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Purpose: Most modern hearing aids (HAs) employ wide dynamic range compression (WDRC) and noise reduction (NR) algorithms. It is known that the non-linear effects of WDRC and NR cause changes to the output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of an HA. However, the relative contributions of WDRC and NR to the nonlinear effects are not fully understood. The current study investigated (a) whether WDRC or NR dominates the nonlinear effects measured at the output of a digital HA and (b) whether the electroacoustic effectiveness of NR depends on WDRC parameters while input SNR and background noise are systematically varied. Method: Test stimuli were Connected Speech Test sentences in multitalker babble noise (2- or 20-talker), presented at input SNRs ranging from -10 to +10 dB. The HA was programmed using multiband WDRC set according to the National Acoustic Laboratories for Nonlinear HA fitting formula 2 prescriptive fits for four standard audiograms and two compression speeds. The NR algorithm of the HA was switched on or off in separate conditions. Nonlinear electroacoustic effects from the WDRC and NR algorithms were assessed by measuring the output SNR of the HA using a phase-inversion technique. To investigate whether there are other factors that may be important besides the output SNR, the Hearing Aid Speech Intelligibility Index and the Hearing Aid Speech Quality Index were applied to the recordings to generate inferences on aided speech intelligibility and perceived speech quality. Results: Results showed that WDRC dominated the net nonlinear effect at low-input SNRs, and the net nonlinear effect of WDRC and NR was reduced at high-input SNRs. Results also showed that the effectiveness of NR depended on compression parameters. The effectiveness of NR was partially explained by the trend of Hearing Aid Speech Intelligibility Index and Hearing Aid Speech Quality Index scores, potentially indicating that the Hearing Aid Speech Intelligibility Index and Hearing Aid Speech Quality Index scores may capture factors that cannot be captured by the output SNR metric. Conclusions: Results suggest that the individual signal-processing stages in an HA should not be considered as independent. Electroacoustic evaluation of WDRC and NR algorithms in isolation is not sufficient to capture the combined nonlinear effect of the two algorithms. Supplemental Material: https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25962541 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a way to evaluate experiences in everyday life. It is a powerful research tool but can be complex and challenging for beginners. Application of EMA in audiological research brings with it opportunities and challenges that differ from other research disciplines. This tutorial discusses important considerations when conducting EMA studies in hearing care. While more research is needed to develop specific guidelines for the various potential applications of EMA in hearing research, we hope this article can alert hearing researchers new to EMA to pitfalls when using EMA and help strengthen their study design. The current article elaborates study design details, such as choice of participants, representativeness of the study period for participants' lives, and balancing participant burden with data requirements. Mobile devices and sensors to collect objective data on the acoustic situation are reviewed alongside different possibilities for EMA setups ranging from online questionnaires paired with a timer to proprietary apps that also have access to parameters of a hearing device. In addition to considerations for survey design, a list of questionnaire items from previous studies is provided. For each item, an example and a list of references are given. EMA typically provides data sets that are rich but also challenging in that they are noisy, and there is often unequal amount of data between participants. After recommendations on how to check the data for compliance, reactivity, and careless responses, methods for statistical analysis on the individual level and on the group level are discussed including special methods for direct comparison of hearing device programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adiponectin is a factor secreted by adipocytes and has been shown to play an important role in many physiological and pathological processes. Previous studies have shown that adiponectin levels are closely related to the occurrence and prognosis of ischemic stroke, but the results of different studies are conflicting. Therefore, this study aimed to update the data in this area to explore the relationship between adiponectin levels and the occurrence and prognosis of ischemic stroke. Results: After searching 762 records, 14 studies were finally included, including 10 studies on the incidence of ischemic stroke and 4 studies on the prognosis of patients with ischemic stroke. The results of Meta-analysis showed that the correlation between the level of adiponectin and the occurrence and prognosis of ischemic stroke was not significant. The risk of ischemic stroke was not significantly changed in the population with high adiponectin levels (pooled RR=1.00, 95% CI=0.86-1.16, P=1.00). Similarly, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality among those with high adiponectin levels compared with ischemic stroke patients with low adiponectin levels (pooled RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.47-0.80). However, significant heterogeneity was found during the meta-analysis, P<0.0001; I2=72% and P<0.0001; I2=88%, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that factors such as study design, follow-up time and publication time could partly explain this heterogeneity. Conclusions: In conclusion, adiponectin level is not significantly correlated with the occurrence and prognosis of ischemic stroke, suggesting that adiponectin level may not be used as a potential biomarker for ischemic stroke risk assessment and patient prognosis prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Change of directions (COD) involves multidirectional and complex actions, with performance influenced by multiple factors. As lower limb strength is one of the most determinant of COD performance, the present study aimed to (a) explore the differences in strength outcomes across different lower limb muscle actions between faster and slower basketball players in COD actions at different angles and (b) analyse the relationship between isometric, concentric and eccentric strength outcomes and COD performance at different cutting angles. Twenty‐five basketball players (44% female) completed a battery of tests, encompassing isokinetic and isometric squat strength assessments, along with COD tests at 45°, 90° and 180°. Players were categorised as 'low‐performance' and 'high‐performance' groups based on execution time in COD, facilitating a comparison between performance groups. Results indicated that concentric strength showed the greatest differences between performance groups at 45° COD (effect size ≥ 0.813; p ≤ 0.034). Isometric and eccentric strength demonstrated a moderate‐to‐large relationship with 90° COD performance (Rho ≥ 0.394; p ≤ 0.045), and all muscle actions exhibited a large relationship with 180° COD (Rho ≥ 0.445; p ≤ 0.030). Moreover, the fastest players showed higher levels of concentric strength relative to eccentric strength, regardless of the cutting angle. These findings hold practical applications, suggesting that basketball coaches should train a specific kind of muscle action depending on the individual players' COD demands, focusing on improving the rapid eccentric force application while striving to reduce the eccentric/concentric ratio. Highlights: Strength is undeniably a key indicator in change of directions (COD) performance. The relationship between strength outcome measures and COD proficiency depends on the cutting angle.Cutting angles below 90° emphasise concentric strength, while those above 90° exhibit a stronger reliance on isometric and eccentric strength.Rapid eccentric force production strongly correlates with COD performance across all cutting angles. However, the fastest players exhibit higher concentric strength relative to their eccentric strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foam materials produced from biopolymers stand out as a more environmentally friendly insulation material solution. This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the development and optimization of chitosan‐based foam materials using a Box–Behnken design. The foams were engineered using varying proportions of chitosan (0.5–3%), cellulose (0.5–3%), and zeolite (0.5–3%), targeting their application as thermal insulators. The physical and thermal properties of the foams that were produced were affected by the type and ratios of components, with density and thermal conductivity ranging from 0.0853 to 0.1915 g cm−3 and 0.0324 to 0.0921 W mK−1, respectively. Higher chitosan content improved insulation properties and