Tool For Evaluation Research Articles

Measuring continuing medical education conference impact and attendee experience: a scoping review.

The aim was to comprehensively identify published research evaluating continuing medical education conferences, to search for validated tools and perform a content analysis to identify the relevant domains for conference evaluation. We used scoping review methodology and searched MEDLINE® for relevant English or French literature published between 2008 and 2022 (last search June 3, 2022). Original research (including randomized controlled trials, non-randomized studies, cohort, mixed-methods, qualitative studies, and editorial pieces) where investigators described impact, experience, or motivations related to conference attendance were eligible. Citations were assessed in triplicate, and data extracted in duplicate. Eighty-three studies were included, 69 (83%) of which were surveys or interview based, with the majority conducted at the end of or following conference conclusion. Of the 74 tools identified, only one was validated and was narrowly focused on a specific conference component. A total of 620 items were extracted and categorized into 4 a priori suggested domains (engagement-networking, education-learning, impact, scholarship), and an additional 4 identified through content analysis (value-satisfaction, logistics, equity-diversity-inclusivity, career influences). Time trends were evident, including the absence of items related to equity-diversity-inclusivity prior to 2019, and a focus on logistics, particularly technology and virtual conferences, since 2020. This study identified 8 major domains relevant for continuing medical education conference evaluation. This work is of immediate value to individuals and organizations seeking to either design or evaluate a conference and represents a critical step in the development of a standardized tool for conference evaluation.

The role of physiotherapy interventions in the management of temporomandibular joint ankylosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe main aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to identify peer-reviewed scholarly journal articles reporting the significance of physiotherapy interventions in managing TMJ ankylosis. In addition, this study aimed to critically appraise the existing evidence on the prevalence and clinical presentation, physiotherapy intervention approaches, efficacy of physiotherapy interventions, adverse effects, and safety of physiotherapy interventions in TMJ ankylosis management.MethodsAn all-inclusive literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus electronic databases. The researchers screened the potential articles and assessed for eligibility based on the reported inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality evaluation tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies developed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias Tool were used to assess the quality of the included studies. Researchers also comprehensively analyzed the data, reported the results, and discussed them according to the predominant themes.ResultsThe primary electronic database search yielded 409 articles, of which 25 were included in this review. A secondary search was conducted from citations of the included studies, yielding 74 articles, of which six were included in the study. A significantly higher prevalence of bony ankylosis than fibrous ankylosis, with an overall effect size of p < 0.00001. In addition, there were significantly more unilateral than bilateral presentations with an overall effect size of p < 0.00001. Moreover, there were 78 reported complications out of 245 subjects according to five included studies demonstrating a significant effect size with p = 0.001 following the treatment protocols.ConclusionThis study highlighted the prevalence of bony ankylosis in temporomandibular joint ankylosis, emphasizing its impact on patients' well-being. On the other hand, the results show that physiotherapy is essential to optimize postoperative outcomes and minimize adverse events such as re-ankylosis. Practitioners and healthcare professionals must monitor postoperative recovery and ensure strict adherence to physiotherapy protocols for optimal outcomes.

Validation of system usability scale as a usability metric to evaluate voice user interfaces.

In recent years, user experience (UX) has gained importance in the field of interactive systems. To ensure its success, interactive systems must be evaluated. As most of the standardized evaluation tools are dedicated to graphical user interfaces (GUIs), the evaluation of voice-based interactive systems or voice user interfaces is still in its infancy. With the help of a well-established evaluation scale, the System Usability Scale (SUS), two prominent, widely accepted voice assistants were evaluated. The evaluation, with SUS, was conducted with 16 participants who performed a set of tasks on Amazon Alexa Echo Dot and Google Nest Mini. We compared the SUS score of Amazon Alexa Echo Dot and Google Nest Mini. Furthermore, we derived the confidence interval for both voice assistants. To enhance understanding for usability practitioners, we analyzed the Adjective Rating Score of both interfaces to comprehend the experience of an interface's usability through words rather than numbers. Additionally, we validated the correlation between the SUS score and the Adjective Rating Score. Finally, a paired sample t-test was conducted to compare the SUS score of Amazon Alexa Echo Dot and Google Nest Mini. This resulted in a huge difference in scores. Hence, in this study, we corroborate the utility of the SUS in voice user interfaces and conclude by encouraging researchers to use SUS as a usability metric to evaluate voice user interfaces.

