Digital Program Research Articles

Results of a pilot sequential multiple assignment randomized trial using counseling to augment a digital weight loss program.

Adaptive interventions may improve the potency and scalability of behavioral weight loss interventions, but the treatments-or treatment combinations-that should be offered are unknown. A two-stage pilot sequential multiple assignment randomized trial was used to test the timing and dose of human support added to a core digital weight loss program. In stage 1, 99 adults with overweight/obesity were randomized at baseline to a kick-off with or without additional human support. In stage 2, "early non-responders" who had not achieved a 2% weight loss were re-randomized after 4weeks to either biweekly counseling (120min over 8weeks) or a one-time check-in (30min) with a dietitian. "Early responders" continued with the mHealth program alone. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed against pre-specified criteria. Preliminary outcomes (weight loss, self-monitoring and behavioral goal adherence) were explored. The study metall feasibility and acceptability criteria. The rate of early response was 52.5%. Mean (SE) 3-month percent weight losses were significantly greater in early responders (-6.63% (0.72)) than non-responders (-1.70% (0.43), p<0.001). Outcomes were similar by first- and second-line treatment though more counseling (27.3%) than check-in (12.5%) participants achieved a 5% weight loss. Identifying early responders may help optimize weight loss interventions, but more research is needed on rescue treatments for early non-responders. ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT05929469.

The possibility of modeling on mannequin using liquid fabric to develop fashion design and displaying it using digital programs (3D)

Abstract With the technological advancements in fashion design and the textile industry, the research explores the integration of three main axes: the formation axis on the mannequin, the liquid fabric axis, and the digital fashion axis. These are interconnected through the establishment of a robust technological infrastructure that enables work in the realms of textile technology and digital transformation in the field of fashion design. Despite these advantages, there are obstacles limiting its full potential. Can this technology be applied to the mannequin in a room with a temperature resembling the human body to safeguard and showcase it using 3D virtual displays? Thus, the research problem emerges, leading to the following question: What is the extent of the possibility of molding the mannequin using liquid fabric to contribute to the development of fashion design and presenting these designs using digital fashion? Its application in the field of fashion design? Since the liquid textile industry is modern in the fashion world, this research aims to study the possibility of using liquid fabric in the development of the fashion industry and formation of mannequin instead of the human body in a way that helps preserve the environment. This is done by conducting an experimental and descriptive study to achieve some liquid texture strategies shaping the mannequin in the fashion design industry and by linking them to digital fashion using the experimental method and the descriptive method to compare and analyze the results. The results were as follows: 1. Obtain multiple and varied creations in the field of fashion design 2. Speed up the design and production of models 3. Save time, effort, and money. 4. Use modern technology in applying the world of virtual fashion with ease, facilitating electronic commerce. 5. Easily recycle liquid fabric after obtaining the raw material of its product into a liquid material that can be re-sprayed and reshaped, thereby preserving the environment from pollution. Keywords: Liquid fabric, Sculpting on the mannequin, Digital fashion.

The impact of digital literacy on women’s economic empowerment: A study of Owerri municipal

Globally, digital literacy is emerging as a crucial tool for personal and societal development. In Nigeria, a nation grappling with various challenges, digital literacy offers a potential solution to empower women economically. This study investigates the impact of digital literacy on the economic empowerment of women in Owerri Municipal. By analyzing data from a survey of 255 women, the research found that women with digital skills exhibit greater economic success compared to those without. Key findings include: ● Enhanced Economic Performance: Digitally literate women demonstrate improved performance in various economic activities. ● Increased Opportunities: Digital literacy opens doors to new opportunities, particularly in entrepreneurship and online businesses. ● Improved Financial Management: Digital tools facilitate better financial planning and decision making. To maximize the potential of digital literacy, the following recommendations are proposed: ∙ Government Initiatives: The government should prioritize digital literacy programs for women, offering scholarships and incentives. ● Empowerment Opportunities: Women should actively seek opportunities to acquire digital skills and leverage them for economic advancement. ● Leadership Roles: Digitally literate women should be encouraged to assume leadership positions in both public and private sectors. By investing in digital literacy, Nigeria can empower women, drive economic growth, and create a more equitable society

