Continuous Assessment Research Articles

Current Intelligence and Assessments: Information Flows and the Tension between Quality and Speed

This article takes a particular interest in the dynamics between information flows, continuous ongoing assessments, intelligence dissemination, and forward-looking operational advice. The point of departure is the tension between balancing quality (in the sense of in-depth processing of large amounts of information) and speed (meeting requirements of timeliness) in current intelligence assessments. The article takes an explorative approach to practices in current intelligence, utilizing qualitative interview data combined with open source material.

The 2021 Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (GOLD) guidelines and the outpatient management: Examining physician adherence and its effects on patient outcome.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common preventable illness that carries a large global economic and social burden. The global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease (GOLD) guidelines has been utilized as a global strategy for the continued COPD diagnosis, assessment, and treatment. We aimed to determine if the adherence to the 2021 GOLD guideline directed management influenced outcomes. Retrospective medical records review of adult patients with COPD, who received care in our office during the entire year of 2021. Patients managed as per the 2021 GOLD guidelines were compared with those who received usual care. Among 242 patients, 171 (70.7%) were GOLD management adherent (GA) and 71 (29.3%) were GOLD non-adherent (GNA). Certain comorbidities were associated with higher frequencies in the GA group, such as allergic rhinitis (63.2 vs. 18.3%; P < 0.001), coronary artery disease (55.9 vs. 38.0%; P = 0.011), GERD (63.2 vs. 32.4%; P < 0.001), anemia (38.6 vs. 19.7%; P = 0.004), malignancy (34.5 vs. 19.7%; P = 0.023), and immunodeficiency (12.3 vs. 1.4%; P = 0.007). There was no significant difference in the mortality between the GA and GNA groups (5.3 vs. 9.9%; P = 0.254). Although the frequency of number of exacerbations was greater in the GA group, the difference in the mean number of exacerbations was not statistically significant (0.39 ± 1.08 vs. 0.39 ± 1.14; P = 0.984). We found no significant difference in the patient outcomes, such as number of exacerbations of COPD and mortality, when comparing the 2021 GOLD guideline adherent versus GOLD guideline non-adherent management of COPD.

Radiological age assessment based on clavicle ossification in CT: enhanced accuracy through deep learning.

Radiological age assessment using reference studies is inherently limited in accuracy due to a finite number of assignable skeletal maturation stages. To overcome this limitation, we present a deep learning approach for continuous age assessment based on clavicle ossification in computed tomography (CT). Thoracic CT scans were retrospectively collected from the picture archiving and communication system. Individuals aged 15.0 to 30.0years examined in routine clinical practice were included. All scans were automatically cropped around the medial clavicular epiphyseal cartilages. A deep learning model was trained to predict a person's chronological age based on these scans. Performance was evaluated using mean absolute error (MAE). Model performance was compared to an optimistic human reader performance estimate for an established reference study method. The deep learning model was trained on 4,400 scans of 1,935 patients (training set: mean age = 24.2years ± 4.0, 1132 female) and evaluated on 300 scans of 300 patients with a balanced age and sex distribution (test set: mean age = 22.5years ± 4.4, 150 female). Model MAE was 1.65years, and the highest absolute error was 6.40years for females and 7.32years for males. However, performance could be attributed to norm-variants or pathologic disorders. Human reader estimate MAE was 1.84years and the highest absolute error was 3.40years for females and 3.78years for males. We present a deep learning approach for continuous age predictions using CT volumes highlighting the medial clavicular epiphyseal cartilage with performance comparable to the human reader estimate.

Development and Cultivation of Mathematical Literacy: A Pedagogical Perspective

This study is dedicated to the formation and enhancement of mathematical literacy with a focus on pedagogical approaches. Mathematical literacy, a crucial skill in today's world, involves the ability to apply mathematical knowledge and skills in various contexts. The research aims to explore effective strategies for developing mathematical literacy among students, recognizing its importance in fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. The pedagogical approach highlighted in this study centers on interactive teaching methods, incorporating real-life scenarios, and utilizing technology in mathematics education. By examining educational practices from various international contexts, the study identifies key factors that contribute to successful mathematical literacy development. These include a curriculum that integrates practical applications of mathematics, teacher training programs that emphasize innovative teaching methods, and the creation of a supportive learning environment that encourages exploration and inquiry. The findings indicate that enhancing mathematical literacy requires a comprehensive approach, combining effective teaching strategies, curriculum design, and continuous assessment to meet the diverse needs of learners. This research contributes to the field of mathematics education by providing insights into methods and practices that effectively nurture mathematical literacy in students, preparing them for the challenges of the 21st century.

