Evaluation Process Research Articles

Reducing stigma and improving access to care for people with mental health conditions in the community: protocol for a multi-site feasibility intervention study (Indigo-Local)

Abstract Background Stigma and discrimination towards people with mental health conditions by their communities are common worldwide. This can result in a range of negative outcomes for affected persons, including poor access to health care. However, evidence is still patchy from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) on affordable, community-based interventions to reduce mental health-related stigma and to improve access to mental health care. Methods This study aims to conduct a feasibility (proof-of-principle) pilot study that involves developing, implementing and evaluating a community-based, multi-component, awareness-raising intervention (titled Indigo-Local), designed to reduce stigma and discrimination and to increase referrals of people with mental health conditions for assessment and treatment. It is being piloted in seven sites in five LMICs—China, Ethiopia, India, Nepal and Tunisia—and includes several key components: a stakeholder group workshop; a stepped training programme (using a ‘Training of Trainers’ approach) of community health workers (or similar cadres of workers) and service users that includes repeated supervision and booster sessions; community engagement activities; and a media campaign. Social contact and service user involvement are instrumental to all components. The intervention is being evaluated through a mixed-methods pre-post study design that involves quantitative assessment of stigma outcomes measuring knowledge, attitudes and (discriminatory) behaviour; quantitative evaluation of mental health service utilization rates (optional, where feasible in sites); qualitative exploration of the potential effectiveness and impact of the Indigo-Local intervention; a process evaluation; implementation evaluation; and an evaluation of implementation costs. Discussion The output of this study will be a contextually adapted, evidence-based intervention to reduce mental health-related stigma in local communities in five LMICs to achieve improved access to healthcare. We will have replicable models of how to involve people with lived experience as an integral part of the intervention and will produce knowledge of how intervention content and implementation strategies vary across settings. The intervention and its delivery will be refined to be feasible and ready for larger-scale implementation and evaluation. This study thereby has the potential to make an important contribution to the evidence base on what works to reduce mental health-related stigma and discrimination and improve access to health care.

High-precision digital rock construction and electrical property upscaling in tight sandstone

The lithology and rock physical properties of tight sandstone reservoirs become increasingly complex, resulting in a more challenging reservoir evaluation process. Conventional rock physics experiments are too restrictive to adequately investigate formation properties. The emerging digital rock physics (DRP) technology in recent years effectively overcomes these constraints. Nevertheless, the current DRP faces two major challenges: the integration of multiple-resolution images and the upscaling of rock physics properties (electricity). In this paper, we propose an innovative method for assigning electrical characteristics to voxel units, enabling the integration of multi-resolution images, as well as a novel approach for establishing a new saturation model to achieve electrical property upscaling. Initially, core samples are selected and drilled based on logging data and lithology analysis, followed by multi-resolution scanning experiments, including X-ray CT, QEMSCAN, and MAPS. After that, mineral components are segmented, and multi-component digital rocks are constructed. Considering mineral voxel as the analytical units, pore characteristics within each mineral, which are extracted from MAPS, are used to generate 3-D pores by QSGS method. These generated 3-D pores are then merged with their respective mineral voxel. Subsequently, the electrical properties of the merged models are simulated and assigned to multi-component digital rock. This process enables the integration of multi-resolution images, leading to the construction of high-precision digital rocks. Additionally, high-precision digital rock-based electrical modeling is conducted, and a new saturation model is then established by combining digital rock physics, experiment rock physics, and theoretical rock physics. Finally, the new saturation model is applied to calculate saturation, accomplishing electrical property upscaling. Application results show the new saturation model improves the accuracy of saturation evaluation, demonstrating the feasibility of the upscaling method for electrical properties.

Side-by-Side Economic Process Model for the Comparison and Evaluation of Magnetic Bead-Based Processes and Legacy Process for the Manufacturing of Monoclonal Antibodies

This study models two alternative downstream processes based on magnetic separation with the objective of understanding the economic feasibility of these processes compared to the traditional mAb process. The key focus lies in the economic understanding of the cell harvest and capture steps in the models. Here, the models revealed that integrating cell removal and product capture in a single operation is the main factor driving the unified productivity between USP and the magnetic bead-based processes. This results in significant economic benefits, such as savings in both the cost of goods per gram of mAb and fixed costs, as well as increasing annual facility output. The predicted savings potential approaches 38% for COGs, 17% for capital investment, and 40% for annual facility output. For mammalian cell-based manufacturing, the magnetic separation-based DSP provides a highly valuable option due to its integration of several individual unit operations compared to the traditional process both in reducing process time and cost and accommodating higher demands.

