Dropout Rates Research Articles

Stability of subjective well-being during the economic crisis: A four-wave latent transition analysis in a national sample of Poles.

This study aimed to examine profiles of subjective well-being (SWB) and their stability during the economic hardships associated with the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Selected sociodemographic, personality, and context-related variables were tested as covariates. Data were collected from 1755 participants (mean age 45.75 ± 15.99 years) in a nationwide panel over four waves (from November 2022 to June 2023; 34.3% dropout rate). SWB was measured using the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, while personality traits were assessed with the Ten-Item Personality Inventory. Latent profile and transition analyses identified four SWB profiles (ambivalent, average, low, high) that remained stable over 8 months despite a significant drop in the inflation rate. Subjectively evaluated financial situation and the perceived impact of inflation on the household were significant covariates of profile membership, even after controlling for personality traits. The results of this study support the set-point theory of SWB and suggest that SWB is stable under socially shared circumstances of economic hardships, which may be attributed to both individual-level and country-level processes.

Classification Of Plants By Their Fruits And Leaves Using Convolutional Neural Networks

The population growth of the world is exponential, this makes it imperative that we have an increase in food production. In this light, farmers, industries and researchers are struggling with identifying and classifying food plants. Over the years, there have been challenges that come with identifying fruits manually. It is time-consuming, labour intensive and requires experts to identify fruits because of the similarity in fruit’s leaves (citrus family), shapes, sizes and colour. A computerized detection technique is needed for the classification of fruits. Existing solutions to fruits classifications are majorly based on fruit or leave used as input. A new model using Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is proposed for fruits classification. A dataset of 5 classes of fruits and fresh dry leaves plants (Mango, African almond, Guava, Avocado and Cashew) comprising of 1000 images each. The proposed model hyperparameters were: Conv2D layer, activation layer, dense layer, a learning and dropout rates of 0.001 and 0.5 respectively were used for the experiment. Various performances for accuracies of 91%, 97%, 78% and 97% were obtained for proposed model on local dataset, proposed model on benchmark dataset, benchmark model on local dataset and benchmark model on benchmark dataset. The proposed model is robust on both local and benchmark datasets and can be used for effective classification of plants

Prevalence of Anemia among Adolescent School Girls of Bardoli Taluka, Surat, Gujarat

Introduction: Anemia is a serious public health challenge in India. It affects women, adolescents and children throughout the lifecycle. In boys and girls it limits their development, learning ability, reduce concentration in daily task, increases risk of infections, increases school dropout rates and reduces their physical activity. Anemia in girls can increase risk of pregnancy associated complications like premature births, low birth weight of baby and perinatal and maternal mortality. Aims of the study: The aim of the present study was to identify the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among adolescent school girls of Bardoli, Surat. Material and methods: A cross sectional survey was carried out to identify the prevalence of anemia among 815 adolescent school girls from both Government and Private schools by using non probability purposive sampling technique and who fulfilled the inclusion criteria Digital hemoglobinometer was used to collect capillary blood for estimation of hemoglobin level. Result: Study results showed that, 694 (85 %) girls were having anemia and 15% of them had normal hemoglobin level. 48% had mild anemia and 37% had moderate level of anemia. 2 (0.24%) girls had severe anemia. It was highly prevalent among 417 (60.15 %) girls of government schools than the private school. Majority 551 of them were under weight (BMI < 18.5). Level of anemia was significant with age, residence, dietary pattern, education and occupation of parents, family income. Menstruation related factors like regularity, amount of blood loss was significant. Conclusion: Anemia is still a major health problem in our country. Anaemia among adolescent girls still continues to be a significant public health problem.

Effect of telemonitoring on the rate of dropout during home non-invasive ventilation: a retrospective study using a home care provider database

ObjectivesTelemonitoring (TM) of home non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has been shown to facilitate home/outpatient therapy set-up. However, the impact of long-term TM on therapy dropouts, compliance and leak control has not...

