Effective Training Research Articles

Efficacy of electrical stimulation of the zygomaticus muscle in complete facial paralysis: evidence from facial grading and automated image analysis

Surface Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a well-studied intervention for multiple muscular disorders. However, it is still controversially discussed as a complementary therapy for complete facial paralysis. The aim of this intervention is to test a daily home-based ES concept as a pilot study regarding safety, feasibility, and effects on facial functionality and symmetry. In a prospective single-centre pilot study, 10 patients (median 61 years, denervation 130 d) with complete peripheral facial paralysis performed home-based FES of the affected lateral mouth region Stimulation parameters, facial paralysis scores and standardised photographs were assessed in monthly follow-ups. No serious adverse events appeared. Stimulation parameters could be constantly increased indicating effective muscle training while subjectively perceived functionality of the face improved. Thus, smile angle of the paralysed side improved as well. FES is a safe therapy model for application in facial nerve paralysis patients. A feasible stimulation protocol could be applied, which improved the functionality and symmetry of the stimulated facial region. A future controlled, randomised and double-blind follow-up study is needed to investigate these initial results in a further evolved replicable setting.

Nurse training to enhance adherence counselling for HIV-tuberculosis coinfection in South Africa: Integrative review

Background: South Africa has seen strides in reducing HIV and tuberculosis (TB); however, adherence counselling for people living with HIV (PLHIV) coinfected with TB remains a challenge, particularly in specific sub-districts like Cape Town. Understanding the attributes of existing training programmes is crucial.Objectives: This study explored attributes of training programme development for nurses and other health professionals to enhance adherence counselling for PLHIV coinfected with TB in Cape Town.Method: An integrative literature review was conducted in five steps following PRISMA guidelines. Electronic searches encompassed multiple databases: COCHRANE, PsycINFO, PUBMED, ENMBASE, Science Direct, SCOPUS, SocINDEX, Academic Search Complete, Eric, SABINET, Health Resources and World Health Organization Global Health Library Regional Indexes. Inclusion criteria encompassed English language, peer-reviewed full-text studies on training programme development, qualitative and quantitative, published between January 2012 and May 2021. Exclusion criteria included non-English articles, conference proceedings and irrelevant studies. Thematic data analysis synthesised findings.Results: Three main themes emerged: participant identification, key programme content and programme implementation process, crucial for effective training programme development.Conclusion: Identifying participants, defining programme content and outlining implementation processes are pivotal in enhancing nurses’ adherence counselling skills. This approach could stabilise patient treatment adherence, potentially reducing treatment default, loss to follow-up and mortality rates.Contribution: These findings lay the groundwork for developing effective training programmes aimed at improving adherence counselling among nurses.

A Preliminary Analysis of Factors Influencing Paragraph Dictation

This study begins with a brief analysis of the impact of six barriers (vocabulary, grammatical knowledge, phonetic comprehension ability, cultural background knowledge, and short-term memory capacity) on the paragraph dictation, component of the Test for English Majors Band 4 (TEM4). The study proposes corresponding strategies to enhance dictation skills, aiming to assist teachers and students in adopting effective training methods, and to boost learning interest and confidence.

Exploring the dynamics of ultrasound training in medical education: current trends, debates, and approaches to didactics and hands-on learning.