Key challenges in developing a gene therapy for Usher syndrome: machine-assisted scoping review.

Despite compelling empirical evidence demonstrating its efficacy, gene therapies for usher syndrome (USH) are not yet available for the patient's usage. This scoping review assessed the current scenario and analysed the challenges in implementing gene therapies for USH. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar through an artificial intelligence (AI) tool, MaiA, focusing on relevant publications from the last 10 years. We followed the methodological guidance of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. Of 517 records, 51 reports were considered for final analysis. It identified and categorized challenges across four key areas: preclinical, clinical, economic, and regulatory. Of all, many reports (30) highlighted the preclinical challenges where the USH gene development process encountered roadblocks. Specifically, preclinical challenges included the lack of suitable in-vivo models and effective delivery methods. Clinical challenges focused on establishing clear endpoints and long-term safety and efficacy. Economic challenges addressed diagnostic issues and manufacturing hurdles, while regulatory challenges focused on expedited evaluation processes and guidance for clinical development. Our analysis uncovered key barriers to clinical translation of USH gene therapy and strategies to address them. Researchers are employing innovative approaches, including novel delivery methods such as minigenes and nanoparticles, inventive clinical trial designs, cohesive regulatory frameworks, strategic market assessments, and collaborative research initiatives. These efforts hold promise for impactful disease-cure and modifying interventions ultimately enhancing the quality of life for USH patients.

Comprehensive Approach to Speech and Language Assessment in Recurrent Meningioma: A Case Study

Meningioma is a tumor that arises from the meninges - the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It compresses the adjacent brain tissues, nerves and vessels, leading to changes in vision, loss of smell, headaches, hearing loss or ringing in the ears, memory loss, seizure and most importantly communication difficulty. It affects mainly the elderly above the age of 60, at a female: male ratio of 3:2. Recurrence and progression are well known and are frequent characteristics of meningiomas. The present study aimed to perform a comprehensive approach to speech and language assessment in a case with recurrent meningioma. A case reported following postsurgical recurrent meningioma in the left parietal temporal area, exhibiting symptoms of language, speech and swallowing difficulty associated with a weakness in the left upper and lower limb. The evaluation process from a speech and language perspective involved perceptual and instrumental assessment of cognition, communication and swallowing using tests and tools. The case was found to have comorbid disorders of nonfluent aphasia associated with neuro cognitive deficit, mild dysphagia, mild dementia and dysarthria of speech. Though the presence of language and speech disorders in case of recurrent meningioma is not common, the severity of the disorder may lead to severe communication deficit. Assessing and interpreting an individual's communication ability involves the integration of a variety of information collected in the evaluation process. Keywords: Recurrent meningioma, dysphagia, aphasia, dysarthria

The Concept of Innate Sexual Priors in the Brain: A Theory on Why We Are Attracted to What We Are Attracted to

AbstractSexuality is an integral part of human nature, yet we know little about its origins and underlying mechanisms. Understanding how the brain processes sexual stimuli is crucial for advancing our knowledge of the origins of sexuality and its variations. Only if a stimulus was internally evaluated as ‘attractive’ the information can progress to evoke sexual desire or arousal. Importantly, such evaluation processes require an internal reference against which external information is compared. These processes, however, remain largely unexplored, and hence we still do not understand why we are attracted to what we are attracted to. By synthesizing the existing literature and integrating existing models, this narrative review proposes a novel neuroscientific framework on sexuality, addressing key theoretical gaps. As a result, the concept of sexual priors in the brain is introduced. Within this framework, sexual priors refer to mental ‘images’ representing a collection of internally stored information of what we regard as sexually attractive. Such mental representations act as reference in early internal evaluation processes of sexual stimuli. It is suggested that sexual priors are (partly) innate and sex-specific, contributing to heterosexuality. Evolutionary aspects that could explain the development of these priors are discussed. Furthermore, the framework provides possible explanations for variations in sexual orientation through potential cross-sex shifts in sexual prior content. The refinement of sexual prior content over time may explain the diversity of sexual interests and attraction patterns among humans. Moreover, the concept can be applied to a variety of psychiatric conditions related to atypical and maladaptive sexual behaviors. A proposition is put forward regarding brain areas and networks that may be involved in the formation of sexual priors, serving as potential targets for future research. In summary, by integrating sexual priors into models of sexual stimuli processing, this article fills theoretical gaps while inspiring further research. This work aims to enhance understanding of sexuality, which ultimately could increase social awareness, foster tolerance, and promote psychological well-being.

