Adoption Of Practices Research Articles

Adoption of green inbound logistics practices: the role of internal environmental communication and organizational environmental governance

PurposeThe study focused on the influence of internal environmental communication on organizational environmental governance and the adoption of green inbound logistics practices and the mediating role of organizational environmental governance on the relationship between internal environmental communication and the adoption of green inbound logistics practices.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional quantitative survey design was used. The population used consisted of the central procuring and disposing entities. An actual sample size of 105 public sector firms in the central procuring and disposing entities category was used. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), SMART PLS version 4.0.1.8 and AMOS SPSS v26.FindingsThe findings show the relevancy of internal environmental communication in the achievement of organizational environmental governance and adoption of green inbound logistics practices. Further, organizational environmental governance mediates the link between internal environmental communication and the adoption of green inbound logistics practices. However, a partial mediation effect is observed, implying that both internal environmental communication and organizational environmental governance play significant roles in enhancing the adoption of green inbound logistics practices.Research limitations/implicationsThe study examined internal environmental communication, organizational environmental governance and the adoption of green inbound logistics practices in a public sector procurement setting. The role of proactive internal environmental communication, proactive external environmental communication, organizational environmental governance and the adoption of green inbound logistics practices in both the public and private sector procurement settings needs to be examined.Originality/valueFurther, the study examines internal environmental communication, organizational environmental governance and the adoption of green inbound logistics practices in a public sector procurement context. Green logistics research is much more pronounced in the third-party logistics firm context. Further, existing research takes a holistic approach when examining the green logistics concept. Whereas the green inbound logistics and green outbound logistics form the green logistics concept, the green inbound logistics concept is much more common in the public procurement settings although no significant attention has been given to it in the existing research.

Exploring transparency: A comparative analysis of explainable artificial intelligence techniques in retinography images to support the diagnosis of glaucoma.

Machine learning models are widely applied across diverse fields, including nearly all segments of human activity. In healthcare, artificial intelligence techniques have revolutionized disease diagnosis, particularly in image classification. Although these models have achieved significant results, their lack of explainability has limited widespread adoption in clinical practice. In medical environments, understanding AI model decisions is essential not only for healthcare professionals' trust but also for regulatory compliance, patient safety, and accountability in case of failures. Glaucoma, a neurodegenerative eye disease, can lead to irreversible blindness, making early detection crucial for preventing vision loss. Automated glaucoma detection has been a focus of intensive research in computer vision, with numerous studies proposing the use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to analyze retinal fundus images and diagnose the disease automatically. However, these models often lack the necessary explainability, which is essential for ophthalmologists to understand and justify their decisions to patients. This paper explores and applies explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques to different CNN architectures for glaucoma classification, comparing which explanation technique offers the best interpretive resources for clinical diagnosis. We propose a new approach, SCIM (SHAP-CAM Interpretable Mapping), which has shown promising results. The experiments were conducted with an ophthalmology specialist who highlighted that CAM-based interpretability, applied to the VGG16 and VGG19 architectures, stands out as the most effective resource for promoting interpretability and supporting diagnosis.

Leading the way: How leading Chinese institutions drive MDT excellence in hepatocellular carcinoma.

