Core Constructs Research Articles

An international core outcome set for primary progressive aphasia (COS-PPA): Consensus-based recommendations for communication interventions across research and clinical settings.

Interventions to treat speech-language difficulties in primary progressive aphasia (PPA) often use word accuracy as a highly comparable outcome. However, there are more constructs of importance to people with PPA that have received less attention. Following Core Outcome Set Standards for Development Recommendations (COSSTAD), this study comprised: Stage 1 - systematic review to identify measures; Stage 2 - consensus groups to identify important outcome constructs for people with PPA (n=82) and care partners (n=91); Stage 3 - e-Delphi consensus with 57 researchers. The systematic review identified 84 Outcome Measurement Instruments. Core outcome constructs identified included: (1) Participate in conversations with family and friends, (2) get words out, (3) be more fluent, (4) convey a message by any means, and (5) understand what others are saying. Researchers were unable to reach a consensus on measurement instruments. Further work is required to develop appropriate measurement instruments that address all core outcome constructs important to key stakeholders. We introduce new symptom-led perspectives on primary progressive aphasia (PPA). The focus is on non-fluent/agrammatic (nfvPPA) and semantic (svPPA) variants. Foregrounding of early and non-verbal features of PPA and clinical trajectories is featured. We introduce a symptom-led staging scheme for PPA. We propose a prototype for a functional impairment scale, the PPA Progression Planning Aid.

Bridging the gap of Inequity in Implementation Science: Adaptations of Group EBPs for those with Serious Mental Illness in the Public Sector.

There are many group EBPs that are now listed as effective treatments for those with serious mental illness (SMI). Despite this, there are few of these group EBPs that are being delivered consistently in the public sector, causing disparity. This article reviews the challenges that relate to implementation science and those with SMI receiving group EBPs to help them live a life of meaning as they define. The article discusses the need for adaptations of EBPs as individuals with complex concerns need different approaches to implementation science. Next, the article conveys what core constructs of group EBPs have to be maintained as they are and what elements of EBPs need adapting to empower those with SMI in engagement. This article provides knowledge of practical application of implementation science approaches while providing dialectical behavior group therapy and cognitive behavior group therapy for psychosis adaptations for those with SMI in a public sector inpatient setting.

Psychometric Properties and Measurement Equivalence of the Workplace Incivility Scale Across Cultures: Insights from Daily Diary Study.

Despite extensive research on workplace incivility, little attention has been given to its validation in culturally distinct contexts such as China and Pakistan. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating the psychometric properties of the workplace incivility scale within these cultural frameworks. Additionally, it seeks to explore the cross-cultural measurement equivalence of the workplace incivility scale between these two diverse settings using a daily diary study design. The sample consisted of employees from service-providing organizations in China and Pakistan. Data was collected through snowball sampling, resulting in responses from 100 Chinese and 115 Pakistani employees over 10 consecutive workdays. Analysis of the daily responses, encompassing 748 from Chinese and 833 from Pakistani workers, indicated successful validation of the scale within both populations. This demonstrates the transferability of the concept of incivility to these cultural contexts. An integral aspect of this study is the consideration of potential cultural variations in workplace uncivil behavior. The validation and measurement equivalence of the scale for the core construct serves as essential infrastructure supporting such research endeavors.

Trust and Religiosity: Integrating Technological Acceptance Factors into the Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) Model for Zakat Online Payment Systems

