Discrimination Test Research Articles

Turkish mobile speech discrimination in real noise 4-word sentence test findings in individuals with hearing loss aged 8–12 years

BackgroundIn daily life, there has been a need to establish verbal communication with sentences instead of single-syllable words and to be tested with sentences that better reflect social life. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate signal noise ratio thresholds and speech comprehension scores in noise in children with severe sensorineural hearing loss by using real ambient noises, four-word spectral balanced sentences, and light, medium, and high input signal levels.ResultsA total of 40 children, including 20 children with severe sensorineural hearing loss, using bilateral hearing aids, (10.23 ± 1.64) and 20 children with normal hearing (9.25 ± 1.48), aged 8–12 years, were included in the study. The newly developed Turkish Mobile Sentence Test for Distinguish Speech in Real Noises was applied to the participants. This test is performed using spectral and coherence balanced 4-word sentences, at − 10 dB, − 5 dB, 0 dB, 5 dB, and 10 dB SNR thresholds and 40, 60, and 80 dB sound levels at shopping mall and amusement park. Children with hearing loss had higher signal noise ratio thresholds at all sound levels in shopping malls, amusement parks, and classroom environments, and their speech comprehension scores in noise were lower at these thresholds (p < 0.05).ConclusionsChildren with hearing loss aged 8–12 have difficulties in verbal communication, in real ambient noises, and in speech discrimination tests, even with 4-word sentences at mild, medium, and high levels of intensity, compared to children with normal hearing. Further studies evaluating hearing aid fitting settings with signal noise ratio thresholds are needed.

Development of Augmented Reality Atlas Volcano Series Media in Social Sciences Learning

The purpose of this research is to determine 1) the development of Augmented Reality Atlas Volcano Series media (ARAVS) that is suitable for use; 2) increasing student learning outcomes from the cognitive aspect; and 3) find out students' responses to interest after using the ARAVS media. This research and development (R&amp;D) process refers to design model of Dick and Carey. The trial of the developed product was carried out at Model Terpadu Bojonegoro State High School with a field trial sample of 120 class X students. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired sample t-test, and discriminant test. The results of the product development validation test from social studies learning developer experts and learning media experts are in the very feasible category. The results of small group trials are in the feasible category, and field trials are in the very feasible category. The results of the t-test on cognitive aspects showed that there was an increase in student learning outcomes on volcanism in social studies subjects after using AR media. Students have a positive interest in using the ARAVS because the media (ARAVS) is considered concrete, innovative, and interactive. Media (ARAVS) is not boring and is not difficult to adapt to social studies learning. In general, the formative evaluation shows that the product resulting from this development is very suitable for use as an alternative to virtual and digital-based media in social studies learning on Volcanism material.

Effects of complex decongestive physical therapy on upper limb circumference and sensory function in post-mastectomy lymph oedema, A quasi-experimental study

The quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Allied Hospital, Faisalabad to investigate the effect of complex decongestive physical therapy on sensory testing in post-mastectomy-related lymphoedema patients. The sample comprised 18 participants enrolled using convenience sampling technique. All the participants received complex decongestive physical therapy during 5 sessions per week for 3 weeks. The intervention comprised manual lymphatic drainage, multi-layered compression bandages, skin care and patient-oriented exercises for breast cancer-related lymphoedema. Upper limb circumference of the subjects was measured, while two-point discrimination test, pressure pain threshold test and tactile localisation test were also conducted. Complex decongestive physical therapy showed a significant difference in pre- and post-intervention values (p&lt;0.05). Complex decongestive physical therapy was found to be effective in improving sensory perceptions, like discrimination, tactile and pain pressure threshold, as well as oedema. Key Words: Compression bandages, Mastectomy, Quality of life, Range of motion, Breast cancer lymphoedema.