mechanical strength whereas zeolite increments increased density and thermal conductivity. Using statistical analysis through the Box–Behnken design, we optimized the foam formulations, achieving minimum thermal conductivity and maximum compression strength at an averaged density, suggesting a strong potential for environmental sustainability applications. The recommended optimal chitosan:cellulose:zeolite composition ratio of 3:3:0.88 provides a valuable insight for tailored foam material formulation. This study shows the relationships between the composition of a composite material and its resultant properties, optimizing its preparation for industrial applicability in an environmentally conscious way within the context of insulation and construction. This investigation contributes to the field of material science by highlighting the versatility and potential of biopolymers but also aligns with the increasing need for green building materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under‐representation of subgroups of the population in clinical trials has been and continues to be a problem despite goals of academia, industry, and government. Older adults are among the groups that are under‐represented in trials of medications that they are likely to receive once marketing approval has been received. Recent legislation that mandates that clinical trial participants be representative of patient population has been passed and creates hope that greater numbers of older adults will be enrolled in clinical trials and that they will be representative of "typical" geriatric patients. However, there is the need for collection of current data on disease prevalences with granularity as to age, gender, and race as well as geriatric co‐morbidities to assess the representativeness of clinical trial participants relative to patient populations. Consensus on definitions and collection of data relevant to geriatric patient populations are needed to evaluate effects of comorbidities, frailty, cognitive and physical function. There will also be a need for expansion of the geriatric research workforce, facilities for research both in academic centers but also in the community and long‐term care facilities, and for engagement with and involvement of communities that have been traditionally under‐represented to conduct clinical trials that enroll truly representative patient populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many examples of the use of real-world data in the area of pharmacoepidemiology include "big data," such as insurance claims, medical records, or hospital discharge databases. However, "big" is not always better, particularly when studying outcomes with narrow windows of etiologic relevance. Birth defects are such an outcome, for which specificity of exposure timing is critical. Studies with primary data collection can be designed to query details about the timing of medication use, as well as type, dose, frequency, duration, and indication, that can better characterize the "real world." Because birth defects are rare, etiologic studies are typically case‑control in design, like the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, Birth Defects Study to Evaluate Pregnancy Exposures, and Slone Birth Defects Study. Recall bias can be a concern, but the ability to collect detailed information about both prescription and over-the-counter medication use and other exposures such as diet, family history, and sociodemographic factors is a distinct advantage over claims and medical record data sources. Case‑control studies with primary data collection are essential to advancing the pharmacoepidemiology of birth defects. This article is part of a Special Collection on Pharmacoepidemiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The health‐related quality of life instrument with 8 items (HINT‐8) was developed to measure health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in Korea. However, the HINT‐8 has not yet been validated among the family caregivers of people with dementia (PwD). Design: A cross‐sectional pilot study. Objective: The study aimed to examine the convergent and discriminant validity of the HINT‐8 among family caregivers of individuals with dementia. Sample: Forty‐seven family caregivers of PwD. Measurements: HINT‐8 was compared with the 5‐level EQ‐5D (EQ‐5D‐5L) to assess its convergent and discriminant validity. Additionally, the association between the two instruments assessing HRQoL was examined using the short‐form Bédard‐Zarit Burden Interview (SZBI). Results: The HINT‐8 was a promising and valid HRQoL instrument for family caregivers of PwD. There was a significantly high correlation between the overall HINT‐8 and EQ‐5D‐5L indices (r = 0.85, p <.001). The HINT‐8 had acceptable psychometric properties compared to the commonly used EQ‐5D‐5L, as indicated by the subdomains associated with family caregiversʼ burden measured by the SZBI. Conclusion: Future studies should compare the HINT‐8 with existing dementia carer‐specific QoL instruments among a larger study sample to enhance its statistical power and confirm its reliability and structural validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stop the Bleed® is an emergency response course that offers a certificate of completion but no ending assessment. The purpose of this educational study was to develop and test the Response Readiness Tool (RRT) that measures learning of participants after taking Stop the Bleed®. The study used a pre‐/post‐test design to measure knowledge and attitudes, and a post‐test only for skills. Participants were recruited from existing Stop the Bleed® courses. Knowledge was measured with a 10‐item questionnaire, attitude was measured with five Likert‐style questions, and skills were measured by observing simulated tourniquet placement. Ninety‐five participants were recruited over two semesters. There was a significant difference in the knowledge and attitude scores indicating participants' improvement in learning and attitude toward responding. Internal consistency reliability of scores showed moderate reliability with Cronbach's Alpha of 0.73 and McDonald's Omega of 0.75. A positive correlation was found between expected proficiency and pre‐test indicating the tool had construct validity. RRT provides Stop the Bleed® instructors with an instrument to measure knowledge, skills, and attitude of participants after taking Stop the Bleed®. Statistics show moderate reliability and validity; however, larger samples are needed for full psychometric testing. This publication presents the revised tool after the completion of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Environmental aesthetics is a recognized macro environmental correlate of physical activity participation. Extrapolating this effect, we hypothesize this variable to also function as a determinant of exercise participation in the microenvironment, such as the home. Specifically, we predict that the environmental aesthetics of the location of cardio and resistance training equipment will predict determinants of exercise participation within the integrated behavior change model. Methods: Adult owners of exercise equipment (N = 231) completed measures on the environmental aesthetics of their cardio and resistance training equipment, exercise time, and constructs from the integrated behavior change model across three consecutive monthly surveys. Study hypotheses were tested using multilevel structural equation modeling with participants (level 2) nested within time (level 1). Results: The model revealed predictive effects of intention, habit, and planning on exercise participation over time. The findings indicated a total effect of autonomous motivation on intention and habit. In addition, environmental aesthetics of cardio and strength training equipment predicted autonomous motivation, along with habit and intention when accounting for indirect effects. Finally, planning moderated the intention--behavior relationship, indicating that participants who scored higher on planning were more likely to translate their intentions to behavior. Conclusions: These findings provide informative notes for designing effective home-based exercise programs, which have increased in popularity over the past recent years. Specifically, experimental studies that provide exercise equipment should ensure that the location of the equipment is appealing to the participant to increase the likelihood equipment use and exercise engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effect of the MC and endogenous sex hormone concentrations on performance-determining variables in three distinctMC phases in endurance-trained females. Methods: Twenty-one eumenorrheic trained/highly trained endurance athletes completed a standardized test battery during the early follicular phase (EFP), ovulatory phase (OP), and midluteal phase (MLP) for either one (n = 7) or two test cycles (n = 14). MC phases were determined using calendar-based counting, urinary ovulation testing, and verified with serum hormone analysis. MCs were retrospectively classified as eumenorrheic or disturbed. Disturbed MCs were excluded from analysis. The test battery consisted of 4-6 x 5-min submaximal stages with stepwise speed increases, a 30-s all-out double-poling ski ergometer test, and a maximal incremental treadmill running test. Results: At a group level, there was no effect of MC phase or the serum concentrations of estrogen and progesterone on peak oxygen uptake (...), oxygen uptake at 4 mmol⋅L-1 blood lactate concentration, time to exhaustion, running economy, or mean 30-s power output (MPO30s). Serum testosterone concentration was positively associated with MPO30s (P = 0.016). Changes in ... from EFP to MLP were inconsistent between individuals and across cycles. Conclusions: None of the measured performance-determining variables were influenced by MC phase or serumestrogen or progesterone concentrations. Although some individual patterns could be observed, there was no indication that any single MC phase is consistently associated with improved or impaired ... on a group level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review presents a comprehensive summary and critical evaluation of intention-to-treat analysis, with a particular focus on its application to randomized controlled trials within the field of rehabilitation. