Custom Questionnaire Research Articles

Focusing on the advanced strategies to enhance brand loyalty in the era of digital marketing.

This paper reflects upon advanced methods for brand loyalty in a world dominated by digital marketing. The motive of the study is trying to fill the gap that exists with regard to digital marketing, optimal strategies that can be used to achieve brand loyalty, and the role of personalized digital experiences. The paper has a mixed-method design; the quantitative data is collected from customer questionnaires, whereas the qualitative data is obtained from the interview with managers, policymakers, technology experts, and top executives. The results indicate that digital marketing significantly enhances brand loyalty, as evidenced by 60% of participants agreeing that digital interactions increase their brand loyalty, and 70% appreciating personalized digital experiences. Reliability analysis showed Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.726 to 0.876 across different scales, confirming the internal consistency of the data. It shows that digital marketing is one of the most fundamental ways in which brand loyalty can be achieved through ever-personalized and engaging customer experiences. The most pertinent at this point is that such experiences are the heart and soul of customer loyalty; they not only meet customer expectations but also set a bond between the customers and the brand, either emotionally or psychologically. Some of the challenges that it accrues are increasing data privacy issues and the need to continuously adapt to ever-changing technology. Still, the opportunities far outweigh the serious challenges; the future is, therefore, bright for brands that will successfully adopt this measure.

THE IMPACT OF NATIONALITY ON THE PERCEPTION OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND ITS SUCCESS AMONG CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Cultural differences in project teams within the construction industry are a recognized phenomenon in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This study investigates the crucial role culture plays and how cultural differences among project managers influence their perceptions of two key aspects: project management practices and project success in the context of the Saudi construction industry. A custom questionnaire was used to gather the perceptions of 150 Saudi and non-Saudi project managers from Riyadh city. The statistical tests applied include frequencies, percentages, descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings reveal that the nationality of the managers significantly impacts their perceptions of cultural differences, which in turn influences the two aforementioned aspects.

From Taste Buds to Loyalty: How Food and Service Quality Influence Customer Satisfaction and Repeat Intentions in Hotel Restaurants

Customer satisfaction with food and service quality in hotel restaurants is a crucial driver of repeat intentions, directly influencing guest loyalty and long-term business success in the hospitality industry. This study examines the factors that affect customer satisfaction with hotel restaurant offerings and the subsequent impact on customers' intentions to return. The researchers gathered the data for this study using a quantitative research design and customer questionnaires. A 95% response rate was collected and analyzed using SPSS software. Next, the researchers quantitatively analyzed the survey responses using statistical methods to measure customer satisfaction levels and identify key variables influencing repeat intentions. The results of this study have practical implications for hoteliers and restaurant managers looking to improve customer satisfaction and encourage repeat business. Emphasizing continuous staff training, maintaining high food safety standards, and creating a welcoming ambiance are key strategies to enhance customer experiences. Ultimately, understanding the dynamics of customer satisfaction and its direct link to repeat intention can assist hotel restaurants in building enduring guest relationships and establishing a competitive edge in the hospitality market

Prototype development of a multi-user augmented reality framework for collaborative medical visualization in shared environments

Abstract This study developed and evaluated a prototype for augmented reality (AR) interaction among multiple users sharing a three-dimensional hologram within a shared physical space. A systems requirements analysis was conducted to determine necessary interactions, followed by an iterative implementation plan with testing at each step. The application for the HoloLens 2 (HL2) headset was developed using Unity for 3D design, C# for programming, and Photon for multiplayer capabilities. The prototype was evaluated in a user study utilizing custom and NASA TLX questionnaires, comparing participants' self-reported task success with recorded data to assess the accuracy of selfassessments. The prototype effectively facilitated multi-user interactions within a shared environment, achieving acceptable synchronization for two users. Most participants successfully completed tasks, with TLX scores indicating low cognitive and mechanical load during AR task execution. This study demonstrates AR's viability for displaying and manipulating complex three-dimensional structures within a collaborative medical context among multiple individuals in the same physical space.