Development and Application of Technical Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Smart Water Cities (SWCs) Global Standards and Certification Schemes

Smart water cities (SWCs) use advanced technologies for efficient management and preservation of the urban water cycle, strengthening sustainability and improving the quality of life of the residents. This research aims to develop measurement and evaluation tools for SWC key performance indicators (KPIs), focusing on innovative water technologies in establishing unified global standards and certification schemes. The KPIs are categorized based on the stage at which water is being measured, namely the urban water cycle, water disaster management and water supply and treatment. The objective is to assess cities’ use of technologies in providing sufficient water supply, monitoring water quality, strengthening disaster resilience and maintaining and preserving the urban water ecosystem. The assessment is composed of a variety of procedures performed in a quantitative and qualitative manner, the details of which are presented in this study. The developed SWC KPI measurements are used to evaluate the urban water management practices for Busan Eco Delta City, located in Busan, South Korea. Evaluation processes were presented and established, serving as the guideline basis for certification in analyzing future cities, providing integrated and comprehensive information on the status of their urban water system, gathering new techniques, and proposing solutions for smarter measures.

Reinforcing Education through social-emotional learning: key research trends in Ukraine and worldwide

The paper explores the significance of advancements in social-emotional learning (SEL), underscoring SEL’s pivotal role in modern education through enhancing personal development, resilience, and socio-emotional competence. In Ukraine, the growing interest in SEL, spurred by societal challenges and individual needs, is evident.&#x0D; The authors provide an overview of current SEL research, tracing its origins, exploring its theoretical foundations, and highlighting its key role in modern education. They call for interdisciplinary research collaboration to enrich SEL understanding and develop effective programs that foster socio-emotional skills among children and adults, addressing needs at both national and community levels within the educational sphere.&#x0D; The paper also highlights the work of the SEL Laboratory at the EdCamp Ukraine NGO, which stands out as a hub for scientific exploration, fruitful collaboration, and the use of effective SEL methodologies. It details several key areas of SEL research that the laboratory is focusing on, including customizing SEL frameworks to fit the Ukrainian educational context, refining existing SEL evaluation tools, investigating SEL's cultural nuances within Ukraine, challenges, encountered in implementing SEL programs and the impact of SEL on teaching methodologies. Furthermore, the laboratory engages in international collaboration, contributing to global projects and creating programs, aimed at advancing SEL practices.&#x0D; The paper contributes to the ongoing dialogue on SEL and stimulates further research in the area. The findings will aid researchers studying social-emotional learning, educators aiming to implement SEL programs in their practice, and policymakers, committed to enhancing modern education. It concludes with a roadmap for the laboratory's future research, the outcomes of which will be reflected in future publications

Systematic Review of Educational Level and Evaluation Tools for Computational Thinking Skill

The primary aim of this research was to conduct a systematic review on the assessment of computational thinking skills. The employed research method involved a thorough exploration of diverse databases through Google Scholar, employing the keyword "computational thinking" to retrieve pertinent articles. A total of 96 articles were chosen as research samples and subjected to analysis using content analysis techniques to scrutinize education level and evaluation tools variables. The research revealed that the education level variable was classified into four tiers: elementary school (26.17%), junior high school (29.91%), senior high school (19.63%), and college (24.30%). Simultaneously, the evaluation tool variable was categorized into four segments, comprising traditional tools (22.73%), portfolios (33.33%), interviews (15.91%), and surveys (28.03%). Computational thinking (CT) is predominantly assessed among children due to their developmental stage, fostering receptiveness to novel concepts. This facilitates the teaching of fundamental CT principles, such as programming basics, logic, and algorithms. Regarding evaluation tools, portfolios are frequently employed to assess CT as they can depict a student's proficiency in solving intricate problems, showcasing evidence of their work and completed projects for a more holistic assessment