Integrating fintech and innovation in microfinance: Transforming credit accessibility for small businesses

The integration of fintech in microfinance is transforming credit accessibility for small businesses, especially those traditionally underserved by conventional financial institutions. Fintech solutions offer innovative pathways for microfinance institutions (MFIs) to streamline lending, reduce operational costs, and enhance credit risk assessment, making it easier and faster for small businesses to obtain funding. This review explores how digital lending platforms, blockchain technology, mobile wallets, and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the microfinance landscape. By leveraging digital platforms, MFIs can simplify loan application processes and expand financial services to remote or unbanked areas, where small businesses often lack the collateral or credit history required by traditional lenders. Blockchain and smart contracts enhance transparency, security, and trust in transactions, while AI and machine learning provide advanced methods for assessing creditworthiness using alternative data. These innovations enable MFIs to adopt a more inclusive approach, reaching small businesses with customized financial solutions and enabling responsible lending practices. This review examines case studies from diverse regions to highlight the transformative effects of fintech integration on credit accessibility for small businesses, demonstrating tangible improvements in financial inclusion and economic resilience. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including data privacy concerns, regulatory issues, and technological barriers in under-resourced areas. Addressing these issues through collaborative partnerships, regulatory frameworks, and digital literacy programs can maximize the impact of fintech-driven microfinance. Ultimately, integrating fintech into microfinance has the potential to drive sustainable economic growth, empowering small businesses to thrive and fostering a more inclusive financial ecosystem. This review advocates for continued innovation and supportive policies to strengthen fintech's role in advancing credit accessibility for small businesses globally.

The impact of digital transformation on financial reporting and accountability in emerging markets

Digital transformation is reshaping the landscape of financial reporting and accountability in emerging markets, fostering greater transparency and efficiency. This evolution is driven by the integration of advanced technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain, which are revolutionizing traditional financial practices. In emerging markets, where challenges such as limited access to capital, regulatory inconsistencies, and underdeveloped infrastructures persist, digital transformation offers a pathway to enhance financial reporting and accountability mechanisms. The adoption of digital tools facilitates real-time data collection and analysis, enabling organizations to generate timely and accurate financial reports. This capability not only improves decision-making processes but also strengthens stakeholder trust by enhancing transparency. Additionally, technologies like blockchain provide immutable records, reducing the risks of fraud and financial misreporting, thereby fostering a culture of accountability. Emerging markets are witnessing an increasing demand for accountability, driven by stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and consumers. Digital transformation empowers businesses to meet these expectations by adopting automated reporting systems that ensure compliance with international financial reporting standards (IFRS). Moreover, the integration of AI in financial analytics allows for predictive modeling, enabling organizations to anticipate market trends and make informed strategic decisions. However, the journey towards digital transformation is not without challenges. Factors such as limited digital literacy, inadequate infrastructure, and resistance to change can hinder the effective implementation of new technologies. To maximize the benefits of digital transformation in financial reporting, emerging markets must prioritize investments in digital literacy programs, infrastructure development, and supportive regulatory frameworks. In conclusion, digital transformation significantly impacts financial reporting and accountability in emerging markets, offering opportunities for enhanced transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder trust. By addressing existing challenges and leveraging advanced technologies, organizations can achieve a more accountable financial reporting landscape that aligns with global standards and meets the evolving needs of stakeholders.