Effectiveness of written exposure therapy for Korean patients with post-traumatic stress disorder: non-randomized treatment-as-usual waitlist-controlled study

ABSTRACT Written exposure therapy (WET) is a five-session exposure-based protocol for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The brevity and tolerability of WET present the potential to overcome barriers in implementing evidence-based therapy for PTSD within the Korean mental healthcare system. This study investigated the effectiveness of WET in Korean patients with PTSD through a waitlist-controlled trial (KCT0008112). A total of 57 patients with PTSD were allocated non-randomly to either WET (n = 27) or treatment-as-usual waitlist groups (n = 30). Both groups were followed up until the twenty-fourth week after the initial session. Primary outcomes assessed included PTSD symptoms, depressive symptoms, and general function. In the WET group, significant improvements were observed in PTSD symptoms, depressive symptoms, and general function compared to the control group. After the waiting period, the waitlist group also participated in WET, and exhibited significant improvement in all scores. The between- and within-group effect sizes were large. The dropout rate in both groups was 10.9%, and the mean satisfaction ratings were 28.24 ± 3.33 (range 22–32; scale range 8–32). The present study provides evidence of WET successfully reducing PTSD and depressive symptoms and improving general function among Korean patients with PTSD. Moreover, WET was well tolerated and received by Korean patients with PTSD.

Accessibility Challenges of Using Podcasts and Vodcasts in a South African Distance Learning University

Academic writing presents a range of challenges for students, particularly those enrolled in distance university institutions. These challenges encompass various facets such as understanding citation and referencing, developing a distinctive writer’s voice, mastering academic discourse, paraphrasing, summarising, and adhering to academic conventions. Notably, deficiencies in academic writing skills often trace back to inadequate preparation during high school education, potentially leading to qualification deferment and high dropout rates. To tackle these challenges, podcasts and vodcasts emerged as essential tools to bridge academic gaps, catering to diverse learning styles and offering flexibility beyond traditional teaching methods. However, the efficacy of supplemental multimedia tools warrants exploration, considering uncertainties regarding student acceptance. Thus, this study aimed to identify accessibility challenges, to reduce existing barriers and enhance accessibility in open distant institutions. Utilising qualitative research methodologies, including focus group discussions and literature analysis, data collection was conducted. The study drew upon Moore’s theory of transactional distance and Garrison et al.’s community of inquiry framework to create collaborative online interactions and meaningful lecturer-student engagement, culminating in the construction of new knowledge. Findings revealed that students did not encounter accessibility challenges and expressed preference for shorter podcasts and vodcasts. These multimedia formats alleviated boredom, clarified complex concepts, prevented monotony, enhanced attention and comprehension, stimulated interest, facilitated active learning, and accommodated various learning styles. Podcasts and vodcasts reduced transactional distance and created a sense of community. Contrary to prevailing literature, students did not encounter accessibility challenges, shifting the focus towards shorter, high-quality multimedia content rather than accessibility concerns.

Aachen smoking cessation and harm reduction (ASCHR) trial study protocol – scientific evaluation of a psychological-telemedical counseling concept for smoking cessation in patients with vascular diseases

BackgroundSmoking is a major risk factor of cardiovascular diseases, notably peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Despite this link, research on smoking cessation interventions in PAD patients remains scarce and inconclusive regarding the efficacy of such interventions.Therefore, elucidating it is crucial and should address both individuals who smoke that are motivated to quit and individuals who smoke heavily lacking the motivation to quit.Methods/DesignThe Aachen Smoking Cessation and Harm Reduction (ASCHR) trial is a prospective randomized controlled study (RCT) on the benefits of telemedical-psychological support for smoking cessation in patients with PAD, funded by the “Innovation Fund” of the Joint Federal Committee in Germany. This trial aims to scientifically assess the efficacy, feasibility, acceptance, and efficiency of a multi-stage smoking cessation program based on the recommendations of the German guideline for smoking cessation tailored to patients with PAD, compared to a control group receiving no intervention. Central to the program is psychological counseling utilizing motivational interviewing techniques, delivered through telemedicine via video consultations. The primary endpoint of the ASCHR trial is the smoking cessation rate after 8 months of intervention, with a secondary endpoint evaluating sustained abstinence at a further 6 months follow-up. Smoking cessation is defined as a carbon monoxide level in exhaled air of less than 6 ppm. We hypothesize that the group receiving the multi-stage cessation program will yield a cessation rate at least 10 percentage points higher than that of usual care. Anticipating a dropout rate of around 35%, the planned sample size is at least N = 1032 study participants.DiscussionShould the trial demonstrate significant positive outcomes, efforts should be made to integrate the program into routine care in Germany, potentially offering a promising base for future smoking cessation support among PAD patients.