563 Background: HCC MDTs involve specialists collaborating on patient cases to create personalized treatment plans. Implementing MDTs can be challenging in countries with limited resources and high disease burdens. In China, there were 368,000 new liver cancer cases in 2022 representative of 40% of global cases. Therefore, evaluating MDT practices at leading hospitals in China may offer valuable insights that could help improve HCC MDT practices worldwide. Methods: This study selected hospitals with distinct MDT models: one for all new patients and one for complex cases. Hospitals handling over 1,000 HCC cases annually were chosen. Desk research and virtual interviews with MDT members from three leading Chinese hospitals—The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, The First Affiliated Hospital of SYSU, and Tongji Hospital—were conducted to analyze their MDTs and determine key best practices. Results: We identified 6 key best practice in HCC MDTs at these leading Chinese hospitals. 1) Quality Control on MDT process: Leading hospitals ensure the MDT’s efficient execution and effective outcomes. E.g., USTC established a quality control team to audit the MDT process. 2) Real-World Evidence: Leading hospitals prioritize the construction of real-world databases linked to MDT-care to inform impact on outcomes. E.g., SYSU's preliminary data shows impact of MDT care on survival rates (From 2006 to 2010, 5,627 patients who underwent radical liver cancer resection with MDT care saw their five-year survival rate reach 60%, a notable improvement over historical averages) 3) Comprehensive Teams: These hospitals typically have robust teams, involving around 10 specialties. E.g., Tongji Hospital’s MDTs involve ~10 specialties for holistic care. 4) Patient Journey Coverage: MDTs manage patients from diagnosis to rehabilitation, providing a holistic approach to patient management. 5) Guideline-based treatment decisions: They follow latest guidelines coupled with access to approved therapies to make treatment decisions 6) Training: Young physicians are invited to actively participate in MDT consultations (e.g., through case preparation and presentation, etc.). Conclusions: Evaluation of MDT practices at leading China institutes highlights key best practices that could be adopted to enhance care quality for patients with HCC. The ongoing efforts and successes of these institutions provide a model for broader adoption and standardization of MDT practices across the country.

Dissemination of VMAT-2 Inhibitors: A New Class Drug for Tardive Dyskinesia and Huntington Disease.

In 2017, the FDA approved deutetrabenazine (AUSTEDO) for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia (TD) and chorea associated with Huntington disease (HD). Concurrently, valbenazine (INGREZZA) was approved specifically for TD. The adoption of new medications is influenced by various factors, including patient's medical needs, the prescriber's adoption of new practice, and external environmental factors (e.g., cost). Our analysis aims to examine the dissemination of 2 vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT-2) inhibitors, deutetrabenazine and valbenazine, in the market. In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a descriptive statistical analysis of the 2017-2020 prescription records for deutetrabenazine and valbenazine using the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Data: Part D Prescriber public use file. In addition, we linked this data set to the Open Payment database to analyze industry payments. We identified a total of 3,706 deutetrabenazine prescribers and 4,895 valbenazine prescribers. Prescription volume (standardized 30-day prescription) increased annually across different specialties for both VMAT-2 inhibitors from 2017 to 2020. Neurologists were the highest contributors to deutetrabenazine prescriptions (N = 50,017; 35.2%), and psychiatrists were the highest contributors to valbenazine prescriptions (N = 77,799; 42.3%). A total of 1,217 deutetrabenazine physician prescribers (47.5%) and 1,509 valbenazine physician prescribers (49.7%) received industry payments from TEVA Pharmaceuticals and Neurocrine Biosciences, respectively. Receipt of industry payments was associated with higher prescription volume for both deutetrabenazine (p < 0.001) and valbenazine (p < 0.001). Approximately three-quarters of the industry payments were used in nonconsulting services, with a median payment value per physician of $18,101 for deutetrabenazine and $25,920 for valbenazine. The findings illustrate a yearly increase in Medicare prescription volume for deutetrabenazine and valbenazine after FDA approval, with neurologists and psychiatrists as primary prescribers of deutetrabenazine and valbenazine, respectively. There was a statistical difference in the prescription volume between those who received industry payments and those who did not, suggesting that receipt of payments may be associated with prescription volume. Nonconsulting services constituted the largest sum of industry payments for both medications. Further research exploring the causative factors of new medication uptake is needed to better understand how medications disseminate across the market.