Developing and implementing a Digital Stories programme in nursing homes: a qualitative process evaluation

Abstract For older adults requiring permanent care in nursing homes (or residential aged care facilities), there can be a tendency to feel disconnected from their sense of self. Digital storytelling has the potential to improve relationships and social connectedness, and encourage a sense of self and identity; however, there is little research on the implementation of this practice. A qualitative process evaluation was conducted with a sample of 12 volunteers who delivered a Digital Stories programme. The programme connected volunteers with socially isolated residents of nursing homes with the aim of engaging the residents to reminisce and contribute toward creating a digital story about their lives. The study aimed to understand enablers of and barriers to implementing the programme in nursing homes, from the perspective of volunteers. Thematic analysis resulted in several overarching themes and sub-themes. The enablers of implementation included skills and characteristics of the volunteers (e.g. adaptable to residents’ needs), specific features of the programme (e.g. having a shared goal) and support from the nursing home staff. The barriers to implementation included individual traits of the resident (e.g. low capacity for engagement), limitations associated with the prescribed protocol, and managing perspectives regarding what stories are told. Volunteers also made suggestions for future programme development. Implications for successful future digital storytelling projects include ensuring a manualised approach to the program while allowing for flexibility in delivery, careful recruitment of residents and volunteers, and providing comprehensive training and education to volunteers.

What Makes Me Happy and what Worries Me? A Cross-national Comparison of Stressors and Resources for Stress Relief Among Youth

AbstractNumerous evidence-based programs aim to promote youth mental health. Unfortunately, however, they often fail to engage the target group and lack cultural sensitivity. The present study addresses these issues by using a participatory approach to look at variations of stressors and resources for stress relief among students (12-15 years) in three European countries. Two participatory workshops were conducted in three schools in Austria, Poland and Slovenia, with a total of 81 students participating in the first workshop, and 83 in the second. This study presents the findings derived from two distinct participatory activities wherein participants reported their stressors (Relevant Topics activity) and resources (Photovoice activity). Overall, the study revealed remarkable similarities in stressors and resources across the three countries, but differences were also identified. Stressors relating to interpersonal relationships, school, and self-concept were common themes. While concerns regarding health, future, and global issues were less frequently mentioned, they remained persistent across all countries, an indication of their growing relevance amid today’s multiple crises. Animals, sports, and relationships emerged as the most frequently reported resources. Creative arts and expression, music, and calm activities like reading, and spending time in nature were also frequently cited. Notably, engagement with digital devices or social media emerged neither as a common stressor nor as a notable personal resource. The findings will be used to inform the content development of a culturally sensitive digital mental health promotion program, covering salient topics comprehensively while ensuring diversity awareness.

Social Media Shadows: Unveiling the Hidden Struggles of African American Youth on Facebook

Abstract: While Facebook has become a central element of digital culture, its impact on the mental health of African American youth remains underexplored, particularly in relation to intersecting marginalized identities. Despite extensive research on social media and youth well-being, there is a significant gap in understanding how Facebook contributes to mental health challenges like depression and anxiety, especially for African American adolescents who experience systemic racism and discrimination both offline and online. This paper addresses these shortcomings by examining the intersection of race, socio-economic status, and the pervasive influence of social media on African American youth. Utilizing the Ecological Systems Model and Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT), this study critically analyzes existing literature to uncover how Facebook exacerbates mental health struggles through online discrimination, cyberbullying, and harmful social comparison. Furthermore, the research highlights the underrepresentation of African American LGBTQ+ youth in current studies, emphasizing the need for intersectional approaches. Findings reveal that while Facebook offers opportunities for connection and identity exploration, it also intensifies mental health challenges due to frequent exposure to online racism and social exclusion. This study concludes by advocating for targeted interventions, including digital literacy programs, supportive online communities, and improved content moderation, to mitigate the negative mental health impacts on African American youth in the digital age.

Building Language, Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Skills with Aboriginal Rangers in the Northern Territory

Ranger programs across North Australia are a success story, providing important environmental, social and cultural services that help people get back out on their Country to do vital work, such as carbon abatement fire programs, weed and feral animal management, cultural site maintenance, and Learning on Country programs for youth. Many rangers struggle with the English language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills needed to participate effectively in work and training. The Batchelor Institute Conservation and Land Management team have developed effective language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills programs through Foundation Skills Training being delivered across the Northern Territory top end and recently Uluru. With extensive knowledge and experience in ranger work, trainers can develop and adapt language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills programs that are contextualised to the work of rangers and meet their needs as well as those of their host organisations. Secure, targeted funding can provide long-term support to further develop these programs and better prepare and support learners with training and work. This document outlines existing work and how it can be expanded across the region.