The aim of this study is to examine the adoption of digital zakat payment platforms among micro-entrepreneurs, incorporating trust and religiosity into the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model. This research extends the traditional UTAUT framework by integrating trust and religiosity as additional determinants of technology adoption intention, alongside the model's core constructs of performance expectancy and social influence. Primary data for this study was gathered through a digital survey disseminated to 110 micro-entrepreneurs in the state of Kedah, all of whom are actively registered with the Malaysian Company Commission (SSM), under the auspices of the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK). The methodological approach is rooted in structural equation modelling, which facilitates a rigorous empirical analysis of the relationships between technological constructs and user intention. The results reveal that trust and performance expectancy, along with social influence, significantly impact micro-entrepreneurs’ intentions to engage with online zakat payment systems. Interestingly, despite the religious nature of zakat, religiosity did not emerge as a significant predictor in the context of this digital payment adoption. This insight suggests that while religious obligation drives the act of zakat itself, it is the technological aspects of trust and anticipated performance that influence the preference for digital payment methods over traditional ones. This research provides valuable implications for zakat institutions and policymakers aiming to foster the digitalization of religious financial transactions. By highlighting key factors that influence digital adoption, the study underscores the potential for zakat management bodies to innovate and promote digital solutions that align with micro-entrepreneurs' expectations and trust requirements. Ultimately, this study charts a path forward for enhancing digital inclusivity in religious financial practices, marking a transition from conventional to modern, technology-enabled means of fulfilling zakat obligations.

Embedding the ‘CoolCuddle’ intervention for infants undergoing therapeutic hypothermia for hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy in NICU: an evaluation using normalisation process theory

ObjectivesNewborn infants exposed to lack of oxygen and blood flow to the brain around birth may develop brain dysfunction (hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy—HIE). These infants undergo 72 hours of cooling therapy and...

Longitudinal relationships between emotional processes and perceived performances among athletes: The moderating effect of emotional intelligence

ObjectivesBased on emotional intelligence (EI) theory and cognitive motivational relational theory of emotions, this study aimed to explore longitudinal relationships between the core constructs of the emotional process (appraisals, coping and emotions) and perceived performances during competition and to examine the moderating role of EI on these relationships. MethodsA total of 453 athletes (Mage= 20.6; 117 females and 336 males) from different sports and different competitive levels participated in the study. Appraisals, coping, emotions, and perceived performances were assessed after five competitions across the season and EI was assessed at the beginning of the competitive season. Hierarchical linear modelling analyses were conducted to: (a) Evaluate the mediational role of coping strategies on the appraisals – emotions relationships and on the appraisals – perceived performances relationships; (b) explore the mediational role of emotions on the appraisals – perceived performances relationships; and (c) test the moderating role of EI on these relationships. ResultsThe results showed that: (a) coping played a mediational role on the appraisals-emotions relationships; (b) emotions mediated the appraisals-perceived performances relationships; and (c) EI moderated the aforementioned relationships between the core constructs of emotional process and perceived performances. ConclusionsAs a whole, this study furthered knowledge about the ways the core emotional constructs are interrelated and impact perceived performances within competitive settings. Through coping strategies and cognitive appraisals, EI was associated with higher intensity of pleasant emotions and perceived performances. As an applied implication, we encourage sport psychologists and coaches to provide training programs aimed at enhancing EI.

Factors driving the acceptance of COVID-19 pandemic mobile contact tracing apps: The influence of security and privacy concerns

The acceptance of COVID-19 mobile contact tracing apps (MCTA) is crucial to curb the spread of the virus and decrease the number of infections. However, the security and privacy concerns (SPC) of COVID-19 MCTA have been called into question. Thus this paper examines the drivers of the acceptance of the COVID-19 pandemic MCTA under the auspices of the influence of SPC from the Chinese perspective based on the modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Usage of Technology (UTAUT) model. The data generated through a questionnaire based on the convenient sampling technique was analyzed with SPSS by performing hierarchical regression analysis. The results show that the core constructs of UTAUT such as performance expectancy (PE), facilitating conditions (FC), effort expectancy (EE), and social influence (SI) along with mobile self-efficacy (MSE) were significant predictors of individual user acceptance of COVID-19 MCTA. Additionally, the study confirmed that security and privacy concerns were significant in moderating the impact of PE, FC, EE, SI, and MSE on the acceptance of COVID-19 MCTA. The managerial and theoretical implications of these findings for policy-makers, governments, mobile app developers, and researchers are interrogated.