Medical education, especially in ultrasound training, is undergoing significant changes. This study examines practical issues in ultrasound medical education, emphasizing state-of-the-art teaching methods, their effectiveness, and implementation challenges. The study analyzed advancements in ultrasound education, including randomized controlled trials comparing peer-to-peer teaching with traditional faculty-led instruction. It evaluated the effectiveness of collaborative small-group training and group size impact in simulation-based training. The study also assessed practical training components outlined in the WFUMB Position Paper Part II. Findings indicate that peer-to-peer and collaborative small-group training are effective and cost-efficient. Group size did not significantly affect training outcomes. Key practical training elements, including early hands-on sessions and exposure to various equipment, substantially improved learning outcomes. Simulation tools like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and phantoms were crucial for teaching standardized procedures and rare pathologies. Challenges identified include developing robust image acquisition skills, scarcity of qualified student tutors, and the need for reliable ultrasound skill assessment methods. Integrating peer-to-peer teaching and advanced simulation technologies significantly advances ultrasound medical education. These methods enhance cognitive and psychomotor skills but also present challenges such as ensuring quality education and developing effective assessment methods. Future research should compare different simulation tools and establish objective ultrasound proficiency assessment criteria. Continual method evaluation and improvement are essential for effective and standardized ultrasound training, ultimately enhancing patient care and clinical outcomes.

OGC SO23 - Audit on Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) in Oesophago-gastric Resections for Cancers

Abstract Background Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, have been designed to guide clinicians in managing patients post-operatively, reducing hospital stay, complications and readmissions. Our trust’s ERAS protocol includes guidance on oral intake initiation, drain, catheter and epidural removal, investigation frequency, medications required on discharge and early mobilization. However, implementation of ERAS protocols in complex oncological surgery can be challenging, due to the multiple factors included and increasing complexity. We aimed to assess the compliance of ERAS implementation in a high volume resectional oesophago-gastric unit, and subsequent impact on morbidity. Method A retrospective review of all patients who underwent oesophago-gastric resections during March-April 2024 was performed. Patients were included if they completed an oesophagectomy, or subtotal/total gastrectomy resection for cancer. Electronic records and medical notes were reviewed and compared to all aspects of the trust’s ERAS protocol. The adherence percentage to the protocol was calculated. Results 20 patients underwent surgery. 85% started their oral diet on time per ERAS protocol. Adherence to ERAS was lowest for epidural (52.6%, 95% within 24-hours of target), catheter (55%, 90% within 24-hours of target), apical (55.6%, 100% within 24-hours of target), basal (53.8%, 85.7% within 24-hours of target), and abdominal drain removals (81.8%, 90.9% within 24-hours of target). All patients mobilized within four days post-op, with 65% achieving daily mobilization. VTE prophylaxis was prescribed for all, and discharge medication adherence ranged from 86.7% to 100%. The mean hospital stay was 9 days post-oesophagectomy, with a 3.2% emergency department return rate. Conclusion Implementation of an ERAS protocol is feasible in complex oesophago-gastric cancer surgery. Effective involvement and training of allied health, specialist pain services and the whole surgical team can decrease morbidity and length of stay in oesophagectomy, while avoiding excess emergency department presentations. Ongoing training and feedback of allied health, pain services, and surgical team at all levels is important to ensure adequate compliance.

Tujuan dan Rancangan Program Diklat Badan Pengembangan Sumber Daya Manusia Provinsi Kalimantan Tengah

This article aims to provide an in-depth insight into appropriate training objectives, so as to improve the effectiveness of education and training programs and achieve the desired results. In the context of organizational strategy and training program design, training objectives play an important role. Clear and purposeful training objectives can help improve the effectiveness of training programs, motivate trainees, and provide indicators of success that can be evaluated. This study used a qualitative descriptive approach. The data collection methods used were observation, interview, and documentation. The results showed that clear and well-defined training objectives are essential in designing an effective training program. The research also emphasizes the importance of training objectives in the context of organizational strategy, where appropriate training objectives can help the organization achieve its goals and respond to existing needs. This article contributes to the understanding of the importance of training objectives in improving the effectiveness of education and training programs. The results of this study can serve as a basis for organizations, especially the Central Kalimantan Province Human Resources Development Agency, in designing more effective training programs and ensuring the achievement of organizational goals through human resource development.