Feasibility and Engagement of a Mobile App Preparation Program (Kwit) for Smoking Cessation in an Ecological Context: Quantitative Study.

Mobile health apps can facilitate access to effective treatment and therapeutic information services. However, the real-world effectiveness of mobile apps for smoking cessation and their potential impact in everyday settings remain unclear. In an ecological context, this study aimed to estimate the engagement rate of a mobile app-based smoking cessation preparation program and its potential impact on users' willingness, ability, and readiness to quit smoking. A total of 2331 "organic users" (ie, users who discover and install a mobile app on their own, without any prompts) chose 1 of 2 program versions of the mobile app (Kwit): the basic version or the premium version. Both versions were identical in design, with 4 more evidence-based content items and strategies in the premium version. Outcomes were analyzed based on automated data registered in the app (engagement rate, motivation to quit, motivation type, motivation levels, and satisfaction level). Mann-Whitney and χ2 tests were used to compare the results of both groups. As expected, in the ecological context, a high dropout rate was observed at different moments. A significant difference was observed between the 2 versions (n=2331; χ21=5.4; P=.02), with a proportionally higher engagement rate in the premium version (premium=4.7% vs basic=2%). Likewise, differences were also observed between the 2 groups in terms of reasons to quit (n=2331; χ24=19; P≤.001; V=0.08), motivation type (n=2331; χ27=14.7; P=.04), and motivation level. Users of the app's premium version more frequently reported "well-being" (23.3% vs 17.9%) and "planning a pregnancy" (7.4% vs 4.4%) as their primary reasons for quitting smoking compared to those with the basic version. Moreover, they reported being more likely to be driven in the smoking cessation process by intrinsic motivation (premium=28% vs basic=20.4%), as well as feeling significantly more willing (z score=156,055; P≤.001; Cohen d=0.15), able (z score=172,905; P=.04; Cohen d=0.09), and ready (z score=166,390; P=.005; Cohen d=0.12) to stop smoking than users who had the basic version before completion of the preparation program. Among participants who finished each version of the program (premium: 9/189, 4.8%; basic: 47/2142, 2.19%), significant improvements in motivation levels were observed in both groups, although in different areas for each group (willingness levels for the premium group and ability for the basic group). These results suggest that even in ecological contexts where engagement rates are meager, the Kwit preparation program can address ambivalence by increasing willingness to change, self-confidence, and readiness to quit among its users, especially those who feel less able to do so. Further development and evaluations are needed to better understand determinants for regular mobile health apps.

Trend of RTS,S vaccine uptake in the malaria vaccine implementing programme (MVIP) pilot regions, Ghana; 2019–2022