Aligning Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Projects with Circular Economy Principles: A Comparative Analysis of the European Union and India's Path Forward

The growing global challenge of waste management has reached alarming levels, with approximately 4.5 million tonnes of waste generated every day worldwide—a figure that is expected to exceed 8 million tonnes by 2050, according to the World Bank. Although there have been notable improvements in how waste is managed, it has transitioned from being just a public concern to becoming a booming industry, particularly seen in the rise of the Waste-to-Energy (WtE) sector across the globe. Given this growing problem, many experts agree that addressing waste requires a shift toward a "circular economy," an approach aimed at minimizing waste altogether. This strategy is in line with the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 12, which focuses on responsible consumption and production. While WtE technologies seem like a sustainable option, the process of turning waste into energy using advanced facilities raises questions about their true compatibility with circular economy principles. The UN has proposed a framework to guide WtE projects, suggesting that these frameworks can help in the transition to a circular economy—especially in terms of energy recovery. However, this requires innovative public-private partnerships (PPPs) that emphasize people-first values and the adoption of best practices by both governments and the private sector simultaneously. The main focus of this paper is to highlight the need to align WtE projects with circular economy principles to ensure sustainable and effective waste management. While this model has made significant progress in EU ( European Union) countries, it is still in the early stages of development in India. This paper explores the framework used in the EU and discusses how India can successfully adopt and implement similar practices.

Immunotherapeutic strategies beyond the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma - A scoping review on current developments in agents targeting TIM-3, TIGIT, LAG-3, and VISTA.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) poses a considerable challenge due to its high incidence and mortality rates. Immunotherapy targeting PD-(L)1 emerges as a promising approach for HNSCC, as it has the potential to trigger a broad and long-lasting anti-tumor response. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of immunotherapy encounters hurdles, and only a small proportion of patients benefit, with many eventually experiencing relapse. Consequently, there is a pursuit of strategies to enhance overall treatment outcomes. Understanding the mechanisms driving resistance to PD-(L)1 inhibition and devising strategies to overcome these challenges are vital for advancing more effective treatments. Furthermore, gaining insights into the mechanisms of action and safety profiles of novel combination therapies is critical for their successful adoption in clinical practice. As a result, current research is dedicated to investigating various immunotherapeutic agents beyond the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the existing immunotherapy strategies in HNSCC with a focus on TIM-3, TIGIT, LAG-3, and VISTA. The aim is to lay a strong foundation for the continual advancement of therapies for HNSCC.

A scoping review of automatic and semi-automatic MRI segmentation in human brain imaging.

AI-based segmentation techniques in brain MRI have revolutionized neuroimaging by enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of brain structure analysis. These techniques are pivotal for diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases, classifying psychiatric conditions, and predicting brain age. This scoping review synthesizes current methodologies, identifies key trends, and highlights gaps in the use of automatic and semi-automatic segmentation tools in brain MRI, particularly focusing on their application to healthy populations and clinical utility. A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed across six databases for studies published between 2014 and 2024. Studies focused on AI-based brain segmentation in healthy populations, and patients with neurodegenerative diseases, and psychiatric disorders were included, while reviews, case series, and studies without human participants were excluded. Thirty-two studies were included, employing various segmentation tools and AI models such as convolutional neural networks for segmenting gray matter, white matter, cerebrospinal fluid, and pathological regions. FreeSurfer, which utilizes algorithmic techniques, are also commonly used for automated segmentation. AI models demonstrated high accuracy in brain age prediction, neurodegenerative disease classification, and psychiatric disorder subtyping. Longitudinal studies tracked disease progression, while multimodal approaches integrating MRI with fMRI and PET enhanced diagnostic precision. AI-based segmentation techniques provide scalable solutions for neuroimaging, advancing personalized brain health strategies and supporting early diagnosis of neurological and psychiatric conditions. However, challenges related to standardization, generalizability, and ethical considerations remain. The integration of AI tools and algorithm-based methods into clinical workflows can enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, but greater focus on model interpretability, standardization of imaging protocols, and patient consent processes is needed to ensure responsible adoption in practice.

