Expert Panel Review Research Articles

Child Fatalities Resulting From Caregiver Behavior: A Public Health Approach to Child Maltreatment Classification.

Limited research describes approaches for applying a public health lens to fatal child maltreatment classification. Specialized terminology and tools could help improve consistency in classifying deaths resulting from caregiver behavior. A six-criterion classification tool was developed via expert panel review of over 100 child deaths by the Alaska Division of Public Health's Child Death Review (CDR) program. Next, accuracy and acceptability were assessed by inviting staff from other CDRs using a national listserv to classify 21 brief case scenarios with the tool. Among the 47 respondents, sensitivity was 0.87, specificity 0.77, and accuracy 0.84. Variability by tool criterion ranged from 97% to 74% accurate. Most respondents (66%) reported the tool as being helpful for classifying deaths and moderate reliability was found. Study participants found it difficult to consistently apply specific criteria which resulted in a modification of the tool to improve the potential for universal adoption.

Evaluation of self-stigma in patients with epilepsy: Validation of the self-stigma scale to Spanish (ESSS-S).

The Epilepsy Self-Stigma Scale (ESSS) has been developed in Japan for patients with epilepsy (PWE). We aimed to validate the scale in Spanish and examine its validity and reliability. The transcultural adaptation of the ESSS was conducted using translation and back-translation, along with pilot testing and an expert panel review. An online questionnaire was used to assess construct validity, criterion validity, and internal consistency. A total of 260 out of 628 participants completed the questionnaires. We found a two-factor structure that explained 61.3% of the total variance: factor 1 "self-perceived discrimination" with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.80, and factor 2 "social isolation" with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.75. The reliability of overall ESSS-S 8-item scores was high (Cronbach's alpha = 0.74). Convergent validity was tested and demonstrated a significant correlation. P. Self-perceived discrimination scores were associated with higher anxiety and depression scores (r = 0.53/0.54; p < 0.001), lower self-esteem (-0.53; p < 0.001), and lower quality of life (r = -0.66; p < 0.001). Social isolation scores were associated with higher anxiety and depression scores (r = 0.41/0.33; p < 0.001), lower self-esteem (-0.34; p < 0.001), and lower quality of life (r = -0.35; p < 0.001). Temporal reliability was also tested, showing a test-retest ICC of 0.87. The mean self-stigma score in the Spanish population was 17.68 ± 5.45 out of 32 points. Invariance across gender and age groups indicated that there are no systematic response biases by gender or age, so stratified scores could be related to other constructs. The Spanish version of ESSS (ESSS-S) is a valid and reliable tool for the assessment of self-stigma in PWE among Spanish speakers. This study aimed to validate the Epilepsy Self-Stigma Scale (ESSS) for Spanish speakers (ESSS-S). We conducted transcultural adaptation of the scale. ESSS-S showed high reliability and strong validity, correlating with higher anxiety and depression, lower self-esteem, and quality of life. ESSS-S is a reliable and valid tool for assessing self-stigma in Spanish-speaking people with epilepsy.

Predicting language, cognition, and social skills in individuals with Autism spectrum disorder using the Arabic validation of Gilliam Autism Rating scale-Third Edition

The Gilliam Autism Rating Scale-Third Edition (GARS-3) has emerged as a pivotal instrument in the diagnostic assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with its utility extending across linguistic and cultural boundaries. This study endeavors to adapt and validate the GARS-3 for the Arabic-speaking population, addressing the paucity of culturally congruent diagnostic tools in the Arab world. The primary objective is to validate the Arabic version of GARS-3 (A-GARS-3) to assess children with and without ASD, ensuring the scale’s reliability and validity within the target population. A methodical cross-sectional study design was employed, encompassing a sample of 178 participants from both educational and clinical settings in Saudi Arabia. The process involved direct translation, expert panel review, back-translation, and pilot testing to ensure semantic equivalence and cultural relevance. Data were collected using the A-GARS-3, and analyses included Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (EFA and CFA), internal consistency reliability measures, and a One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to establish concurrent validity. The A-GARS-3 demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.971; McDonald’s omega = 0.972) and strong construct validity, with factor loadings and model fit indices substantiating the factor structure. Predictive validity was confirmed through significant correlations between the Autism Index and the subscales, particularly in the domains of social interaction and communication. The A-GARS-3 is a psychometrically sound instrument that offers reliable assessment for ASD within the Arab cultural context. The positive validation outcomes indicate that the scale is an effective, culturally adapted tool for the localized diagnosis of ASD. The validated scale has significant implications for enhancing ASD screening and diagnostic practices in Arabic-speaking regions, potentially improving early diagnosis and intervention strategies.