IntroductionThe uptake trend of a new vaccine is unpredictable and may reflect the quality of introduction process and community acceptance. The objective of this study was to conduct a trend analysis of RTS,S malaria vaccine uptake in the seven pilot regions of Ghana from 2019 to 2022. The findings are envisaged to strengthen malaria vaccine introductions in the future. MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on routine childhood immunisation data for 2019–2022. Coverages for the first (RTS,S1), second (RTS,S2), third (RTS,S3) and fourth (RTS,S4) doses of malaria vaccine; third dose of diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis-containing vaccine (DTP3/Penta3); first dose measles-rubella (MR1) and second dose measles-rubella (MR2) vaccines were calculated. Dropout rates and uptake gaps were estimated to assess variations in the uptake of consecutive RTS,S schedules; and the differences in the uptake of RTS,S and the comparator vaccines, respectively. ResultsNationally, the coverages of the first three doses of the RTS,S malaria vaccine rose sharply from 2019 (RTS,S1 = 54.9 %; RTS,S2 = 54.6 %; RTS,S3 = 38.6 %) through 2020 (RTS,S1 = 70.7 %; RTS,S2 = 67.4 %; RTS,S3 = 66.3 %) to peaks in 2021 (RTS,S1 = 76.0 %; RTS,S2 = 73.1 %; RTS,S3 = 74.2 %), and declined marginally in 2022 (RTS,S1 = 74.0 %; RTS,S2 = 69.9 %; RTS,S3 = 71.3 %). For the fourth dose, the low uptake in 2020 (7.5 %) was followed by a steep rise in 2021 (46.9 %) that continued, but at a reduced rate to 50.6% in 2022. The dropout rates and uptake gaps were initially high but declined consistently over the study period. Generally, the trends in vaccination coverages, and dropout rates and uptake gaps at the national level were reflected in the respective regions. ConclusionThe coverage of RTS,S malaria vaccine improved consistently over the study period despite the low uptake in the early phase of the pilot. While the decreasing dropout rates and uptake gaps may indicate improved community acceptance, strengthening immunisation service delivery is crucial in sustaining the observed trajectory.

Augmentation of cognitive-behavioural therapy for obsessive-compulsive and anxiety disorders: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

While cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders (ADs) has been proven to be effective and is commonly recommended, a considerable proportion of patients remain symptomatic, do not respond to treatment or discontinue it. Thus, augmentation strategies aimed at enhancing CBT outcomes are essential to reduce the burden of OCD and ADs on patients and society. Various augmentation strategies for CBT in OCD and ADs have been investigated, yet it remains unclear if they show robust beneficial effects beyond first-line CBT. With this systematic review and meta-analysis, we will provide an overview and critically assess the efficacy of non-pharmacological augmentation strategies in addition to first-line CBT treatment for symptom reduction, response rates and dropout rates in individuals with OCD or ADs. We will screen PubMed, Embase, PsycArticles, PsycInfo, CINAHL, PSYNDEX and Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials without restrictions on publication dates or languages. Additionally, forward, and backward searches of included studies and systematic reviews will be conducted. Two reviewers will independently screen the studies, extract data and assess the methodological quality of the studies. We will exclusively include randomised controlled trials. The primary outcomes will be symptom severity and response rates. Dropout rates will serve as a secondary outcome. Moreover, we will provide a narrative review of the results. We will use subgroup and meta-regression analyses to identify potential moderators and sources of between-study heterogeneity. We will use the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system to assess the overall quality of evidence. Ethical approval is not required. Results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. CRD42024561027.

Factors influencing job stress in pediatric nurses during the pandemic period: Focusing on fatigue, pediatric nurse-parent partnership.

The purpose of this study was to identify the factors influencing pediatric nurses'job stress, including their level of fatigue and partnerships with the parents of patients. This investigation aimed to findings of this study may lead to the development of strategies to reduce pediatric nurse's job stress. Participants were recruited from pediatric, pediatric intensive care, and neonatal intensive care units across seven general hospitals. Eligibility requiresa minimum of 6 months of experience in pediatric nursing. The sample size was determined using the G*power program, considering various variables, including age, marital status, presence of children, and work-related characteristics, leading to a final sample size of 135, adjusted for a 10% dropout rate. Data collection was conducted through self-report questionnaires, and analysis involved frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-tests, ANOVA, and stepwise multiple regression, using SPSS Statistics 27.0. This study confirmed a significant correlation between pediatric nurses'fatigue and job stress, with higher levels of fatigue associated with increased job stress. Stepwise regression analysis showed that fatigue and age were significant predictors of job stress among pediatric nurses, explaining 23% of the variance. However, detailed analysis showed that younger nurses had lower job stress scores compared to older nurses. This result suggests that more experienced nurses may experience higher job stress due to increased responsibilities and emotional burdens. This study identified the need for effective strategies to manage fatigue and reduce job stress among pediatric nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Younger nurses, particularly those under 25 and between 26 and 30 years old, experience lower job stress compared to older nurses. Comprehensive support systems should be developed, including workload management, emotional support, and programs to enhance partnerships between nurses and parents. These strategies can improve job satisfaction and the quality of care provided to young patients. Additionally, they ensure a more resilient and effective healthcare workforce during pandemics and similar crises.