Students' Satisfaction with Library's Service Quality and Services in a Flexible Learning Environment

Services of the library in selected private higher education institutions in Isabela, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research examines satisfaction levels in terms of affect of service, library as a place, and information control. It also investigates satisfaction with library services such as Library Information Service, Circulation Service, Reference Service, and Internet/Online/Web Service. The study further explores whether there are significant differences in satisfaction levels among students grouped by program. Results indicate that students are moderately satisfied with the library's service quality and very satisfied with specific services. No significant differences are observed based on program groups. Additionally, identified problems include a lack of electronic resources, slow internet, and difficulties accessing recent online journals. The findings underscore the importance of continuous assessment to enhance library services, improve staff training, and address technological challenges.

Predicting cognitive scores from wearable-based digital physiological features using machine learning: data from a clinical trial in mild cognitive impairment

BackgroundContinuous assessment and remote monitoring of cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) enables tracking therapeutic effects and modifying treatment to achieve better clinical outcomes. While standardized neuropsychological tests are inconvenient for this purpose, wearable sensor technology collecting physiological and behavioral data looks promising to provide proxy measures of cognitive function. The objective of this study was to evaluate the predictive ability of digital physiological features, based on sensor data from wrist-worn wearables, in determining neuropsychological test scores in individuals with MCI.MethodsWe used the dataset collected from a 10-week single-arm clinical trial in older adults (50–70 years old) diagnosed with amnestic MCI (N = 30) who received a digitally delivered multidomain therapeutic intervention. Cognitive performance was assessed before and after the intervention using the Neuropsychological Test Battery (NTB) from which composite scores were calculated (executive function, processing speed, immediate memory, delayed memory and global cognition). The Empatica E4, a wrist-wearable medical-grade device, was used to collect physiological data including blood volume pulse, electrodermal activity, and skin temperature. We processed sensors’ data and extracted a range of physiological features. We used interpolated NTB scores for 10-day intervals to test predictability of scores over short periods and to leverage the maximum of wearable data available. In addition, we used individually centered data which represents deviations from personal baselines. Supervised machine learning was used to train models predicting NTB scores from digital physiological features and demographics. Performance was evaluated using “leave-one-subject-out” and “leave-one-interval-out” cross-validation.ResultsThe final sample included 96 aggregated data intervals from 17 individuals. In total, 106 digital physiological features were extracted. We found that physiological features, especially measures of heart rate variability, correlated most strongly to the executive function compared to other cognitive composites. The model predicted the actual executive function scores with correlation r = 0.69 and intra-individual changes in executive function scores with r = 0.61.ConclusionsOur findings demonstrated that wearable-based physiological measures, primarily HRV, have potential to be used for the continuous assessments of cognitive function in individuals with MCI.

Investigating academic performance and perceptions of human physiology and exercise physiology courses among undergraduate students of physical education at a Brazilian public university

PurposeTo compare the academic performance of undergraduate students in physical education who studied exercise physiology before and after studying human physiology and investigate students’ perceptions of human physiology and exercise physiology courses.MethodsThis study included 311 undergraduate students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in physical education. Participants were divided into two groups: those who had previously attended and completed the human physiology course (group 1, n = 212, 68.2%) and those who had not previously attended or had attended but failed the human physiology course (group 2, n = 99, 31.8%). The prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated using a Poisson regression model with a robust variance estimator. The second aim comprised 67 students with bachelor’s degrees in physical education who completed an electronic questionnaire about their perceptions of human physiology and exercise physiology curriculum.ResultsCompared with those who attended human physiology and passed, those who had not previously attended or had attended but failed the human physiology course have a higher PR of 2.37 (95% CI, 1.68–3.34) for failing exercise physiology. Regarding the students’ perceptions of human physiology and exercise physiology courses, most students reported that they were challenging (58.2% and 64.2%, respectively), but they also recognized the importance of these courses for professional practice (59.7% and 85.1%, respectively).ConclusionHuman physiology should be considered a prerequisite for an undergraduate course leading to a bachelor’s degree in physical education. Furthermore, students considered human physiology and exercise physiology courses important yet challenging. Therefore, continuous student assessment is vital for improving the teaching–learning process.

