Collaborative Evaluation Research Articles

Abstract 4137665: Getting to the Heart of Stroke TM : A Novel American Heart Association Initiative Which Increases Identification of Stroke Etiology and Evidence-Based Post-Stroke Evaluation by Strengthening Cardiology and Neurology Collaboration

Background: Nearly one million individuals in the U.S. experience ischemic stroke annually and one-year recurrent stroke risk may exceed 10%. American Heart Association (AHA) Get-With-The-Guidelines-Stroke® Registry (GWTG-S) data suggests that up to 40% of stroke patients are discharged with an undocumented or cryptogenic etiology which may lead to suboptimal secondary prevention. Consequently, improved cardiology and neurology collaboration and evidence-based post-stroke evaluation may help identify stroke etiology, reduce recurrent stroke risk and improve outcomes. Methods: In 2022, the AHA, in collaboration with HCA Healthcare and HCA Healthcare Foundation, designed and launched Getting to the Heart Of Stroke TM (GTTHOS) in 10 HCA Healthcare comprehensive stroke centers to improve: 1) cardiology and neurology stroke care collaboration, 2) evidence-based post-stroke diagnostic evaluation and 3) assessment of social determinants of health and barriers to care. Components included a learning collaborative model, virtual performance improvement consultations, Plan-Do-Study-Acts, multidisciplinary teams, custom and existing GWTG-S metrics and performance improvement feedback. Results: Using existing and custom GWTG-S data, GTTHOS centers increased rates of documented stroke etiology (58.06% vs. 48.63%), while decreasing cryptogenic stroke rates (31.01% vs. 34.89%) and lack of a documented stroke etiology (10.93% vs. 16.48%) (all comparisons on discharge, follow-up vs. baseline, p<0.0001). In addition, the use of evidence-based post-stroke diagnostic evaluation increased in GTTHOS centers, including intracranial vascular and carotid imaging, echocardiography, short-term and extended (surface, implantable) cardiac monitoring (Table). Conclusion: In this novel AHA GTTHOS initiative in patients with stroke, which includes improved cardiology and neurology collaboration, rates of identified stroke etiology increased, while cryptogenic stroke and lack of a documented stroke etiology decreased. Furthermore, evidence-based post-stroke diagnostic evaluation, including imaging, echocardiography and short- and long-term surface and implantable cardiac monitoring, increased. These findings may contribute to improved outcomes.

Optimising Healthcare Education with Design-Based Theory

Introduction In complex, and socially dynamic educational systems, traditional research methodologies often fail to connect with everyday practice, creating a need for “usable knowledge” when solving individual and collective education problems (Design-Based Research Collective, 2003). Traditional methods are effective, but do not necessarily uncover the nature of changes to student thinking during an education experience. With this, Design-Based Research (DBR) is a proposed solution that emerges as a pivotal methodology in educational research, as it aims to integrate theories of learning with practical experiences. Seen as a systematic yet adaptable approach, DBR integrates iterative cycles of analysis, design, and evaluation in collaboration with researchers and practitioners within authentic educational settings, (Harrington, 2012; Wang & Hannafin, 2005). This (poster) presentation will describe how DBR was utilised to create a learning environment to improve learning experiences within healthcare education. An analysis of the problem highlighted that healthcare students experienced high levels of anxiety during high-fidelity simulation when asked to perform and treat simulation manikins (Aiello et al., 2023). In part, the main issues relate to a lack of environmental authenticity, resulting in under-stimulation and performance anxiety resulting in over-stimulation. This relates to the Yerkes Dodson stress performance curve and suggests that too little or too much arousal results in poor performance (Yerkes, 1908). The hypothesis therefore was to design a solution for peak performance by increasing environmental authenticity and managing anxiety. Method The hypothesis is conceptualised as a ‘design solution’ rather than an intervention. To provide an authentic learning experience virtual reality environments were developed, and to aid performance anxiety, the centering technique was used. Centering is a visualisation technique that teaches participants to focus on the here and now, reduce negative thoughts, and lower anxiety. Virtual reality scenarios were provided prior to each simulation and included a ward-based environment (nurse students) and a rescue helicopter (paramedic students). The study involved 35 Master of Nursing Science, Entry to Practice student nurses at the University of Melbourne and 33 Bachelor of Health Science, Paramedicine students at Auckland University of Technology and industry experts within nurse and paramedic education. All data was collected for each cohort iteratively in 2023 and 2024 to evaluate and develop the design. Data collection included using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory as a pre-test baseline to measure general and long-standing anxiety for each participant. Within-test heart rates was recorded on a Polar H10 chest strap to measure an objective physiological response to stress. Post-test participants completed the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory–2R after each simulation to understand subjective anxiety and several focus groups were completed to gain further insight into experiences and perspectives. Discussion and Conclusion This presentation outlines the design characteristics used to support student learning within healthcare education settings. Design-Based Research offers a robust framework to develop and refine educational practices through iterative design and implementation cycles. Early results suggest that both virtual reality and the centering technique impact healthcare learning and the implementation of this approach could lead to long-term resilience and build confidence that maximises potential.