Digital twins and biodiversity: a conceptual framework of opportunities and challenge

PurposeThe intersection of digital twins and ecological diversity offers a new and complex landscape that requires interdisciplinary investigation. Recognizing the urgent need for a nuanced approach to the ethical, technological and practical challenges in this area, this paper presents a conceptual framework that serves as a roadmap for future research and policymaking.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs a conceptual methodology deeply rooted in interdisciplinary perspectives. A systematic literature review was conducted using the Scopus database to identify relevant articles. The selected articles were rigorously analyzed to derive key dimensions, which were then validated through expert panel reviews and a pilot study.FindingsOur framework identifies seven critical dimensions: Data Acquisition and Simulation, Impact Assessment, Ecological Protection and Management, Ethical and Legal Considerations, Social and Cultural Impacts, Technological Feasibility and Limitations and Policies and Regulations. These dimensions provide a comprehensive structure for understanding and addressing the intersection of digital twins and biodiversity conservation.Originality/valueThis study contributes a foundational guide for sustainable and ethical engagement between digital twins and biodiversity conservation. It offers a novel, interdisciplinary framework that integrates diverse perspectives and provides practical insights for scholars, policymakers and practitioners in this emerging field.

Healthcare professionals' perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care: Development and validation of a survey

Background and purposeHypnotherapy has shown promise in cancer care for alleviating pain, managing nausea, reducing anxiety and fatigue, and improving overall quality of life. Despite its potential benefits, there remains a significant gap between evidence and clinical practice. One way to bridge this gap is to assess healthcare professionals' perceptions and address them accordingly. While survey tools assessing perceptions in healthcare exist, they often are outdated, lack contemporary focus and specificity to complementary therapies like hypnotherapy, particularly in the context of cancer care. This study aimed to develop, psychometrically evaluate, and pilot a survey designed to assess Australian healthcare professionals' (psychologists, counselors, medical practitioners, and nurses) perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care. Materials and methodsA cross-sectional survey was developed to assess healthcare professionals' perceptions of hypnosis/hypnotherapy in cancer care. The survey, informed by a comprehensive literature review, consisted of three sections: (1) demographics, 2) interest, experience and knowledge of hypnosis, and (3) attitudes towards its integration in cancer care. Instrument validation involved an expert panel (n = 5) review for content validity and a pilot study with 89 healthcare professionals for reliability. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha and factor analysis. ResultsPsychometric analysis demonstrated high internal consistency with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.850. Factor analysis revealed two distinct factors: perceived benefits of hypnotherapy in cancer care (explaining 49.23 % of variance) and concerns/misconceptions about hypnosis (explaining 19.50 % of variance). These factors showed strong item loadings (0.692–0.889 and 0.529-0.850, respectively) and a moderate correlation (r = 0.464). The survey tool proved feasible and applicable with a high completion rate among participants. The survey pilot results highlighted significant knowledge gaps and varying levels of acceptance of hypnotherapy, underscoring the necessity for targeted education and training initiatives. Despite these gaps, there was a notable interest in learning more about hypnotherapy's potential benefits in cancer care. However, limitations to sample diversity and generalizability should be noted, as the vast majority of respondents were female nurses. ConclusionA novel survey tool to evaluate healthcare professionals' perceptions of hypnotherapy in cancer care was developed and tested for its validity and reliability. Results of this study revealed significant knowledge gaps and varied acceptance levels by healthcare professionals to using hypnotherapy in cancer care. We identified respondents have a strong interest in hypnotherapy's potential benefits, highlighting the need for targeted education and suggesting a promising foundation for its future integration into holistic and patient-centered cancer care.