Index-Based Groundwater Quality Assessment of Nestos River Deltaic Aquifer System, Northeastern Greece

The Nestos River delta is one of the most important and sensitive basins in Greece and Europe due to its ecosystem functions, combining intensive agricultural production with low-enthalpy geothermal energy and important ecotopes. High water quality is of paramount importance to the sustainability of the system. Systematic and continuous assessment of water quality needs to be carried out in a way that is easy and quick for decision makers and non-expert societal partners to comprehend. In this way, decisions may be made more rapidly, and involved water users may be sensitized to rational water use. To this end, this paper presents the assessment of groundwater quality in the Nestos River’s western delta with the use of Poseidon (PoS), a versatile, index-based method. Groundwater samples collected from 24 and 22 wells tapping the unconfined and the confined aquifers, respectively, in four time periods (May and October 2019 and 2020) were analyzed. Using the PoS index, groundwater samples were classified according to their quality status, highlighting the parameters driving quality degradation issues, thus assisting water managers in obtaining an overview of quality status and evolution through datasets that were often large. PoS index is applied in the study area for the first time and provides a groundwater quality assessment through a unique score representative of the overall water quality status regardless of processes (anthropogenic or natural) or any kind of pressures.

Recognition and Prevention of Hospitalised Malnutrition: A Case Report

Rationale: Poly-trauma post road traffic accident often induces a state of malnutrition due to the pathological changes and the insufficient protein and caloric intake for long time. If left unmanaged, malnutrition will have negative consequences on rehabilitation. Nutritional intervention provides caloric requirements and the nutritional support necessary to cover the daily nutritional needs and help contrast hospitalised infections. Our hypothesis is that integration of organised and continuous nutritional assessment and management can enhance prevent the state of malnutrition and increase rehabilitation outcomes.&#x0D; Patient Concerns: We present the case of an adult man with Poly-trauma post caused by road traffic. The patient underwent tracheostomy and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) procedures, had severe consciousness disorder.&#x0D; Diagnosis: He has severe consciousness disorder that necessitated the tracheostomy and the PEG.&#x0D; Interventions: Our approach included regular nutritional assessment and caloric calculation and implementation of as well as the gradual introduction of diet from NPO to clear liquid, as well as using of supplements and enteral formulas.&#x0D; Outcomes: The patient was followed for seven months during which the metabolic/nutritional pattern and the blood tests improved, normal weight restored, and consciousness regained.&#x0D; Conclusion: Nutritional intervention integrated has prevented drastic loss in weight, a better recovery, and the stabilization of the metabolic-nutritional framework. Nutritional approach used has contributed to the reduction of recovery times, making the therapeutic path more effective and applicable.

Progress Testing in UK Medical Education: Evaluating Its Impact and Potential.

This comprehensive review critically examines the UK medical curriculum, with a particular focus on progress testing as an innovative assessment strategy. The curriculum, evolving from foundational sciences to practical applications, is encapsulated in the integrated curriculum model (ICM). This model adeptly combines theoretical knowledge with clinical practice, fostering cognitive, affective, and psychomotor skills among medical students. Central to this review is an exploration of progress testing. This method, grounded in constructivist learning theories, emphasises continuous assessment and professional development. Progress testing's regular, comprehensive examinations are instrumental in guiding students through the progressive stages of competence, as outlined in Miller's pyramid, from foundational knowledge to clinical proficiency. The review also addresses the broader impacts of progress testing on teaching approaches, student feedback, academic and pastoral support, and quality assurance. By aligning with the dynamic requirements of 21st-century medical training, progress testing not only nurtures well-rounded professionals but also ensures compliance with regulatory bodies like the General Medical Council. Its emphasis on continuous evaluation aligns with the practical realities of a medical career, driving curricular innovation and aligning with regulatory standards. The implementation of progress testing marks a significant advancement in medical education. Its continuous, holistic nature benefits both students and educators, nurturing a more engaged learning attitude and meeting evolving medical needs. The adoption of this assessment strategy is seen as pivotal in shaping competent medical professionals, ready to face the challenges of modern medical practice.

Early Changes in LIPI Score Predict Immune-Related Adverse Events: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis in Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients on Immune Checkpoint Blockade.