Penerapan Kursus Berbasis Rapid Rural Appraisal Sebagai Upaya Internasionalisasi Konten Media Pembelajaran Augmented Reality

This research aims to develop and implement a Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) based course to internationalize augmented reality (AR) based learning media content. The RRA method is used to identify international needs and preferences for AR learning content. The results of RRA become the basis for developing strategies that include content development, platforms, marketing and promotions. Implementation involves developer training, international collaboration, and regular evaluation and monitoring to ensure successful internationalization. The findings suggest that the integration of local cultural and linguistic elements in AR content as well as the use of platforms that support multilingualism can increase user engagement in international markets. Evaluations also show increased understanding and appreciation of AR learning materials in various countries.

Utility of syndromic surveillance for the surveillance of healthcare-associated infections in resource-limited settings: a narrative review.

Globally, Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) pose a significant threat to patient safety and healthcare systems. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the lack of adequate resources to manage HCAIs, as well as the weak healthcare system, further exacerbate the burden of these infections. Traditional surveillance methods that rely on laboratory tests are cost-intensive and impractical in these settings, leading to ineffective monitoring and delayed management of HCAIs. The rates of HCAIs in resource-limited settings have not been well established for most LMICs, despite their negative consequences. This is partly due to costs associated with surveillance systems. Syndromic surveillance, a part of active surveillance, focuses on clinical observations and symptoms rather than laboratory confirmation for HCAI detection. Its cost-effectiveness and efficiency make it a beneficial approach for monitoring HCAIs in LMICs. It provides for early warning capabilities, enabling timely identification and response to potential HCAI outbreaks. Syndromic surveillance is highly sensitive and this helps balance the challenge of low sensitivity of laboratory-based surveillance systems. If syndromic surveillance is used hand-in-hand with laboratory-based surveillance systems, it will greatly contribute to establishing the true burden of HAIs in resource-limited settings. Additionally, its flexibility allows for adaptation to different healthcare settings and integration into existing health information systems, facilitating data-driven decision-making and resource allocation. Such a system would augment the event-based surveillance system that is based on alerts and rumours for early detection of events of outbreak potential. If well streamlined and targeted, to monitor priority HCAIs such as surgical site infections, hospital-acquired pneumonia, diarrheal illnesses, the cost and burden of the effects from these infections could be reduced. This approach would offer early detection capabilities and could be expanded into nationwide HCAI surveillance networks with standardised data collection, healthcare worker training, real-time reporting mechanisms, stakeholder collaboration, and continuous monitoring and evaluation. Syndromic surveillance offers a promising strategy for combating HCAIs in LMICs. It provides early warning capabilities, conserves resources, and enhances patient safety. Effective implementation depends on strategic interventions, stakeholder collaboration, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure sustained effectiveness in HCAI detection and response.