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we conducted a methodological review that encompassed electronic and manual search strategies to identify relevant studies. Our selection process involved two independent reviewers who initially screened titles and abstracts and subsequently performed full-text screening based on established eligibility criteria. In addition, we included studies from manual searches that were already cataloged within the first author's personal database. The findings are synthesized through a narrative approach, covering fundamental aspects of intention to treat, including its definition, common misconceptions, advantages, disadvantages, and key recommendations. Notably, the health literature offers a variety of definitions for intention to treat, which can lead to misinterpretations and inappropriate application when analyzing randomized controlled trial results, potentially resulting in misleading findings with significant implications for healthcare decision making. Authors should clearly report the specific intention-to-treat definition used in their analysis, provide details on participant dropouts, and explain upon their approach to managing missing data. Adherence to reporting guidelines, such as the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials for randomized controlled trials, is essential to standardize intention-to-treat information, ensuring the delivery of accurate and informative results for healthcare decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To develop and validate a novel questionnaire aimed at providing a structured, evidence-based methodology for hearing aid recommendation and selection using self-reported importance ratings for different modern hearing aid features. Design: The initial questionnaire items were created through a concept mapping approach that involved input from hearing aid users. Hearing care professional focus groups (n = 10) were conducted to assess questionnaire content and design, and to guide modifications. Validation of this initial 34-item version of the questionnaire was conducted using an anonymous online survey tool (Qualtrics). Exploratory factor analysis was used to assess the factor structure of the dataset, using principal axis factoring. Questionnaire reliability and inter-item correlation were assessed. Items with low factor loading and high cross-loading were removed. Study sample: Two hundred and eighteen adult participants with a self-reported hearing loss (median age = 48 years, range = 18–95 years) completed the questionnaire. Results: Analysis and item removal resulted in a 28-item questionnaire. Three factors were identified, dividing the hearing aid features into the subscales: "Advanced connectivity & streaming", "Physical attributes & usability", and "Sound quality & intelligibility". Conclusion: This study has resulted in a patient-oriented questionnaire that allows clinicians to gather patient input in a structured manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Develop and test a Food-Related Control Scale (FRCS) measuring resident-perceived control in long-term care food service. A bank of 15 initial items based on a multidimensional locus of control construct was developed initially. Expert review, cognitive interviews, a pilot study, and factor analysis were used to validate the instrument and assess reliability. Individual phone-based cognitive interviews and 16 skilled nursing facilities in the US. Cognitive interviews included a convenience sample of independently living adults aged ≥ 65 (n = 13), whereas the pilot study included skilled nursing facility-residing adults (n = 166). Perception of food-related control in a long-term care setting. Cognitive interviews were analyzed to develop items. Quantitative data from skilled nursing facility residents were analyzed using SAS software for structural equation modeling and factor analysis. A 2-dimensional construct (9 items) of the FRCS demonstrated reliability with factor analysis. Concurrent validity within the locus of control construct was demonstrated with the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (standardized estimate of 0.430; P < 0.1). The FRCS may be used to determine how residents in long-term care perceive control over their food experiences. Further testing is necessary to determine the appropriateness of the FRCS for different population uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between the efficiency of mechanical energy flow in the torso and bat head speed at impact. Ninety-eight amateur baseball players batted a light ball tossed from the pitcher direction 3.2 m away. The batting motion and ground reaction forces acting on each foot were recorded using a motion capture system and two force plates, respectively. The mechanical powers of the joint forces and joint torques were calculated to measure the generation, absorption, and transfer of mechanical energy in the torso. The transfer efficiency of mechanical energy in the torso was defined as the ratio of the mechanical energy inflow into the thorax from the torso joint to the mechanical energy outflow from the pelvis to the torso joint. The correlation coefficient between the bat head speed and transfer efficiency of mechanical energy in the torso was very low. Conversely, the mechanical energy flow in the torso was significantly correlated to the bat head speed. Therefore, the results suggest that the torso in baseball batting is not utilised for the generation of mechanical energy but acts as a pathway for the transfer of mechanical energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Glucocorticoid‐induced tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily–related protein (GITR), with its ligand (GITRL), plays an important role in CD4+ T cell–mediated autoimmunity. This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of GITRL in primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS). Methods: Patients with pSS and healthy controls were recruited. Serum GITRL and Th17‐related cytokines were determined. RNA sequencing was performed to decipher key signal pathways. Nonobese diabetes (NOD) mice were adopted as experimental Sjögren models and recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV) transduction was conducted to verify the therapeutic potentials of targeting GITRL in vivo. Results: Serum GITRL was significantly higher in patients with pSS and showed a positive correlation with leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, autoantibodies, lung involvement, and disease activity. Serum GITRL was correlated with Th17‐related cytokines. GITRL promoted the expansion of Th17 and Th17.1 cells. Expansion of granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor positive (GM‐CSF+) CD4+ T cells induced by GITRL could be inhibited by blockade of GITRL. Moreover, GM‐CSF could stimulate GITRL expression on monocytes. RNA sequencing revealed mammalian target of rapamycin complexes 1 (mTORC1) might be the key modulator. The increased phosphorylation of S6 and STAT3 and the expansion of Th17 and Th17.1 cells induced by GITRL were effectively inhibited by rapamycin, suggesting a GITRL–mTORC1–GM‐CSF positive loop in pathogenic Th17 response in pSS. Administration of an rAAV vector expressing short hairpin RNA targeting GITRL alleviated disease progression in NOD mice. Conclusion: Our results identified the pathogenic role of GITRL in exacerbating disease activity and promoting pathogenic Th17 response in pSS through a GITRL–mTORC1–GM‐CSF loop. These findings suggest GITRL might be a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of pSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there are no existing measures to screen for or diagnose Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder (SPCD). We conducted an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of the Social Communication Disorder Screener (SCDS), a 14-item, parent-report measure based on the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for SPCD. This EFA examined the internal consistency and factor structure of the SCDS for a sample of 500 parents of children, ages 5–18 years, representative of the U.S. census. Results yielded a correlated three-factor solution with good internal consistency reliability. Findings supported the presence of three subscale as well as the derivation of a total composite score reflecting overall verbal and non-verbal communication and limitations across contexts. Clinical and research implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is a group-based social skills training program for adolescents on the autism spectrum. Although the program has been shown to be effective in improving social skills in autistic adolescents, evidence of its effectiveness from the Mandarin-speaking Chinese population is sparse. The present study used a non-randomized, pre- and post-intervention research design to investigate the feasibility and cultural validity of the program, as well as examine the moderators of intervention outcomes. Methods: Thirty-three autistic adolescents with intelligence quotient above 70 (Mage = 13.57, SDage = 1.43; Male: Female 25:8) and their parents received 14 concurrent 90-minute sessions. Adolescents' autistic traits, challenging behaviors, emotional functioning, socio-cognitive process, social environment factors (school support), and caregivers' well-being were evaluated. Results: The findings suggest that with minor adjustments, the Mandarin version of PEERS® was generally acceptable and feasible for autistic adolescents and their parents. PEERS® may improve the social skills knowledge, reciprocal communication abilities, and emotional well-being of autistic adolescents. Also, participants with a higher level of school support, and parents with lower perceived subjective well-being at baseline may gain more benefits from PEERS®. The cultural adaptation and acceptability of the Mandarin Version of PEERS® were discussed. Conclusion: This feasibility study (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2200061417, 2022-06-23, retrospectively registered) provides a basis for further randomized control trials of the Mandarin version of PEERS®. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the backlash effect predominantly investigated penalties men and women incurred when they violate gender norms in the domain of achievement‐oriented aggressiveness. We investigated backlash reactions towards female versus male leaders' attempts to manage follower emotions using one of two gender‐stereotypic interpersonal emotion management strategies, cognitive change or expression suppression, in a 2×2 vignette experiment in which undergraduate students as participants acted as followers (N = 206). We hypothesized that followers high in explicit or implicit prejudice towards female leadership would be motivated to show backlash in the form of negative attitudes and anger when female leaders use an expression suppression strategy and when male leaders use a cognitive change strategy, violating gender norms. We also explored the role of followers' gender as a boundary condition of backlash reactions towards leaders of the same versus opposite sex. Male participants with negative explicit attitudes towards women leaders in general expressed higher levels of anger towards a female leader who utilized a suppression strategy. Female participants holding implicit stereotypes reported negative attitudes for both female and male leaders who utilized a gender‐incongruent emotion management strategy. We discuss the implications of our findings for theory and research on the backlash effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study developed a short version of a scale measuring attitudes toward people living with dementia, the Four‐Item Attitudes toward People Living with Dementia Scale (APDS4), that could be included in a large population survey. Methods: We used three datasets from Japan: a web panel survey, a community‐based mail survey, and data from a randomised controlled trial on dementia education. The original scale used was the Attitudes toward People Living with Dementia Scale developed by Kim and Kuroda. Test–retest reliability and item response theory analyses were used to reduce the number of items. The reliability, internal consistency, validity, and responsiveness of the short version were evaluated. Results: Six items with low test–retest reliability and four items with low discrimination parameters were removed from the 14‐item scale. The APDS4, consisting of four items, had test–retest reliability and internal consistency comparable to those of the original scale. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the APDS4 fit a unidimensional model. The validity of the APDS4 was confirmed by significant associations between the APDS4 scores and the original scale scores, knowledge of dementia, helping behaviour intentions toward people living with dementia, helping behaviour experience, attending the Dementia Supporter Training Course, and engagement in healthcare jobs. In a randomised controlled trial dataset, the APDS4 was more responsive to educational interventions than the original scale. Conclusion: The shortened APDS4 was established as a reliable, validated, and responsive scale. This scale can be used efficiently in population surveys to evaluate dementia‐friendly initiatives at the community level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are significant challenges associated with conducting research with a researcher from another institution, in another country or with another culture, and even more challenges when all three factors apply. This paper critically appraises the complexities of a cross-cultural, international and collaborative research project, and identifies the challenges for the researchers and their organisations, and the ways in which these were managed. It evaluates the process of obtaining ethics approval from two organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand and Fiji. This paper presents the perspectives of both the researchers and the organisations providing ethics approval. There is often concern that research conducted by someone from a 'global north' country (here, Aotearoa New Zealand) in a 'global south' country (here, Fiji) will have power asymmetries, and that research will disadvantage the researched community, or not provide any benefit back to them; this project directly addressed these concerns. The research outputs, and research outcomes and impact, need to be considered at the research design stage to ensure they are appropriate for the community in which the research is being conducted. While organisations may be reluctant to approve research conducted in a different culture and country, the risks can be managed and mitigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asymmetric orthogonal arrays are very useful in theoretical studies and practical applications. However, it is difficult to construct such designs of high strength. In this article, we use the generator matrix method to obtain some asymmetric orthogonal arrays of strength three. Then we combine it with the general (further) replacement procedure to get more general asymmetric orthogonal arrays of high strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orthogonal arrays (OAs) are widely applied in the statistical design of experiments. The Hamming distances of OAs play an increasingly important role in various areas; however, it is difficult to use Hamming distances, especially for tight and mixed orthogonal arrays (MOAs). For example, two OAs with the same parameters may have distinct Hamming distances due to their different structures and constructions. In addition, studies on Hamming distances of tight OAs are scant, with the exception of a study indicating that a tight symmetrical OA of strength 2 has a constant Hamming distance. In this article, we calculate Hamming distances for high-strength OAs, including all tight symmetrical OAs of strength 3, 4, and 5. Interestingly, the Hamming distances do not depend on the constructions or structures of the arrays. Additionally, we study the Hamming distances of several classes of MOAs of strength 2 and 3, some of which are not related to the structures of the arrays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study sought to provide evidence for a measure of schizoid personality disorder (SZD PD) traits using the Five-Factor Model framework of personality. In the first study, undergraduate participants (n = 496) completed the Five-Factor Schizoid Inventory (FFZI) and other self-report measures. The first half of the sample was used to develop the FFZI, while the second half was used to validate it. The FFZI demonstrated excellent internal consistency, convergent validity with measures of SZD PD and hypothesized IPIP-NEO