In advanced cancer patients undergoing immune checkpoint blockade, the burden of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) is high. The need for reliable biomarkers for irAEs remains unfulfilled in this expanding therapeutic field. The lung immune prognostic index (LIPI) is a noninvasive measure of systemic inflammation that has consistently shown a correlation with survival in various cancer types when assessed at baseline. This study sought to determine whether early changes in the LIPI score could discriminate the risk of irAEs and different survival outcomes in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving PD-(L)1 blockade-based therapies. We included consecutive patients diagnosed with metastatic NSCLC who received pembrolizumab, nivolumab, or atezolizumab as second-line therapy following platinum-based chemotherapy, or first-line pembrolizumab either alone or in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy. The LIPI score relied on the combined values of derived neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (dNLR) and lactate dehydrogenase. Their assessment at baseline and after two cycles of treatment allowed us to categorize the population into three subgroups with good (LIPI-0), intermediate (LIPI-1), and poor (LIPI-2) prognosis. Between April 2016 and May 2023, we enrolled a total of 345 eligible patients, 165 (47.8%) and 180 (52.2%) of whom were treated as first- and second-line at our facility, respectively. After applying propensity score matching, we considered 83 relevant patients in each cohort with a homogeneous distribution of all characteristics across the baseline LIPI subgroups. There was a noticeable change in the distribution of LIPI categories due to a significant decrease in dNLR values during treatment. Although no patients shifted to a worse prognosis category, 20 (24.1%) transitioned from LIPI-1 to LIPI-0, and 7 (8.4%) moved from LIPI-2 to LIPI-1 (p < 0.001). Throughout a median observation period of 7.3 (IQR 3.9-15.1) months, a total of 158 irAEs (63.5%) were documented, with 121 (48.6%) and 39 (15.7%) patients experiencing mild to moderate and severe adverse events, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the classification and changes in the LIPI score while on treatment were independent predictors of irAEs. The LIPI-0 group was found to have significantly increased odds of experiencing irAEs. Following a median follow-up period of 21.1 (95% CI 17.9-25.8) months, the multivariable Cox model confirmed LIPI categorization at any given time point as a significant covariate with influence on overall survival, irrespective of the treatment line. These findings suggest that reassessing the LIPI score after two cycles of treatment could help pinpoint patients particularly prone to immune-related toxicities. Those who maintain a good LIPI score or move from the intermediate to good category would be more likely to develop irAEs. The continuous assessment of LIPI provides prognostic insights and could be useful for predicting the benefit of PD-(L)1 checkpoint inhibitors.

TEACHING TAHFIDZ IN THE TODDLER AND CHILD TAHFIDZ HOUSE (RUTABA) SIDOARJO

This study aims to enhance the teaching effectiveness of the tahfidz programme for toddlers at Rumah Tahfidz Balita dan Anak (RUTABA) Sidoarjo. The research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design, and data were collected through classroom observation, interviews, and document analysis. The findings revealed that increased teacher understanding is crucial for the success of memorising tahfidz among toddler students. The significance of the teacher's role in effective guidance and teaching is emphasised. Additionally, parental involvement is recognised as a crucial factor in improving the quality of memorisation and maintaining the spirit of memorisation of toddler tahfidz students. The use of technology was found to be highly beneficial in tahfidz learning, both in school and during murojaah at home. This indicates that integrating technology can enhance learning effectiveness. Factors such as teachers' professional development and rote memorisation were identified as being able to increase motivation and set an example in the tahfidz programme for students. This highlights the importance of skill development and ongoing support for educators. Continuous evaluation is a method of enhancing the quality of students' memorisation that is carried out regularly according to a schedule. This approach highlights the significance of continuous monitoring and assessment to improve the quality of learning. Therefore, this abstract demonstrates a comprehensive approach to teaching tahfidz to toddlers by emphasising the roles of teachers, parents, technology, professional development, and continuous evaluation.

Early and delayed blood-brain barrier permeability predicts delayed cerebral ischemia and outcomes following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