Unveiling the core constructs: A statistical approach to evaluating user experience with Chatbots in higher education (A case study from a university in Ecuador)

Introduction: Chatbots are increasingly utilized in education, offering real-time, personalized communication. While research has explored technical aspects of chatbots, user experience remains under-investigated. This study examines a model for evaluating user experience and satisfaction with chatbots in higher education. Methodology: A four-factor model (information quality, system quality, chatbot experience, user satisfaction) was proposed based on prior research. An alternative two-factor model emerged through exploratory factor analysis, focusing on “Chatbot Response Quality” and “User Experience and Satisfaction with the Chatbot.” Surveys were distributed to students and faculty at a university in Ecuador to collect data. Confirmatory factor analysis validated both models. Results: The two-factor model explained a significantly greater proportion of the data’s variance (55.2%) compared to the four-factor model (46.4%). Conclusion: This study suggests that a simpler model focusing on chatbot response quality and user experience is more effective for evaluating chatbots in education. Future research can explore methods to optimize these factors and improve the learning experience for students.

Streamlining COM-B model: Insights from the Healthy Eating Context

The global rise in diet-related diseases highlights the urgent need for effective behavioural interventions. While theoretical frameworks like the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behaviour (COM-B) model are valuable for understanding and influencing healthy eating behaviours, their practical application is often hindered by complexity and extensive measurement demands. This study addresses these challenges by testing a simplified version of the COM-B model, focusing on a select set of items representing seven core constructs. We conducted a cross-sectional survey with 347 Australian young adults to validate this streamlined model, making it more accessible for researchers and practitioners. Our findings underscore the importance of automatic motivation, the physical environment, and physical capability as critical factors in promoting healthy eating behaviours. By simplifying the COM-B model, this research contributes to developing more practical and effective strategies for healthier eating, addressing a critical public health issue.

Impacts of brand commitment, brand reliability, and brand attitude on brand relationship

In the fiercely competitive landscape of modern business, the establishment and maintenance of strong brand relationships have become pivotal for organizations seeking sustainable success. This research explores the intricate dynamics of brand relationships by examining the influences of three core constructs: brand commitment, brand reliability, and brand attitude. Drawing upon an extensive review of the literature on branding and consumer behaviour, this study develops a comprehensive theoretical framework that elucidates the interplay among these pivotal factors. We hypothesize that brand commitment, brand reliability, and brand attitude, are independent factors and brand relationship is a dependent factor. To empirically test our hypotheses, we employ a rigorous research design, incorporating quantitative data collection methods. Data was gathered directly from survey participants through the administration of questionnaires, and the gathered data was subjected to analysis using SPSS and AMOS software. This analysis encompassed various statistical techniques, including SEM, CFA, descriptive analysis, regression analysis, ANOVA, reliability test, correlation analysis, the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett’s test. The sample for the study consisted of 600 respondents drawn from a wide range of organizations. All the analyses reveal that Brand Commitment, Brand Reliability, and Brand Attitude all have statistically significant impacts on Brand Relationship. Consumers who possess a profound dedication to a brand are inclined to develop robust and lasting connections with it. Future investigations could explore the factors that potentially moderate or mediate the relationships under research. Furthermore, exploring these dynamics within diverse industries and cultural settings can provide a more all-encompassing grasp of brand relationships.

From shame to dysmorphic concern and anxiety: the role of body image-related psychological flexibility

ABSTRACT Objective Body image-related psychological flexibility is considered an important positive process in the field of body image, associated with lower levels of psychological distress. The present study hypothesised body image flexibility as a relevant construct in the study of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). A mediation model was proposed, exploring if body image flexibility mediated the relationship between shame – a core construct of BDD symptomatology – and dysmorphic concern and anxiety while controlling for age and BMI. Methods The sample comprised 477 Portuguese-speaking participants from the general population – male and female, who completed a set of self-report measures. Results Females presented significantly higher levels of dysmorphic concern (d = .42). All main variables under study were significantly correlated, with dysmorphic concern presenting positive correlations with internal shame, external shame, and anxiety, and a negative and weak correlation with body image flexibility. Path analysis results indicated that body image flexibility mediated the relationship between shame, in its internal dimension, and dysmorphic concern and anxiety, explaining 34% of the variance of dysmorphic concern and 24% of anxiety. The model was invariant across biological sex. Conclusions Our results support the pervasive association between internal shame and dysmorphic concern, and indicate body image flexibility as a relevant emotional process in this relationship.