facets, and discriminant validity with other PDs and non-hypothesized IPIP-NEO facets. The second study recruited MTurk participants (n = 181) and demonstrated preliminary support for the reliability and validity of the FFZI in an online, community sample. Ultimately, these data suggest that the FFZI is a useful measure of SZD PD and provide further evidence that SZD PD can be conceptualized as a maladaptive extension of introversion traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI) and Hogan Developmental Survey (HDS) are among the most widely used and extensively well-validated personality inventories for organizational applications; however, they are rarely used in basic research. We describe the Hogan Personality Content Single-Items (HPCS) inventory, an inventory designed to measure the 74 content subscales of the HPI and HDS via a single-item each. We provide evidence of the reliability and validity of the HPCS, including item-level retest reliability estimates, both self-other agreement and other-other (or observer) agreement, convergent correlations with the corresponding scales from the full HPI/HDS instruments, and analyze how similarly the HPCS and full HPI/HDS instruments relate to other variables. We discuss situations where administering the HPCS may have certain advantages and disadvantages relative to the full HPI and HDS. We also discuss how the current findings contribute to an emerging picture of best practices for the development and use of inventories consisting of single-item scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent work has identified fearlessness about suicide, rather than fearlessness about death, as more theoretically relevant in the assessment of capability for suicide and thus a more appropriate construct of measurement. The aim of the current project was to develop and validate a scale specifically assessing fearlessness about suicide. Across two studies, support for a 7-item, single-factor structure of the Fearlessness About Suicide Scale (FSS) emerged. The FSS factor structure demonstrated a good fit in the first study and was replicated in the second study. Measurement invariance was examined across those identifying as men and women and found to be comparable. The FSS also demonstrated test–rest reliability and good convergent and divergent validity in community and undergraduate samples. Overall, findings indicate that the FSS has a replicable factor structure that generalizes across those identifying as men and women and may better assess components of capability for suicide than existing scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online vendors often deploy limited-time and limited-quantity cues on their e-commerce sites to influence consumers purchase decisions. Although these scarcity cues can reflect genuine restrictions in the availability of goods, they are increasingly considered as ill-intentioned nudges or 'dark patterns' due to their omnipresence and success in persuading consumers. In an online experiment (N = 202), we examined the effects of limited-time and limited-quantity cues on perceived task load, perceived benevolence, and user experience. Results suggest that participants associated scarcity cues with a lack of benevolence from online vendors. E-commerce site design without scarcity cues provided participants with a superior hedonic and pragmatic user experience. In the case of limited-time scarcity cues, participants reported frustration-related negative emotions. We discuss the implications of these findings from the perspectives of dark pattern researchers, designers, and online vendors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhythm is essential in early music education. To acquire rhythm abilities, the synchronisation between body and rhythm patterns is fundamental. Extensive research has shown the link between the auditory-motor system and rhythm acquisition; however, other sensorimotor systems also improve rhythm skills. Rhythm acquisition can be trained using new technologies, such as video games; however, most of these use mainly auditory stimuli to improve it. Therefore, in this work, we explore tactile stimuli to improve rhythm skills using a video game and how visual elements affect rhythm perception using different stimuli. We evaluate and compare the synchronisation of 27 participants following either vibrotactile or auditory stimuli emitted through a rhythm video game in two difficulty levels and we evaluated the user experience. Consistent with the literature, our results indicate that participants synchronised slightly better using auditory than vibrotactile stimuli and players' performance was better when they had visual guides. A fatigue effect persisted and increased over playtime in both conditions. In the current study, usability measures indicate no significant differences. These findings suggest that vibrotactile stimuli are also suitable to train rhythm skills in a video game environment and the game-elements play an important role in players' performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to test the effects of two message features (source and level of autonomy support) that are commonly found in short-form social media (e.g. TikTok) videos about Pap tests. The source is defined as who is communicating the message, and autonomy support refers to providing an individual with the independence, respect, and choice to make their own decision. In an online experiment, 636 females aged 21–29 viewed TikTok videos about Pap tests varying in source (doctor vs. peer) and level of autonomy support (either using controlling language to demand getting a Pap test or being supportive of one's choice of whether they receive a Pap test) and then responded to outcomes measures including perceived source credibility, perceived message effectiveness, attitude toward the message, attitude toward Pap tests, intention to engage with the videos, and intention to get a Pap test. Doctors were perceived as more credible than peers, and doctor videos were perceived to be more effective than peer videos. Autonomy support interacted with source, such that autonomy-supportive videos delivered by a doctor improved attitude toward the messaging and attitude toward Pap tests. Regardless of the source, autonomy-supportive videos increased intention to engage with the content on social media. As Pap test rates have recently declined among young women in the United States and viewing of Pap test-related videos has skyrocketed on the TikTok platform, short-form social media sites like TikTok may be an effective health communication tool for health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the self-worth strengthening group psycho-education program based on systemic therapy on the self-worth of emerging adults. The study was designed in a static group experimental design including pre and post-tests and follow-up test. The experimental (n = 12) and control groups (n = 12) consisted of a total of 24 emerging adults. The Cooper-Smith Self-esteem Scale was used to test. An eight-sessions group psycho-education was applied to the experimental group. Results revealed that group psycho-education strengthened the self-worth of emerging adults. The results of the research were discussed within the framework of the relevant literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given that AI is becoming an increasingly active participant in work teams, this study explores how team trust emerges in human–AI teams compared to human–human teams. Adopting a multi‐level approach, we conducted two experimental studies (NStudy1 = 247 two‐member teams and NStudy2 = 106 three‐member teams, 828 individuals overall) and investigated how team composition (with AI or human team members) impacts interpersonal trust (affective and cognitive) and thus team trust. In two‐member teams, interpersonal trust via perceived trustworthiness and not via perceived similarity was lower in human–AI teams compared to human–human teams. Exploratory findings showed that team identification and cognitive interpersonal trust were also lower in two‐member human–AI teams than in human–human teams. However, in three‐member teams, we found no differences in team trust via interpersonal trust between the two team types. Instead, our findings revealed that perceived trustworthiness and perceived similarity increased interpersonal trust and, in turn, team trust for both team types. With this research, we showed that underlying theories and evidence of team trust in human‐only teams can enhance understanding of human–AI teams, though the results indicated certain differences that call for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research suggests that understanding workers' attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI) application is a prerequisite to successfully integrating AI into an organization. However, few studies have clarified the meaning of attitudes towards AI application at work (AAAW) as a multifaceted construct that can be assessed with psychometric validity. To address this issue, we