CONSENSUS CLASSROOM CLIMATE INVENTORY: SCALE DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION

Science education is a key area of research, largely due to its inherent complexity and challenges. Various teaching methods have been developed to address these difficulties, which include the consensus classroom climate. However, no standardized tool has been created to evaluate the consensus within a classroom. This study aimed to develop and validate the Consensus Classroom Climate Inventory (CCCI), an instrument designed to measure the consensus climate of a classroom. The research was conducted in two phases: (1) initial item pool development based on an extensive literature review and (2) expert panel review for content validation. The resulting 29-item scale was pilot-tested with 120 freshmen students from a state university. Exploratory factor analysis using SMART-PLS yielded four distinct factors: Student Agency, Collaborative Learning Environment, Inclusive and Flexible Learning, and Student Autonomy. The final scale consisted of 23 items. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated strong factor loadings (&gt;0.8) for all items, indicating good construct validity. Model fit indices suggested a generally good fit, though some indices indicated room for improvement. Reliability analysis revealed high internal consistency across all factors. The CCCI shows promise as a reliable and valid tool for assessing consensus classroom climate, though further refinement is recommended to enhance model fit. This instrument can assist educators in evaluating the consensus climate of Science classrooms and help educators enhance teaching to improve students’ Science learning. Keywords: consensus classroom climate, factor analysis, scale development, reliability test, validity test

Development of an Ergonomics Risk Assessment Tool for Pushing and Pulling (PUSHPULL) Activities at the Workplace

The observational method remains the most widely utilized for assessing the risk factor of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) as it is inexpensive, quick and practical in field data collection. However, there is some limitation with the current risk assessment on Pushing and Pulling (PP), such as the need to use expensive force measuring equipment, limited coverage of critical variables for assessing the risk and psychometric properties for the method, which is not adequately established. This study aims to develop a new method for assessing the PP of wheeled equipment called the PUSHPULL method and establish the reliability and validity of the PUSHPULL method. Two stages are involved in developing the PUSHPULL method: i) development of PUSHPULL specification and ii) psychometric properties evaluation. Selection of variables for inclusion in the PUSHPULL method employed three strategies: i) literature review, ii) expert panel review, and iii) survey among Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) practitioners. Current assessment methods were also reviewed to assist in assigning rating scores. Psychometric properties evaluation was performed for content validity (representative, relevance and clarity) and inter and intra-rater reliability testing. Consequently, content validity was performed by six experts. The results of content validity (S-CVI/Ave) were discovered to be in the acceptable range of 0.97, 0.98 and 0.82, respectively, for representativeness, relevance and clarity. Based on the inputs from the expert panel, improvements were made, and prototype 2 was generated. Prototype 2 underwent reliability testing, and Gwet AC1 was discovered to be 0.596 (moderate) and 0.77 (good), respectively, for inter and intra-rater reliability. The PUSHPULL method was developed based on empirical data from a literature review, expert panel review and inputs from OSH practitioners. The method covers all the significant variables related to the risk of PP. Moreover, the reliability and validity of the PUSHPULL method were clarified during the development stage. The tool can determine the risk level and prioritize the intervention.

Evaluating the accuracy of International Classification of Disease Perinatal Mortality (ICD-PM) codes assigned on death certificates before and after expert panel review: a mixed methods observational study

IntroductionThe present study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the accuracy of International Classification of Disease Perinatal Mortality (ICD-PM) codes assigned on death certificates before and after an expert panel review.MethodThe present study was a mixed methods observational study conducted at Umm al-Benin Hospital, the sole specialized obstetrics and gynecology center affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. The study comprised three distinct stages: (1) Collecting primary ICD-PM codes assigned to perinatal death certificates, along with other relevant information, from October 2021 to March 2022; (2) Examining the circumstances of each perinatal death case and re-identifying the causes of death through a consensus process involving a panel of experts comprising pediatricians, obstetrics and gynecology specialists, and nursing and midwifery experts; presenting the new ICD-PM code; (3) Comparing the ICD-PM codes assigned to perinatal death certificates before and after the expert panel’s evaluation.ResultDuring the study period, a total of seven specialized panels were conducted to examine perinatal deaths. Out of the 71 cases, 41 were carefully reviewed by experts. These cases included 32 stillbirths and nine neonatal deaths. The examination process followed specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings revealed that there were no significant changes in the causes of neonatal deaths. However, it was notable that 80% of the previously unknown causes of stillbirths were successfully identified. Notably, the occurrence of stillbirths increased by 78% due to maternal causes and conditions.ConclusionConvening panels of experts to discuss the causes of perinatal deaths can effectively reduce the percentage of unknown causes, as classified by ICD-PM. This approach also guarantees the availability of essential data for implementing effective interventions to decrease preventable perinatal deaths.