This study aimed to monitor blood-brain barrier permeability within 24 h and during the delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) time window (DCITW) spanning 4-14 days after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) and to investigate its correlation with both DCI occurrence and outcomes at three months. A total of 128 patients were stratified based on the DCI occurrence and three-month modified Rankin scale scores. Comparison of Ktrans at admission (admission Ktrans) and during DCITW (DCITW Ktrans) was conducted between DCI and non-DCI groups, as well as between groups with good and poor outcomes. Changes in Ktrans were also analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of DCI and poor outcomes. Admission Ktrans (0.58 ± 0.18 vs 0.47 ± 0.12, p= 0.002) and DCITW Ktrans (0.54 ± 0.19 vs 0.41 ± 0.14, p< 0.001) were significantly higher in the DCI group compared with the non-DCI group. Although both were higher in the poor outcome group than the good outcome group, the difference was not statistically significant at admission (0.53 ± 0.18 vs 0.49 ± 0.14, p= 0.198). Ktrans in the non-DCI group (0.47 ± 0.12 vs 0.41 ± 0.14, p= 0.004) and good outcome group (0.49 ± 0.14 vs 0.41 ± 0.14, p< 0.001) decreased significantly from the admission to DCITW. Multivariate analysis identified DCITW Ktrans and admission Ktrans as independent predictors of poor outcomes (OR = 1.73, 95%CI: 1.24-2.43, p= 0.001) and DCI (OR = 1.75, 95%CI: 1.25-2.44, p= 0.001), respectively. Elevated Ktrans at admission is associated with the occurrence of DCI. Continuous monitoring of Ktrans from admission to DCITW can accurately identify reversible and irreversible changes and can predict outcomes at 3 months. Ktrans measured with CT perfusion is a valuable tool for predicting both delayed cerebral ischemia and three-month outcomes following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. Monitoring changes in Ktrans from admission to time window of delayed cerebral ischemia can guide treatment and management decisions for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients. • Ktrans measured at admission and during the delayed cerebral ischemia time window (4-14 days) holds distinct clinical significance following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. • Admission Ktrans serves as a predictor for delayed cerebral ischemia, while continuous assessment of Ktrans from admission to the delayed cerebral ischemia time window can predict three-month outcomes. • Monitoring Ktrans at different stages improves instrumental in enhancing decision-making and treatment planning for patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Current Safety and Hygiene Practices and Trends in Primary Schools in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwean Primary School Education system in this 21st century caters for the new syllabus which is competence based and requires learners at all levels of education to have an exit profile. This study aims to explore the major challenges that primary school teachers in Zimbabwe face in their classrooms to keep up with Continuous Assessment Learning Areas (CALAs) which are project based. This study is hinged on a qualitative research approach which is interpretive. A case study with five purposively sampled teachers and grounded on a constructivist theory was undertaken. Semi-structured interviews and document analysis of the questions were used to collect data. Collected data which was analysed inductively, answered the study research question. Findings indicate that although CALAs is an innovative method and an emerging trend in pedagogy that allows learners to have an in-depth understanding, they pose challenges to teachers. Their downside is that they are time consuming and learners without ICT resources fail to cope. Schools and learners’ guardians/parents lack adequate resources to do CALAs which are project based and also embrace the use of technology. Teachers have negative attitudes towards CALAs and they also lack adequate technological pedagogic skills to assist the learners adequately. The study recommends that Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) undertake a massive technological project to assist teachers and schools to have adequate and efficient resources that are compatible with the 21st century demands.

Application of graphene oxide nanosheet lactate biosensors in continuous assessment of athlete fitness

This study presents a groundbreaking approach in sports science, introducing a novel graphene oxide (GO) nanosheet-based lactate biosensor designed for the non-invasive, continuous assessment of athlete fitness. Traditional lactate monitoring techniques, typically invasive and offering only intermittent data, are significantly outperformed by this innovative method. Our biosensor uniquely combines lactate oxidase (LOx) with GO nanosheets to measure lactate levels in sweat with unprecedented accuracy and real-time response. Notably, this sensor exhibits exceptional sensitivity and a wide dynamic range, effectively capturing the complete spectrum of physiological lactate variations, from resting states to peak exertion levels. The practical implications of this research are vast, offering a revolutionary tool for enhancing athlete performance monitoring and tailoring training regimens. This biosensor stands as a testament to the potential of nanotechnology in transforming sports science, providing a non-invasive, efficient solution for precise lactate threshold measurement and opening new horizons in personalized athletic training and health monitoring.

Teaching Ethics in Teacher Education: ICT-Enhanced, Case-Based and Active Learning Approach with Continuous Formative Assessment

Teaching Ethics in Teacher Education: ICT-Enhanced, Case-Based and Active Learning Approach with Continuous Formative Assessment

Explaining the role of land use changes on land surface temperature in an arid and semi-arid metropolitan area with multi-scale spatial regression analysis.