Research on Equity Policies in Public Education for Learning DisabilitiesTaking China, America and Britain as Examples

With the recovery and development of the global economy, the quality of life worldwide continues to improve, and the demand for public infrastructure such as medical care and education services is becoming more and more vigorous. Medical development and progress have made studying the brain and neurological fields more thorough, and learning disabilities have gradually entered the public eyesight. As a special group, people with learning disabilities are not widely accepted and recognized in the scope of public education. Thus, education must support the development of this virtue cycle through educational fairness policies, as it is a public resource. Based on the existing education policies on learning disabilities in China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, this paper analyzes these policies and puts forward education policy suggestions from four aspects: the education policy formulation system, the education collaborative service system, the education accountability evaluation system, and the education funding service system.Among China, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the first two are based on the improvement of basic policies, focusing on the construction of education collaborative services and education accountability evaluation systems, respectively. The latter focuses on the improvement of education policy.

Heterogeneous multi-task allocation algorithm based on multi-round distributed auction

Aiming at the distributed decision-making needs of different combat tasks such as multi-machine collaborative detection, attack, and evaluation, a multi-round distributed auction algorithm for heterogeneous tasks with time constraints is established. The algorithm flexibly solves the distributed collaborative task allocation problem with complex constraints between drones with different capabilities. In the distributed task allocation framework, each drone can realize distributed asynchronous computing and asynchronous communication, and can ensure good solution efficiency and accuracy. The task allocation principle is mainly based on the nearest allocation, while taking into account the target value and time constraints, realizing the priority allocation of important targets under limited resources and making the total journey as short as possible. Simulation results show that: given any number of drones and targets and the configuration of drone combat capabilities, the heterogeneous multi-round distributed auction algorithm can obtain good allocation results.

A new approach to pupil agency: A collaborative evaluation study

AbstractThis article explores the concept of student agency within the Thrive Co‐operative Learning Trust. It details the Trust's journey in developing student voice and influence, using the Lundy Model of Child Participation as a framework. This article highlights the importance of authentic pupil agency and showcases successful initiatives undertaken by the Trust.

Mspa-Based Collaborative Evaluation and Planning Governance of Territory and Natural Environment in Metropolitan Agglomerations—A Case Study of EGIDDZ in Yangtze River Delta

Mspa-Based Collaborative Evaluation and Planning Governance of Territory and Natural Environment in Metropolitan Agglomerations—A Case Study of EGIDDZ in Yangtze River Delta

GAFEE: 5 Steps to Teach Effectively

This paper presents GAFEE instructional design: a new proposed model that integrates the principles of gamification with the 5E instructional model to increase the levels of motivation of the students. The GAFEE model blends the five phases of 5E learning model Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate with a game-based approach that increases the level of interactivity. This model comprises seven constructs: According to the nature of the problem and the design principles, we have Goal-Oriented Engagement, Autonomous Access and Exploration, Feedback-Enhanced Explanation, Challenge-Driven Elaboration, Collaborative Evaluation, Iterative Design and Technological Synergy. Each of the identified constructs is backed up by a literature review proving the efficiency of the given construct. An example of the implementation of the GAFEE model is best described in a fourth-grade English course where the students’ vocabulary, grammar, and speaking skills are enhanced. These points stress the positive outcome of the application of the game environment to the educational process, motivation, individual learning, and feedback systems. Lastly, the paper highlights on the effectiveness of the proposed GAFEE instructional design to alter the instructional practices and point out the areas of future research in gamification of education.

Analysis on the Evolution Characteristics of Rural Tourism Public Service System from the Perspective of Digitalization—Empirical Evidence from the Silk Road Economic Belt

The integration of digitalization with public tourism services has emerged as a new model for the development of the rural tourism public services. The Silk Road Economic Belt is a crucial area for the future development of the tourism industry. Exploring the coupling of the digitalization and the development trends of the rural tourism public services is significant for advancing rural tourism in this region. This study applies Complex Adaptive Systems theory and Synergy theory to the development of the digitization of rural tourism public services, clarifying the structure of the digitization of the rural tourism public service system. Based on this, a collaborative development evaluation system for the digitization of rural tourism public services is constructed, focusing on the Silk Road Economic Belt. By using the SMI-P evaluation model, ArcGIS spatial visualization, Gini coefficient, and kernel density methods, the collaborative development of the digitization of the rural tourism public service system was measured and analyzed in this paper. The findings reveal the following: (1) The collaborative development of the digitization of the rural tourism public service system in the Silk Road Economic Belt shows a gradual upward trend, yet the overall level of the collaboration is transitioning from a state of imbalance. (2) Compared to the Southwest, the Northwest exhibits a lower overall level of collaboration, with growing disparities in collaborative development indices among provinces, although there is a trend toward higher levels of aggregation. (3) The development of the rural tourism public services is trending toward a favorable state of multi-dimensional collaboration, characterized by significant regional features, including multi-polarization and unbalanced development. Finally, optimization paths for the digital development of the rural tourism public services were proposed in this study, which can provide guidance for improving the construction of the digitization of the rural tourism public service system and exploring clear development pathways.