Liver Injury in People With HIV on Antituberculosis and/or Antiretroviral Therapy-Assessing Causality Using the Updated Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method.

We compared performance of the Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method (RUCAM) with multidisciplinary expert panel review in identifying a drug-induced liver injury (DILI) due to antituberculosis therapy (ATT) and/or antiretroviral therapy (ART). Cases were drawn from a prospective registry of hospitalised adults with suspected DILI due to ATT and/or ART in Cape Town, South Africa. Participants had to fulfil American Thoracic Society criteria for ATT interruption (alanine transaminase [ALT] ≥5 times upper limit of normal [ULN]/ALT ≥3 times [ULN] and symptomatic). Causality assessment by expert panel review served as reference standard. The panel ranked potentially implicated drugs as certain, probable, possible or unlikely causes guided by World Health Organization Uppsala Monitoring Centre criteria. The RUCAM was performed for each potentially implicated drug. We calculated sensitivity and specificity of the RUCAM in identifying a probable/certain drug cause for liver injury. We included 48 participants. All were people with HIV (PWH). Twenty-seven were on concomitant ART and ATT, with a median of six potentially hepatotoxic drugs per case. Sensitivity and specificity of the RUCAM in identifying a probable/certain drug cause of liver injury compared with expert panel review was 7% and 100% respectively. Implicated drugs (times ranked probable/certain by panel) were isoniazid (18/0), pyrazinamide (17/0), rifampicin (15/1), efavirenz (6/4) and lopinavir/ritonavir (1/0). PWH with liver injury received multiple potentially implicated drugs, which may increase liver injury risk and complicate causality assessment. Compared with expert panel review, the RUCAM had low sensitivity in detecting probable or certain drug causes of liver injury.

Are quality of care instruments inclusive of older people living with dementia? A scoping review in long-term care settings.

More than half of older people in long-term care facilities have dementia. Little is currently known about the methods and instruments which can be used to capture the perspectives of older people, including those with dementia, regarding the quality of care provided in such facilities. The main aims of this scoping review were two-fold. Firstly, to identify quality of care instruments that have been applied in long-term care settings. Secondly, to evaluate how these instruments have been developed and validated, particularly in terms of their applicability among older people with dementia. Seven databases (Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest, Ageline, CINHAL and google scholar) were searched for relevant literature without any date limit. We used quality criteria adapted from COSMIN (Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement Instruments) guidelines to assess the psychometric properties of the instruments. The search identified 16 quality of care instruments which had been used in long-term care settings. Of which, two (12.5%) were specifically designed for older people with dementia, and three instruments (18.7%) were modified for use with older people with mild to moderate dementia. A variety of methods were used to develop the identified instruments including literature reviews, qualitative interviews, expert panel reviews, pre-testing and piloting with older people. None of the identified instruments had been subjected to comprehensive psychometric assessment. Most instruments for assessing quality of care in long term care settings lack alternative communication techniques tailored to people with dementia. This review highlights the need for more rigorous psychometric testing of existing instruments for assessing quality of care in long-term care settings. Several existing measures show promise and may be taken forward for further testing and development for widespread application with older people, including those living with dementia, in long term care settings.

Translation, Cultural Adaptation of the Portuguese Provider Attitudes toward Cardiac Rehabilitation and Referral (PACRR-P) Scale and Assessment of Its’ Measurement Properties

Background/Objectives: Access to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is contingent upon physician referrals, yet these are often inadequate, particularly in low-resource settings. This multi-method study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Portuguese version of the Provider Attitudes toward CR and Referral (PACRR-P) scale, as well as to identify key factors influencing CR referral in a Latin American context for the first time. Methods: The PACRR was translated into Brazilian Portuguese through a rigorous process involving independent translation, back-translation, and expert panel review to ensure face, content, and cross-cultural validity. A total of 44 Brazilian physicians completed the questionnaire, allowing for an assessment of internal consistency, criterion validity, and convergent validity. Results: The findings confirmed the face, content, and cultural validity of the 20 translated items, with a mean item clarity rating of 4.8/5. The final version included 17 of the original 19 PACRR-P items, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.73. Referral rates were significantly associated with over one-third of the PACRR-P items, preliminarily supporting the scale’s criterion validity, while correlations with the ReCaRe scores further supported its convergent validity. The most prominent barriers to referral were a lack of familiarity with CR site locations, absence of a standard referral form, and lack of automatic referral processes. Conclusions: The PACRR’s validity and reliability among Portuguese-speaking providers are preliminarily supported.