EMPLOYEE DIGITAL ADAPTABILITY IN IMPROVING MARKETING CAPABILITIES

EMPLOYEE DIGITAL ADAPTABILITY IN IMPROVING MARKETING CAPABILITIES

The Effect of Lifestyle Coaching Design on Patient Engagement and Weight Loss in Non-diabetic Patients of a Semaglutide-Supported Digital Obesity Program in the UK: A Comparative Retrospective Cohort Study.

Digital weight-loss services (DWLSs) that supplement continuous lifestyle coaching with semaglutide therapy have shown promise in delivering continuous and effective obesity care. However, the extent to which lifestyle coaching design influences patient engagement and program effectiveness is unknown. This study retrospectively analysed several engagement markers and weight loss percentage over 16 weeks in a large semaglutide-supported DWLS in the UK (n=154). The comparative analysis found that patients who received lifestyle coaching that was proactive and personalised sent a statistically higher number of messages to their health coach (Mean=19.37 vs Mean=8.55) and opened the program app more frequently (Mean = 49.31 days vs Mean = 40.06 days) than patients whose coaching was reactive and standardised. Mean 16-week weight loss was 10.1% in the proactive group compared to 8.9% in the reactive group, but the difference was not statistically significant. A two-sample t-test found that female patients (Mean = 9.76%) tended to lose more weight than male patients (Mean = 6.88%), (t(152) = 1.89, p = 0.04). The findings add vital layers of nuance to the emerging literature on semaglutide-supported DWLSs, indicating that a proactive, personalised coaching approach leads to better patient engagement, but that such engagement is not correlated with better short-term weight-loss or program adherence outcomes. Moreover, the cohort's comparably higher mean weight loss relative to previous real-world semaglutide studies lend support to the advice of leading global health institutions of using the medication only as an adjunct to multidisciplinary lifestyle therapy. Investigators should expand on this research by conducting comparable studies over a longer period and with medication-only control groups.

Self-assessed performance-based function test versus patient-reported outcome measures for knee and hip osteoarthritis

BackgroundPhysical function constitutes a key component of outcome assessment for almost all osteoarthritis interventions. The aim was to compare physical function measured using a self-assessed performance-based test versus self-reported function using questionnaires among individuals with knee or hip osteoarthritis (OA) participating in a digital exercise and education therapy.MethodsWe analysed data from individuals aged 40 + years participating in the digital program. We extracted data on the self-assessed 30-second chair stand test (30s CST) and the function subscales of Knee injury/Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score 12 (KOOS-12/HOOS-12) at enrolment and 3- (n = 10884) and 12-month (n = 3554) follow-ups. Participants completed Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) pain, EQ-5D-5L, and an external anchor: global rating of change scale. Correlations were assessed using the Spearman correlation coefficient, responsiveness using standardized response mean (SRM) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and agreement using weighted percent of agreement and weighted Gwet’s agreement coefficient.ResultsCorrelations were weak between the 30s CST and KOOS-12/HOOS-12 function (r < 0.35 for raw and r < 0.20 for change scores). Correlations with NRS pain and EQ-5D-5L were stronger for the KOOS-12/HOOS-12 function subscale than for 30s CST. Greater internal (SRM > 1 vs. SRM < 0.5) and lower external responsiveness were observed for the 30s CST versus the KOOS-12/HOOS-12 function, even though external responsiveness was generally inadequate for both (the area under the ROC curves < 0.7). The direction of change was similar for the two function measures for about 70% of subjects with moderate agreement between them (weighted Gwet’s agreement coefficient range 0.45 to 0.50).ConclusionWeak correlations and moderate agreements between function measured using performance-based test and self-reported using KOOS-12/HOOS-12 in people with knee or hip OA suggest that they may capture different aspects of functional abilities in this population.