Equity-Focused Evaluation of a Medicaid-Funded Statewide Diabetes Quality Improvement Project Collaborative.

To evaluate the Ohio Diabetes Quality Improvement Project (QIP) equity aim to reduce the percentage of Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and Hispanic patients with A1C >9% by ≥20% over 2 years. The Ohio Department of Medicaid, Ohio Colleges of Medicine Government Resource Center, Ohio Medicaid managed care plans, and seven medical schools in Ohio formed the Diabetes QIP collaborative using the collective impact model to improve diabetes outcomes and equity in 20 practices across 11 health systems. The quality improvement (QI) strategies included data audit and feedback, peer-to-peer learning, QI coaching/practice facilitation, and subject matter expert consultation through coaching calls, monthly webinars, and annual virtual learning sessions. Electronic health record data were collected for preintervention (2019-2020) and intervention (2020-2022) periods. Assessments of improvements in A1C were based on prevalence of A1C >9% from preintervention, year 1, and year 2 with stratification by race and ethnicity. The Diabetes QIP included 7,689 (54% female) sociodemographically diverse patients, self-identifying as non-Hispanic White (NHW) (42%), NHB (43%), Hispanic (8%), non-Hispanic Asian (4%), or other (3%). In year 2 compared with baseline, there were decreases in the proportion of patients with A1C >9% among NHW, NHB, and Hispanic patients (NHW from 19% to 12% [37% reduction], NHB 23% to 18% [22% reduction], and Hispanic 29% to 23% [20% reduction]). The Ohio Diabetes QIP, focused on multisector collaborative approaches, reduced the percentage of patients with A1C >9% by ≥20% among NHW, NHB, and Hispanic populations. Given the persistence of disparities, further equity-focused refinements are warranted to address disparities in diabetes control.

A Joanna Briggs Institute Framework Approach to Shared Decision Making in End-of-Life.

To implement shared decision-making (SDM) through a patient decision aid (PtDA) for the initiation of palliative care (PC) in end-of-life (EOL) cancer patients. A comprehensive Scoping Review was conducted on SDM in PubMed, CINAHL and PsycInfo. An evidence-based implementation of PtDAs was created using the Joanna Briggs Institute framework, which followed rigorous pillars: (1) context, (2) facilitation and (3) evaluation. Fifteen studies were identified and categorised into (1) Implementation characteristics and (2) Strategies for implementing SDM in terminally ill cancer patients. SDM should consider the decision-making location, optimal timing, participants and decision type. Strategies include professional training, PtDAs and implementation programmes. A PtDA implementation protocol in video format for deciding to initiate PC is proposed, following International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) and Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG). SDM implementation should be guided by evidence-based methodological models justifying and structuring its execution, especially in complex and interdisciplinary contexts. National or international frameworks facilitate the adoption of health innovations, such as PtDAs, benefiting patients and improving their usage. SDM is not just a concept but an important approach to the Care of cancer patients at EOL, enhancing patient satisfaction and improving care quality. The success and sustainability of SDM hinge on the fundamental aspects of staff training, interdisciplinary collaboration and ongoing evaluation. The lack of specific aid in Spanish underscores the immediate need for local development. Further research is needed in this area, as most reviewed studies did not measure SDM effectiveness in diverse hospital settings. This proposal was developed based on the experience and input of the nursing staff from the healthcare service where it is intended to be implemented.