Translation and validation of the Arabic Jordanian version of the diabetic foot ulcer scale-short form (DFS-SF)

The Diabetic Foot Ulcer Scale-Short Form (DFS-SF) is an important tool for assessing the quality of life of diabetic foot patients. This study aims to translate and validate the DFS-SF into Arabic and evaluate its validity and reliability. The translation process followed WHO guidelines, including forward translation, expert panel review, back translation, pre-testing, and final version development. The translated questionnaire was then administered to a sample of Arab Jordanian patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Validity was assessed by examining the correlation coefficients between each item and its corresponding dimension, as well as its correlation with the DFS-SF scale as a whole. Reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The results demonstrated high validity and reliability of the Arabic Jordanian version of the DFS-SF, making it a valuable tool for assessing the impact of diabetic foot ulcers on patients' quality of life.

The Igbo version of the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ)- A cross-cultural adaptation study

BackgroundPhysical activity (PA) plays a critical role in preventing non-communicable diseases, and maintaining the overall health and well-being of adults. PA surveillance has become a global concern leading to the development of numerous surveys for its measurement. Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) merges the advantages of both the short and long versions of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) by incorporating various domains (work, transport, and leisure time), while still maintaining a significantly shorter length. This study aimed to cross-culturally adapt the original English version of GPAQ to the Igbo culture and environment.MethodsThe original version of GPAQ (GPAQ) was translated, synthesized, back-translated, and subjected to expert panel review before producing the final Igbo version of the GPAQ (GPAQ-I). The GPAQ and GPAQ-I were administered to 155 community-dwelling adults (36.1% males and 63.9% females) living in Nnewi who were recruited consecutively. The data obtained was analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviations, Spearman rank order test, and Mann-Whitney U test with p-value set at 0.05.ResultsThere was no significant difference in the scores on the English and Igbo versions of the GPAQ (p < 0.001). The correlations between the corresponding domains and total scores on both versions of the GPAQ (rho = 1.0)showed excellent concurrent agreement.ConclusionThe successfully adapted GPAQ-I demonstrated a strong agreement with the original English version. Further psychometric testing is required to fully establish its internal consistency, reliability, and validity.

Essential Occupational Therapy Competencies for Low Vision and Blindness.

Background. The prevalence of low vision and blindness in persons across the lifespan means that occupational therapists will encounter these conditions across all areas of practice. Practitioners must be equipped with competencies necessary to recognize and respond to vision loss-related concerns. Purpose. This study sought to identify essential occupational therapy competencies when providing services to people with low vision and blindness. Method. The study employed a three-phase modified Delphi methodology administered through online surveys and focus group. Respondents included people with low vision or blindness, professionals with special expertise in low vision/blindness, and occupational therapists in other practice areas. Data were analyzed using an iterative, consensus-generating strategy involving quantitative analysis of competencies, qualitative input, and expert panel review. Findings. The process yielded a 51-item competency framework organized into six domains. Implications. The framework provides the foundation for a common curriculum for Canadian occupational therapy programs and for the creation of educational resources.

Short breaks and micro vacations: scale development and validation of micro vacation motivation

Purpose In view of the rapid growth of micro vacation trend in post-pandemic era, this study aims to identify the underlying motivational factors for micro vacation by developing and validating a measurement scale, while explore the influence of micro vacation motivation on travel intention. Design/methodology/approach This research adopts mixed methods. Nine dimensions with 38 items are initially yielded through extensive literature review and in-depth interview (n = 22). Expert panel review filters the scale into eight dimensions with 35 items. Principal component analysis (n = 376) purifies the measures into a 35-item and seven-dimension scale, further confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis (n = 616). Nomological validity test (n = 694) proved the positive effect of micro vacation motivation on travel intention. Findings The results present a measurement scale of micro vacation motivation and reveals its seven dimensions: self-presentation, spiritual satisfaction, bonding, convenience, sense of rituals, place attachment and perceived risk. All the motivational factors positively influence travel intention for a micro vacation. Practical implications Through profound comprehension of micro vacationers’ travel motivation, destination marketers and tourism providers can better design their products based on vacationers’ needs while stimulate potential market’s visiting intention by diverse marketing activities. Originality/value This study enriches the literature of micro vacation tourism and deepens the knowledge of travel motivation, filling the research gap of tourists’ motivation in micro vacation market.