Abstract Su803: Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prediction via Deep Learning Electrocardiogram Analysis

Background: Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a potentially fatal event that often occurs without prior indications. Hypothesis: It was hypothesized that electrocardiogram (ECG) data could be used in conjunction with Deep Learning (DL) algorithms to predict the occurrence of SCA’s. Aims: To improve SCA outcomes and enable preventative strategies, the ECG data from the Nightingale Open Science - Subtyping Cardiac Arrest dataset were utilized to create a DL model to serve as a screening tool for sudden cardiac arrest. Methods: A publicly-available dataset containing ten seconds of 12-lead ECGs from individuals who had a SCA and persons who did not have a SCA, and information about time from ECG to arrest, and age and sex were utilized for individualized prediction of SCA. Subsets of the initial data were used to train, validate, and test deep convolution neural network models that processed cardiac cycles from single-lead ECG voltage waveforms. Results: The cohort comprised 221 (mean age: 68.5 and #females: 75) patients who experienced SCA and 1046 controls (mean age: 69.7 and #females: 497) who did not have a cardiac arrest. The SCA ECG-DL base model, with ECGs within one day and with age and sex data, had an area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) of 0.774 during hold-out testing for discrimination of subsequent SCA. With sensitivity set at 95%, the base model specificity of the SCA ECG-DL model was 31%. Gradient-weighted class activation mapping showed that the SCA ECG-DL model relied most heavily on the QRS complex to make predictions. The performance of the SCA ECG-DL model was similar removing age and sex data (AUROC 0.775) and less reliable when predicting SCA within one month (AUROC 0.734) or between one month and one year (AUROC 0.574). Conclusion: DL interpretation of ECG data is a promising means of screening for SCA, and this method explains differences in SCA’s due to age and sex. Model performance improved when ECGs were obtained at shorter intervals to the incident SCA event, and SCA prediction was more dependent upon QRS complex data than other temporal segments of the ECG.

The Ten Test and Sensory Evaluation of Hand and Finger Injuries in the Emergency Department

BackgroundHand and finger injuries are a common presenting complaint to the emergency department and are associated with significant morbidity. Neurologic evaluation of these injuries is a crucial component of the patient assessment and can be done via a variety of testing methods. DiscussionWhile most taught and cited in the emergency department literature, the two-point discrimination (2PD) test for sensation has several drawbacks, including limited reproducibility and reliability. While often utilized by hand surgical specialists, the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM) test and the Weinstein Enhanced Sensory Test (WEST) are not practical for the emergency physician due to the need for specialized equipment and frequent calibration. The ten test, a relatively new sensory evaluation method, has been shown to be reliable, reproducible, and pragmatic in varying types of clinical environments. ConclusionThe ten test is a pragmatic alternative method of evaluation to two-point that is utilized by specialists in hand surgery and injuries. The emergency physician should consider adding the ten test to their evaluation and reporting of hand and finger injuries in the emergency department.

Molecular Docking, Bioinformatic Analysis, and Experimental Verification for the Effect of Naringin on ADHD: Possible Inhibition of GSK-3β and HSP90.

Background/Objectives: One of the most abundant and growing neurodevelopmental disorders in recent decades is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Many trials have been performed on using drugs for the improvement of ADHD signs. This study aimed to detect the possible interaction of naringin with Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its putative anti-inflammatory and protective effects in the mouse ADHD model based on bioinformatic, behavioral, and molecular investigations. Furthermore, molecular docking was applied to investigate possible interactions with the GSK-3β and HSP90 proteins. Methods: Male Swiss albino mice were divided into four groups, a normal control group, monosodium glutamate (SGL) control, SGL + naringin 50 mg/kg, and SGL + naringin 100 mg/kg. The psychomotor activity of the mice was assessed using the self-grooming test, rope crawling test, and attentional set-shifting task (ASST). In addition, biochemical analyses were performed using brain samples. Results: The results of the SGL group showed prolonged grooming time (2.47-folds), a lower percentage of mice with successful crawling on the rope (only 16.6%), and a higher number of trials for compound discrimination testing in the ASST (12.83 ± 2.04 trials versus 5.5 ± 1.88 trials in the normal group). Treatment with naringin (50 or 100 mg per kg) produced significant shortening in the grooming time (31% and 27% reductions), as well as a higher percentage of mice succeeding in crawling with the rope (50% and 83%, respectively). Moreover, the ELISA assays indicated decreased dopamine levels (0.36-fold) and increased TNF-α (2.85-fold) in the SGL control group compared to the normal mice, but an improvement in dopamine level was observed in the naringin (50 or 100 mg per kg)-treated groups (1.58-fold and 1.97-fold). Similarly, the PCR test showed significant declines in the expression of the Wnt (0.36), and β-catenin (0.33) genes, but increased caspase-3 (3.54-fold) and BAX (5.36-fold) genes in the SGL group; all these parameters were improved in the naringin 50 or 100 mg/kg groups. Furthermore, molecular docking indicated possible inhibition for HSP90 and GSK-3β. Conclusions: Overall, we can conclude that naringin is a promising agent for alleviating ADHD symptoms, and further investigations are required to elucidate its mechanism of action.