KEY ASPECTS THAT MAKE DECISION-MAKING TRAINING IN THE FIELD OF CRISIS MANAGEMENT TAILORED TO THE IDENTIFIED GAPS AND NEEDS

The fundamental objective of crisis management exercises is to provide participants with therequisite knowledge and skills to enable optimal responses in crisis situations. One particularlyefficacious and engaging form of exercise is decision-making training. The utilisation of virtualreality-based decision-making training, incorporating multimedia and “acting,” represents aneffective methodology for the assessment of procedures that involve multiple entities. The objectiveof this study is to present a methodology for adapting decision-making training to address theexisting gaps, needs, and decision-making issues of the entity for which the exercise is organized,thereby facilitating more effective and optimal execution. Furthermore, the paper presents datasources utilized by the authors in the organization of decision-making training. The intendedaudience for the publication is any individual, entity, and/or institution that engages in crisismanagement on a daily basis, including strategic planners, decision makers and practitioners.Consequently, the paper offers practical recommendations for the organization of an effective anddedicated decision-making training in the field of crisis management, based on a synthesis of theliterature and the authors’ experience.

Study of Physiological Adaptations in Vertical Kilometer Runners: Focus on Cardiorespiratory and Local Muscle Demands

Background: Research into key performance factors in trail running, particularly in vertical kilometer (VK) races, is crucial for effective training and periodization. However, recent studies on metabolic and cardiorespiratory responses during VK races, especially using field tests, are limited. Objectives: Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the metabolic and cardiorespiratory responses during a VK field test, identifying differences based on sex and performance level, as well as key performance factors and their deterioration due to fatigue. Fifteen trained trail runners (ten males and five females, 19 to 38 years old) perform a VK race. Methods: The global physiological response is evaluated using the portable gas analyzer Cosmed K5 and the local response using near-infrared spectroscopy technology. Results: In gender comparisons, the ANCOVA test shows significant differences (p < 0.05) in the ventilation, tidal volume, expiratory time-to-inspiratory time ratio, inspiratory flow rate, end-tidal CO2 partial pressure, heart rate, oxygen pulse, and total hemoglobin. Additionally, the performance comparison reveals significant differences in the variables’ velocity, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, ventilation, dead space-to-tidal volume ratio, total time of the breathing cycle, expiratory time-to-inspiratory time ratio, inspiratory duty cycle, expiratory fractions of CO2, quadriceps saturation index, and VE/VCO2 ratio. Finally, the correlation analysis shows oxygen consumption (r = −0.80 mean; r = −0.72 peak), carbon dioxide production (r = −0.91 mean; r = −0.75 peak), expiratory time-to-inspiratory time ratio (r = 0.68 peak), ventilation (r = −0.58 mean), and quadriceps saturation index (r = 0.54 mean; r = −0.76 coefficient of variation) as the key performance factors in the VK race. Conclusions: Overall, the physiological analysis indicates the importance of local muscular adaptations and respiratory system capacity in this type of short-duration race.

Evaluating Teachers’ Performances: Travails of School Heads in the New Normal

This study explored the lived experiences, challenges encountered, coping mechanisms and insights of public elementary school heads on evaluating teachers in schools using the RPMS-IPCRF in the new normal. The participants were coming from DepEd Region XI, Division of Davao City, specifically in the schools of Paquibato District. There were eight (8) school heads who participated in the study, and were purposely selected. This study made use of a phenomenological approach to extract the ideas from the participants. The virtual in- depth interview was employed to gather significant information with regard to their respective lived experiences. Using the thematic analysis, the following themes emerged pertaining to their lived experiences: evaluation for performance improvement, evaluation as a difficult task, teachers providing outstanding educational services, and hurdling evaluation challenges. Further, there were also three (3) subthemes that emerged on the challenges experienced by the participants. These are the lack of RPMS-IPCRF orientations, unattainable key results areas, and rater-ratee relationship issues. The coping mechanisms of participants on the challenges they experienced were: RPMS-IPCRF re-orientations, team building for strengthening relationships, and regular coaching and monitoring. The educational management insights drawn from the participants were the importance of LAC sessions in schools and the value of rater-ratee collaborations. Thus, it is crucial to provide effective evaluation strategy training to school heads with additional support and continual professional development endeavors to boost their effectiveness and foster desirable management and evaluation skills amidst the pandemic.