Arterial prophylactic occlusion technique in the application of surgery for locally advanced pancreatic cancer with arterial involvement after conversion therapy

Objective: To investigate and compare the clinical outcomes of the arterial pre-occlusion technique(APOT) and the traditional technique in the surgery of locally advanced pancreatic cancer with arterial involvement after conversion therapy. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study. The clinical data of 145 patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer with arterial involvement admitted to the Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery of the First Hospital Affiliated to Naval Medical University,from January 2020 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients completed neoadjuvant therapy for tumors, and the feasibility of radical surgical treatment was determined by a multidisciplinary collaborative team evaluation before surgery. According to whether the intraoperative artery was pre-occluded, 145 patients were divided into two groups, including 28 cases in the APOT group(16 males, 12 females, aged (59.0±9.4) years), and 117 cases in the routine surgery group(76 males, 41 females, aged (55.1±8.2) years). To ensure comparability of baseline data between the APOT group and the routine surgery group, a 1∶2 match was performed using the propensity score matching method, and the caliper value was 0.006 45. The t-test,the Mann-Whitney U test, χ2 test or Fisher's exact test were used to compare the data between the two groups,respectively. Results: After matching the propensity score,there were 28 cases in the APOT group and 56 cases in the routine surgery group. There were no significant differences in gender,age,preoperative comorbidities,preoperative body mass index,surgical approaches,chemotherapy regimen,stereotactic body radiation therapy ratio,tumor markers,and type of invaded artery between the two groups (all P>0.05).The arterial occlusion time M(IQR) in the APOT group was 7.0(3.8)minutes(range:3 to 15 minutes),and no ischemic manifestations were observed in the distal target organs that blocked blood vessels after surgery. The operation time was (170.3±57.7)minutes in the APOT group and (235.0±80.2)minutes in the routine surgery group,and the difference was statistically significant (t=-3.800,P<0.01). The APOT group also experienced less intraoperative blood loss(650(588)ml vs. 800(600)ml;U=1 026.500,P=0.021). No significant differences were found between the groups in combined vein resection and reconstruction,celiac trunk resection,early postoperative complications, readmission rates at 30 days,and postoperative length of stay(all P>0.05). Extra-arterial dissection was performed in all patients,with arterial resection and reconstruction in 3 cases: 2 cases in the APOT group(1 case involving the superior mesenteric artery and 1 case involving the common hepatic artery) and 1 case in the routine group(involving the common hepatic artery). Postoperative abdominal bleeding occurred in 4 cases,with 3 cases in the routine group,1 case in the routine group. The R0 resection rate was 85.7%(24/28) in the APOT group and 80.4%(45/56) in the routine group,without significant differences between the groups(P=0.763). The median overall survival time was 27.6 months for the APOT group and 22.5 months for the routine group,while the median disease-free survival was 11.7 months and 16.8 months,respectively,with no significant differences between the two groups(P=0.532,P=0.927). Conclusion: The arterial pre-occlusion technique can be used for extra-arterial dissection in patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer involving the arteries,reducing surgery time and intraoperative blood loss.

Using Intervention Mapping to co-design a psychosocial service with youth experiencing mental illness

BackgroundDescriptions of service development processes in the youth mental health sector are lacking. Further, youth with lived experience of mental illness are rarely involved in service design. Intervention Mapping (IM) is a well-established framework for program development, implementation and evaluation, yet its applicability in the youth mental health sector is unknown. This paper describes the use of IM methodology to co-design and develop a psychosocial service to support youth aged 10-25 years experiencing mental illness in Tasmania, Australia. MethodsThe six steps of IM were followed: 1) needs assessment; 2) define program outcomes and objectives; 3) program design; 4) program production; 5) implementation planning; and 6) evaluation planning. ResultsKey outputs of each IM step are described. The service was successfully co-designed with young people at the centre of each step. The service includes wrap-around psychosocial support from lived-experience peer-support workers; outreach; and flexible frequency/intensity/duration to achieve young people’s psychosocial goals. ConclusionsThis is the first study to document the use of IM in co-designing a psychosocial service with youth experiencing mental illness. IM may provide a valuable roadmap for the youth mental health sector in supporting collaborative service design, implementation and evaluation planning, and systematic documentation of service development.