Total sacrectomy rehabilitation: Implementation of the international classification of functioning, disability, and health model – A case report

This study aims to outline an evaluative diagnostic process and intervention for a patient who underwent total sacrectomy based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model. A 70-year-old male with a history of an aggressive sacral chordoma experiencing intense pain, constipation, and polyuria without the sensation of bladder filling, underwent a total sacrectomy. Two evaluations at two-time points were conducted 12 weeks apart. The patient then underwent an individualized rehabilitation program tailored to address impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. The care plan was adjusted based on the patient’s health status and relevant personal and environmental factors. The Barthel Scale scores improved from 60 to 80. Motor scores on the American Spinal Injury Association scale increased from 62 to 66, while sensory scores for light touch improved from 86 to 96. However, pain scores remained stable at 86. Functional reach tests showed notable enhancements, with anterior reach increasing from 16.4 cm to 23.7 cm and lateral reach from 9.6 cm to 15.2 cm. The patient also showed progress in mobility, increasing the number of steps taken from 0 to 10. This case report highlights the positive therapeutic outcomes achieved, illustrating improvements in functional activities and patient independence, thereby underscoring the effectiveness of the ICF model in managing patients undergoing total sacrectomy.

Realist assessment of fidelity during the implementation of the PARTNERS collaborative care intervention for people with diagnoses of severe mental illness within a cluster randomised controlled trial

Many with severe mental illnesses are underserved by disjointed service provision. PARTNERS aims to address this via collaborative care with recovery-based coaching. PARTNERS was evaluated in a randomised controlled trial. Understanding how intervention delivery compared to the model, why this was, and under what circumstances, aids interpretation of trial results and optimisation of future implementation. This paper reports the results of a Realist assessment of fidelity, exploring delivery compared to model and refining programme theory. Practitioners, service users, supervisors, primary care representatives, and researchers (n = 39) were interviewed. Additional data included session recordings, follow up interviews, practitioner reflective logs, supervision logs, contact data, service user surveys, and meeting minutes. A framework analysis with evaluative coding was used to assess the extent to which delivery matched the Realist initial programme theory, and how, why and under what circumstances this was the case. Retroductive analysis was used to refine the programme theory. Delivery was good, but varied by practitioner and over time. Delivery improved over time, as practitioner understanding of the intervention increased. Refinements to the programme theory include training leading to practitioners forming collaborative relationships with service users most of the time, but unidentified contextual factors causing variation in consistency. Whether training led to practitioners liaising across different bodies was dependant on the contextual factors of existing relationship skills and previous connections. System-level difficulties in providing consistent supervision made it difficult to assess the impact of this mechanism on delivery. Variation in delivering means caution should be applied when interpreting trial results. Implementation of practitioner-level change without implementing system-level change limits the ability to fully implement the model and to draw conclusions as to effectiveness. Current changes to NHS community mental health care may make this more achievable. Further research is needed to understand the role of supervision and optimal training. Trial registration: This is the realist process evaluation of the cluster randomised controlled trial ISRCTN95702682. REC approval: West Midlands–Edgbaston Research Committee 29/06/2017, ref: 14/WM/0052 (trial registration number ISRCTN95702682).