Integrated Crop Production Management

Abstract: Integrated Crop Production and Management is an innovative and sustainable approach that combines a variety of farming practices to optimize crop yield, soil health, and environmental sustainability. The approach integrates strategies such as crop rotation, organic fertilization, pest and weed management, water conservation, and soil fertility enhancement into a comprehensive farming system. ICPM would minimize dependency on chemical inputs, promote soil structure, and enhance biodiversity while improving crop tolerance to climatic variability and pests. This paper explores the principles and methodologies behind ICPM, bringing to light how it can promote agricultural productivity and ecological balance at the same time. The paper highlights the potential of IPM, conservation tillage, and agroforestry in promoting farm resilience while reducing environmental degradation. Case studies and field experiments demonstrate the effects of ICPM on crop yield, soil health, and profitability of the farm. The adoption of modern and traditional practices in ICPM not only addresses the immediate needs of crop production but also contributes to long-term sustainability. This research will demonstrate how ICPM can be a viable solution to current challenges in agriculture, such as climate change, food security, and resource depletion, and offer farmers a pathway to more resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.

Farmer perceptions toward the adoption of agroforestry practices: a case study of northwestern Ethiopia

Farmer perceptions toward the adoption of agroforestry practices: a case study of northwestern Ethiopia

Determinants of Adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices among Farmers in Sheema District, Western Uganda

Determinants of Adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices among Farmers in Sheema District, Western Uganda

Empowering Sustainability: Unveiling Green Building Awareness and Solutions in Kathmandu Valley

The study aims to assess the awareness among local engineers and design consultants regarding green building concepts in the planning and designing of residential buildings in Kathmandu Valley. It seeks to identify their level of knowledge on green concepts and the challenges they face, particularly in relation to policy and regulatory support. Green building technologies are recognized as effective ways to reduce energy and water usage and are often considered the quickest and most cost-effective methods to achieve these goals. Despite their benefits, the high upfront construction costs of green buildings remain a concern. This study targeted local building permit engineers and nominated design consultants in Kathmandu Valley, utilizing convenient and purposive sampling methods. A total of 84 participants (42 local engineers/architects and 42 design consultants) were included. The reliability of the study was established with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.987, as calculated using SPSS. Findings indicate that local engineers and design consultants have moderate awareness of green concepts, with all 28 basic awareness elements achieving a mean value greater than 2.5. Knowledge regarding the importance of green concepts in residential building design scored the highest with a mean value of 3.69. Awareness was lowest for factors related to government support and incentives, with an average mean score of 2.7. Challenges highlighted include the lack of policy and regulatory documents, with Relative Importance Index (RII) scores of 0.938 for engineers and 0.948 for consultants. The moderate level of awareness and significant challenges related to policy and regulation suggests the need for enhanced informational outreach, technical training, and the development of green building codes and standards. Promoting local, eco-friendly building materials and expertise is also crucial. Addressing these challenges will support the broader adoption of green building practices in residential development.

Land use change, cropping pattern and productivity of major crops in Janjgir-Champa (C.G)

The primary objective of this study is to analyze the land use changes in Janjgir-Champa, examining their temporal and spatial patterns and identifying key drivers such as urbanization and agricultural practices. It aims to study the cropping patterns, focusing on the seasonal and spatial distribution of major crops like paddy, wheat, and pulses, while evaluating the impact of practices like crop rotation and intercropping on sustainability. The research also seeks to assess the productivity trends of these crops in relation to changing land use and farming techniques, identifying factors such as soil quality and irrigation. Jangir-Champa, a prominent agricultural district in Chhattisgarh, India, is characterized by its rich agro-climatic diversity and reliance on traditional cropping systems. This study delves into the cropping patterns prevalent in the region, emphasizing the potential and adoption of organic farming practices. The analysis identifies major crops such as paddy, wheat, and pulses, exploring their spatial and seasonal distribution alongside intercropping and crop rotation methods. Organic farming, as an eco-friendly alternative, is gaining momentum in the region due to its promise of sustainability, improved soil health, and reduced chemical dependency. This research highlights the socio-economic benefits and challenges of transitioning to organic farming, including farmer awareness, certification hurdles, and market dynamics. By integrating field surveys, soil analyses, and farmer interviews, the study provides insights into optimizing cropping patterns while promoting organic farming. The findings aim to guide policymakers and stakeholders in fostering an agricultural paradigm that balances productivity, environmental health, and farmer livelihoods in Jangir-Champa.

