with social desirability. Implications extend to clinical research, emphasizing consideration of fantasy proneness and its correlates in psychopathological and broader psychological health studies in Turkey and globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skill mismatch is a key indicator of labour market research that has received significant attention. To date, various approaches of test-based measurement of skill mismatch have been used in research, generating differing results. However, it remains unclear which method is the most valid for measuring skill mismatch. This study provides a comparative validation of five commonly used approaches to test-based measurement of skill mismatches in reading and mathematics to detect the most valid method. Drawing on the 2016 wave of the German National Educational Panel Study (NEPS) Adult Cohort, I find significantly varying distributions for the different measurement approaches, and highly valid skill mismatch measures for the statistical and the mixed approach. Overall, the mixed approach emerges as the most valid method. The findings highlight the critical importance of measurement approaches in skill mismatch research. Key points: Empirical validation of five different approaches of test-based measurement of skill mismatch. Job analysis approach possesses high construct validity but classifies few workers as matched. Worker assessment approach and task approach lack sufficient coverage of mismatch categories. Statistical approach and mixed approach possess high construct and criterion-related validity. Mixed approach is most valid overall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe femoroacetabular posterior translation (FAPT) using dynamic hip ultrasonography (DHUS), and to determine the inter- and intra-rater reliability of hip ultrasound measurements of FAPT. Materials and methods: The study design was a feasibility study of 13 healthy young adults (26 hips) using test–retest analysis. The data was collected prospectively over a 2-week time period. Three DHUS measurements (posterior neutral (PN), flexion, adduction, and internal rotation (PFADIR), and stand and load (PStand) were measured by four independent raters (2 senior who divided the cohort, 1 intermediate, 1 junior) at two time points for bilateral hips of each participant. Reliability was assessed by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each rater and across all raters. Results: A total of 468 US scans were completed. The mean age of the cohort was 25.7 years (SD 5.1 years) and 54% were female. The inter-rater reliability was excellent for PFADIR (ICC 0.85 95% CI 0.76–0.91), good for PN (ICC 0.69 95% CI 0.5–0.81), and good for PStand (ICC 0.72 95% CI 0.55–0.83). The intra-rater reliability for all raters was good for PFADIR (ICC 0.60 95% CI 0.44–0.73), fair for PN (ICC 0.42 95% CI 0.21–0.59), and fair for PStand (ICC 0.42 95% CI 0.22–0.59). Conclusion: This is the first study to present a protocol using dynamic ultrasonography to measure FAPT. DHUS measure for FAPT was shown to be reliable across raters with varying levels of ultrasound experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trust is important for a range of societal outcomes. Despite its significance, there is considerable debate about how best to measure trust. In the context of a newly developed measure of generalized trust—the Stranger Face Trust scale (SFT)—this study evaluates whether different features of survey scales affect the reliability and validity of SFT, which relies on the standard 4-point unipolar scale used by many survey institutes. In a survey experiment conducted with a non-probability sample of U.S. adults (N = 4252), we randomly assigned intensity scale midpoints, polarity, and "don't know" options to SFT. Results indicate that 7- and 9-point bipolar scales without a "don't know" option slightly outperform all other scales on some psychometric tests, particularly those related to formal properties of the scales and factorial validity, but not on psychometric tests assessing survey environment or convergent, discriminant, and concurrent validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Comprehensive cancer-related financial toxicity (FT) measures as a multidimensional construct are lacking. The aims of this systematic review were to (1) identify full measures designed explicitly for assessing FT and evaluate their psychometric properties (content validity, structural validity, reliability, and other measurement properties) using Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN), and (2) provide an analysis of the domains of FT covered in these measures. Methods: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched for quantitative studies published from January 2000 to July 2023 that reported psychometric properties of FT measures in cancer survivors. The psychometric properties of FT measures and study risk of bias were analysed using COSMIN. Each FT measure was compared against the six domains of FT recommended by Witte and colleagues. Results were synthesized narratively. The detailed search strategies are available in Table S1. Results: Six FT tools including the COST-FACIT, PROFFIT, FIT, SFDQ, HARDS, and ENRICh-Spanish were identified. The COST-FACIT measure had good measurement properties. No measure reached an excellent level for overall quality but was mostly rated as sufficient. The SFDQ, HARDS, and ENRICh-Spanish were the most comprehensive in the inclusion of the six domains of FT. Conclusion: This review emphasizes the need for validated multidimensional FT measures that can be applied across various cancer types, healthcare settings, and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, a need to develop practical screening tools with high predictive ability for FT is highly important, considering the significant consequences of FT. Addressing these gaps in future research will further enhance the understanding of FT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale emergencies such as natural and human-made disasters (e.g., hurricanes, terrorist attacks) have profound, deleterious effects on human well-being, including loss of life, physical injury, psychological trauma, and financial devastation. Personal or household emergency preparedness may mitigate the impact of these disasters. Effective and psychometrically sound measures of preparedness are critical to identifying individual differences in these behaviors and testing theories of emergency preparedness. However, there are few personal preparedness measures appropriate for all disaster types, and fewer still with evidence of reliability and validity. This paper describes the development and psychometric validation of an Emergency Preparedness Checklist (EPC), using three separate samples -- university undergraduates, adults living in the DC Metro Area, and a nationwide sample of adults with physical disabilities ? to demonstrate its potential generalizability. Across samples, the EPC had high levels of internal consistency and demonstrated concurrent validity. In addition, research with the EPC has shown that it is related to other constructs (e.g., perception of disaster threat, self-efficacy for emergency preparedness) as expected based on disaster theories. These findings support the EPC?s utility in research on disasters and preparedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and its idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) version (SGRQ-I) are widely used to assess health-related quality of life in IPF. However, the psychometric properties of these questionnaires in the IPF population have not been thoroughly evaluated. This systematic review assessed and summarized the available evidence on the psychometric