MUSIC THERAPY AS A HOLISTIC APPROACH

This abstract summarizes a quantitative and a qualitative study that explored the typology of activities in music therapy for the inclusion of children with special educational needs. The aim of this research study is to test the possible relationship between musical acoustics and vocal discrimination in children of typical development and in children with special educational techniques of preschool and primary school age, as well as in comparison with each other. Moreover, to offer a thorough understanding of music therapy in order to explore how general school teachers perceive and approach the integration of music therapy within a single inclusive school environment. Data were collected through demographic questionnaires, assessments of music audibility, phonemic discrimination tests and semi-structured interviews. Notably, we utilized the L-a-T-o Criterion, a psychometric test tailored for the Greek language, alongside Gordon's Elementary Measures of Music Audibility. The findings of the research revealed that there is a positive impact of music in education and well-being of children, particularly those with special needs. Differences among groups were established (Typology), and also the research demonstrated the educators' positive attitudes toward integrating music therapy into the school curriculum. Quantitative results supported qualitative claims about the positive correlation between musical experiences and phonemic awareness. Both approaches identify challenges, such as the need for better infrastructure and trained music therapists. The outcomes of this research confirmed the existing theory on the profound impact of Music, both tonal and rhythmic, on Children's development in Greece, highlighting that phonological awareness, a crucial skill for language development and reading, is significantly influenced by musical audibility in young children and identified positive attitudes toward integrating music therapy into the school curriculum, despite limited awareness in Greece.

Eight weeks of oral iron supplementation improves postural control in young women with iron deficiency anemia.

This study aimed to explore the effect of 8-week oral supplementation on postural control in young women with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). This study involved 15 women with IDA who received 160 mg of elemental iron daily in the form of dried ferrous sulfate capsules (80 mg twice daily) taken in two divided doses for 8 weeks. The mean velocity of oscillations of the center of pressure (CoPv) was recorded to evaluate postural control pre- and post-supplementation. In addition, simple reaction time (SRT) and weight discrimination tests were performed to assess attentional capacity and proprioceptive acuity, respectively. This study revealed significant increases (P < 0.001, mean difference = 1.83, 95% CI: -17.25; -9.42) in proprioceptive acuity values, as well as decreases in CoPv [firm (EO (P < 0.01, mean difference = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.69; 2.92), EC (P < 0.05, mean difference = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.24; 3.45)) and foam (EO (P < 0.001, mean difference = 0.64, 95% CI: 1.71; 4.44) ; EC (P < 0.001, mean difference = 1.04, 95% CI: 3.51; 7.97))] and SRT (P < 0.001, mean difference = 59.31, 95% CI: 103.02; 168.71) values post-supplementation compared to pre-supplementation. This study showed significant improvements in postural control in young women with IDA after 8 weeks of oral iron supplementation. These improvements were probably related to the enhanced bioavailability of iron, which may have influenced neural processes inducing improvements in attention capacity and proprioceptive acuity.