Predicting Pain Response to a Remote Musculoskeletal Care Program for Low Back Pain Management: Development of a Prediction Tool.

Low back pain (LBP) presents with diverse manifestations, necessitating personalized treatment approaches that recognize various phenotypes within the same diagnosis, which could be achieved through precision medicine. Although prediction strategies have been explored, including those employing artificial intelligence (AI), they still lack scalability and real-time capabilities. Digital care programs (DCPs) facilitate seamless data collection through the Internet of Things and cloud storage, creating an ideal environment for developing and implementing an AI predictive tool to assist clinicians in dynamically optimizing treatment. This study aims to develop an AI tool that continuously assists physical therapists in predicting an individual's potential for achieving clinically significant pain relief by the end of the program. A secondary aim was to identify predictors of pain nonresponse to guide treatment adjustments. Data collected actively (eg, demographic and clinical information) and passively in real-time (eg, range of motion, exercise performance, and socioeconomic data from public data sources) from 6125 patients enrolled in a remote digital musculoskeletal intervention program were stored in the cloud. Two machine learning techniques, recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), continuously analyzed session updates up to session 7 to predict the likelihood of achieving significant pain relief at the program end. Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC-AUC), precision-recall curves, specificity, and sensitivity. Model explainability was assessed using SHapley Additive exPlanations values. At each session, the model provided a prediction about the potential of being a pain responder, with performance improving over time (P<.001). By session 7, the RNN achieved an ROC-AUC of 0.70 (95% CI 0.65-0.71), and the LightGBM achieved an ROC-AUC of 0.71 (95% CI 0.67-0.72). Both models demonstrated high specificity in scenarios prioritizing high precision. The key predictive features were pain-associated domains, exercise performance, motivation, and compliance, informing continuous treatment adjustments to maximize response rates. This study underscores the potential of an AI predictive tool within a DCP to enhance the management of LBP, supporting physical therapists in redirecting care pathways early and throughout the treatment course. This approach is particularly important for addressing the heterogeneous phenotypes observed in LBP. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04092946; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04092946 and NCT05417685; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05417685.

The Impact of Economic Growth and Foreign Investment on the Advancement of E-commerce

This study examines the interrelationship between economic growth, foreign investment, and e-commerce development in Kyrgyzstan from 2010 to 2022. Using correlation and regression analyses, the research reveals a strong positive relationship between foreign investment and GDP growth, with a 1% change in foreign investment corresponding to a 0.86% change in GDP. The study finds that increased investment and economic growth in key sectors such as information and communication, financial intermediation, and trade have significantly contributed to e-commerce expansion. This is evidenced by increases in Internet access points, mobile subscriptions, and bank card circulation. The research utilizes the UNCTAD B2C E-commerce Index to track Kyrgyzstan's progress in e-commerce readiness, showing improvements correlating with economic and investment growth. Practical implications for policymakers were created. It is recommended to prioritize policies that attract foreign investment, particularly in ICT, financial services, and trade sectors to stimulate e-commerce growth; develop targeted strategies to improve digital infrastructure and increase internet accessibility nationwide; implement regulations that facilitate secure online transactions and protect consumer rights in e-commerce; invest in digital literacy programs to increase e-commerce adoption among the population; create incentives for businesses to develop online platforms and integrate e-commerce into their operations; foster partnerships between foreign investors and local businesses to transfer knowledge and technology in e-commerce.

Impact of Social Media Platforms on Learning Resource Acquisition among University of Uyo Undergraduates, Nigeria