Process Evaluation of Subseasonal North Atlantic Oscillation Prediction in the ECMWF Ensemble Forecast System

AbstractThis study evaluates the prediction skill of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) pattern and its associated energy budget as simulated by the European Center for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts ensemble forecast system. By classifying NAO events into high‐ and low‐skill cases, we analyzed the stationarity of NAO patterns and the role of baroclinic energy conversion in NAO prediction. In both positive and negative NAO phases, high‐skill cases exhibited more stationary NAO patterns than low‐skill cases. The analysis of processes indicates that high‐skill NAO cases are due to stronger baroclinic maintenance of NAO, with its initial position at the climatological thermal trough, whereas low‐skill NAO cases result from forecast biases in wave propagation from the North Pacific. Specifically, biases in baroclinic energy conversion in the meridional direction from week 2 lead to weak advection of the eddy available potential energy (EAPE), resulting in lower prediction skill.

Understanding Impacts of Neighbourhood Micro-Renewal Through a Lens of Place Value: A Case Study of Wuhan, China

Neighbourhood micro-renewal (NMIR) plays a critical role in the renewal landscape of urban China. However, an oversight in post-occupancy evaluation (POE) impedes the comprehensive understanding of NMIR’s impact and post-implementation efficacy. This research addresses this gap by leveraging the lens of place value to examine NMIR’s outcomes. Using Wuhan, China, as a case study, 10 Delphi consultations and 28 interviews were conducted among five stakeholder groups: local government, planning professionals, academics, community workers, and residents. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation (FCE) were combined to identify and rank potential indicators. A total of 6 primary and 22 secondary indicators were identified. The indicators were derived from four key policy areas—health, society, economy, and environment—highlighting the relationship among NMIR initiatives, their contribution to place quality, and alignment with policy goals. AHP and FCE results reveal substantial enhancements in environmental quality, residential properties, and public infrastructure. Nevertheless, the analysis exposes varied satisfaction levels and divergences in the perceived relevance of indicators among the government, professionals, and the residents, particularly concerning social cohesion. These disparities underscore the layered impacts of NMIR. This research recommends integrating resident feedback with expert insights to enhance place quality in NMIR projects by balancing physical upgrades with social considerations. It also advocates for a continuous, adaptable post-occupancy evaluation system to monitor and support place value over time. This system should be flexible and context-specific, allowing NMIR initiatives to adapt to diverse urban settings globally, thus supporting long-term sustainability and thriving urban communities.

Evaluating the effectiveness of a novel training model in dental preclinical regenerative endodontic education.

Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) are tissue engineering-based treatments aimed at regenerating the pulp-dentin complex. However, these procedures are not widely practiced or well-known among dentists due to a lack of training. This study aims to develop a practical hands-on training model for REPs to enhance students' theoretical knowledge and practical skills. A cost-effective, easy-to-operate, and reusable training model for preclinical training of REPs was developed. A total of 125 undergraduates were divided into an experimental group (REPs model) and a control group (traditional teaching). The students' theoretical knowledge and operational skills were assessed through examinations and practical assessments. Student perceptions were assessed by questionnaires. The experimental group achieved higher scores in theoretical knowledge and operational skills compared to the control group (p < .001). The process evaluation of the experimental group demonstrated a high level of proficiency in executing root canal disinfection steps, with pass rates ranging from 93.5% to 95.2%. Students in both groups perceived the model as valuable for improving critical thinking, stimulating interest, and enhancing their confidence and proficiency. The developed REPs training model is a practical and effective tool for teaching and training regenerative endodontics. It bridges the gap between preclinical and clinical education, enhancing students' confidence and clinical competence.

Assessment of Water Disaster Resilience in Mountainous Urban Metro Stations by Combination Weighting Method and Extension Cloud Model

Studying the resilience of metro stations in mountainous cities to heavy rain and flooding is of significant importance for enhancing the stability and safety of metro station operations. Considering the topographical and climatic characteristics of mountainous urban areas, this study analyzes the mechanisms through which heavy rain and flooding affect metro station resilience. Based on this analysis, 27 factors, influencing metro station resilience, are identified across 4 dimensions: absorptive capacity, resistance capacity, recovery capacity, and adaptive capacity. A water disaster resilience evaluation index system and corresponding rating standards are established for metro stations in mountainous cities. By combining the advantages of objective and subjective weighting, the combination weights of evaluation indicators are calculated using game theory. The extension theory is combined with the cloud model to establish a model for assessing the water disaster resilience of metro stations in mountainous urban areas. The applicability and feasibility of the model are validated through its implementation at Shapingba Station within Chongqing Rail Transit. The evaluation results obtained from the established model indicate a resilience level of IV for Shapingba metro station, reflecting a high level of resilience that aligns with real-world conditions. These findings further validate the proposed evaluation standards and the method for assessing the water disaster resilience of metro stations based on the combination weighting method and extension cloud model. This evaluation method considers the uncertainty in the evaluation process, demonstrating good feasibility and reliability. It offers a new perspective and methodology for assessing and analyzing the resilience of similar metro stations in mountainous cities.