Pengaruh Pelatihan Kerja terhadap Kinerja Karyawan dengan Kompetensi Karyawan Sebagai Variabel Mediasi pada Departemen Produksi pada Salah Satu Perusahaan Tambang di Indonesia

This study aims to analyze the impact of job training on employee performance, with employee competency serving as a mediating variable. This quantitative research collected data through questionnaires. The respondents comprised 202 employees from the production department of PT XYZ, selected using proportional stratified random sampling. Data processing employed Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares (SEM PLS), incorporating convergent validity tests, discriminant validity tests, and composite reliability tests. The analysis techniques included path coefficient analysis, R-square testing, bootstrapping, and specific indirect effect testing. The findings of this study are: (1) job training has a significant effect on employee performance; (2) job training significantly influences employee competency; (3) competency significantly impacts employee performance; and (4) competency significantly mediates the effect of job training on employee performance. This research provides new insights into the mediating role of employee competency in the relationship between job training and employee performance within the context of an mining industry. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by highlighting the importance of competency development through job training to enhance employee performance. It offers practical implications for human resource practices in similar industrial settings, emphasizing the critical role of competency as a mediator.

Developing and Validating Monosyllabic Speech Materials with Psychometric Homogeneity for Young Adult Turkish-Azeri Speakers in Iran and Compiling the Equivalent Word Lists

Background and Aim: For the Word Recognition Score (WRS) test, homogenous lists of words with similar difficulty levels are needed. This study aimed to develop and validate Turkish-Azeri monosyllabic words with phonetic balance and psychometric homogeneity for the WRS test in young adult Turkish-Azeri speakers in Iran and to compile four 25-item word lists. Methods: In this cross-sectional/comparative study, four lists of 25 monosyllabic words with phonetic balance were created by extracting common words from Turkish-Azeri dialects and assessing them in terms of ease of use, familiarity, and relevance. Then, the lists were tested on 40 young adult Azari speakers aged 18–25 years to determine the validity and reliability. Results: All four lists showed adequate face and content validity. Cronbach’s alpha and split-half values for all four lists were above 0.9, indicating acceptable internal consistency and reliability. Construct validity was confirmed the factor analysis with one-dimensional variance of 77.9%, 80.0%, 79.9%, and 88% for the word lists 1 to 4, respectively, and reported the single-factor solution of the index in all four lists. Also, test-retest reliability with a two-week interval with Pearson correlation coefficients of the lists were 0.94, 0.97, 0.97, and 0.96, respectively. Conclusion: The four developed Turkish-Azeri word lists have phonetic balance and psychometric homogeneity with a high level of validity and reliability, which makes them suitable for evaluating the recognition of monosyllabic words by young adults in hearing centers of Azeri cities in Iran. Keywords: Speech audiometry; speech discrimination test; Azeri; monosyllabic; validity and reliability; psychometric function

Evaluation of Breast Skin/Nipple–Areolar Complex Sensation and Quality of Life after Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy Followed by Reconstruction

Background and Objectives: Sensation of the breast skin and nipple–areolar complex (NAC) is commonly assumed to be diminished or completely absent following nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) with implant- or expander-based reconstruction. The purpose of this cohort study was to evaluate breast skin and NAC long-term touch pressure sensibility, from 1 month to 1 year, after NSM followed by reconstruction with an implant or expander, and patient quality of life (QoL), hypothesizing that sensibility may diminish with a small progressive return throughout the postoperative period. Materials and Methods: This was achieved by performing sensation tests using Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments (SWM) in nine predefined points of the breast and NAC, a two-point discrimination test (TPD) in the four quadrants of the breast, and QoL assessment using the BREAST-Q. We evaluated 42 patients in Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital, with a total of 66 breasts, who underwent NSM between 2021 and 2023, performing the breast sensation tests before surgery and postoperatively at 1/3/6 months and 1 year. The BREAST-Q was administered to assess patient satisfaction and well-being. Results: Our results reflect a decline in breast skin and NAC sensation in the 1-month evaluation after NSM (mean: 4.67) when compared to the assessment before surgery (mean: 2.57), with a small progressive return reflected in the 3 months (mean: 3.79), 6 months (mean: 3.68), and 1-year evaluations (mean: 3.14). The following were the mean scores obtained from the BREAST-Q: Psychosocial Well-being (mean: 66), Sexual Well-being (mean: 50), Satisfaction with Breasts Pre-OP (mean: 58), satisfaction with breast reconstruction (mean: 52), Satisfaction with Implants, Satisfaction with nipple reconstruction, Physical Well-being Chest, Adverse effects of radiation, and Satisfaction with Information. Conclusions: This study confirms that sensibility diminishes after this procedure, as observed when comparing the sensation evaluation results before the operation with the 1-month evaluation, reflecting a small progressive return in the following months.