The study examined “Impact of Social Media Platforms on Acquisition of Learning Resource amongUniversity of Uyo undergradutes." Plateforms such as Twitter , YouTube, Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook, and WhatsApp have become ubiquitous in the lives of undergraduates the world over. They influence not only their social media interractions but also the acquisition of learning resources. While these platforms hold the potential to facilitate access to learning resources and educational content, there is a growing concern about their impact on academic focus, the quality of information shared, and the overall learning experience. Ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study. The study was guided by six purposes and six null hypotheses. The population consisted 2,056 final year students in the Faculty of Education, University of Uyo during the 2023/2024 academic session. The sample of the study was 200 final year students selected from four Departments in Faculty of Education, University of Uyo. The instrument used for data collection was “Social Media Handles and Acquisition of Learning Resources Questionnaire (SMHALRQ)”. The instrument was validated by three experts, and its reliability was determined using Cronbach's Alpha statistics which yielded a coefficient of 0.66. Independent t-test was used to test the null hypotheses at .05 level of significance. Results showed that YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp significantly influenced the acquisition of learning resources among undergraduates, while Twitter and Instagram did not show significant influence. Based on the findings, it is recommended that educational institutions should integrate effective social media platforms into their teaching and learning strategies, implement digital literacy programs, and develop clear guidelines for the use of social media in academic contexts to enhance students' acquisition of learning resources.

Measuring the Effectiveness of Policies on Employment from 2008-2024 in Spain Using a New Methodology

This study evaluates the effectiveness of employment policies implemented in Spain from 2008 to 2024, utilizing an innovative methodology adapted from Adekanbi (2024). Spain's labor market faced significant challenges, including high unemployment, labor market segmentation, and skill mismatches, particularly during and after the 2008 financial crisis. The research employs econometric modeling to analyze the relationship between unemployment rates, labor force participation, and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita over various policy periods identified through structural change detection. Key findings reveal the impact of major reforms, including the 2012 labor market restructuring, youth employment initiatives, and digital and green economy training programs. Results indicate varying effectiveness across policy periods, with unemployment and labor force participation significantly influencing GNI per capita. Recommendations emphasize prioritizing industrial sector revitalization, aligning policies with technological advancements, and diversifying the economy to address persistent unemployment and labor shortages. This comprehensive analysis underscores the need for balanced economic strategies to foster resilience and long-term growth in Spain's labor market.

Understanding Patients' Preferences for a Digital Intervention to Prevent Posttreatment Deterioration for Bulimia-Spectrum Eating Disorders: User-Centered Design Study.

Deterioration rates after enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-E) for patients with bulimia-spectrum eating disorders (BN-EDs) remain high, and decreased posttreatment skill use might be a particularly relevant contributor. Digital interventions could be an ideal option to improve skill use after treatment ends but they have yet to be investigated for BN-EDs. This study used a user-centered design approach to explore patients' interest in a digital intervention to prevent deterioration after CBT-E and their desired features. A total of 12 participants who previously received CBT-E for BN-EDs and experienced at least a partial response to treatment completed a qualitative interview asking about their interests and needs for an app designed to prevent deterioration after treatment ended. Participants were also presented with features commonly used in digital interventions for EDs and were asked to provide feedback. All 12 participants expressed interest in using an app to prevent deterioration after treatment ended. In total, 11 participants thought the proposed feature of setting a goal focusing on skill use weekly would help improve self-accountability for skill use, and 6 participants supported the idea of setting goals related to specific triggers because they would know what skills to use in high-risk situations. A total of 10 participants supported the self-monitoring ED behaviors feature because it could increase their awareness levels. Participants also reported wanting to track mood (n=6) and food intake (n=5) besides the proposed tracking feature. A total of 10 participants reported wanting knowledge-based content in the app, including instructions on skill practice (n=6), general mental health strategies outside of EDs (n=4), guided mindfulness exercises (n=3), and nutrition recommendations (n=3). Eight participants reported a desire for the app to send targeted push notifications, including reminders of skill use (n=7) and inspirational quotes for encouragement (n=3). Finally, 8 participants reported wanting a human connection in the app, 6 participants wishing to interact with other users to support and learn from each other, and 4 participants wanting to connect with professionals as needed. Overall, participants thought that having an app targeting skill use could provide continued support and improve self-accountability, thus lowering the risk of decreased skill use after treatment ended. Insights from participants highlighted the perceived importance of continued support for continued skill use after treatment ended. This study also provided valuable design implications regarding potential features focusing on facilitating posttreatment skill use to include in digital deterioration prevention programs. Future research should examine the optimal approaches to deliver the core features identified in this study that could lead to higher continued skill use and a lower risk of deterioration in the long term.