Protocol for a mixed methods process evaluation for a randomised controlled trial to improve shared decision-making about, and uptake of, osteoporosis medicines: the iFraP study

Background High quality shared decision-making (SDM) conversations involve people with or at risk of osteoporosis and clinicians working together to decide, where appropriate, which evidence-based medicines best fit the person’s life, beliefs, and values. The improving uptake of Fracture Prevention drug treatments (iFraP) intervention comprises a computerised Decision Support Tool (DST), clinician training package and information resources, designed for use in UK Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) consultations. The iFraP intervention will be tested in a pragmatic, parallel-group, individual randomised controlled trial in patients referred to four FLSs in England. This mixed methods process evaluation aims to assess which components of iFraP were delivered and how (fidelity), whether iFraP results in a change in osteoporosis drug treatment initiation rates and how, and how context affects implementation of iFraP and outcomes. Methods We will collect quantitative data using (1) Case Report Forms completed by FLS clinicians; (2) self-reported questionnaires completed by patient participants; and (3) DST analytic data. We will collect qualitative data using (1) semi-structured interviews with patients who receive the iFraP intervention in their FLS appointment, FLS clinicians delivering iFraP appointments, and primary care clinicians that have consulted with a patient following their iFraP FLS appointment; and (2) FLS consultation recordings. A triangulation protocol will be used to integrate the quantitative and qualitative findings to generate novel insights about the intervention under evaluation. Discussion The process evaluation, alongside the trial, will help to understand what elements of the iFraP intervention were delivered and how, the mechanisms of impact and how context affected implementation and outcomes, and intervention acceptability. Mixed methods interpretation will lead to further insights about the implementation of SDM and DSTs in-practice. Trial registration ISRCTN: 10606407, 21/11/2022 https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN10606407

Research on the efficiency and spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of agricultural green development in central cities of the Yangtze River Delta

IntroductionAgricultural green development (AGD) prioritizes sustainable growth by integrating economic, ecological, and social dimensions, aiming to harmonize agricultural economic development with environmental protection and social progress.MethodsThis study integrates the three-stage super-efficiency DEA-SBM model with the BP algorithm, creating an advanced DEA-SBM-BP model to overcome the shortcomings of traditional DEA in evaluation and management processes. The study further applies the Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation (KDE), and Moran’s index to assess and forecast the efficiency and spatiotemporal evolution patterns of green agricultural development in key cities within the Yangtze River Delta.ResultsThe analysis shows that AGD in the central city of the Yangtze River Delta is overall balanced; however, substantial variations exist among cities within individual provinces. Factors like macroeconomic conditions, workforce quality, and policy support play a crucial role in promoting the efficiency of AGD. Among these, macroeconomic development level has a negative impact, while labor quality and policy support exhibit bidirectional effects. Infrastructure construction, digitalization of agricultural economy, and rural security have become key factors in the green development of modern agriculture. The green advancement of agriculture in the central Yangtze River Delta region typically exhibits a marked clustering effect; however, the local clustering reveals a trend toward dispersed development.DiscussionDespite the emergence of new characteristics in agricultural production in China within the context of high-quality development, differences in resource endowments and economic structures among cities continue to be significant factors contributing to regional imbalances and changes in the agglomeration patterns of agricultural development.