Psychological Flexibility and Compassion Training for Equality in Organizations: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Diversity and Inclusion Intervention

Abstract Objectives Discrimination and prejudice are prevalent in workplaces worldwide, but there are few empirically validated interventions for combating racial bias in organizational settings. This study aims to evaluate an intervention consisting of experiential exercises derived from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT). The objective is to address psychological processes influential in promoting inclusive and equal workplaces in relation to race/ethnicity. Method A sample of 123 employees was randomized to an intervention or a comparison condition. The intervention involved exercises designed to increase compassion and empathic perspective-taking, decrease psychological inflexibility related to prejudiced thoughts and racial attitudes, and enhance participants’ commitment to organizational values. Participants in the intervention group were compared to those participating in traditional diversity and inclusion lectures, which served as the comparison condition. Results The study found that participants in the flexibility and compassion condition showed a significant increase in self-reported compassion. The results also showed a significant decrease in the participants’ inflexibility in relation to prejudiced and stigmatizing thoughts. However, no significant differences between the conditions were found regarding the endorsement of racist attitudes or empathic perspective-taking. Conclusions This study adds to the important but limited literature on effective diversity training in organizations. It suggests that methods derived from ACT and CFT may improve workplace diversity and inclusion interventions by increasing compassion and reducing the impact of prejudiced and stigmatizing thoughts on behavior. Preregistration The study was not preregistered.

The Role of Cognitive Bias in Principal Decision Making: A Narrative Analysis of the Literature

This study aims to critically examine the role of cognitive biases in principal decision-making processes by synthesizing and analysing existing literature. It seeks to identify key cognitive biases affecting principal decisions, their impact on organizational outcomes, and potential mitigation strategies. A comprehensive narrative analysis of the literature was conducted. Relevant peer-reviewed articles, books, and book chapters published between 1970 and 2023 were systematically identified and reviewed using major academic databases such as Web of Science, JSTOR, and Google Scholar. The analysis revealed that cognitive biases, particularly confirmation bias, overconfidence, anchoring, and availability bias, significantly influence principal decision-making. These biases can lead to suboptimal decisions, affecting strategic planning, risk assessment, and overall organizational performance. The study also identified several debiasing techniques, including awareness training and structured decision-making frameworks, which show promise in mitigating the impact of cognitive biases. This study provides a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of research on cognitive biases in principal decision-making, offering a holistic view of the field’s current state. It uniquely combines insights from cognitive psychology, behavioural economics, and management science to provide a multidisciplinary perspective on the topic. The study contributes to both theory and practice by offering a structured understanding of how cognitive biases influence principal decision-making. It provides valuable insights for principals and organizations to improve their decision-making processes and highlights areas for future research in this critical field. The findings can inform the development of more effective principal training programs and decision support systems.

Leadership Training for Teachers and Students’ Classroom Performance in China

This study investigates the impact of leadership training on teachers' classroom performance and student achievement in the context of Chinese schools. The research aims to address the gap in understanding the specific effects of leadership training on teaching practices and classroom dynamics in China. Drawing upon Transformational Leadership Theory and Social Cognitive Theory, the study explores how leadership training can inspire and motivate teachers, enhance instructional quality, and foster student success. The research indicates that while educational reforms in China have emphasized the professional development of teachers, including leadership training, there is limited empirical evidence on the effectiveness of such programs. The study finds that transformational leadership practices are increasingly prevalent, with positive effects on school culture and teacher motivation. However, challenges persist, such as the gap between theoretical training and practical application, which can hinder the effective implementation of leadership training programs. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive professional development programs that align with teachers' experiences and involve active learning. It also underscores the need for targeted and practical leadership training that directly addresses classroom challenges and enhances teachers' self-efficacy. By examining the impact of leadership training on teaching practices and student performance in Shaanxi province, China, the research provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers. The findings suggest that effective leadership training can significantly contribute to the enhancement of educational quality and student achievement in China.