Proposed Business Strategy to Increase Sales

Opening a coffee shop is one of Indonesia's most popular business ventures, driven by the nation's growing coffee culture. However, coffee shop owners face challenges in developing effective strategies to sustain their businesses, ensuring consistent revenue, positive customer feedback, and steady product sales. Bagi Kopi has quickly expanded its presence with multiple branches across various cities. Despite its rapid growth, there is a significant disparity in sales performance between branches, with the Yogyakarta branch underperforming compared to Bandung. This study aims to propose a business strategy to boost sales at Bagi Kopi, focusing on the Yogyakarta and Bandung branches. Utilizing a comprehensive root cause analysis through internal and external tools. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative data from customer questionnaires and qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with Bagi Kopi stakeholders. The findings indicate that differences in customer demographics, preferences, and market conditions between Yogyakarta and Bandung significantly impact sales outcomes. Based on these insights, the study proposes targeted strategies for Bagi Kopi in Yogyakarta, focusing on enhancing customer engagement, improving service quality, and leveraging local market opportunities. The proposed strategy includes specific actions such as marketing initiatives, regular staff training, and effective facility management to align the Yogyakarta branch’s performance with that of Bandung.

Psychosocial and functional impact of successful digital replantation – A cohort study of 36 patients with a median follow-up of 6 years

IntroductionThis study aims to evaluate the long-term psychosocial and functional outcomes of successful digital replantation following traumatic amputation. MethodsPatients that underwent successful replantation (i.e. no secondary amputation following replantation) of one or more traumatically amputated digits between January 2009 and April 2019 were invited to participate in this study. In addition to a custom questionnaire on psychosocial and socioeconomic aspects of life, various Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) questionnaires regarding global health, upper extremity function, and depressive symptoms were completed. Bivariate analyses were performed to identify significant associations between outcomes and explanatory variables. ResultsThirty-six patients were successfully enrolled and completed the questionnaires at a median follow-up of 6.1 years. The median PROMIS score for Upper Extremity Function (40.6) was considerably different from the score that is typically found in the general population (all PROMIS instruments are calibrated with a control group score of 50.0), but the median PROMIS scores for Global Health – Physical (49.0), Global Health – Mental (50.7), and Depression (45.6) were comparable to those among the general population. Dominant hand injury, a greater number of injured digits, higher age at the time of injury, and the need for neuropathic pain medication were associated with lower Upper Extremity Function scores (all p < 0.05). Additionally, the presence of neuroma was associated with negative changes in both household finances and mental well-being (p < 0.05). ConclusionsAt long-term follow-up, a majority of patients that underwent replantation of traumatically amputated digits seem to cope well based on psychosocial and functional outcomes. However, neuropathic pain and the presence of neuroma are strong negative factors. Specific attention to digital nerves at the time of surgery is crucial in the management of traumatic amputations.

The transition of eldercare responsibility and traditional filial piety concepts and its urban-rural differences in China: an age-period-cohort analysis from 2006 to 2017

BackgroundWith rapid urbanization, massive migration, and non-family–based eldercare involvement, Chinese concepts of eldercare responsibility and filial piety are shifting. We performed age-period-cohort (APC) analyses to assess the transition of old-age pension coverage, eldercare responsibility, and filial piety concepts and its urban-rural differences among Chinese adults using data from the China General Social Survey (2006–2017).MethodsOld-age pension coverage (yes/no) and primary eldercare responsibility (government/offspring/self/sharing) were investigated in 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015, and 2017. Filial piety was evaluated using customized questionnaires in 2006 and 2017. The APC effects were estimated using mixed effects and generalized additive models.ResultsAmong 66,182 eligible participants (mean age: 48.8 years, females: 51.7%) in the six waves, APC analyses indicated that old-age pension coverage increased with aging and over time. Across cohort groups, it grew as the cohort was younger in urban residents but decreased in rural residents. The concept of offspring-based (> 50%) and government/self/offspring-shared eldercare (> 30%) predominated. APC analyses revealed that the offspring-based concept declined with aging (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.79–0.84), whereas the government-based (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.33–1.41) and self-based (OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.47–1.63) concepts increased with aging. People born around the 1940s have a comparatively higher possibility to perceive that the primary eldercare responsibility should be undertaken by the government and elder parents. In contrast, people born in the younger cohort were more likely to perceive that adult children are responsible for their parents’ primary eldercare. Filial piety score slightly increased with aging (β = 0.18, SD: 0.05) but decreased as the birth cohort was younger. In addition, rural participants were more likely to perceive offspring-based eldercare and maintain filial piety, and the related urban-rural difference was intensified by aging.ConclusionsThe traditional concept that eldercare solely relies on offspring has changed to relying on multiple entities, including the government and self-reliance. Diluted filial piety in people born in the young cohort requires reinforcement. Moreover, future healthy aging policies need to focus more on urban-rural disparities to promote equity in social well-being.