Exploring dietary supplement consumption behaviors and determinants among the urban Thai elderly

The consumption of dietary supplements among the elderly is on the rise. Despite the potential benefits, a comprehensive understanding of the decision-making processes leading to the consumption is lacking. This study explores the conditions influencing the decision-making and behavioral patterns of older adults related to dietary supplement consumption. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 elderly participants from a seniors’ club in Bangkok, Thailand, who had consistently consumed dietary supplements for at least one year. The behavior was classified into five primary categories: enduring use of identical dietary supplements, insufficient regard for health compatibility, replacing medications with supplements, not verifying before consumption, and opting for supplements over medical treatments. These patterns are aligned with the core constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior (attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control). Many individuals perceive supplements as pivotal health investments, while others view them as a direct route to robust health. Trusted advice from friends and television significantly influence their choices, with a prevailing sentiment that dietary supplements are generally safe. The high price tag on supplements is often associated with superior quality. The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of dietary supplement consumption decisions among the Thai elderly, suggesting the need for interventions to promote safer and more informed choices.

"Doing the right thing": Moral conflicts and ethical issues experienced by military nurses during wartime.

The War on Terrorism, which included Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2014 and the concurrent Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) from 2003 to 2011, exposed military nurses to situations and challenges for which many reported feeling unprepared. Clinically, nurses faced multi-trauma injuries and devastating wounds suffered by military troops and civilians alike. Cultural issues and harsh living conditions added further complications to the care environment. The purpose of this study was to address the research question: How do military nurses identify, assess, manage, and personally resolve ethical issues occurring in nursing practice during wartime deployments? Qualitative grounded theory provided the design for this study. Using the constant comparative method, data collection, and data analysis occurred simultaneously to build a theory of ethical issues management during wartime. Using a focused interview guide responsive to emerging themes and developing theory, interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was achieved. Participants represented primarily Army (55%) active duty (83%) female nurses (71%) who had deployed to Iraq (52%), Afghanistan (32%), or both (16%). A sampling grid was used to recruit nurses representative of the demographics deployed in support of OIF and OEF. Data analysis usedgrounded theory methods to identify a core construct to detail proposed relationships and concepts. Rigor was maintained in study methods and analysis using established tenets to support trustworthiness. The nurses shared stories regarding their experiences during deployment. Many struggled to find internal resolutions regarding the care of detainees, cultural differences, end-of-life decision-making, pain management, and care of civilian casualties. The study described the ethical issues military nurses encountered during wartime and the strategies used to mitigate moral conflict. By better understanding how nurses define, assess, and manage ethical situations, we can better prepare our deploying nurses for future conflicts. Military nurses returning from wars with unresolved moral conflicts are at risk for moral distress. Moral distress has been associated with burnout, dissatisfaction with and leaving the nursing profession, compassion fatigue, and disinterest in the provision of quality patient care. In the interest of preserving the health of military nurses, steps need to be taken to provide resources for helping them prepare for, encounter, and cope with the ethical situations inherent in wartime nursing care.

General and distinct correspondence between personality disorder and interpersonal functioning

The alternative model of personality disorders (AMPD) in DSM-5 includes interpersonal dysfunction as a core construct as a global severity dimension. However, it is less known how various interpersonal characteristics contribute to both general and distinct dimensions of personality dysfunction. In participants from community sources, we obtained responses to Levels of Personality Functioning Scale-Self Report (LPFS-SR), maladaptive traits (PID-5-BF), and social relationship patterns, including those related to close relationships and quantitative measures of network size. Canonical correlation analysis mapped conjoint associations between two sets of variables (personality scales and social relationship) and identified three distinct modes of correlation as significant. The first canonical pattern represented global dysfunction and was associated with utilitarianism, short-termed, weaker strengths, and smaller network sizes. The second canonical correlation represented externalizing traits and was associated with a larger number of relationships, higher utilitarianism, and short-term relationships with a close significant other. The third canonical correlation represented a detached, unemotional, and callous personality which corresponded with weaker relationship strength with both the mother and a close significant other. Our findings suggest that interpersonal functioning corresponding to personality dysfunction can be distinguished into both common and specific characteristics and further highlight the importance of characterizing distinct patterns within close relationships.