A comprehensive instrument for evaluating advanced volleyball techniques in sport science students: design, reliability, and validity

Background: The enhancement of sports performance, particularly in volleyball, relies on the use of valid and well-developed measurement tests. Numerous studies have thus developed tests tailored to different skill levels to accurately assess athletes' abilities. However, the existing instruments for measuring volleyball techniques have yet to fully address the needs of advanced levels, especially in assessing technical skills among sports science students at the advanced stage. Purpose: This study aims to develop a comprehensive volleyball skill assessment instrument for advanced-level sports students, focusing on four key techniques: serving, underhand passing, overhand passing, and spiking. The instrument underwent rigorous testing to ensure its validity and reliability, with particular attention to construct validity across different phases and indicators. Methods: The study used a development research design based on the Plomp model, involving 51 male students from the Advanced Volleyball Course at Universitas Negeri Padang. Five expert judges assessed the instrument's feasibility before implementation. The research process included preliminary research, prototyping, and assessment phases. Expert opinions were collected using a Likert scale questionnaire via the Delphi technique. Validity and reliability were analyzed using SPSS version 25, focusing on internal and external validity coefficients and Cronbach's Alpha. Results: The instrument showed high reliability, with Cronbach's Alpha values consistently above 0.87. Construct validity tests confirmed the assessment's validity, with scores indicating a strong correlation between evaluated indicators and overall skill proficiency. Conclusion: The developed instrument is a reliable and valid tool for assessing advanced volleyball skills, offering a standardized method for educators and coaches to evaluate and enhance sports science students' performance. The study highlights the importance of phase-by-phase analysis in skill assessment for more effective volleyball training programs.

THEORETICAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE IN DISTANCE LEARNING: AN ANALYSIS OF TEACHING RESOURCES IN THE PEDAGOGY COURSE

This study analyzes the challenges and demands of students in the Pedagogy Distance Education Course at UFPR in relation to theoretical and technological knowledge. The research, of a qualitative and exploratory-descriptive nature, was conducted based on the netnographic methodology, examining the interaction of students with analog and digital teaching resources. Responses were collected from 41 students, through questionnaires applied in the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The results indicate that, although analog resources are still widely used and valued by students, digital technologies have become increasingly present and essential in the educational process. Among the main digital resources highlighted are the use of notebooks, cell phones, videoconferencing platforms, and digital materials. The study highlights the difficulties faced by students in managing these tools, especially in the context of the pandemic, which accelerated the transition to digital education. It is concluded that the integration between analog and digital resources is fundamental to meet the contemporary demands of Distance Education, requiring pedagogical planning that promotes inclusion and technological accessibility for all students, in order to enhance learning and promote effective teacher training.

ПРИНЦИПИ НАВЧАННЯ ТА ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ЇХ РЕАЛІЗАЦІЇ У ПРОЦЕСІ ПІДГОТОВКИ МАЙБУТНІХ УЧИТЕЛІВ БІОЛОГІЇ ДО ОРГАНІЗАЦІЇ ДОСЛІДНИЦЬКОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ УЧНІВ

The article is devoted to the topical issue of training future biology teachers to organize students' research activities in the context of the transition to the New Ukrainian School. The article analyzes modern teaching principles that ensure effective training of future biology teachers to organize research activities in biology teaching. The features of the implementation of these principles in the educational process and their influence on the formation of future teachers' competencies necessary to create conditions for successful research work of students are considered. The purpose of the article is to systematize and analyze modern teaching principles that are the basis for preparing future teachers to organize students' research activities in biology; to study the peculiarities of implementing teaching principles in the training of future biology teachers. The following methods were used in the study: theoretical - included a detailed study of scientific literature and determination of the role of research in the general context of biological education, justification of the need to define the principles of training future teachers to organize research activities; empirical - involved direct observation of the educational process and analysis of the results of research work of students, which allowed to assess the real state of affairs in higher education institutions. The study determined that in order to effectively prepare future teachers to organize students' research activities, an integrated approach should be applied based on the following didactic principles: the principle of activity-based approach, the principle of personality-oriented approach, the principle of science, the principle of systematicity and consistency, the principle of practical orientation, the principle of creativity, the principle of cooperation, the principle of reflection, the principle of interactivity, the principle of integrative learning.