Queuing System Simulation to Optimize Waiting Time using the Quality Function Deployment Approach at KFC Pontianak

The aim of this research is to find the best scenario to optimize the queuing system so that it can reduce waiting time during customer service at KFC Pontianak. Queue systems are prevalent in public services. The research employs Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Discrete Event Simulation (DES) methodologies. Alternatives generated are simulated using ARENA Simulation. 70 respondents participated in the KFC Pontianak customer questionnaire, comprising 48.6% females and 51.4% males aged between 18-45 years. The results of the questionnaire showed that 51.4% of respondents were dissatisfied with the speed of service at KFC Pontianak. Customer needs identified through QFD include service speed, order accuracy, ease of use, customer satisfaction, queue comfort, food quality, and payment integration. Analysis reveals three queue system scenarios, two of which propose improvements. The second scenario involves 2 cashiers and 2 self-service cashiers. Self-service allows customers to order by scanning a QR code integrated with the service provider's application. Arrival type employs an exponential distribution with an average of 61 seconds, unlimited max arrival, and first creation with a value of 0. In self-service, there is a value difference of 1 and a standard deviation of 0.2. Simulation results indicate that 51 customers choose cashier 1, 41 choose cashier 2, 39 opt for self-service cashier 1, and 53 prefer self-service cashier 2. The total successfully served customers are 94, with a success rate of 51%. In the third scenario involved 4 self-service cashiers only, the values of 1 and standard deviation of 0.2. The total number of successfully served customers is 173, with a success rate of 80%. In conclusion, this research offers valuable insights for optimizing KFC Pontianak's queue system, addressing customer dissatisfaction with service speed. The proposed scenarios, especially those involving self-service options, demonstrate potential improvements in customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Investigating the effect of educational intervention based on the Health Belief Model to improve the duration of personal protective equipment use in workers exposed to human vibration

Introduction: The present study was designed and implemented to investigate the effect of an educational intervention based on the health belief model on the use of personal protective equipment among process industry employees. Methods: The study involved an experimental intervention with 100 employees from various roles in a process industry. These employees were split into two groups of 50: intervention and control. Initially, data was gathered using a custom questionnaire based on the dimensions of the health belief model. The intervention group underwent a 12-session educational program over 3 months. The post-test phase took place 3 months after the educational intervention. The collected data was then analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and independent t-test in SPSS software version 25. Results: The participants in the intervention and control groups had an average age of 46 with a standard deviation of 3 and 38 with a standard deviation of 2, respectively. The results indicated that following the educational intervention, the average scores for awareness, perceived barriers, perceived benefits, and threats of employees were significantly higher than those of the control group (P&lt;0.001), with respective scores of 15/45 (3/03), 22/21(2/30), 16/61(3/12). Conclusion: Implementing the educational intervention based on the health belief model increased employees' awareness and favorable attitudes regarding using personal protective equipment.

Study of the Demand for Ecological Means of Transport in Micromobility: A Case of Bikesharing in Szczecin, Poland

The need for urban societies to move continues to grow with the intensity of their various activities. One of the challenges in micromobility in cities based on bike, scooter, or public scooter systems is determining the potential yet realistic demand for such services. This article aims to present the level of demand for eco-friendly non-motorized transport systems and identify the motivations driving users of public transport to choose these eco-friendly Personal Mobility Devices (PMD). The authors propose a methodology based on the integration of four components: a case study, an analysis of participatory budget projects, a metadata analysis of bikesharing (BSS) in Szczecin, and a meta plan. They utilized a case study method and conducted a survey based on a custom questionnaire. An analysis of participatory budget projects and data from the operation of bikesharing in Szczecin was performed using statistical methods. Applying the heuristic tool meta plan, they outlined the directions for the development and support of bikesharing as an example of micromobility in Szczecin. The research identified connections between the socio-demographic structure of respondents and attributes of bike communication. This study highlighted periods of intensive system use and locations with the highest exploitation. It showed that the demand for BSS depends on weather conditions, traveler convenience, the density and coherence of bike infrastructure with important locations for residents, transfer connections, and safety. The presented research results can assist planners and authorities in Szczecin and other cities in expanding bikesharing.