Feasibility and acceptability of the HOLObalance telerehabilitation system compared with standard care for older adults at risk of falls: the HOLOBalance assessor blinded pilot randomised controlled study.

Falls have high socioeconomic costs. Information and communication technologies may support provision and monitoring of multisensory (MSR) physiotherapy programmes. The HOLOBalance platform used augmented reality holograms to provide patient-centred, individualised MSR. To determine the platform's safety, acceptability and feasibility, investigate functional gait and dynamic balance benefits and provide data for a definitive trial. Single-blinded pilot randomised controlled feasibility study. Interventions were conducted at clinical sites or participants' homes in three European countries. Community-dwelling older adults (median age 73years; 64.2% female) at risk of falls were enrolled (May 2020-August 2021). Participants were randomised to an 8-week clinic or home-based telerehabilitation MSR or OTAGO (control group) programme. Compliance, satisfaction, and adverse events determined feasibility. Clinical outcomes, assessed (blinded) within one-week prior to and post-intervention, included functional gait assessment (FGA), Mini BESTest and cognitive function. Randomisation to completion rate was 76.15% with 109 participants recruited (n = 289 screened). Drop-out rate was similar between groups. Adverse events were reported (n = 3) in the control group. Sixty-nine percent would recommend the HOLOBalance intervention. Findings were similar for the home and clinic-based arms of each intervention; data was combined for analysis. FGA (95%CI [1.63, 4.19]) and Mini-BESTest (95%CI [1.46, 3.93]) showed greater improvement in the HOLOBalance group with a clinically meaningful change of 4/30 noted for the FGA. HOLObalance was feasible to implement and acceptable to older adults at risk of falls, with FGA and Mini-BEST improvements exceeding those for the OTAGO programme. A definitive trial is warranted.

Effect of Relaxation-Based Virtual Reality on Psychological and Physiological Stress of Substance Abusers Under Detoxification: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Substance abuse is a widespread problem, with high rates of treatment dropout. Stress plays a crucial role in this problem, so innovative interventions with stressed patients can assist them in completing treatment. This study is a randomized controlled trial with 60 participants who have substance abuse disorder undergoing detoxification at a residency facility in Tehran, Iran. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: watching a 360° video of nature, a 360° video of a city environment, or no virtual experience. The intervention was performed only for one session. Psychological stress was measured using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and Perceived Stress Scale before and after the intervention. Physiological stress was assessed through respiratory rate, skin conductance, and heart rate recordings during the virtual reality (VR) experience. Data analysis was performed using R software (version 4.2). Paired t-test results indicated significant psychological differences before and after virtual nature experiences, but not in the control and city groups. The repeated measure ANOVA showed a significant reduction in skin conductance (p<0.01) and respiratory rate (p<0.01) scores in the nature group. The findings suggest that VR relaxation could be a potentially beneficial intervention for reducing stress in patients during detoxification.