Evaluation of ethanol extract of Allium cepa and fractions on haematological parameters in doxorubicin-induced Cardiotoxicity using Wistar rats

This research study evaluated the effects of Ethanol extract of Allium cepa (A. cepa) popularly known as Onions and its fractions on haematological parameters in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity using Wistar rats. A total of 45 Wistar rats weighing between 150-200 g were recruited for this study. They were randomly divided into 9 groups of 5 animals each; as follows: Group 1: served as control and received 10 ml /kg/ body weight (b.w) per oral (p.o) of normal saline. Group II: received 3.5 mg / kg b.w intraperitoneal (i.p) of Doxorubicin (Dox). Group III: received 500 mg/kg/ b.w p.o of vitamin E plus Dox. Group IV: received 1000 mg/kg/ b.w of crude extract (C.E) of A. cepa plus Dox. Group V: received 1000 mg/kg b.w of n-Hexane fraction of A. cepa plus Dox. Group VI: received 1000 mg/kg b.w of dichloromethane (DCM) fraction of A. cepa plus Dox. Group VII received 1000 mg/kg b.w of ethyl acetate (E.A) fraction of A. cepa plus Dox. Group VIII: received 1000 mg/kg b.w of methanol (METH) fraction, and Group IX received Combinations of C.E of A. cepa + vitamin E and Dox respectively for 14days. Groups I and II treatments lasted for 14 days, while treatments for groups III-IX lasted for 16 days (making 14 days for respective treatments and additional 2 days for doxorubicin administered once 48 hourly before sacrificing. All substances in this study were administered orally except doxorubicin that was administered intraperitoneally. Haematology results obtained from this study showed Dox administration negatively altered full blood count; Red blood cell (RBC), White blood cell (WBC) and Platelets levels significantly (p&lt;0.05). However, pre-treatment administration with Allium cepa showed significant (p&lt;0.05) improvement of full blood count levels from the effects of singular administration of Dox. Injury to the myocardium was also observed on histological examination in the Dox treated group. Our findings indicate that haematological parameters RBC, WBC, Platelets could be useful diagnostic tools in prediction and evaluation of Cardiotoxicity. Haematology results obtained from this study showed Doxorubicin administration significantly altered (p&lt;0.05) full blood count; Red blood cell (RBC), White blood cell (WBC) and Platelets levels. However, pre-treatment administration with Allium cepa showed significant (p&lt;0.05) improvement of full blood count levels from the effects of singular administration of Doxorubicin. Injury to the myocardium was also observed on histological examination in the Doxorubicin treated group. Our findings indicate that haematological parameters RBC, WBC, Platelets could be useful diagnostic tools in prediction and evaluation of Cardiotoxicity.

E-GOVERNMENT MATURITY ANALYSIS USING THE LAYNE AND LEE, HILLER AND BELANGER, AND SPBE MODELS

This research aims to analyze the level of e-government maturity in Kupang City using the Layne and Lee and Hiller and Belanger models and combine them with the SPBE model to provide a more comprehensive approach. The method used to develop an audit model involves a literature study to understand the e-government maturity model, identification of specific objectives for analysis of the Kupang City Population and Civil Registration Service (DUKCAPIL) website, determination of scope based on the SPBE model, determination of design audit criteria and benchmarks, collection and data synthesis from the Kupang City DUKCAPIL e-Government site, as well as analysis of audit findings, and using the GT Metrix tool for performance analysis and evaluation of the Kupang City DUKCAPIL website. The research results show that the lowest rating is F out of six, which indicates poor service performance. The Layne and Lee Model assessment gives a score of 18, indicating the technology's lack of integration and complexity. Hiller and Belanger's Model assessment gives a value of 13, indicating an immature level. These findings highlight significant gaps between the models evaluated. Recommendations based on research are to increase citizen participation by improving the Kupang City DUKCAPIL website based on a maturity model and the need for regular audits and ongoing evaluations to improve public services in Kupang City in e-government maturity. In conclusion, this research provides a new contribution to the field of e-government by highlighting the need for audits using several e-government maturity models to improve public services in Kupang City.