developed and validated a scale to capture individuals' AAAW using three independent samples (total N = 2841). The resulting 25‐item scale covers an overall construct of AAAW as well as six dimensions that are subsumed under the construct (i.e., perceived humanlikeness, perceived adaptability, perceived quality of AI, AI use anxiety, job insecurity and personal utility). Our findings suggest that the AAAW scale has good psychometric properties and can be used to predict important recruiting outcomes. The scale offers opportunities to better understand and measure workers' attitudes towards AI application at work in a comprehensive and integrative manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gaming can serve as an educational tool to allow trainees to practice surgical decision-making in a low-stakes environment. LapBot is a novel free interactive mobile game application that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to provide players with feedback on safe dissection during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). This study aims to provide validity evidence for this mobile game. Methods: Trainees and surgeons participated by downloading and playing LapBot on their smartphone. Players were presented with intraoperative LC scenes and required to locate their preferred location of dissection of the hepatocystic triangle. They received immediate accuracy scores and personalized feedback using an AI algorithm ("GoNoGoNet") that identifies safe/dangerous zones of dissection. Player scores were assessed globally and across training experience using non-parametric ANOVA. Three-month questionnaires were administered to assess the educational value of LapBot. Results: A total of 903 participants from 64 countries played LapBot. As game difficulty increased, average scores (p < 0.0001) and confidence levels (p < 0.0001) decreased significantly. Scores were significantly positively correlated with players' case volume (p = 0.0002) and training level (p = 0.0003). Most agreed that LapBot should be incorporated as an adjunct into training programs (64.1%), as it improved their ability to reflect critically on feedback they receive during LC (47.5%) or while watching others perform LC (57.5%). Conclusions: Serious games, such as LapBot, can be effective educational tools for deliberate practice and surgical coaching by promoting learner engagement and experiential learning. Our study demonstrates that players' scores were correlated to their level of expertise, and that after playing the game, most players perceived a significant educational value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, investigators examined the effects of an instructional reading package consisting of shared reading and systematic instruction (e.g., task analysis, system of least prompts, visual supports, and native language support) in a small group setting on percentage of correct consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) words for three elementary participants with extensive support needs who also were multilingual learners. A multiple probe design across word sets with replication across participants resulted in a functional relation between the percentage of correct CVC words acquired and the instructional package. In addition, there were positive changes in exploratory (secondary) dependent variables that included components of reading (i.e., phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and generalization) as demonstrated through pre-posttest assessments. Social validity measures for parents, students, and paraprofessionals also revealed positive pre-post changes. Limitations and future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coaching has a well-established history over the past two decades as a development tool and it can help entrepreneurs deal with the psychological challenges of building a venture. But there is a lack of understanding how coaching can support entrepreneurs on their journey. This study uses a coaching psychology framework to investigate the effectiveness of evidence-based (EB) coaching for entrepreneurs. The aim of this study was to understand how coaches can support cognition change, wellbeing, and accelerated performance improvement of entrepreneurs. The study used a within participant design, and data were collected using a pre and post coaching survey. The study involved n = 19 participants who were early-stage entrepreneurs. Pre and post surveys were assessed using paired sample t-tests. For cognitions, the results indicate higher levels in solution-focused thinking, hope sub-scales agency thinking and goal-orientation. No changes were found for sub-scales pathways thinking and self-efficacy. For Wellbeing, the findings show psychological wellbeing increased with sub-scales autonomy, self-acceptance, personal growth and purpose in life while relationship with others and environment mastery did not change. Negative emotions reduced while positive emotions did not change. For performance, the results show that participants progressed significantly towards attaining their coaching goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is widely prevalent in all age groups which is of major concern. However, there is no valid Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) for dietary vitamin B12 estimation. Hence, we aimed to develop and validate an FFQ for the estimation of dietary intake of Vitamin B12. Materials and Methods: Commonly consumed B12-rich food items were selected from literature and filtered using a market survey. For concordant and discriminant validation, B12 and homocysteine levels were estimated. To establish convergent validity, the Cobalamin Intake in North Indians by Food Frequency Questionnaire (COIN-FFQ) and 72-hour dietary recall (72HrDR) were both administered to the same subjects. The COIN-FFQ was readministered after initial administration for test-retest reliability. Internal consistency of the FFQ was then tested using Cronbach's alpha. Results: We enrolled 115 adults with a mean age and weight of 31.9 ± 8.7 years and 66.0 ± 11.8 kg, respectively. In total, 19.1% were vegetarian. The dietary B12 using COIN-FFQ (n = 60; mean = 4.3 ± 1.8 µg/d) was significantly correlated (r = 0.255; P = 0.049) with serum levels (mean = 120.1 ± 62.6 pmol/L) establishing concordant validity. A significant difference was noted between the dietary, serum B12, and homocysteine levels of vegetarians versus nonvegetarians establishing discriminant validity (mean diff 1.4 (0.5-2.4), P = 0.004; Z-statistic -2.182, P value 0.029, and Z-statistic -2.438; P value 0.015), respectively. FFQ was strongly correlated with 72HrDR and test--retest FFQ (n = 27; r = 0.814, P < 0.001 and r = 0.869, P < 0.001, respectively) establishing convergent validity and test--retest reliability. The internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha was in the acceptable range, 0.631 (n = 115). Conclusion: The newly developed COIN-FFQ is valid and reliable in estimating dietary B12 intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the clinical implications of incidental cerebral microinfarcts found in brain MRIs of cancer patients with topics include the increased risk of subsequent ischemic stroke or TIA associated with these microinfarcts, the potential link to higher mortality rates.

Antibiotic resistance (AR) rates in Vietnam are among the highest in Asia, and recent infections due to multi-drug resistance in the country have caused thousands of deaths each year. This study investigated a Vietnamese community's preferences for antibiotic treatment and its knowledge and attitudes regarding antibiotics. A discrete choice experiment-based survey was developed and administered to the population of interest. The respondents were given sociodemographic-, knowledge- and attitude-related items and 17 pairs of choice tasks. Two hypothetical options were included in each choice task. Latent class analysis was conducted to determine the differences among the respondents' preferences. Among 1,014 respondents, 805 (79.4%) gave valid questionnaires. A three-latent-class model with four covariates (age, healthcare-related education or career, occupation, and attitude classifications) was used in the analysis. All five attributes significantly influenced the respondents' decisions. The majority, including young employed respondents with non-healthcare-related work or education, found treatment failure more important. Older respondents who had healthcare-related education/careers and/or appropriate antibiotic use- and antibiotics resistance-related attitudes, regarded contribution to antibiotic resistance as an important attribute in selecting antibiotic treatments. Unemployed individuals with correct knowledge identified the cost of antibiotic treatment as the most essential decision-making factor. Findings suggest minimal antibiotic impact on resistance; only 7.83% view it as amajor concern. The respondents exhibited substantial preference heterogeneity, and the general Vietnamese public had poor knowledge of and attitudes