Evaluation of Academic Enhancement Program for Low-Income Students in Rural Malaysia

Malaysia National Science, Technology and Innovation policy 2021-2023highlighted thatScience, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education plays an important role for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Many countries are now keen on integrating STEM into TVET education to maintain competitiveness and prepare the workforce to be more effective and productive in the knowledge-based economy. Penang Regional Development Authority (PERDA) initiated the B40@PERDA Academic Enhancement Programme to enhance the academic performance of primary and secondary school students from the B40 group, focusing on critical subjects.The study aims to evaluate the program's effectiveness and gauge student and teacher satisfaction. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected via questionnaires from students and teachers at various educational institutions. Respondents were randomly selected to ensure accurate representation. Analysis results showed that more than 95% of primary school students achieved the minimum proficiency level in EMAS with a minimum of 10% reaching the highest proficiency. For secondary school students, at least 50% attained at least a C grade in EMAS and 45.77% did so in Elective Science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Additional Mathematics). This study concluded that the B40@PERDA programme significantly improves EMAS proficiency among rural students and helps reduce dropout rates in these subjects. Furthermore, this programme is crucial for fulfilling the minimum requirements for TVET. By enhancing proficiency in critical subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, the B40@PERDA Programme ensures that students are better prepared for TVET pathways, ultimately contributing to their future career opportunities and the development of skilled labor in the region.

A Hybrid Rehabilitation Program for Adults with Peripheral Artery Disease (HY-PAD): A Pre-Post Intervention Study to Assess Its Feasibility

BackgroundSupervised exercise programs improve walking impairment and quality of life (QoL) in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). However, such programs are underutilized, due to their limited accessibility. A feasible and effective exercise program is needed. This study assessed the feasibility of a hybrid onsite and home-based exercise program (HY-PAD) and changes in walking capacity and PAD-specific QoL following HY-PAD. MethodsDue to recruitment challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, this randomized controlled trial was modified to a pre–post intervention design that excluded the control group. Eligible patients with PAD were assigned to HY-PAD, consisting of 1-hour, supervised onsite exercise sessions 3 days per week for 4 weeks, followed by a home-based program with weekly 15-minute telephone calls to discuss exercise planning for 8 weeks. Feasibility was determined based on recruitment, adherence, and adverse events. Walking capacity was measured by a 6-minute walk test. PAD-specific QoL was assessed using the Walking Impairment Questionnaire. ResultsOf 24 patients enrolled (3 women, aged 70 ± 8 years), 21 (87.5%) completed HY-PAD. Twenty participants attended ≥ 87.5% of prescribed sessions. Two participants experienced adverse events (foot injury and limb ischemia). The 6-minute walk test distance (357 ± 105 vs 413 ± 53 meters, P = 0.021), and 2 domains of the questionnaires (walking speed: 38.4 ± 24.1 vs 60.6 ± 26.6 points and stair-climbing: 60.6 ± 29.4 vs 74.0 ± 23.1 points, both P < 0.001) increased significantly. ConclusionsHigh attendance and low dropout rates support the feasibility of using HY-PAD, which was associated with improved walking capacity and PAD-specific QoL. Future studies are warranted to confirm its efficacy.

How do clients experience intensive EMDR for post-traumatic stress? An interpretative phenomenological analysis

BackgroundSeveral studies of the intensive delivery of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) have indicated it to be an effective treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), providing improved client experience, faster reduction in symptoms, greater symptom reduction, and reduced dropout rates as compared to non-intensive EMDR. However, there is a dearth of studies that describe this non-traditional approach to the delivery of EMDR psychotherapy from the patients’ perspective. ProcedureThis qualitative study explores the experiences of patients who undertook intensive EMDR for post-traumatic stress. Interviews were conducted with 10 participants and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Main findingsThe data revealed two Personal Experiential Themes (PET) and four experiential statements. ‘The importance of psychological safety’ generated sub-themes of ‘A protected space’ and ‘The importance of a continued connection’. ‘The changing self’ generated two sub-themes of a ‘Wow! moment’, and ‘Living the way I always wanted’. ConclusionResults show that intensive EMDR can be experienced as safe, facilitating agency and engagement while affecting meaningful change.