Testing the Effectiveness of Computerized Cognitive Training on an At-Risk Student Population.

Core constructs such as working memory, task switching, and processing speed in cognitive psychology research have prominent predictive roles in K12 students' academic performance. Specifically, considerable empirical work shows that variability in such capabilities is linked to differences in numerous academic outcomes. Moreover, there is an increasing awareness and acceptance of the malleability of cognitive abilities. Thus, an emerging strand of research focuses on the use of computerized cognitive training to improve cognitive skills. This project addresses this issue with high-risk students attending community day schools. An in-school cognitive training program implemented (for 30 min per day) at each school site resulted in improvements for working memory, task switching, and processing speed after six total hours of participation. The current results provide evidence for the changeability of what were once thought to be static skills. Equally important, this study highlights the effectiveness of computerized cognitive training and critically extends intervention-based work to a student group that has received little attention. Implications of this work for cognitive research and educational support programs are discussed.

Acceptability and usability of a nurse-assisted remote patient monitoring intervention for the post-hospital follow-up of patients with long-term illness: A qualitative study

BackgroundPatients living with long-term chronic illnesses often need ongoing medical attention, lifestyle adjustments, and psychosocial support beyond the initial diagnosis and treatment phases. Many experience illness deterioration and subsequently require hospitalisation, especially in the transition period after hospital discharge. A promising strategy for managing long-term conditions is promoting self-management. eHealth interventions involving remote patient monitoring have the potential to promote self-management and offer a more seamless bridge between the hospital and the patient´s home environment. However, such interventions can only significantly impact health and health care if they are effective, accepted and adopted by users, normalised into routine practice and everyday life, and able to be widely implemented. Feasibility studies are used to determine whether an intervention is suitable for the target population and effective in achieving its intended goal. They may also provide critical information about an intervention´s acceptability and usability. ObjectivesWe aimed to evaluate the acceptability and usability of a nurse-assisted remote patient monitoring intervention for the post-hospital follow-up of patients with long-term illnesses by use of the core constructs of normalisation process theory. DesignA descriptive and explanatory qualitative approach was used, with patients observed during training and semi-structured interviews conducted with patients and nurses after study completion. SettingsParticipants were recruited from two university hospitals in Norway between December 2021 and February 2023. ParticipantsTen patients were observed during training, and 27 patients and eight nurses were interviewed after study completion. MethodsStructured and overt observations were made while the patients received training to operate the remote patient monitoring service, guided by an observation guide. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients and nurse navigators about their experiences of remote follow-up care, guided by open ended questions. Data analysis followed a stepwise deductive inductive method. Results`Achieving acceptance and usability through digital social interaction´ emerged as a unifying theme that bridged the experiences of patients with long-term illnesses and the nurse navigators. This overarching theme was illustrated by four sub-themes, which all reflected the usability and acceptability of the nurse-assisted remote patient monitoring service in various ways. ConclusionAcceptability and usability are critical factors to consider when evaluating remote patient monitoring interventions. In this study, the most important feature for promoting acceptability and usability was the interaction between patients and nurse navigators. Therefore, the intervention´s feasibility and implementation potential rested upon the relationship between its deliverer and receiver.