Validating the short-form of foreign language classroom burnout, boredom and anxiety scales in online Chinese learning

The digital classroom has become a crucible for complex emotional stressors such as burnout, boredom, and anxiety. The short-form of foreign language classroom burnout, boredom, and anxiety scales (S-FLCBUS, S-FLCBS, and S-FLCAS) have been widely used. However, few studies have assessed the validity and reliability of S-FLCBUS, S-FLCBS, and S-FLCAS in the context of learning Chinese as a foreign language (CFL), especially in online learning environment. To address this issue, a sample of n = 662 CFL learners in online classes was utilized in the validation efforts, including multiple rounds of exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, the establishment of convergent, discriminant, and criterion-related validity tests, and structural equation modeling. The findings revealed an adjusted 8-item two-factor S-FLCBUS and a 6-item unidimensional S-FLCAS and supported the 8-item unidimensional S-FLCBS, demonstrating excellent reliability and validity. This research provides a replicable template for future psychometric-scale development in second language acquisition, contributing to emotion research in diverse settings.

Sensory Discrimination Tests for Low- and High-Strength Alcohol

Research is limited on consumers’ ability to detect perceptible sensory differences between low- and high-strength alcoholic beverages. This study, therefore, conducted three pilot experiments using ISO sensory analysis methods to assess accuracy for evaluating beverages of different strengths. Participants were food production professionals trained in sensory analysis. Experiment 1 used a wide-range discrimination test to estimate low- to high-strength beverages (0–60% alcohol by volume (ABV) in 10% intervals). Experiment 2 included a narrower range of intermediate to high strengths (25–45% ABV in 5% intervals). Experiment 3 used 3-alternative forced choice tests (ISO 13301) to discriminate between beverages of varying strengths. Experiment 1 (n = 16) indicated that estimation ability was dependent upon the beverages’ ABV; as ABV increased, estimation significantly decreased (p &lt; 0.005). These findings were not replicated in Experiment 2 (n = 13). In Experiment 3 (n = 17), a significant perceptible difference between high- and low-strength samples was observed in two of nine conditions (35% vs. 31% ABV (p = 0.009); 41% vs. 37% ABV (p = 0.037)). While people can detect large differences in beverage ABVs, they may have a moderate to poor ability to discriminate between beverages of similar strengths. These findings provide support for public health interventions that promote lower-strength alcoholic beverages.

Reconstruction of the Infraorbital Nerve Using Bilayered Artificial Nerve Conduits after Partial Maxillectomy.

Facial sensory nerves play vital roles in daily functions like self-protection, facial expressions, speaking, and eating. Severing the infraorbital nerve (ION) during partial maxillectomy via the Weber-Ferguson incision can lead to sensory disturbances. This study presents immediate ION reconstruction using artificial nerve conduits and its short-term outcomes. This retrospective study included three patients (mean age: 67.0 years) undergoing immediate ION reconstruction after partial maxillectomy via the Weber-Ferguson incision. Sensory recovery was evaluated using the Semmes-Weinstein and two-point discrimination (2PD) tests. A reference group of five patients who underwent total maxillectomy without ION reconstruction was also assessed. No postoperative complications were observed during the 15.3-month follow-up. Sensory recovery varied among patients, with one achieving normal perception at 24 months, another showing diminished light touch at 13 months, and the third experiencing diminished protective sensation at 7 months postoperatively. In comparison, the reference group showed lower sensory recovery. Two patients showed improvements in 2PD test results at 24 and 13 months, whereas one showed no recovery at 7 months. No patients in the reference group showed improvement. Immediate ION reconstruction using artificial nerve conduits after partial maxillectomy appears feasible, as evidenced by acceptable sensory recovery in the short term.