A Trauma-Informed Approach to School Mental Health Workforce Development

Addressing mental health in schools is essential for creating a supportive learning environment, as mental health issues significantly impact students’ academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being. With millions of students experiencing mental health challenges, especially those in poverty, there is a heightened risk for social-emotional disturbances and exposure to multiple traumas. Untreated mental health issues lead to academic struggles, higher dropout rates, and behavioral problems that may result in disciplinary actions. Implementing trauma-informed approaches and integrating mental health services within schools, supported by collaboration among educators, mental health professionals, and families, can foster a healthier educational environment, promoting students’ academic and emotional success. This study employed a qualitative approach to explore various aspects of mental health practices and social-emotional learning implementation in schools. The data revealed significant gaps in participants’ knowledge of school-based mental health practices. The insights gained from these focus group discussions provide valuable guidance for improving the implementation of school-based mental health practices and social-emotional learning methods.

Prospectively investigating the impact of AI on shared decision-making in post kidney transplant care (PRIMA-AI): protocol for a longitudinal qualitative study among patients, their support persons and treating physicians at a tertiary care centre

IntroductionAs healthcare is shifting from a paternalistic to a patient-centred approach, medical decision making becomes more collaborative involving patients, their support persons (SPs) and physicians. Implementing shared decision-making (SDM) into...

Prediction of Utilization of Psychological Support During Vocational Rehabilitation

Comprehensive psychological support is a distinctive feature of vocational retraining centers, pivotal in stabilizing the health of the rehabilitants, reducing dropout rates and facilitating return to work. For optimal resource planning within the vocational retraining centers, and thereby ensuring the best possible psychological support during vocational rehabilitation, it is crucial to be able to estimate the number of appointments of the rehabilitants in advance. Even though routine data is available, predictions using regression analysis have not been undertaken previously. To predict the number of appointments in the psychological service, a hierarchical linear regression analysis with 25 potential predictors was conducted using retrospective routine data from 404 rehabilitants. In specifying the regression model, data-driven methods and theory were combined. The Andersen healthcare utilization model served as the theoretical background. The final regression model accounted for 39.5% of the variance in the utilization of the psychological service. Ten variables predicted a higher number of appointments: female gender, boarding status, low resilience, desire for psychological support, past psychological treatment, intake of psychotropic drugs, absence of two specific professional fields, Federal Employment Agency/Jobcenter as the paying institution, and non-participation in a specific preparatory course. The routine data available at the beginning of vocational rehabilitation in a vocational retraining center is generally suitable to predict the number of appointments in the psychological service. As such, it can be utilized for resource planning. Various factors prove to be informative, suggesting that a focus on single factors (e. g., the presence of an ICD-10 F-diagnosis) seems disadvantageous. Limitations of the regression-analytic approach are highlighted.

ScDRMAE: integrating masked autoencoder with residual attention networks to leverage omics feature dependencies for accurate cell clustering.

Cell clustering is foundational for analyzing the heterogeneity of biological tissues using single-cell sequencing data. With the maturation of single-cell multi-omics sequencing technologies, we can integrate multiple omics data to perform cell clustering, thereby overcoming the limitations of insufficient information from single omics data. Existing methods for cell clustering often only consider the differences in data patterns during the analysis of multi-omics data, but the dependencies between omics features of different cell types also significantly influence cell clustering. Moreover, the high dropout rates in scRNA-seq and scATAC-seq data can impact the performance of cell clustering. We propose a cell clustering model based on a masked autoencoder, scDRMAE. Utilizing a masking mechanism, scDRMAE effectively learns the relationships between different features and imputes false zeros caused by dropout events. To differentiate the importance of various omics data in cell clustering, we dynamically adjust the weights of different omics data through an attention mechanism. Finally, we use the K-means algorithm for cluster analysis of the fused multi-omics data. On commonly used sets of 15 multi-omics datasets, our method demonstrates superior cell clustering performance on multiple metrics compared to other computational methods. In addition, when datasets exhibit varying degrees of dropout noise, our method shows better performance and stronger stability on multiple metrics compared to other methods. Moreover, by analyzing the cell clusters classified by scDRMAE, we identified several biologically significant biomarkers that have been validated, further confirming the effectiveness of scDRMAE in cell clustering from a biological perspective.