toward antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance. This study emphasizes the need for individual responsibility for antibiotic resistance and appropriate antibiotic use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As Computer-Mediated-Communication (CMC) gains prevalence in managerial practices, this study investigates the effect of managerial humor on employees’ perceptions of ability, motivation, and tendency to act. To date, the effect of humor on communication effectiveness remains unclear. Utilizing an experimental design with 923 participants, we compare humorous and non-humorous microcopy requests in CMC through a diff-in-diff regression analysis. Results show that non-humorous microcopy fosters higher motivation, action propensity, and perceived task execution ability compared to humorous microcopy. Perceived ability interacts with the other variables, yielding diverse contextual outcomes. This study reveals both the negative and positive effects of humor in CMC, providing insights for managers. The findings emphasize the importance of considering situational context and employees’ perceived task execution ability when choosing a persuasive approach in CMC requests, offering practical guidance for managers aiming to enhance communication with employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the correlation between the contribution rates of fusional convergence from the dominant and non-dominant eye and suppression depth and exotropia control. Study design: Cross-sectional prospective study. Methods: The fusional convergence of 25 participants with intermittent exotropia (mean age 10.8 ± 3.4; range 6–18 years) was measured with an eye-tracking system. The contribution rate was defined based on the amplitude of fusional convergence during refusion relative to the exo-deviation angle. The suppression depth was assessed, and exotropia control was evaluated using the intermittent exotropia Office Control Score. We analyzed the correlations between the contribution rate from the dominant and non-dominant eyes and the suppression depth or control score. Results: There was a negative correlation between the dominant eye's contribution rate and the suppression depth in both eyes (r = −0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.97 to − 0.20 in the fixated dominant eye and r = −0.91, 95%CI: −0.95 to − 0.40 in the fixated non-dominant eye). There was a negative correlation between the dominant eye's contribution rate and the control score at a 4-meter distance (r = −0.53, 95%CI: −0.76 to − 0.17). Conclusion: Suppression in intermittent exotropia patients could affect the fusional convergence in the dominant eye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Couples' joint coping is important in managing the impact of breast cancer. However, measures assessing couples' communication as a way of coping are insufficient. This study aimed to generate a self-report valid and reliable measure of couples' coping with a particular focus on communication. Method: We used baseline data of 343 couple dyads who participated in a randomized clinical trial targeting marital communication. Women were diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer in the past eight months; couples were married or in an intimate relationship for at least six months, could read and write English, and lived within 100 miles of the study center. An expert panel selected items with conceptual fit from the Mutuality and Interpersonal Sensitivity Scale (MIS) that was originally designed to evaluate marital communication about breast cancer. Results: Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a 12-item measurement model with four factors: Keeping the communication open with each other about breast cancer (4 items), Sharing a positive outlook on breast cancer (2 items), Avoiding discussion of negative thoughts and feelings about breast cancer (3 items), and Spending sufficient time together talking about breast cancer (3 items). Reliability ranged from 0.76 to 0.87 for women and 0.70 to 0.83 for spouses. Conclusion: This new measure has potential application in clinical practice and future research to assess couple's joint coping efforts especially through communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Inspired by the resource-based view, this study focuses on two types of capabilities: dynamic (i.e. agility) and ordinary (sales capabilities). We aim to investigate whether SMEs that cultivate exceptional sales capabilities still need to enhance them through agility to maintain their sales growth and under what conditions. Design/methodology/approach: We use a descriptive research design and survey a sample of 235 SMEs from B2B industries in Croatia. We empirically test the conceptual framework with the SPSS Process macro. Findings: Our study results confirm that agility mediates sales capabilities' effect on sales growth. Furthermore, we find a significant positive moderating effect of sales orientation ambidexterity (retention coupled with the acquisition) on the indirect effect of sales capabilities on sales growth through agility. Originality: First, our study thus yields new insights on exploiting greater potential from sales capabilities through agile posture and making them at the forefront of SMEs' competitive advantage in turbulent transition markets. Second, through a moderated mediation framework, we provide actionable implications for managers by showcasing the situations in which the mediating role of agility contributes to sales growth, given the various levels of sales orientation ambidexterity. Finally, we contribute to the literature by focusing on two contextual issues: the transition country perspective and SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed and validated the Clinical Student Version of the Japanese Interprofessional Competency Self-Assessment Scale (C-JASSIC) for healthcare students in their clinical practice phase. Data obtained from 331 students (medical, 98; nursing, 99; pharmacy, 134) during orientation for interprofessional education (pre-IPE) and from 319 students (medical, 94; nursing, 93; pharmacy, 132) within a week following IPE (post-IPE) were analyzed. Exploratory pre-IPE and Confirmatory post-IPE factor analyses revealed a consistent 6-factor structure aligning with the Japanese Interprofessional Competency domains. The scale exhibited strong internal consistency, with Cronbach's α values exceeding 0.8 for all factors both pre- and post-IPE. Scores for overall competency and individual domains increased post-IPE in 234 matched cases. A notable significant pre vs post difference concerned "Understanding of Others," indicating enhanced interprofessional comprehension after clinical practice. There was a weak but significant positive correlation between IPE satisfaction and difference in pre- and post-IPE scores. However, no significant differences were observed among medical, nursing, and pharmacy students. Despite its strengths, such as its competency-based design and cultural relevance to Japan, a limitation of the study may be potential self-reporting bias. Nonetheless, C-JASSIC represents a valuable tool for seamless competency evaluations from student to professional stages, with implications for broader Asian contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of providing integrated care for older people. Taiwan is the fastest aging country in the world. In 2016, Taiwan implemented the Long-Term Care Plan 2.0 (TLTCP 2.0), aimed at providing integrated long-term care (LTC) services in communities. However, LTC service agencies have not been able to evaluate the level of integrated care they provide due to the lack of an effective assessment tool. To address this need, this study sets out to develop an integration assessment tool, namely the Self-Assessment for Service Integration in Long-Term Care (SASI-LTC), which will allow LTC agencies to self-evaluate their current level of integration from multiple perspectives. The SASI-LTC was developed based on Evashwick's framework, underwent two rounds of Delphi panels with twenty-six experts, and a pilot test with 243 valid questionnaires from administrators of Tier A agencies who are responsible for integrating LTC. The Delphi experts assessed the content with high levels of agreement using medians, the scale content validity index (SCVI) and item content validity index (ICVI). The SASI-LTC included four domains (inter-entity organization and management, integrated care coordination, integrated resources, and integrated information systems) with thirty items. The SASI-LTC showed good reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.94) and good validity, and a confirmatory factor analysis showed a good model fit index [χ2/df = 1.38; RMSEA = 0.040; CFI = 0.963; SRMR = 0.049] in pilot testing. While the SASI-LTC is a useful and feasible tool for Taiwan's LTC service agencies to evaluate their level of integration in providing LTC services, it could also be used in other countries with minor adjustments to localization of items related to