Sustainable practices in the hospitality industry: A case study of green initiatives in Thailand

This research paper extensively investigates the adoption and implementation of sustainable practices within the thriving hospitality industry in the beautiful country of Thailand. The study is primarily focused on highlighting the significance of green initiatives that aim to effectively mitigate the potentially harmful environmental impact caused by the rapidly growing tourism sector in this mesmerizing destination. Undoubtedly, it emphasizes the critical and urgent need for hotels, resorts, and other accommodation providers to comprehensively integrate and incorporate eco-friendly practices into their day-to-day operations. This forward-thinking approach is deemed essential due to the substantial socio-economic contributions made by the tourism industry to the remarkable country of Thailand. Comprehensive study delves into various dimensions and aspects of sustainable practices within the hospitable world. It delves into the exploration of innovative and energy-efficient technologies that can be effectively adopted to minimize the consumption of valuable resources. Additionally, the research investigates waste management systems which play a pivotal role in ensuring the preservation and conservation of the environment, while also reducing the ecological footprint associated with hospitality operations. Moreover, the study encompasses singly explores sustainable food and beverage operations, embracing the idea of utilizing locally sourced ingredients and promoting responsible consumption practices, ultimately leading to a healthier ecosystem. While analyzing the implementation process of these eco-friendly initiatives, the research also wholeheartedly acknowledges the barriers and challenges that hotel operators and managers face. These hurdles might include financial constraints, lack of knowledge and awareness, and difficulties in balancing the immediate costs with the long-term benefits. By acknowledging and addressing these obstacles, the research aims to provide valuable insights and potential solutions, ultimately promoting and facilitating a smooth transition towards sustainable hospitality practices. Through thoroughly examined case studies of successful and exemplary green practices within the hospitality industry, this research extensively highlights and emphasizes the vast array of potential benefits that can be derived from adopting sustainability measures. These positive outcomes include substantial cost savings, improved brand reputation, enhanced guest loyalty, and the creation of a unique selling proposition that sets the establishment apart from competitors. Furthermore, the findings of this study strongly advocate and call for a collaborative and cooperative approach among multiple stakeholders. It emphasizes the importance of active involvement and engagement between and among government policymakers, esteemed industry leaders, hotel operators, and the local communities. By fostering this culture of shared responsibility, it becomes possible to effectively foster and promote a proactive inclination towards environmental sustainability within the hospitality sector in Thailand. Ultimately, this enlightening and groundbreaking paper serves to underscore and emphasize the utmost importance of adopting and integrating green initiatives not only for the sustainability and preservation of Mother Nature but also for the long-term viability and competitiveness of the Thai hotel industry within the dynamic global hospitality landscape. By prioritizing the environment and acknowledging the potential risks associated with unsustainable practices, this research aims to empower and inspire all relevant stakeholders to make informed decisions and embrace change for a brighter and greener future.

The Relationship between Corporate Governance and Sustainable Financial Practices

This research examines the relationship between corporate governance practices and the adoption of sustainable financial practices in private banks operating in Erbil, Iraq. A quantitative research approach was employed, using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 268 employees across various private banks. The questionnaire focused on dimensions of corporate governance (transparency and disclosure, risk management and internal controls, performance measurement and accountability) and their impact on sustainable financial practices. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between all three dimensions of corporate governance and sustainable financial practices, highlighting the importance of effective governance in promoting financial sustainability. The study provides insights for policymakers, regulators, and bank management seeking to enhance corporate governance practices and promote sustainable financial practices within the Iraqi banking sector. Future research could explore causal relationships and conduct cross-cultural studies to further enhance our understanding of corporate governance and its impact on financial sustainability.