Psychometric Properties of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and the Clinical Impairment Assessment (CIA) Using a Heterogenous Clinical Sample from Arab Countries

As the prevalence rates of eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors continue to rise worldwide, it is crucial to make psychometrically validated tools available for clinical use. The current study examined the psychometric properties of the Arabic versions of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and the Clinical Impairment Assessment (CIA) using a sample from the clinical population. The sixth edition of the EDE-Q and the third edition of the CIA were translated into Arabic and administered to 260 Arab participants (203 diagnosed with eating disorders and 57 from the general population) who are natives of various countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Convenience sampling method was used to recruit the participants with a 97% response rate. Participants from the non-clinical group also filled out the Arabic version of the EAT-26 questionnaire to rule out underlying disordered eating behaviors. Data was collected between June 2018 and August 2023. Internal consistency for the global scores of both the EDE-Q and CIA were high, while the coefficients for the four subscales of the EDE-Q and the three subscales of the CIA were moderate. Confirmatory factor analysis on the EDE-Q revealed a good fit for the abbreviated seven-item measurement with three factors, and the same was true for the CIA’s three-factor model. Convergent validity results showed significant correlations between the EDE-Q and the CIA with high coefficients. Known groups validity tests revealed significant differences based on eating disorder behaviors, where those who reported vomiting episodes and laxative misuse scored significantly higher on the EDE-Q than those who did not, and those who reported excessive exercising behavior scored significantly higher on the CIA than those who did not. There were no significant differences observed based on eating disorder diagnoses, nor were there differences among individuals with secondary diagnoses. Test-retest reliability and discriminant validity tests were not carried out. Strengths, limitations, and future directions are thoroughly discussed. The study investigated the reliability, validity, and factor structure of these tools. The findings corroborate previous studies’ support for the EDE-Q’s abbreviated seven-item measurement with three factors and the CIA’s three-factor model. With a comparatively modest sample size, the findings should be considered preliminary for Arabic versions of the tools using a clinical sample, and future studies with larger sample are warranted to confirm them.

The long-term functional outcome of the mangled upper extremity intricate management. A single center experience

PurposeSevere injury of multiple anatomical structures of the upper extremity can be caused by an extremely violent mechanism during labor and motor vehicle accidents, gunshots and explosions. The mangled upper extremity consists of trauma of at least 3 of 4 tissue types: connective tissue (skin, subcutaneous tissue, tendons, muscles), vessels, nerves, and bones. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the medium and long-term results of the limb salvage management of those injuries in our department. MethodsSixty-seven patients with multi-injured upper limb were operated in our department between 2014 and 2022 and evaluated with clinical examination and questionnaires (PROMs) on an outpatient basis at a mean follow up of 7.4 years. Patients’ demographics, the injured anatomic structures and the surgical interventions needed, were recorded. ResultsThe overall outcome, configured by functional scores was quite acceptable concerning injuries’ severity. Nineteen patients (29 %) underwent more than one operation, 2-point discrimination test was impaired in 30 % of the patients who had an injured nerve and total loss of regional sensation was diagnosed in 2 patients. Primary amputation was necessary in 8 % of the patients. ConclusionsEven though the mangled upper extremity refers to a severe injury with often poor postoperative results and high rates of amputations, a thorough evaluation and management by expert hand surgeons is essential for maximizing the possible outcomes.

Assessment of Sensory Function of the First Dorsal Metacarpal Artery Flap Used in Coverage of Post Traumatic Distal Thumb Defects; A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Background Reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects of the thumb, with exposure of the underlying structures, is challenging to hand surgeons, due to limited local soft tissue availability, The aim of thumb reconstruction is to create a thumb that is pliable, durable, and sensate (Prabhu et al., 2013) our study aims to assess the sensory function of one of the most commonly used sensate flaps which is the first dorsal metacarpal artery flap. The innerved first dorsal metacarpal artery flap harvested from the dorsum of the index finger was first described by Hilgenfeldt and refined by Holevich (1963). An island flap carried on a neurovascular pedicle consisting of the first dorsal metacarpal artery was first demonstrated by Foucher and Braun (1979). Methods we performed a systematic review of all studies that assessed the sensation of the first dorsal metacarpal artery flap that was used in coverage of post traumatic thumb defects from the year 1992 to 2022. Results Total of 580 papers were identified and screened, 109 full texts were reviewed and 25 studies met our criteria and reported static 2 point discrimination test of 491 patient with post traumatic thumb defects underwent coverage by first dorsal metacarpal artery flap with mean 2 point discrimination 9.394 Conclusion First dorsal metacarpal artery flap is a good option as a sensate flap for post-traumatic thumb reconstruction