Development of Code Evaluation System based on Abstract Syntax Tree

Analyzing and evaluating student-generated code poses a big headache for programming education. Code evaluation is a delicate task requiring accuracy, efficiency, and error-checking. This paper considers one of the many useful tools in code evaluation. It's Abstract Syntax Trees (AST). AST is a robust tool for reading, filtering, and weighing student code. It is built from tree regular expressions for common programming patterns. This paper considers, firstly, integrating AST into code evaluation projects. Secondly and most importantly to the present implementation work is that Python programming language provides excellent compatibility for implementing such a program. Taking advantage of Python's feature that allows the inputting of code as a string, AST records and tracks everything about the user's own source. With AST being integrated into platforms for education, how to evaluate student code has been completely altered; as sites such as LeetCode and HackerRank testify. This paper presents an accurate, efficient and error-aware approach to code evaluation by improving on educational websites incorporating AST. Adapting well to the dynamics of programming education, this elaborate assessment system will provide students with truthful assessments and profound feedback on their coding capabilities. This article shows how AST-based evaluation has revolutionized the way programming is taught, and thoroughly explores its role in evaluating code.

Appearance of facet joint syndrome in a case of chronic sacroiliitis: Evidenced from quantitative sacroiliac scintigraphy and dual images of SPECT-CT

Lower back pain (LBP) is a global health concern with increasing prevalence, projected to reach 843 million cases by 2050. Lumbar facet joint (LFJ) syndrome contributes significantly to LBP, impacting patient quality of life. Despite its prevalence, a gold standard for accurate and noninvasive diagnosis of LBP has not yet been established, leading to underdiagnosis and inadequate treatment. This case report presents a 57-year-old woman diagnosed with LFJ syndrome and mild sacroiliitis through single-photon emission computed tomography- computed tomography (SPECT-CT) and quantitative sacroiliac scintigraphy (QSS). The patient presented with persistent LBP and hip pain without history of trauma or surgery. Clinical examination revealed lumbar tenderness, limited mobility, and positive Fortin and STORK tests. Whole body bone scan (WBBS) revealed tracer uptake at the sacroiliac (SI) joints and multiple spinal levels, particularly L3-L4. Hybrid SPECT-CT imaging showed heightened bone activity on lumbar spine, confirming degenerative arthropathy of the L3-L4 facet joints, in contrast with minimal evidence obtained from plain radiography and CT images. Furthermore, combining results from SPECT-CT and borderline sacroiliac indices from QSS indicate the presence of chronic degenerative sacroiliitis. Identifying the source of LBP remains challenging. SPECT-CT emerges as a valuable tool for comprehensive evaluation of LBP by combining anatomical and functional imaging of target tissues, allowing increased foci localization and accuracy of diagnosis. QSS can also be utilized as a complement in identifying the presence of chronic lesions of the SI joints. These promising results open opportunities for more research on the efficacy of combined morphological and functional imaging, as well as sacroiliac indices as a complementary diagnostic tool.

Quality Management in Pharmaceutical Development of Biotechnology-Derived Medicinal Products: Implementation and Evaluation

SCIENTIFIC RELEVANCE. One of the challenges associated with the development of medicines lies in creating a quality management system (QMS) and tools to assess its performance.AIM. The study aimed to propose a QMS model for the development of biotechnology-derived medicinal products and a performance evaluation tool for this QMS universally applicable in the research centre of the company regardless of the specific activities of its individual divisions.MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study analysed internal audit outcomes, noncompliance responses, and the document flow of the research centre. Parameter values for quality index (QI) calculations were entered into validated Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. Data analysis and visualisation involved using the Microsoft Power Business Intelligence (BI) business analytics platform (mainly, the Power BI Desktop and Power BI Service components).RESULTS. The QMS was implemented, and the authors proposed their QMS performance evaluation tool universally applicable to all the divisions of the research centre. CONCLUSIONS. The authors proposed their QMS model for the development of biotechnology-derived medicinal products and the QI tool for collecting digital data, carrying out standardised monitoring, and tracking QMS status changes. The QI tool is universal for all company departments regardless of their requirements, easy to use, and customisable by adding individual company-specific quality parameters. This makes the QI tool applicable not only to drug development departments but also to other research units.