A sector in crisis? Insights from how English higher education apprenticeships are weathering the storm

PurposeThis viewpoint explores strategic lessons for wider higher education (HE) practices from university business and management apprenticeships in England. The paper highlights parallels between the challenges in apprenticeships and those confronting HE leaders and managers, especially regarding rising regulatory pressures, financial constraints and the need for innovation. The authors present how collaboration and adaptive practices from university apprenticeships might inform broader institutional approaches.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on autoethnographic experiences of business and management apprenticeship leaders to characterise the current state of the HE sector. Drawing together successful collaborative apprenticeship practices, the authors narrate how their own interactions have supported innovation in the face of resource constraints, regulatory compliance and a complex stakeholder context.FindingsIntense regulatory scrutiny and resource limitations have driven innovation and collaboration within business school apprenticeships, which could offer valuable strategies for the wider HE sector. Insights include enhanced personalised student support, proactive progress monitoring, and effective partnership. Collaborative approaches developed amongst apprenticeship providers have driven continuous improvement, highlighting potential benefits to traditional HE programmes of cross-institutional collaboration and the adoption of new practices in response to rapidly changing conditions.Originality/valueContributing to the discourse on HE resilience, the authors reflect on how innovations within HE apprenticeship practice offer potential solutions to wider challenges. The paper emphasises that addressing current and future challenges in the UK HE context requires shifting from competitive isolation to cross-institutional collaboration and from top-down to bottom-up innovation.

P-2014. Online Clinician Education Curriculum Results in Performance Changes in Clinical Practice Related to Incorporating COVID-19 Antiviral Therapies for Non-Hospitalized Patients

Abstract Background This study examined whether online continuing medical education (CME/CE) focused on evidence-based best practices for incorporating COVID-19 antiviral therapies in non-hospitalized patients would result in improved identification of high-risk patient groups and the adoption of new clinical practices. Methods Clinicians who participated across a curriculum of 3, live and online, 30-minute CME/CE video discussions between experts. Performance was assessed by inviting learners to complete a survey 30-60 days post-education, identifying practice changes and the degree to which clinicians experience barriers to those changes. The data was collected from 11/29/2022 to 06/21/2023. Results There were 232 learners consisting of PCPs, Emergency Medicine Physicians, ID Specialists who completed the survey. The analyses from the 3 programs showed that approximately 98% of learners made a practice change or had practices reinforced due to education. Five key practice changes that were modified/implemented as a result of the education included:Identifying patients at higher risk for developing severe COVID-19-related complications (69%)Incorporating new information about treatment options for non-hospitalized patients with COVID-19 (67%)Ensure patients receive treatment within the appropriate therapeutic window (60%)Educating patients on COVID-19 and available antiviral treatments (58%)Screening patients for potential DDIs prior to COVID-19 antiviral initiation (55%)Some of the barriers to implementing these practice changes include:Patients present outside the recommended treatment windowUnfamiliar with potential drug-drug interactions for COVID-19 antiviralsPatient concerns or questions regarding available antiviralsUnfamiliar with guideline recommendations for available antiviralsLack of time during office visits to educate patients on the importance of timely testing and treatment Conclusion The practice changes identified in this assessment provide compelling evidence that participation in online CME/CE prompts adoption of changes in practice related to COVID-19 antiviral therapies in non-hospitalized patients. Acknowledgement: This education was supported by an independent educational grant from Pfizer Inc. and Merck &amp; Co, Inc. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Ensuring On-farm Food Safety through Good Agricultural Practices: A Review