Physiological quality of Passiflora edulis Sims seeds evaluated by different processing methods, storage times and packages

ABSTRACT Maintaining seed vigour during the storage process is essential for the success of germplasm banks of sexually propagated species such as Passiflora edulis. However, the literature is still scarce regarding efficient preservation methods, especially for long periods. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different seed processing methods, types of packaging and storage conditions of Passiflora edulis seeds for a period of five years. Different seed processing methods (natural fermentation and use of a mixer), packaging (Falcon tubes, plastic bags and paper bags), storage temperatures (room temperature, cold chamber and refrigerator) and evaluation times (one, three and five years) were analysed. Seeds stored in a refrigerator and cold chamber maintained high germination (>90%) for up to five years. However, seeds stored at room temperature reduced their viability after one year of storage. No significant variations were observed between the seed processing and packaging methods evaluated. Absence of respiratory activity was confirmed by the tetrazolium test performed on seeds stored for five years at room temperature. To maintain the vigour of P. edulis seeds, it is recommended to store them in a cold room or refrigerator in different packaging and using different methods for seed extraction.

Abstract 4137107: The Impact of Race in the Evaluation Process for Advanced Heart Failure Therapies

Introduction: Racial and socioeconomic disparities in heart failure therapy and heart transplantation have been well described. Potential racial disparities during the evaluation process for advanced heart failure (AHF) therapies is not well understood. We examined whether there were differences by race in the evaluation process for heart transplantation or left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Methods: Adult patients who underwent heart transplant or LVAD evaluation between May 1, 2014 – Dec 31, 2022 at the University of North Carolina Medical Center were included. Logistic regression models assessed whether approval for heart transplant listing or LVAD implantation differed by race. The multivariate model adjusted for demographic and clinical characteristics, LVEF, RV function, and substance use. Secondary outcomes assessed included the time between critical points in the evaluation process: first clinical encounter with an AHF specialist, evaluation initiation, and final decision. Results: The study cohort included 611 patients (304 non-Hispanic Black patients, 307 non-Hispanic White patients). Black patients were younger than White patients (52.4 vs. 60.7 years), less male-predominant (65.5% vs. 81.4%), with less ischemic cardiomyopathy (16.8% vs. 58.3%, all p&lt;0.05). There was no significant difference in approval for advanced therapies between Black and White patients (unadjusted OR [95% CI]: 1.24 [0.90-1.72]; adjusted OR 0.98 [0.64-1.48]). Male sex was associated with a higher likelihood of approval for AHF therapies (adjusted OR 1.55 [1.02-2.36]). Age (OR 0.98 [0.96-0.99]) and creatinine (OR 0.66 [0.53-0.82]) were associated with a lower likelihood of approval for AHF therapies. Black patients had a significantly longer time interval from the first AHF specialist encounter to the initiation of evaluation for AHF therapies (median 45.5 vs. 14 days, p &lt;0.01), and from the initiation of the evaluation process to the final decision (25.5 vs. 14 days, p &lt;0.01). Conclusions: Male patients had a greater approval rate for advanced heart failure therapies. Black and white patients did not have significantly different approval rates for LVAD implantation or listing for heart transplantation. However, the evaluation process was longer for black patients. Further work is needed to investigate which factors contribute to these racial and sex differences in the evaluation and approval process for advanced heart failure therapies.

Optimization of global gravitational potential models with detailed gravity anomalies in Southern VietnamOptimization of global gravitational potential models with detailed gravity anomalies in Southern Vietnam

This study evaluates the accuracy of several global gravity field models, specifically EGM 2008, EICGEN-6C4, SGG-UGM-1, SGG-UGM-2, and GECO, using detailed gravity anomaly data from 1968 points in the southern plains of Vietnam. The evaluation process followed a rigorous methodology to ensure precision. Results indicate that these models exhibit similar accuracy levels in the experimental area, with a mean error of approximately 6.2 mGal. Among them, The SGG-UGM-2 model, demonstrated the highest precision, with a fluctuation range of -29.2425 to +74.9010 mGal. These newer generation models, which incorporate additional satellite data, offer enhanced reliability compared to the EGM2008 model. The fluctuation ranges for other models also varied: EGM 2008 from -29.8662 to +82.2140 mGal, EIGEN-6C4 from -28.3626 to +74.2292 mGal, SGG-UGM-1 from -28.9500 to +75.5315 mGal, and GECO from -30.5641 to +73.6775 mGal. This research highlights the critical importance of accurate gravity field models for various applications, including geodesy, geophysics, natural disaster management, resource exploration, and military operations. The methodologies employed for accuracy assessment are adaptable to other regions with similar datasets, underscoring the significance of precise geophysical measurements in Vietnam's diverse geographic landscape. The findings support the essential role of gravity anomaly data in understanding Earth's physical properties and emphasize the need for continued evaluation across different regions in Vietnam to establish comprehensive applicability. This research paves the way for advanced studies and practical applications, contributing to a deeper understanding of Earth's physical properties.