The Korean Version of the Oxford Cognitive Screen (K-OCS) Normative Study.

To generate a Korean version of the Oxford Cognitive Screen (K-OCS) and obtain cutoff scores that determine the impairment of each subdomain. Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) negatively impacts the rehabilitation process and independence in daily life. Its obscure manifestations require effective screening for appropriate rehabilitation. However, in most rehabilitation clinics, psychological evaluation tools for Alzheimer's dementia have been used without such considerations. The OCS is a screening assessment tool for PSCI and vascular dementia that can evaluate the cognitive domains most often affected by stroke, including language, attention, memory, praxis, and numerical cognition. It comprises 10 subtasks and enables quick and effective cognitive evaluation. The K-OCS, which considers Korea's unique cultural and linguistic characteristics, was developed with the approval and cooperation of the original author. Enrollment of participants without disabilities was announced at Duksung Women's University, Yongin Sevrance Hospital, CHA Bundang Medical Center. The study was conducted between September 2020 and March 2022 on 97 male and female participants aged ≥30 years. All the 97 participants completed the task. In this study, the 5th percentile score was presumed to be the cutoff value for each score, and the values are provided here. The cutoff score for each OCS subtask was similar to that of the original British version. We suggest the usability of the K-OCS as a screening tool for PSCI by providing the cutoff value of each subtask.

New Algorithm for Evaluation of Online Courses Based on Quality Matters Rubric Using Fuzzy Soft Expert Sets

The field of instructional technology has experienced significant growth in recent times. Due to the rapid shift towards online courses, the technology-based learning system is facing challenges in ensuring quality and assurance. The aim of this study was to develop online course evaluation tools by proposing a new algorithm to assess the success of the provided online courses and address quality assurance issues. The proposed algorithm is based on quality matters (QM) attributes and the use of fuzzy soft expert sets (FSESs). One key advantage of the proposed algorithm is that it incorporates experts’ opinions, which significantly contributes to achieving the study objective. The proposed algorithm was successfully implemented using the ASP.NET programming language. It resulted in the development of an EOC-FSES prototype system. The experimental evaluation of the prototype system confirms that it requires low effort and achieves high levels of performance, satisfaction, and behavioral intention to use. This paper includes several recommendations and suggestions.

Lifestyle modification interventions for adults with intellectual disabilities: systematic review and meta-analysis at intervention and component levels.

Adults with intellectual disabilities (IDs) are susceptible to multiple health risk behaviours such as alcohol consumption, smoking, low physical activity, sedentary behaviour and poor diet. Lifestyle modification interventions can prevent or reduce negative health consequences caused by these behaviours. We aim to determine the effectiveness of lifestyle modification interventions and their components in targeting health risk behaviours in adults with IDs. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Electronic databases, clinical trial registries, grey literature and citations of systematic reviews and included studies were searched in January 2021 (updated February 2022). Randomised controlled trials and non-randomised controlled trials targeting alcohol consumption, smoking, low physical activity, sedentary behaviours and poor diet in adults (aged≥18years) with ID were included. Meta-analysis was conducted at the intervention level (pairwise and network meta-analysis) and the component-level (component network meta-analysis). Studies were coded using Michie's 19-item theory coding scheme and 94-item behaviour change taxonomies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB) Version 2 and Risk of Bias in Non-randomised Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I). The study involved a patient and public involvement (PPI) group, including people with lived experience, who contributed extensively by shaping the methodology, providing valuable insights in interpreting results and organising of dissemination events. Our literature search identified 12180 articles, of which 80 studies with 4805 participants were included in the review. The complexity of lifestyle modification intervention was dismantled by identifying six core components that influenced outcomes. Interventions targeting single or multiple health risk behaviours could have a single or combination of multiple core-components. Interventions (2 RCTS; 4 non-RCTs; 228 participants) targeting alcohol consumption and smoking behaviour were effective but based on limited evidence. Similarly, interventions targeting low physical activity only (16 RCTs; 17 non-RCTs; 1413 participants) or multiple behaviours (low physical activity only, sedentary behaviours and poor diet) (17 RCTs; 24 non-RCTs; 3164 participants) yielded mixed effectiveness in outcomes. Most interventions targeting low physical activity only or multiple behaviours generated positive effects on various outcomeswhile some interventions led to no change or worsened outcomes, which could be attributed to the presence of a single core-component or a combination of similar core components in interventions. The intervention-level meta-analysis for weight management outcomes showed that none of the interventions were associated with a statistically significant change in outcomes when compared with treatment-as-usual and each other. Interventions with core-components combination of energy deficit diet, aerobic exercise and behaviour change techniques showed the highest weight loss [mean difference (MD)=-3.61, 95% credible interval (CrI) -9.68 to 1.95] and those with core-components combination dietary advice and aerobic exercise showed a weight gain (MD 0.94, 95% CrI -3.93 to 4.91). Similar findings were found with the component network meta-analysis for which additional components were identified. Most studies had a high and moderate risk of bias. Various theories and behaviour change techniques were used in intervention development and adaptation. Our systematic review is the first to comprehensively explore lifestyle modification interventions targeting a range of single and multiple health risk behaviours in adults with ID, co-produced with people with lived experience. It has practical implications for future research as it highlights the importance of mixed-methods research in understanding lifestyle modification interventions and the need for population-specific improvements in the field (e.g., tailored interventions, development of evaluation instruments or tools, use of rigorous research methodologies and comprehensive reporting frameworks). Wide dissemination of related knowledge and the involvement of PPI groups, including people with lived experience, will help future researchers design interventions that consider the unique needs, desires and abilities of people with ID.