Development Strategy School Financial Resilience in Yogyakarta Private High School

The success of educational institutions in providing quality services is influenced by various factors, including planning, facilities, human resources, and financial support. This research focuses on school financial management, emphasizing the importance of financial resilience to support operational resilience and sustainability, especially in private schools with limited funds. Financial resilience is the capacity of an institution to survive and adapt to financial challenges, which includes effective and efficient management of income and expenditure. This research uses qualitative methods with a descriptive approach to explore strategies for developing financial resilience at SMA Muhammadiyah 1 Yogyakarta. Data was collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and document study, and analyzed using triangulation techniques to ensure the validity of the information. The main focus of research is on absorptive, adaptive and transformative strategies in school financial management. Absorptive strategies emphasize the importance of effective budget planning and evaluation. Adaptive strategies include the use of financial information systems and the involvement of external parties. Transformative strategies involve student service innovation, awards, and seeking additional funding Research findings show that SMA Muhammadiyah 1 Yogyakarta has succeeded in overcoming financial challenges through good management and implementing innovative strategies. This research recommends regular evaluation of financial management systems, staff training, and collaboration with other educational institutions to improve financial management strategies. It is hoped that further research can contribute to the development of policies and best practices in educational financial management.

Implementing Learner Autonomy in English as a Foreign Language Classroom Through a Flipped Classroom Pedagogical Approach

This study is a small-scale action research on the problem of using the Flipped Classroom pedagogical approach to enhance learner autonomy in the target group of high school students in an EFL classroom. The main stages of the research were conducted in the spring semester of the academic year of 2023/24. The participants of the study are seven Ukrainian Grade 9 students and three teachers. The research aims at designing and implementing a method for engaging learners in autonomous practices through the Flipped Classroom model. The methodological basis of this study is the works of (Benson &amp; Voller, 2014), the Flipped Learning Network (2014), (Moore, 2015), (Velegol, Zappe, &amp; Mahoney, 2015), (O’Flaherty &amp; Phillips, 2015), (Hung, 2015), (Huang &amp; Hong, 2016), (Nichols, Burgh, &amp; Kennedy, 2017), (Olakanmi, 2017), (Låg &amp; Sæle, 2019), (Jung, Park, Kim, &amp; Park, 2022), (Little, 2022) and other scientists. In this research, the mixed-method approach is used; the quantitative and qualitative data have been collected through guided observation, surveys (teacher interviews and student questionnaires), and mathematical statistics (descriptive and frequency methods). The essence of the designed method lies in the gradual engagement of students in reviewing short video lectures and reading relevant input before class; then, in class, discussing content and doing quizzes and exercises to reinforce understanding, and, finally, actively participating in creating content-related presentations or projects. The results of this study demonstrate that the Flipped Classroom approach has a considerable impact on learner self-awareness, beliefs, and attitudes implemented in autonomous classroom practices, in particular: effective use of free time for English studying; increased motivation to explore new content and understanding it; perception of a teacher as a facilitator, suggesting a move towards a more student-centered or collaborative learning environment; perception of knowledge as something to be gained rather than “transmitted”, taking on responsibility for evaluating learning outcomes through self-assessment or collaborative evaluation methods. Nevertheless, there are some limitations to using FC in the English language classroom: the willingness of teachers to apply learner-centered methods; the willingness of students to take responsibility for their learning; learners’ cognitive and metacognitive skills; the difficulty of the learning material meant for flipping (self-study), access to resources and technology. The results of this study can be used by researchers and practitioners working in the sectors of secondary and tertiary education.

Model Pengembangan Profesionalisme Guru

The aim of this study is to investigate the professional development model of teachers implemented at SD Al-Imam Islamic School in Balikpapan. Expertise of the teacher becomes a crucial factor in raising student achievement in education as curricula and educational technologies advance. Observation, interview, and document review are used as qualitative methods together with case study research to gather data. According to the study's findings, this school employs a variety of professional development models, including career-growth models based on skill, knowledge, collaboration, innovation, and performance evaluation. This approach is not limited to enhancing technological proficiency; it also promotes the development of Islamic character. Thus, the development of the teacher's professionalism at SD Al-Imam Islamic School Balikpapan has a significant impact on student learning outcomes and serves as a model for other schools seeking to create a comprehensive and holistic learning environment.