Influence of Motivation Climate on Service-Learning Benefits among Physical Education Students

<p style="text-align: justify;">Service-learning (SL) emphasizes the fusion and integration of community service and academic learning, while Physical Education (PE) is oriented towards community health and well-being, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals. The study's primary objective is to discern the benefits perceived by PE students when engaged in SL courses and to test the correlation between benefits and the motivational climate they experience. Additionally, the research explores potential gender-specific variations in students' attitudes. The research was conducted with a survey on a sample of 58 students responding to a Motivational Climate in Physical Education Scale (MPCES) and the SErvice LEarning Benefit Scale (SELEB), which assesses the motivation of students and their perceptions of SL benefits. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the data. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to test the relationship between the core constructs - SL benefits and student motivation, and t-tests to evaluate gender differences in SL benefits. Key findings underscore that students primarily perceived the greatest advantages from SL in the domain of knowledge application, with comparatively lower scores in general life skills. Notably, female students, on the whole, exhibited higher ratings in both SL benefits and student motivation compared to their male counterparts. Nonetheless, specific exceptions emerged in certain sub-scales, including social relatedness and ego climate within the MPCES scale, as well as critical thinking within the SELEB scale. According to the results, it is suggested that cultivating a student-centered learning environment can augment engagement and motivation in the realm of physical education (PE). Furthermore, the delineated gender differences offer valuable insights for educators, highlighting the need for tailored approaches to accommodate the diverse preferences and requirements of male and female students.</p>

Integrated reading-into-writing: Developing a task blueprint

Integrated reading-into-writing assessment has become increasingly common in second language English for Academic Purposes assessment. It is viewed as a means of potentially increasing the authenticity and therefore validity of assessment that aims to measure a candidate’s readiness for the demands of academic writing. While there is a body of research seeking to identify the distinct sub-skills involved in an integrated reading to write task, there is much more limited work addressing the design of rubrics for integrated tasks for specific contexts. This paper describes the development of an integrated reading-into-writing task and rubric for students at B2+/C1 CEFR level in a PreMasters Direct Entry Program (DEP) at a university language centre in Australia. The project aimed to develop a blueprint for an integrated reading-into-writing task and rubric that captures the core constructs of synthesis writing and can be used as a basis for assessment writers to adapt to suit the parameters of other specific integrated reading into writing tasks in other programs or contexts.

Patient-reported outcomes in neuro-oncology.

To provide up-to-date evidence on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in neuro-oncology, with a focus on the core constructs of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and the use of PROs in clinical trials and clinical practice.[Supplemental Digital Content: Video Abstract PROs in Neuro-Oncology.mov]. PROs are gaining importance in brain tumor research and medical care. For patients with a brain tumor, core PRO constructs are pain, difficulty communicating, perceived cognition, seizures, symptomatic adverse events, physical functioning and role and social functioning, which are assessed through patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Initiatives have been taken to improve the reliability and robustness of PRO data, including standardization of items included in clinical trial protocols (the SPIRIT-PRO extension) and formulation of PRO priority objectives for use in clinical trials (the SISAQOL-Innovative Medicines Initiative). In brain tumor patients with cognitive impairment, caregiver-reported outcomes may complement or replace PROs to increase accuracy. The next key challenge will be to widely implement PROs and apply PRO data in clinical practice to benefit patients with brain tumors. PROs are clinically relevant endpoints providing information only known by the patient. Standardization of the use of PROs in clinical trials and wide implementation in clinical practice is needed to improve HRQoL of brain tumor patients.

Beyond School Climate: Validating the School as a Protective Factor-Brief Survey.

The conceptual framework for School as a Protective Factorapproach was presented in a companion article in this issue of the journal. The current article describes the validation of the School as a Protective Factor-Brief (SPF-Brief), a 13-item survey measuring the 3 core constructs and 13 defining characteristics of this framework. The SPF-Brief was validated through 2 studies. The developmental study used a longitudinal design including 1349 participants who completed surveys over 5 semesters, while the validation study used a cross-sectional design with 2775 participants. Both studies included middle and high school students. Factor analysis, growth model analysis, criterion-related validation, and outcome analysis were employed. Analyses provided strong evidence supporting the reliability and validity of the instrument and conceptual framework. Higher SPF-Brief scores were associated with higher math grades, English grades, and quality of life, as well as lower rates of anxiety, depression, conduct disorder, alcohol, e-cigarette, tobacco, and cannabis use. Effect size estimates ranged from moderate to strong. These findings suggest the utility of the SPF-Brief instrument and the School as a Protective Factor framework. Together, they may offer advantages to the traditional school climate approach.