A Longitudinal Examination of Depressive Symptoms in a Digital Diabetes Prevention Program

A Longitudinal Examination of Depressive Symptoms in a Digital Diabetes Prevention Program

Research on the application effect of inter-professional training program for newly enrolled medical staff in operating room based on digital information technology

BackgroundThe operating room environment demands high levels of teamwork and interprofessional collaboration, yet current training programs often lack sufficient opportunities to develop these essential skills. Few studies have explored the impact of Interprofessional Education (IPE) based on digital information technology in improving the collaboration and learning among newly enrolled medical staff in the operating room.ObjectivesThis study aimed to design, implement, and evaluate a digital information technology-based IPE training program for newly enrolled medical staff in the operating room. The evaluation focused on the effects of the program on the participants’ expertise, operational knowledge, team communication skills, and application of these skills in clinical practice.MethodsSixty-eight newly enrolled medical staff from surgical departments in a tertiary hospital in Shanxi province were included in this study from January 2021 to December 2022. The participants engaged in an IPE training curriculum that utilized digital information technology, featuring courses and case studies specifically tailored to the operating room environment. Post-training assessments included evaluation of test scores of expertise course, evaluation of surgical simulation operations (operational knowledge and communication), and the International Interprofessional Collaboration Competency Attainment Survey (ICCAS). The effectiveness of the training was assessed by evaluating improvements in communication skills, application of practical knowledge, and teamwork in surgical contexts.ResultsExpertise course evaluation and reflection revealed that the new enrolled medical staff in the operating room had a deep understanding of the knowledge. At the same time, they are better able to understand and master the nursing mode in the process of different professional surgery, and said that they would like to cooperate with surgeon and anesthesiologist during the surgical operation. The score of the Interprofessional Collaborative Competency Attainment Survey (ICCAS) increased significantly (P < 0.05), indicating that the communication and collaboration skills of the new enrolled medical staff in operating room were further improved, and that they were more familiar with the patient-centered teamwork mode.ConclusionsThis study provides a valuable reference for the design and implementation of IPE programs based on digital information technology in the operating room. It highlights the importance of such programs in enhancing the understanding and cross-disciplinary communication skills for newly enrolled medical staff, ultimately improving patient care through better teamwork.

Novel Multicomponent Digital Care Assistant and Support Program for People After Stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack: A Pilot Feasibility Study.

Evidence is increasing for digital health programs targeting the secondary prevention of stroke. We aimed to determine the feasibility of the novel Care Assistant and support Program for people after Stroke (CAPS) or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) by combining person-centred goal setting and risk-factor monitoring through a web-based clinician portal, SMS messages, a mobile application (app), and a wearable device. We conducted a 12-week mixed-methods, open-label feasibility study. Participants (6 months-3 years after stroke or TIA, access to the internet via a smartphone/tablet) were recruited via the Australian Stroke Clinical Registry. Participants set one or two secondary prevention goals with a researcher and provided access and training in technology use. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, retention, usability, acceptability, and satisfaction. Secondary outcomes included goal attainment, health outcomes, and program costs. Following 600 invitations, 58 responded, 34/36 (94%) eligible participants commenced the program (one withdrawal; 97% retention), and 10 were interviewed. Participants (27% female, 33% TIA) generally rated the usability of the mobile application as 'Good' to 'Excellent' (System Usability Scale). Most (94%) agreed the program helped with engagement in health self-monitoring. Overall, 52 goals were set, predominantly regarding exercise (21/52), which were the most frequently achieved (9/21). At 12 weeks, participants reported significant improvements (p < 0.05) in self-efficacy (Cohen's d = 0.40), cardiovascular health (d = 0.71), and the mental health domain of the PROMIS GH (d = 0.63). CAPS was acceptable, with good retention and engagement of participants. Evaluation of this program in a randomised controlled trial is warranted.