Contextual Analysis of the Site

Purpose. The purpose of this article is to describe the method of contextual website research, which is an alternative to traditional benchmark tests. Unlike laboratory tests, where conditions are strictly controlled, contextual research allows you to evaluate the usability of a website in a real context, taking into account the factors that affect the user in his or her usual environment. This means that researchers observe users interacting with a website in their natural environment, such as at home or at work, which allows them to gain a more relevant understanding of the user experience. Methodology. We used the contextual research method, which involves detailed observation and interviewing a small group of users about certain aspects of a website. This helps to get a realistic picture of how the user perceives and uses the site in real conditions, in the context of websites. Researchers can observe how users use the website, what tasks they are trying to accomplish, what difficulties they encounter, and how they interact with other tools and programs. Findings. The study makes it possible to greatly simplify the evaluation of website usability using certain approaches and developed software. Using contextual research, it is possible to identify shortcomings that would not be noticeable during laboratory tests and suggest improvements that increase the usability of a website. Originality. The study is based on key principles such as contextualization, collaborative evaluation, usability as the main indicator, and focus on the subject matter. This allows us to gain a deeper understanding of how users interact with a website in real life, not just in an artificially created laboratory environment. Practical value. The results of the work allow us to use the method of contextual research in a wide range of human activities within websites of different orientations to improve the user experience. This can be especially useful for websites that are developed for certain groups of users, such as people with disabilities or the elderly.

The Carrying Behavior of Water-Based Fracturing Fluid in Shale Reservoir Fractures and Molecular Dynamics of Sand-Carrying Mechanism

Water-based fracturing fluid has recently garnered increasing attention as an alternative oilfield working fluid for propagating reservoir fractures and transporting sand. However, the low temperature resistance and stability of water-based fracturing fluid is a significant limitation, restricting the fracture propagation and gravel transport. To effectively ameliorate the temperature resistance and sand-carrying capacity, a modified cross-linker with properties adaptable to varying reservoir conditions and functional groups was synthesized and chemically characterized. Meanwhile, a multifunctional collaborative progressive evaluation device was developed to investigate the rheology and sand-carrying capacity of fracturing fluid. Utilizing molecular dynamics simulations, the thickening mechanism of the modified cross-linker and the sand-carrying mechanism of the fracturing fluid were elucidated. Results indicate that the designed cross-linker provided a high viscosity stability of 130 mPa·s and an excellent sand-carrying capacity of 15 cm2 at 0.3 wt% cross-linker content. Additionally, increasing reservoir pressure exhibited enhanced thickening and sand-carrying capacities. However, a significant inverse relationship was observed between reservoir temperature and sand-carrying capacity, attributed to changes in the drag coefficient and thickener adsorption. These results verified the effectiveness of the cross-linker in enhancing fluid viscosity and sand-carrying capacity as a modified cross-linker for water-based fracturing fluid.

Safety assessment of protein A and derivation of a parenteral health-based exposure limit

Protein A (PA) is a bacterial cell wall component of Staphylococcus aureus whose function is to bind to Immunoglobulin G (IgG). Given its ability to bind IgG as well as its stability and resistance to harsh acidic and basic cleaning conditions, it is commonly used in the affinity chromotography purification of biotherapeutics. This use can result in levels of PA being present in a drug product and subsequent patient exposure. Interestingly, PA was previously evaluated in clinical trials as well as supporting nonclinical studies, resulting in a database that enables the derivation of a health-based exposure limit (HBEL). Given the widespread use of PA in the pharmaceutical industry, the IQ DruSafe Impurities Safety Working Group (WG) evaluated the available information with the purpose of establishing a harmonized parenteral HBEL for PA. Based on this thorough, collaborative evaluation of nonclinical and clinical data available for PA, a parenteral HBEL of 1.2 μg/kg/dose (60 μg/dose for a 50 kg individual) is expected to be health protective for patients when it is present as an impurity in a biotherapeutic.