Student experiences of cultural competence encounters during MPharm placements and foundation year training

Abstract Introduction Cultural competence is the ability of a healthcare professional to work effectively with clients from different backgrounds. With 18.3% of the UK population identifying with non-white1, pharmacists need to be culturally competent as they have a patient-facing role. Having a multicultural society would require culturally competent pharmacists to effectively deliver healthcare services to patients of different cultures. Exploring pharmacy students' experiences of CC encounters during their MPharm placements and foundation year training is crucial as it helps identify the challenges and barriers they may face when providing healthcare to diverse populations. Understanding these experiences can inform the development of effective training programs to enhance cultural competence among future pharmacists and highlight the impact of cultural factors on patient care and outcomes. Ultimately, this exploration contributes to the overall goal of improving healthcare delivery and promoting patient-centred, culturally sensitive pharmacy practice. Aim This study aimed to explore experiences of student regarding cultural competence encounters during placements and training. Methods A qualitative study was conducted between Oct – Dec 2023. All currently enrolled students in Parts 3, 4 and the foundation year were eligible to participate. Convenience sampling was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted online using a pilot-tested script. Interviews were audio and video recorded and held online through a Microsoft Teams account, where an automatic electronic transcript was generated. Initial codes were generated from each transcript, to create themes and sub-themes. The researcher scrutinised the themes before defining and naming them. Ethical clearance was obtained. Results A total of 15 students (8 males and 7 females) participated in the study. Four participants were from year 3, five were from year 4, and six were from the foundation year. Six participants were from Asian backgrounds, four were Black, and three were White. All students had a placement in hospital, while 14 had a placement in community pharmacy in addition to hospital, and 8 had a placement in a GP surgery in addition to the hospital and community pharmacy. Key themes identified were 1) Impact of culture on patient health including language barriers and ethnic diversity, 2) Influence of personal culture on practice during placements and training such as using patient’s language to communicate, personal cultural awareness, and the influence of religious teachings, 3) Recommendations for improving cultural competence training in MPharm programme such as having more case studies. Conclusion This study provides a unique exploration into the experiences of pharmacy students and shows the importance of immersing in diverse cultural groups during placements and foundation training. There is a need to enhance pharmacy students’ training through curricular reforms that build on theoretical knowledge to instil confidence during placements and training. This approach will equip future pharmacists to navigate complex cultural dynamics, to meet the demands of an inclusive healthcare system. Ultimately this research extends beyond the current reforms to the MPharm curriculum, and advocates for an equitable and inclusive healthcare system to reduce health disparities. The predominance of participants from Asian backgrounds may limit the generalisability of the findings. Reference 1. Office for National Statistics. Measuring equality: A guide for the collection and classification of ethnic group, national identity and religion data in the UK. Office for National Statistics 2021 https://www.ons.gov.uk/methodology/classificationsandstandards/measuringequality/ethnicgroupnationalidentityandreligion. Accessed 20 Dec 2023.