Immersive Storytelling in Social Virtual Reality for Human-Centered Learning about Sensitive Historical Events

History is a subject that students often find uninspiring in school education. This paper explores the application of social VR metaverse platforms in combination with interactive, nonlinear web platforms designed for immersive storytelling to support learning about a sensitive historical event, namely the Asia Minor Catastrophe. The goal was to design an alternative method of learning history and investigate if it would engage students and foster their independence. A mixed-methods research design was applied. Thirty-four (n = 34) adult participants engaged in the interactive book and VR space over the course of three weeks. After an online workshop, feedback was collected from participants through a custom questionnaire. The quantitative data from the questionnaire were analyzed statistically utilizing IBM SPSS, while the qualitative responses were coded thematically. This study reveals that these two tools can enhance historical education by increasing student engagement, interaction, and understanding. Participants appreciated the immersive and participatory nature of the material. This study concludes that these technologies have the potential to enhance history education by promoting active participation and engagement.

MyTrack+: Human-centered design of an mHealth app to support long-term weight loss maintenance.

A growing body of research has focused on the utility of adaptive intervention models for promoting long-term weight loss maintenance; however, evaluation of these interventions often requires customized smartphone applications. Building such an app from scratch can be resource-intensive. To support a novel clinical trial of an adaptive intervention for weight loss maintenance, we developed a companion app, MyTrack+, to pair with a main commercial app, FatSecret (FS), leveraging a user-centered design process for rapid prototyping and reducing software engineering efforts. MyTrack+ seamlessly integrates data from FS and the BodyTrace smart scale, enabling participants to log and self-monitor their health data, while also incorporating customized questionnaires and timestamps to enhance data collection for the trial. We iteratively refined the app by first developing initial mockups and incorporating feedback from a usability study with 17 university students. We further improved the app based on an in-the-wild pilot study with 33 participants in the target population, emphasizing acceptance, simplicity, customization options, and dual app usage. Our work highlights the potential of using an iterative human-centered design process to build a companion app that complements a commercial app for rapid prototyping, reducing costs, and enabling efficient research progress.

The Impact of Recurrent Epistaxis on the Quality of Life of Children and the Functioning of Their Families.

Introduction Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, is a common pediatric emergency, impacting their quality of life (QoL). Existing research on epistaxis has predominantly focused on clinical aspects, overlooking its broader impact on the quality of life of affected children and the functioning of their families. This study seeks to fill that gap by assessing the impact of recurrent epistaxis on children's QoL, family dynamics, and parental stress in Saudi Arabia's Eastern region. Methods A survey was conducted involving 168 parents of children with recurrent epistaxis, using the Pediatric Quality of Life InventoryTM (PedsQL 4.0TM) Short Form (SF) for QoL assessment across different age groups, the PedsQL 2.0 Family Impact Module to evaluate the effect of the child's health on family dynamics, and a custom questionnaire for gathering sociodemographic and health-related information. Better QoL and family functioning were indicated by higher scores. Results Recurrent epistaxis was more frequent (>4 times per year) in 58.9% of cases, with unknown causes in 72%. A total of 116 (69%) of the children never needed medical intervention for epistaxis and 52 (31%) visited ER 1-2 times. The lowest scores for both children and parents were in the emotional functioning domains (77.9 and 78.2, respectively). In the study, both parents and children who had no history of ER visits exhibited significantly higher quality of life (QoL) scores compared to those who did, with parents reporting 83.7% versus 77.2% (P=.022), and children showing 84.6% versus 79.9% (P=.049), respectively. Parents of older children, ages 13-18 years, reported a higher Quality of Life (QoL) at 83.9%, compared to those with younger children, ages 2-4 years, who reported a QoL of 57.3% (P=.003). Conclusion The overall QoL scores of families of children with recurrent epistaxis were relatively high, indicating a variable and limited general impact. Significantly higher QoL was observed in families of older children and those without ER visits.

Therapists and patients perceptions of a mixed reality system designed to improve trunk control and upper extremity function

A prototype system aimed at improving arm function and trunk control after stroke has been developed that combines mixed-reality (MR) feedback with a mobile seat system (Holoreach). The purpose of this study was to assess the usability of Holoreach in a rehabilitation setting from both the patient and therapist perspective. Ten therapists (eight physiotherapists and two occupational therapists) used the device in their regular therapy programs for fifteen stroke patients with trunk control issues. Each patient received four individual therapy sessions with the device performed under the supervision of the therapist. Therapists and patients kept therapy diaries and used customized questionnaires. At the end of the study two focus groups were conducted to further assess usability. Generally, the prototype system is suitable for training trunk and arm control. The therapists expressed overall positive views on the impact of Holoreach. They characterized it as new, motivating, fresh, joyful, interesting, and exciting. All therapists and 80% of the patients agreed with the statement that training with Holoreach is beneficial for rehabilitation. Nonetheless, improvements are required in the hardware and software, and design. The prototype system contributes at various levels to the rapidly evolving advances in neurorehabilitation, particularly regarding the practical aspect of exercise delivery.