properties of the SGRQ and SGRQ-I in IPF patients. Methods: Seven electronic databases were searched to identify relevant studies. The eligibility criteria included full-text studies focusing on the psychometric properties of the SGRQ and SGRQ-I in patients with IPF. The risk of bias, criteria for good measurement properties, and strength of evidence were assessed based on the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN). The inverse-variance heterogeneity (IVhet) model was used to pool results for construct validity. Results: A total of 24 studies were included; 19 assessed the psychometric properties of the SGRQ, and seven evaluated the SGRQ-I. Structural validity was assessed in one study for the SGRQ-I. Most domains of the SGRQ and SGRQ-I, except for the symptom domain of the SGRQ, had acceptable internal consistency. Both questionnaires demonstrated adequate test–retest reliability, known-groups validity, and responsiveness. Regarding construct validity, there were moderate to strong correlations with respiratory-specific measures, yet weaker correlations were observed with pulmonary function tests. Interpretability analysis revealed minor floor and ceiling effects. Conclusion: The SGRQ and SGRQ-I have the potential to capture essential dimensions of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in IPF. However, further research should focus on ensuring that the items and domains of these questionnaires truly reflect the unique challenges and experiences faced by patients with IPF through content validity studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to examine the psychometric properties of the Turkish adaptation of the Morningness/Eveningness Scale (M/E Scale-Parent Report Form) family evaluation form for preschool children. The study sample consisted of 276 parents with children aged 4–6 years. The study calculated Cronbach's alpha internal consistency coefficient and corrected item-total correlations of the scale. It also determined the scale's distinctiveness, stability analyses, and convergent validity. The Turkish version of the M/E Scale (Parent Report Form), consisting of 10 items, is unidimensional. The Cronbach's alpha internal consistency coefficient of the scale was 0.80 and the corrected item-total correlation values varied between 0.51 and 0.76. There was a positive correlation at the level of 0.75 between the applications of the scale with two-week intervals and at the level of 0.63 between the single-item chronotype scale within the scope of convergent validity and the M/E Scale (Parent Report Form). This study determined a low correlation between the child's chronotype and the father's chronotype, and a moderate correlation with the mother's chronotype. The Turkish M/E Scale (Parent Report Form) was found to be valid and reliable. This scale is a short and easy-to-use measurement tool for determining the chronotypes of 4–6-year-old children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the current knowledge and experiences of consumers in Australia on adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting and their reasons for reporting or not reporting ADRs, with a focus on the use of digital tools for ADR reporting. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among adults who had taken medicine in Australia. A structured questionnaire with multiple choice or Likert scale responses with an option for participants to provide free-text responses and pretested for face validity was used. Consumer characteristics, knowledge, and ADR reporting practices were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. Results: A total of 544 survey responses were included in the analysis. The majority of respondents were women (68%), and 22% were aged between 65 and 74 years. Fifty-eight percent (n = 317) of respondents knew that they could report ADRs to either the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), state or territory government health department, or healthcare professionals. Three-quarters (n = 405) of respondents stated that they had experienced an ADR; of these, 36% reported an ADR to either the TGA, state or territory government health department, or healthcare professionals. Among those who reported ADRs, 58% were unaware that they could use digital tools to report ADRs. The main reason for not reporting was that they did not think the ADR was serious enough to report (39%). Conclusion: Over half of consumers knew that they could report ADR; however, improved consumer awareness about using digital tools for ADR reporting and increased ADR reporting is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Are some daily job stressors good for employees? The challenge-hindrance stressor framework (CHSF) attempts to shed light on this question by categorizing stressors according to their ability to facilitate (challenge stressors) or inhibit (hindrance stressors) growth and achievement. According to the CHSF, challenge stressors should be associated with increased performance, but also with increased strain which subsequently hurts performance. Conversely, hindrance stressors should be associated with reduced performance both directly and indirectly via strain. Prior meta-analytic investigations have focused on more stable job stressors (using cross-sectional or longitudinal primary studies), and found contradicting resulted in support of the CHSF predictions. In the current meta-analysis, we tested the validity of the CHSF using a more dynamic view of stressors, by applying it to short-term, daily experiences of stressors, strains, and performance outcomes. Results from 78 unique samples indicated that at the within-person level, hindrance stressors have both a direct and an indirect (via strain) short-term effect on performance. Challenge stressors have a positive direct effect on performance but a negative indirect effect via strain. Furthermore, we examined two performance indicators separately: task performance and organizational citizenship behaviors (OCB). The results revealed that challenge stressors have a stronger positive association with OCB than with task performance. Hindrance stressors exhibited the opposite pattern, a stronger negative association with task performance than with OCB. The results of this study suggest that all daily stressors result in strain, which negatively relates to performance, though challenge stressors also have some positive effects on daily performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructive voice encompasses a multitude of voice message content. However, existing measures of voice do not capture these differences in a precise way and contribute to inconclusive evidence. Based on existing conceptualizations of constructive voice, we suggest that employee voice messages differ along three main dimensions: (1) suggesting innovative opportunities versus highlighting harm (functional orientation), (2) offering specific suggestions versus pointing out problems (substantive orientation), and (3) addressing existing versus potential future issues (temporal orientation). Using this three-dimensional approach, we define five distinct prototypical facets of voice with well-defined conceptual boundaries. Through two expert studies (N = 12 and N = 10), we identify uncertainties in the content of current voice measures. We then introduce a newly developed measure that addresses these shortcomings. In two consecutive survey studies (N = 132 and N = 553), we present initial evidence supporting the reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of this measure. The correlations among the five facets of voice were high. However, we also found evidence for differential associations with some antecedents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]