Evolution learning method to derive missing elements and optimal classification under the connection hesitant fuzzy environment

Generally, in the qualitative decision-making process, the attributes are independent of each other, thus the given attributes' evaluation data could ignore their connection relationships and make a decision based on incomplete information. To do this, this paper first introduces the hesitant fuzzy set (HFS), an emerging evaluation tool, to develop the connection HFS (CHFS). Furthermore, considering the missing-element situation, which is a normal phenomenon in the experts' subjective evaluation process, we extend the CHFS to the missing CHFS (M−CHFS). Thus, the M−CHFS can quantitatively express the connection relationship and missing-element characteristic simultaneously. Then, to derive the missing elements in the M−CHFS evaluation information, this paper proposes the hesitant fuzzy generative adversarial network to convert the M−CHFS to the CHFS according to a deep learning process. After that, we propose a hesitant fuzzy long short-term memory network to complete the evolution learning on the obtained CHFS and then get the classification results, occurrence probabilities, and optimal classification. Then, this paper develops an evolution learning algorithm introducing the decision makers' subjective guidance and applies it to an example of intelligent manufacturing analysis. The calculation process and derived results present the feasibility and effectiveness of the given methods in this paper.

Beyond Beall's list: The need for contemporary evaluation tools in predatory publishing research

Key points Beall's list was an instrumental resource in its prime, however its cessation of updates since 2017 makes its continued use a potential concern. The landscape of predatory publishing has witnessed profound changes over recent years. In the context of up‐to‐date evaluations, many researchers and institutions are turning towards Kscien's list.

Developing a phantom for simulating robotic-assisted complete mesocolic excision using 3D printing and medical imaging

BackgroundRobotic-assisted complete mesocolic excision is an advanced procedure mainly because of the great variability in anatomy. Phantoms can be used for simulation-based training and assessment of competency when learning new surgical procedures. However, no phantoms for robotic complete mesocolic excision have previously been described. This study aimed to develop an anatomically true-to-life phantom, which can be used for training with a robotic system situated in the clinical setting and can be used for the assessment of surgical competency.MethodsEstablished pathology and surgical assessment tools for complete mesocolic excision and specimens were used for the phantom development. Each assessment item was translated into an engineering development task and evaluated for relevance. Anatomical realism was obtained by extracting relevant organs from preoperative patient scans and 3D printing casting moulds for each organ. Each element of the phantom was evaluated by two experienced complete mesocolic excision surgeons without influencing each other’s answers and their feedback was used in an iterative process of prototype development and testing.ResultsIt was possible to integrate 35 out of 48 procedure-specific items from the surgical assessment tool and all elements from the pathological evaluation tool. By adding fluorophores to the mesocolic tissue, we developed an easy way to assess the integrity of the mesocolon using ultraviolet light. The phantom was built using silicone, is easy to store, and can be used in robotic systems designated for patient procedures as it does not contain animal-derived parts.ConclusionsThe newly developed phantom could be used for training and competency assessment for robotic-assisted complete mesocolic excision surgery in a simulated setting.