Breaking the budget chains: Empowering Iraqi small- and medium-sized enterprises through Beyond Budgeting

Background: Traditional budgeting has faced criticism, leading researchers to explore alternative management control methods such as Beyond Budgeting. Despite its potential benefits, Beyond Budgeting adoption remains limited.Aim: This research investigates Beyond Budgeting’s effect on Iraqi small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) performance, focusing on competitive advantage.Setting: The study targets Iraqi SMEs, considering their diverse business landscape. A random sample of 353 accountants was chosen from a research community of 22 974 individuals. SPSS and AMOS 26 software and a custom questionnaire were used.Method: The authors conducted multiple linear regression analysis and Structural Equation Modeling to address our study’s objectives. Additionally, we utilised maximum likelihood procedures to assess factor loadings, construct validity and reliability.Results: Beyond Budgeting implementation significantly affected both financial and nonfinancial performance. It demonstrated positive effects on cost leadership and competitive advantage differentiation. However, an indirect negative impact on nonfinancial performance was observed through the influence on cost leadership, suggesting a trade-off between cost reduction and other nonfinancial factors.Conclusion: The study acknowledges limitations in sample size and the need for considering additional factors. Further research is required to understand Beyond Budgeting’s limited adoption in Iraq. The study contributes valuable insights on Beyond Budgeting as a substitute for traditional approaches, benefiting managers and policymakers.Contribution: This study emphasises Beyond Budgeting’s significant impact on Iraqi SME performance, highlighting the relationship between Beyond Budgeting, competitive advantage strategies, financial and nonfinancial performance. The findings provide insights for enhancing budgeting practices in Iraqi SMEs.

Influencing Factors and Prevalence of Anxiety in Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: While current research highlights student anxiety globally, limited data exists on the specific situation of Vietnamese medical students. This study addresses this gap by investigating the prevalence and contributing factors of anxiety within this population, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of their mental health experiences.&#x0D; Methods: Utilizing a convenience sampling technique, 400 medical students from Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine &amp; Pharmacy were surveyed using the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and a custom questionnaire assessing factors contributing to anxiety. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation.&#x0D; Results: Findings revealed mild to moderate anxiety levels among medical students (M = 49.68 ± 11.54), with significant differences based on gender, academic year, and academic performance. Males (M = 51.27 ± 12.26) and senior students (M = 53.18 ± 12.50) reported higher anxiety levels. Key contributors to anxiety included financial concerns, major examinations, and discrepancies between perceived and desired academic performance. Notably, a strong positive correlation was found between academic performance discrepancies and anxiety levels (r = 0.888, p &lt; 0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: The study highlights a potentially higher prevalence of anxiety among medical students than previously reported, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Understanding the multifaceted nature of anxiety and its contributing factors is crucial for fostering a supportive learning environment, ultimately nurturing well-equipped and resilient healthcare professionals.

A structured, journal-led peer-review mentoring program enhances peer review training

BackgroundPeer review is essential to the advancement of knowledge. However, training on how to conduct peer review is limited, unorganized, and not well studied. Thus, we sought to determine if a structured mentored peer-review program improved peer review training as measured by multiple quantitative and qualitative assessments.MethodsThis pre-post intervention study enrolled 55 mentees across 5 cohorts from 2020 to 2023. Each cohort completed pre-program evaluations, participated in 2 mentored reviews, and completed post-program evaluations over 6 months. Mentors and mentees completed pre-program demographic and review experience questionnaires. Outcome measures included (1) total and sub-scores on the modified Review Quality Index (mRQI) applied to the same pre-selected research manuscript reviewed by mentees both pre and post intervention, (2) mentee self-perceived comfort with and understanding of the review process using a custom questionnaire, and (3) mentor satisfaction surveys. Pre- and post-program measures were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.ResultsPost-program total modified RQI score (median (IQR) = 31 (26.3–35.8)) was higher than pre-program total score (26.6 (19.7–29.7)) for the 42 mentees who completed both pre- and post-program reviews. Mentees reported improved perception of review (median (IQR) pre = 4 (3–4), post = 5 (4–5)) and editorial processes (pre = 3 (2–4), post = 4 (4–5)) as well as self-perceived confidence in completing an independent review of both scientific (median (IQR) pre = 2 (2–3), post = 4 (4–4)) and non-scientific (pre = 3 (2–4), post = 4 (4–5)) manuscripts following program participation. p < 0.0001 for all scores noted. Mentors reported high scores for enjoyment (median (range) 5/5 (3–5)) and interest in repeat participation (5/5 (2–5)).ConclusionsA 6-month structured mentored-review program including 2 mentored reviews improves peer review training as measured by the modified RQI as well as participant self-perceived understanding of publication science with high mentor satisfaction.