Resolving Dimensionality Issues of the Utretch Work Engagement Scale for Students Using an Integrative Data-Analytic Framework

Academic engagement plays a crucial role in students’ learning and performance. One of the most popular measures for assessing this construct is the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale for Students (UWES-S), which is based on a tridimensional conceptualization consisting of dedication, vigor, and absorption. However, prior research on its factor structure has yielded inconsistent results, and the substantial correlations between dimensions raise doubts about their empirical distinctiveness. Thus, questions remain whether academic engagement is experienced as a global construct, or as its three components. The present study addressed this issue by examining the dimensionality of both UWES-S17 and UWES-S9 using a comprehensive factor-analytic framework. One- to four-factor CFA and ESEM models, along with corresponding bifactor-CFA and bifactor-ESEM models, were tested using data from 453 Ecuadorian university students. The results indicated that ESEM yielded superior fit indices and less correlated factors compared to CFA. However, discriminant validity test did not support the distinctiveness of UWES-S factors, and bifactor analyses consistently demonstrated a strong general factor and weak or collapsed specific factors. These findings were remarkably consistent across both UWES-S versions. Collectively, the results suggest that academic engagement, as currently operationalized by the UWES-S, can be considered as a unidimensional rather than a multidimensional construct. Implications for conceptualization, measurement, and research on academic engagement are discussed.

Study of word-in-noise perception scores at saccular acoustic sensitivity level: randomized clinical trial

BackgroundIn humans, saccular acoustic sensitivity has been confirmed. The aim of this study was to determine the scores of the word-in-noise perception test at the saccular acoustic sensitivity level.MethodologyIn this randomized clinical trial study, 101 participants in the age group of 14 to 25 years with normal hearing and middle ear function, detectable vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP), normal states of mental health, and night sleep were investigated. The scores of word-in-noise perception and word-in-noise discrimination tests were evaluated for each person at two intensity levels, most comfortable level (MCL) and saccular acoustic sensitivity. Mann-Whitney was used for the multiple comparisons.ResultsThere was a significant difference between the scores of the word-in-noise perception test at MCL and saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 3971.50, Z = − 2.10, p’ = 0.04), and also between the scores of the word-in-noise discrimination test at the MCL compared to saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 399.89, Z = − 2.49, p’ = 0.04). Word-in-noise discrimination scores in MCL (U = 3484.00, Z = -3.72, p’ = 0.00) and saccular acoustic sensitivity (U = 705.50, Z = − 3.78, p’ = 0.00) were higher than word-in-noise perception.ConclusionsWord-in-noise perception and word-in-noise discrimination scores are higher in saccular acoustic sensitivity level than MCL, suggesting that the vestibular system participates in loud speech perception. Also, in people with normal hearing thresholds, word-in-noise perception scores will be lower than word-in-noise discrimination scores for both loud and common intensity levels.

Remote assessment of music perception in pediatric cochlear implant recipients

Objective The primary objective of this study was to explore the feasibility of remotely assessing music perception in paediatric cochlear implant (CI) recipients. Pitch direction discrimination (PDD) and timbre recognition (TR) tests were administered remotely. We aimed to provide insights into the potential benefits and challenges of remote assessments. Design The study was exploratory in nature. All participants underwent remote assessments for the PDD and TR tests. Eight participants completed both online and face-to-face tests. Supervising parents in remote tests completed the System Usability Scale (SUS). Study Sample A cohort of 27 children with CI, averaging 11.19 years of age, participated in this study. Results In the online condition, the average PDD score was 3.29 semitones (st), the TR score was 37.86%, and the average duration for PDD and TR testing was 9.98 and 6.18 minutes, respectively. Face-to-face sessions had an average PDD score of 3.00 st, a TR score of 32.81% and durations of 10.20 and 5.42 minutes for PDD and TR tests, respectively. The SUS score averaged 64.04. Conclusion These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge supporting the integration of remote assessments in audiological practices.