Higher education apprenticeship. Analyzing the impact and essential conditions of workplace resources on apprentices’ career satisfaction

This research explores the necessity and the effect of job resources for undergraduates’ career satisfaction during work experience in an apprenticeship program. Additionally, we examine the extent to which a supportive environment enhances apprentice career satisfaction by providing access to valuable learning experiences. We propose PLS equation modelling with a sample of 81 students who completed a dual apprenticeship degree in Business Administration and Management at Spanish University. The study finds that all three workplace job resources are necessary for career satisfaction among apprentices. Learning opportunities and social relations have significant effects, while job control contributes only marginally. It highlights that learning opportunities enhance social relations, emphasizing the importance of feedback. The study extends job resource research to university level apprenticeships, showing that without these resources, apprentices lack career satisfaction. It highlights that learning opportunities are crucial for satisfaction through social relations and offers guidance for designing effective workplace training programs.

The effects of government policy on performance planning for implementation of performance contracting in the government ministries in Kenya

The study sought to analyse the effects of government policy on performance planning for the implementation of performance contracting in government ministries in Kenya. A mixed-method type of design was adopted. Stratified sampling was used to sample four government ministries. In sampling staff to be interviewed, top and middle-level management totalling 831 were identified. Thirty per cent of the 831 (249 staff members) were considered to be representative enough for the study. The study adopted descriptive and inferential statistics. The study used ANOVA, regression analysis, and correlation to analyse the relationship between variables. The study finding observed that there was a strong correlation coefficient of 0.866 at p-value of 0.035 between government policy and performance planning, which implied that employees' performance planning is significant in the implementation of performance contracting; a unit standard deviation increase in effective training and development was likely to increase the standard deviation of performance monitoring by 0.096 on implementation of performance contracting; a unit standard deviation increase in top management commitment was likely to increase the standard deviation of performance reporting on performance implementation by 0.337. The study concludes that government policies have an effect on performance contracting in government ministries in Kenya. Further, the conclusion was that government policy has minimally addressed issues of training and development. Therefore, it is recommended that transfer of training be included in the next reviews of the government policy and specifically addressed in the workplace that often affect the impact of training and development.

Absolute Train Localization Based on the Identification of Surrounding Structures Using 1D LiDAR Sensor

ABSTRACTTrain localization is an essential technology for effective train control. Currently, train localization primarily relies on using track circuits and balises, which are placed along the track to provide precise location information. However, balises have to be placed at intervals of a few kilometers. This increases maintenance costs and makes them vulnerable to being damaged by ice blocks falling from moving trains. Therefore, in this study, we propose a method for absolute train localization based on structure detection and identification using a 1D light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor to reduce the number of balises. Structure identification is achieved using scan matching. In the experiments using a car, the proposed method achieved an identification success rate of over 90%. We also considered the effect of raindrops by filtering the measurement data. By testing and analyzing the identification results, we successfully reduced all cases of misidentification.

Assessing the Use of Virtual Pointers in Laparoscopic Surgery Training Activities.

Laparoscopic surgery has advanced significantly; however, effective communication within the surgical team remains challenging, particularly in training scenarios where misinterpretation of instructions can lead to errors. Virtual pointers, indicating the instructor's gaze through eye-tracking devices and overlaying it onto the screen using augmented reality (AR), can enhance understanding and reduce errors. In a study involving 10 participants divided into experts and novices in laparoscopic surgery, various pointers (differing in shape, size and colour) were analysed in an AR environment using the HoloLens2 device. The aim was to assess the acceptance of these pointers by both groups, understand how their characteristics affect perception, and evaluate the AR device's usefulness. Initial results showed an 80% acceptance rate. After analysing the pointers, this decreased to 60%, as some experts changed their opinion from positive to neutral. The study revealed that the characteristics of the pointers significantly affect their perception, with large, thick-rimmed pointers being preferred. Orange was the best-performing colour. The device used also influenced perception, as experts who changed their perception criticised certain aspects of the head-mounted display. The study highlights the potential of virtual pointers to improve communication in laparoscopic training, particularly when their size, shape, and colour are optimised. Further research with a larger sample size is needed to confirm these results and explore the HoloLens2's influence on users' perceptions. These insights could guide the development of more effective training tools for minimally invasive surgery.