‘We listened and supported and depended on each other’: a qualitative study of how leadership influences implementation of QI interventions

BackgroundThere is growing recognition in the literature of the ‘Herculean’ efforts required to bring about change in healthcare processes and systems. Leadership is recognised as a critical lever for implementation...

A case-by-case analysis of EPN and LPP components within a "one-picture-per-emotion-category" protocol.

Stimuli encountered in the environment are continuously evaluated according to their affective stimulus significance. Numerous event-related potential studies have shown that the early posterior negativity (EPN) and the late positive potential (LPP) are larger for high than low arousing emotional pictures. The group approach has been recently extended to the study of the individual case. Usually, many exemplars are used to represent an emotion category. Determining how many pictures are needed to reliably assess affective stimulus evaluation processes at the individual level is crucial when moving toward the goal of exploring idiosyncratic emotional stimuli. Accordingly, in the present study (N = 16), singular images displaying erotic, neutral, and mutilation content were shown 800 times while dense sensor EEG was recorded. At the group level, enhanced EPN and LPP amplitudes for high compared to low arousing stimuli emerged. At the single subject level, significantly larger amplitudes to the erotic than neutral image were observed in 15 out of 16 tests for the EPN and LPP components. Regarding the mutilation image, 15 participants showed a significant EPN effect, while the LPP effect was only found in 10 cases. Notably, emotional modulation of the EPN and LPP was stable over time. The present study contributes to the development of experimental designs tailored to the needs of the case-by-case approach. Since the process of affective stimulus evaluation is considered as a process common-to-all, the use of a singular stimulus exemplar may prove useful to investigate the idiosyncratic nature of emotion.

Optimized evaluation of the quality of sensor video internet of things (VIOT) by the integration of big data and artificial intelligence

AbstractThe application of sensor video internet of things technology to large-scale integrated work can significantly improve the working quality of employees. However, the degree of improvement in working quality is still difficult to measure in a systematic, intelligent, stable, and accurate manner. local optimization and adjustment after evaluation are still relatively challenging, To address these issues, the study proposes a method of optimizing the evaluation of sensor video quality through the integration of big data and AI techniques. A large-scale integrated distance education system in the field of education and training with a certain application basis is adopted as a case. Including big data and AI techniques such as integrated intelligent agent modules, recommendation algorithms, and transaction optimization algorithms, a new agent-oriented system design with fast response speed, strong scalability, convenient local optimization, and greater stability is achieved. According to the network topology structure of the distance education system in colleges and universities, this paper uses queuing theory to analyze the system performance of the system. The focus of this paper is the quantitative relationship between system communication intensity ρ, user arrival rate λ, system channel capacity n and system waiting delay, blocking probability, average queue length, system throughput and other important performance indicators. In teaching evaluation, the key factor that affects the quality of classroom teaching, that is, Developing a comprehensive system for evaluating classroom instruction is crucial. By incorporating student feedback, leveraging data mining techniques, and harnessing computer technology, a holistic framework for gathering, analyzing, and generating actionable insights on teaching performance is established. This approach makes the evaluation process more systematic and evidence-based, identifying 12 key elements that influence classroom education standards. In the experimental section, the student assessment data sets I1 and I2 exhibit experimental values (statistics) that significantly exceed the thresholds, with a minimum support of 0.32 and a confidence level of 0.61. Moreover, the Boolean matrix is divided into 90 points. The rule U1Ua ≥ U2 is identified as a subset of {U1U2Ua} within the large item set, signifying a strong association rule. These findings confirm the robustness of the artificial intelligence model proposed in this paper for video quality prediction. The optimized sensor video quality evaluation method not only meets a satisfactory confidence level and matching value but also demonstrates good reliability and relevance in the evaluation criteria.