With food-borne illnesses increasing every year and e-commerce operations reaching every location globally, ensuring food safety is of paramount importance. In India, 16 per cent of the total disease outbreaks are reported to be food-related emphasising the significance. While On-Farm Food Safety (OFFS) practices ensure food safety, many complexities are involved in bringing them to the forefront among farmers due to underreporting of food-borne illness, small and scattered farms, lack of evidence in linking illness to food consumed etc. Tackling OFFS requires farmers to adopt Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) that address environmental, economic and social sustainability. India also offers a certification scheme, IndGAP, to individual and group farmers that requires farmers to follow GAPs. Though the scheme is available, its adoption among farmers is yet to be ascertained due to a lack of data. Implementation of GAPs by farmers reportedly reduces the consumption of plant protection chemicals thereby reducing the cost of cultivation. As compliance with various such practices that ensure food safety is required, the food produced by the farmers following GAPs will be much safer than otherwise. Evidence also suggests that both small and large farmers have similar levels of knowledge on various GAPs and thereby any farmer can implement them with handholding support from the governments. As most of the landholdings in India are small and marginal, Farmer Producer Organisations should be leveraged to train the farmers in the adoption of GAPs. More research on OFFS practices adoption levels, cost and return analysis and improving the regulations and compliance in the policy landscape of food safety are essential to ensure food produced is safe to consume.

Foreword: Progress in Construction Safety and Health.

The construction has always been a large economic sector that is very hazarous to work in. Over the past 40 years there have been major improvements in safety and health practices driven by increased research and more rapid adoption of best practices, not just in the developed countries but also in emerging economices. This special issue aims to showcase a specturm of perspectives from research to practice, about the current state of construction safety and health.

Enhancing Reflexivity in Research and Practice in Healthcare Through Oral-Based Autoethnography.

Autoethnography is an increasingly used method to promote individual and group reflexivity in research, not the least in healthcare. However, autoethnography's uptake among practitioners is impeded by the fact that it has not been adequately adapted to practitioner settings from its academic origins. This article analyzes the experience of a research team comprised of practitioners/surgeons and social scientists using primarily oral-based autoethnographic practices to promote reflexive collaboration in a longitudinal research and innovation project on selection and training of surgical residents. Based on our case of innovative adaptation and application of autoethnography, which we term autoethnorality, several modifications in autoethnographic practice are suggested to make it more amenable to practitioner settings. These include adopting the collaborative and analytic forms of autoethnography and developing oral-based modalities for autoethnographic practice. The case also shows how these strategic choices along with successive adoption of autoethnographic practices can facilitate the resolution of tensions deriving from the differing timeframes, skillsets, and interests of practitioners on the one hand and academic researchers on the other, as well as paradigmatic differences in theory of science between the medical and social sciences. A table summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of different strategic choices and adaptations regarding autoethnography along with actionable recommendations is presented.

Advancing stroke rehabilitation: the role of wearable technology according to research experts

Background Advancements in wearable technology have created new opportunities to monitor stroke survivors’ behaviors in daily activities. Research insights are needed to guide its adoption in clinical practice, address current gaps, and shape the future of stroke rehabilitation. This project aims to: (1) Understand stroke rehabilitation researchers’ perspectives on the opportunities, challenges, and clinical relevance of wearable technology for stroke rehabilitation, and (2) Identify necessary next steps to integrate wearable technology in research and clinical practice. Methods Using a phenomenological qualitative design, two 90-minute focus groups were conducted with 12 rehabilitation researchers. The focus groups consisted of semi-structured, open-ended questions on functional movement behavior, motor performance and benefits and pitfalls of wearable technology. The transcribed focus groups were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results Three main themes were derived from the analysis: (1) Assessing activity performance is critical to inform interventions, (2) The demonstrated benefit is not commensurate with the added hassle, (3) Collaboration is needed between the industry, academia and end-users. Necessary future steps were recognized including the identification of intuitive and actionable metrics, and the integration of sensor-derived data with electronic health records and into clinical workflow to support self-management strategies. Conclusion Wearable technology shows great potential to complement and support stroke rehabilitation. Many key barriers to clinical adoption remain which underscore the necessity to foster collaborations between industry, academia, and the participants we serve.