Urban Heat Islands (UHIs), Land Surface Temperature (LST), and Land Use Land Cover (LULC) changes are critical environmental concerns that require continuous monitoring and assessment, especially in cities within arid and semi-arid (ASA) climates. Despite the abundance of research in tropical, Mediterranean, and cold climates, there is a significant knowledge gap for cities in the Middle East with ASA climates. This study aimed to examine the effects of LULC change, population, and wind speed on LST in the Mashhad Metropolis, a city with an ASA climate, over a 30-year period. The research underscores the importance of environmental monitoring and assessment in understanding and mitigating the impacts of urbanization and climate change. Our research combines spatial regression models, multi-scale and fine-scale analyses, seasonal and city outskirts considerations, and long-term change assessments. We used Landsat satellite imagery, a crucial tool for environmental monitoring, to identify LULC changes and their impact on LST at three scales. The relationships were analyzed using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Spatial Error Model (SEM) regressions, demonstrating the value of these techniques in environmental assessment. Our findings highlight the role of environmental factors in shaping LST. A decrease in vegetation and instability of water bodies significantly increased LST over the study period. Bare lands and rocky terrains had the most substantial effect on LST. At the same time, built-up areas resulted in Urban Cooling Islands (UCIs) due to their lower temperatures compared to surrounding bare lands. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Dry Bare-Soil Index (DBSI) were the most effective indices impacting LST in ASA regions, and the 30×30 m2 micro-scale provides more precise results in regression models, underscoring their importance in environmental monitoring. Our study provided a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between LULC changes and LST in an ASA environment, contributing significantly to the literature on environmental change in arid regions and the methodologies for monitoring such changes. Future research should aim to validate and expand additional LST-affecting factors and test our approach and findings in other ASA regions, considering the unique characteristics of these areas and the importance of tailored environmental monitoring and assessment approaches.

Enhancing Continuous Assessment in Jigawa State Senior Secondary Schools: The Impact of Electronically Processed Data

This journal article explores the relationship between electronically processed data and continuous assessment in senior secondary schools in Jigawa State. The study investigates the potential benefits of using electronic data processing methods in continuous assessment and evaluates their impact on student performance and educational outcomes. Through a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative interviews with teachers and quantitative analysis of student data, the research provides valuable insights into the advantages of electronic data processing in improving the efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness of continuous assessment practices. The findings demonstrate the transformative potential of electronic data processing in enhancing educational outcomes and informing instructional decisions. Based on the results, the article provides recommendations for successful implementation and future research directions.

Suggesting Context Differences Influence the Impact of Nurses’ Psychological Contracts

Inconsistent findings regarding psychological contracts may be due to the variety of contexts studied. Sensemaking processes inform the psychological contract and may explain contextual differences. This study examines the psychological contract components of promises, fulfillment and breach, with negative affectivity, in relation to employee-level outcomes in two related but different contexts. Surveys were completed by 162 hospital nurses and 218 aged care nurses, in a situation where many potential contextual moderators were held relatively constant. Both fulfillment and breach were significant and predicted multiple outcomes in each context. Similar patterns of results for fulfillment and breach suggests there may simultaneously be two forms of discrepancy mechanism underpinning the impacts of the psychological contract: assessment of continuous discrepancy (fulfillment) and assessment of discontinuous discrepancy (breach). Negative affectivity appears to have prevented relationships, particularly between breach and stress, and should be included in future psychological contract research. The consistent relationships of fulfillment and breach with organizational and occupational commitment highlights the importance of career management. The main differences by context were the negative effects of breach and the lack of an effect for promises for aged care nurses, possibly due to prestige and other differences to be investigated in future research.

Continuous Instrument Tracking in a Cerebral Corticectomy Ex Vivo Calf Brain Simulation Model: Face and Content Validation.

Subpial corticectomy involving complete lesion resection while preserving pial membranes and avoiding injury to adjacent normal tissues is an essential bimanual task necessary for neurosurgical trainees to master. We sought to develop an ex vivo calf brain corticectomy simulation model with continuous assessment of surgical instrument movement during the simulation. A case series study of skilled participants was performed to assess face and content validity to gain insights into the utility of this training platform, along with determining if skilled and less skilled participants had statistical differences in validity assessment. An ex vivo calf brain simulation model was developed in which trainees performed a subpial corticectomy of three defined areas. A case series study assessed face and content validity of the model using 7-point Likert scale questionnaires. Twelve skilled and 11 less skilled participants were included in this investigation. Overall median scores of 6.0 (range 4.0-6.0) for face validity and 6.0 (range 3.5-7.0) for content validity were determined on the 7-point Likert scale, with no statistical differences between skilled and less skilled groups identified. A novel ex vivo calf brain simulator was developed to replicate the subpial resection procedure and demonstrated face and content validity.