The Effectiveness of Individual Performance Commitment Review Form as an Evaluation Tool to Improve Teachers’ Performance: Basis for Technical Assistance

A well-structured evaluation such as Individual Performance Commitment and Review Form (IPCRF) can provide valuable feedback to teachers and contribute to their growth and effectiveness. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the IPCRF as an evaluation tool for improving teachers' performance. This study utilized the mixed method approach particularly the sequential exploratory, blending both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The participants of the study were 59 composed of teachers and school heads from selected schools in Casiguran District 2. The qualitative phase of this research relied on semi-structured interview guides. For the quantitative phase, a researcher-made survey questionnaire was utilized. Results revealed that teachers were rated primarily as having performed outstandingly. However, the level of effectiveness of IPCRF in assessing the teachers’ performance, as assessed by school heads and teachers, is low in terms of the plus factor. School heads need to provide forms of technical assistance to the teachers, to ensure that necessary resources, such as teaching materials or technology, are made available to support teachers' improvement efforts. Meanwhile, the issues and concerns encountered by the teachers, as assessed by school heads and teachers, are high as to work performance. Thus, the proposed in-house feedback session aims to improve teachers’ performance through the provision of technical assistance. School heads and teachers may participate in seminars and training sessions offered by Department of Education (DepEd) officials in conjunction with teachers to improve their comprehension of the IPCRF.

Temperature description and heat extraction optimization of enhanced geothermal system via failure volume ratio

It is difficult to quantitatively measure the temperature characteristics to evaluate the heat extraction in Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS). This study aims to define a new evaluation index called failure volume ratio to describe the temperature distribution in rocks and optimize heat extraction. In the established three-dimensional thermal-hydrologic coupling model, the cumulative heat production and production temperature are interpreted and predicted by the proposed index. A set of orthogonal experiments is designed to quantitatively find the key factors affecting EGS. Results show that the failure volume ratio can provide a more rational and concise explanation for changes in the temperature and heat of production during EGS heat extraction. The ratio when the production temperature begins to decrease reflects how much heat has been extracted at the maximum production temperature. In a given model, we only need to calculate the failure volume ratio which reflects both cumulative heat production and production temperature changes, which is useful for a combined system of above-ground power generation and underground heat extraction. Based on the analysis of variance, the injection flow has the greatest impact on EGS. Its optimal value in this model is 80 kgs−1. This study provides a quantitative tool for reservoir evaluation and geothermal system optimization.

Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Breast Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Epidemiologic Studies.

We synthesized the epidemiologic evidence on the associations between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure and breast cancer risk. Our systematic review and meta-analysis included 18 and 11 articles, respectively, covering studies up to February 2023. The summary relative risks (RR) estimated by random-effects meta-analyses did not support an association between PFAS and overall breast cancer risk (e.g., a natural log (ln)-unit increase in serum/plasma concentrations [ng/mL] for perfluorooctanoate [PFOA] RR=0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.77-1.18; perfluorooctane sulfonate [PFOS] RR=0.98, 95%CI: 0.87-1.11). However, when limiting to studies that assessed exposures prior to a breast cancer diagnosis, we observed a positive association with PFOA (a ln-unit increase, RR=1.16, 95%CI: 0.96-1.40). We also observed some possible heterogeneous associations by tumor estrogen and progesterone receptor status among postmenopausal breast cancer cases. No meaningful changes were observed after excluding the studies with high risk-of-bias (Tier 3). Based on the evaluation tool developed by the National Toxicology Program, given the heterogeneity across studies and the variability in timing of exposure measurements, the epidemiologic evidence needed to determine the association between PFAS exposure and breast cancer remains inadequate. Our findings support the need for future studies with improved study designs to determine this association.