financial integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of coagulation of continuous renal replacement therapy circuits remains high. To the best of our knowledge, no scholar has published a protocol to avoid management errors when different types of citrates coexist in the same Intensive Care Unit. Aim: To assess the safety and efficacy of the unification of two protocols with different concentrations of citrate solution. Study Desing: A prospective, quasi‐experimental study was carried out in the intensive care unit of a tertiary referral hospital (in Barcelona, Spain), over 3 years. Consecutive adult patients requiring continuous renal replacement therapy with citrate were included. The sample was divided into two groups, a control group (concentrated citrate) and an intervention group (diluted citrate). The decision to initiate anticoagulation with diluted (18 mmol/L) or concentrated (136 mmol/L) citrate was made based on the machine available and the decision of the doctor responsible for the patient. It was not possible to randomize the sample. Both protocols were matched with a starting citrate dose of 3.5 mmol/L, and a dialysis solution was used. Post‐filter replacement was not used, and the citrate solution was the only fluid administered pre‐filter. Results: The analysis included 59 circuits in the concentrated citrate group and 40 circuits in the diluted citrate group. An increased need for electrolyte replacement was observed in the diluted group (p <.001). The concentrated citrate group had a longer filter life (p <.05), and there was a slight trend toward alkalosis. Conclusion: The diluted citrate group had a higher incidence of electrolyte replacement. The concentrated citrate group had longer circuit lifespan and a trend toward metabolic alkalosis, although this was not statistically significant. If these conclusions are considered, the protocol can be unified. Relevance to Clinical Practice: The present work aims to provide information on the differences in the use of regional anticoagulation with diluted or concentrated citrate. The objective is to pay special attention to aspects that can lead to complications. The unified protocol proposed in this paper could be extrapolated to any machine on the market that uses either of these two types of citrate concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed and psychometrically evaluated the Online Sexual Objectification Experiences Scale (OSOES). We collected data from 816 emerging adult college women across two samples. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed three factors: Unwanted Sexual Advances (example item: "How often have you received unwanted messages online asking about your sexual experience?"), Negative Appearance Commentary (example item: "How often has another person insulted you by calling you unattractive online?"), and Indirect Sexual Objectification (example item: "How often have you read a sexual comment posted to a photo of another woman's body online?"). OSOES scores were internally consistent and were strongly correlated with scores of self-objectification, body surveillance, and body shame. OSOES subscale scores also provided evidence of incremental validity in predicting self-objectification and objectified body consciousness above and beyond offline interpersonal sexual objectification. We hope that findings from the present study and the OSOES can be used by researchers, clinicians, and educators to understand the frequency of online sexual objectification experiences among women and as a result, work to mitigate harmful outcomes. Additional online materials for this article are available on PWQ's website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/DOI:10.1177/03616843241250295 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even in academic fields dominated by women students (e.g., educational research), academic careers are characterized by vertical gender segregation in favor of men. This clashes with the public understanding of educational research as a women's domain that is more strongly associated with warmth (a stereotypically feminine trait) than competence (a stereotypically masculine trait), as revealed in our first study. We thus conducted an experimental vignette study of 189 adults from the general public to explore how women versus men researchers working in educational research versus physics (as a contrasting domain clearly dominated by men) were perceived on several dimensions of competence and warmth. Whereas the female researcher in physics was rated as more competent than the female researcher in educational research, the woman in physics was penalized for her gender stereotype-incongruent domain choice by being perceived as less warm. However, the male researcher in educational research was perceived as both warmer and more competent than his man counterpart in physics, and as smarter than the female researcher in educational research. These findings suggest rewards instead of penalties for men pursuing academic careers in initially women-dominated domains, likely contributing to the increasing gender gap in academic careers in these domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using an experimental vignette design, the study investigates the effects of criminal records on the hiring decisions of a convenience sample of 221 human resource (HR) managers in Ghana. The HR managers were randomly assigned to read one of four vignettes depicting job seekers of different genders and criminal records: male with and without criminal record, female with and without criminal record. The evidence shows that a criminal record reduces employment opportunities for female offenders but not for their male counterparts. Additionally, HR managers are willing to offer interviews to job applicants, irrespective of their criminal records, if they expect other managers to hire ex‐convicts. The implications of these findings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to optimize the homogeneous Fenton process used to remove phenol in a chemical industry located in Mauá (São Paulo, Brazil). Phenolic effluent exhibits significant variability in its chemical composition, which poses a great challenge in finding the optimal reagents ratio for conducting Fenton treatment. Often, there is a need for repetitions to treat the same batch, leading to increased reagent consumption and treatment time. Thus, to optimize the industrial process, the present work applied modern optimization techniques on real data, such as design of experiments (DoE) and artificial neural network (ANN). ANN was used to perform simulations in the company's process, thereby predicting the quantities of ferrous sulfate heptahydrate and hydrogen peroxide. The following optimal conditions have been determined by DoE (phenol concentration ≤ 4 ppm): pH from 2.7 to 4 and temperature from 28 to 40 °C. Before the implementation of the optimized parameters, the efficiency for a single treatment was 45%. After, the efficiency was 82% and the company saved, on average, 51.6% of reagent costs. The main contribution of the present work is the development and industrial testing of data science methods that aims to optimize the industrial Fenton process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1-Butanol, primarily sourced from petroleum, is currently being considered as a viable alternative to gasoline. Various pathways for synthesizing 1-butanol from renewable raw materials have been explored, with a particular focus on the Guerbet reactions. This study aimed to investigate the synthesis of 1-butanol from ethanol using Mg/Al mixed oxides derived from layered double hydroxides with Mg/Al molar ratios of 3:1, 5:1, 8:1, and 10:1. The catalysts were analyzed through X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, N2 adsorption, scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Catalytic reaction tests were performed according to a Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) with three replicates at the central point (CP). Among the catalysts tested at CP, the mixed oxides with Mg/Al molar ratios of 3:1 and 5:1 exhibited the most promising results, displaying similar ethanol conversion, and 1-butanol selectivity. This similarity underscores their well-balanced combination of both acidic and basic sites. However, further assessment through a deactivation test revealed that the mixed oxides with Mg/Al molar ratio of 5:1 held the most potential for long-term 1-butanol synthesis from ethanol, thanks to its superior stability and sustained activity. Using this catalyst, other reaction tests were carried out following the CCRD, varying N2 feed flowrate, ethanol molar content in feed flowrate, and temperature. The results indicated that an increase in ethanol conversion directly correlated with higher temperatures, while the 1-butanol selectivity depended on both the N2 feed flowrate, ethanol molar content in feed flowrate, highlighting the importance of a well-balanced combination of both acidic and basic sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]