Effectiveness of voice therapy combining various voice rehabilitation techniques in patients with muscle tension dysphonia

&lt;b&gt;&lt;br&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; Voice disorders associated with excessive muscle tension are most frequently diagnosed by phoniatrists. Voice therapy constitutes an essential part of the management of patients with voice disorders.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;b&gt;&lt;br&gt;Aim:&lt;/b&gt; The aim of this study consisted in the assessment of the effectiveness of voice therapy combining various rehabilitation techniques in patients with muscle tension dysphonia along with the analysis of patient-assessed rehabilitation quality results.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;b&gt;&lt;br&gt;Material and methods:&lt;/b&gt; The study was carried out in a group of 16 patients (4 male and 12 female) aged 33–91 years. The mean age of the subjects was 53.8 years (Me = 51; SD 15.21). Organic lesions were excluded in all patients. Voice therapy was carried out using various rehabilitation techniques, and the study methodology included basic scales and questionnaires used in patients with voice disorders as well as a custom questionnaire on rehabilitation quality as assessed by the patients themselves.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;b&gt;&lt;br&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The study results confirm the effectiveness of the therapy.&lt;/br&gt; &lt;b&gt;&lt;br&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/b&gt; The study confirms the effectiveness of voice therapy combining various rehabilitation techniques.&lt;/br&gt;

Smart choice with smart device: the use of apps in accelerated online education for nontraditional students

PurposeBased on student responses to a set of customized questionnaires, this study aims to present evidence that while student evaluations of instructors and courses remain consistent, a designated mobile app enhances perceived online learning experience.Design/methodology/approachThis study addresses quality assurance issues in accelerated online graduate-level education by identifying factors that influence nontraditional adult student preferences for using mobile applications (apps).FindingsIt is evident that affordability and functionality are the two most important determinants of nontraditional student preferences for app-based learning, followed by mobility and ease of purchase.Originality/valueThese findings underscore the potential of app learning to bolster positive perceptions of online education. Findings of this study imply that integrating additional app learning tools can be used as a quality assurance mechanism and enhance nontraditional students’ satisfaction through improving their perceived online learning experience.

Treatment of osteochondral injuries of the humeral head using fresh osteochondral allograft transplantation

BackgroundLarge osteochondral lesions of the humeral head can result from locked posterior dislocations, avascular necrosis, and osteochondritis dissecans. Fresh osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation is a treatment option for young patients with focal osteochondral defects of the humeral head. The purpose of this case series was to assess graft survivorship, subjective patient-reported outcomes (PROMs), and satisfaction among seven patients who underwent OCA transplantation of the humeral head. MethodsWe identified seven patients who underwent humeral head OCA transplantation between 2008 and 2017. A custom questionnaire for patient reported outcome measures including ASES, QuickDASH, Likert satisfaction, and reoperations was mailed to each patient. Clinical failure was defined as further surgery that involved removal of the allograft. ResultsMedian follow-up duration was 10 years (range, 4.6 to 13.5 years) with a median age of 21.6 years (range, 18.5 to 43.5 years). Most patients (86%) reported improved function and reduced pain. At final follow-up, 71% of patients reported ongoing problems with their shoulder including pain, stiffness, clicking/grinding, limited range of motion, and instability. Return to recreational activities was high at 86% but 43% expressed limitations with activity due to their shoulder. Overall satisfaction was high at 71% with mean ASES and QuickDASH scores at 62.4 and 29.2 respectively. Reoperation after OCA occurred in one patient (14%). ConclusionsAmong this case series of seven patients who underwent OCA transplantation of the humeral head, patient satisfaction was high at 10 year follow-up and most returned to recreational activity although most also had persistent shoulder symptoms.