Development And Content Validation Of An Indigenous Diagnostic Questionnaire Of Intellectual Disability

Even though in the last decade, there has been a considerable increase in the prevalence of intellectual disability in Pakistan, there is scarcity of indigenous standardized diagnostic questionnaire for intellectual disability. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the content validity of the Indigenous Diagnostic Questionnaire of Intellectual Disability (IDQID) [1]designed in accordance with the Pakistani society’s norms. IDQID was designed to diagnose intellectual disability for 6-18 years old. Mixed method research design was used in the development and content validation phase. Purposive sampling strategy was used to recruit participants for expert panel review (n=10). Content validity index was used to assess the relevance and representativeness of the questionnaire. The scale level content validity index by averaging calculation method and by universal agreement method was 0.87 and 0.209 respectively. A total of 168 items with I-CVI greater than or equal to 0.78 were retained. Given the time efficient, cost effective and multidimensional nature of the questionnaire, mental health practitioners should use this questionnaire to evaluate intellectual disability in children.

Development of the Hybrid Clinical Practicum Environment Scale for Nursing Students.

This study aimed to develop a Hybrid Clinical Practicum Environment Scale for Nursing Students (HCPES-NS) and verify its validity and reliability. The HCPES-NS was constructed following the DeVellis guidelines. The initial items were written based on a literature review and individual in-depth interviews. Content validity was verified through an expert panel review. To confirm the validity and reliability of the scale, a survey was conducted with 449 nursing students enrolled in 12 nursing colleges. Data were analyzed using item analysis, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, concurrent validity, and reliability tests. Factor analysis showed that the HCPES-NS consists of 15 items on five subdomains: clinical site atmosphere, interpersonal relationship, alternative online practicum contents, provision of learning information, and clinical performance facilitation. A higher score indicated a more positive perception of the clinical practicum environment. The concurrent validity of the HCPES-NS was confirmed by its positive correlation with the Clinical Learning Environment Scale (r = .77). The Cronbach's α reliability of the HCPES-NS was .84. The HCPES-NS is both valid and reliable. This scale reflects the clinical practicum environment and includes an online practicum factor. It may be used effectively by faculty members and educators to evaluate nursing students' perceptions of clinical practicum environments.

Prenatal assessment of brain malformations on neuroimaging: an expert panel review.

Brain malformations represent a heterogeneous group of abnormalities of neural morphogenesis, often associated with aberrations of neuronal connectivity and brain volume. Prenatal detection of brain malformations requires a clear understanding of embryology and developmental morphology through the various stages of gestation. This expert panel review is written with the central aim of providing an easy-to-understand roadmap to improve prenatal detection and characterization of structural malformations based on the current understanding of normal and aberrant brain development. The utility of each available neuroimaging modality including prenatal multiplanar neurosonography, anatomical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and advanced MRI techniques, as well as further insights from post-mortem imaging have been highlighted for every developmental stage.

Psychedelic trip sitting, dosages and intensities: Supplementing clinical studies with anecdotal reports

AbstractBackground and aimsOnline communities provide insights into psychedelic consumption, assisting in identification of trends, informing both harm reduction provisions and clinical research. This study extracts forum data on psychedelic substances, dosages, and administration routes, categorising and analysing self-reported consumption to inform care services and guide clinical work with psychedelics.MethodsPosts (n = 660) from online psychedelic forums (The Shroomery and DMT Nexus) on 'trip sitting' were analysed. Using a Delphi-style expert panel review facilitated by LE, we created drug weight and intensity charts (threshold, light, common, strong and heavy dosages) for psychedelics discussed in these posts. The psychedelic substance, dosage intensity and route of administration [ROA] (smoked/vaporised, oral, injected, insufflated and undisclosed) frequencies and exploring correlations with perceived need for assistance from a psychedelic carer were mapped and correlated with perceived need for psychedelic care.ResultsPsychedelics appearing in our data were 5-MeO-DMT, ayahuasca, changa, LSA, LSD and psilocybin. There was greater commonality between clinical studies and 'common' doses determined through the Delphi method, for more extensively researched substances like LSD and psilocybin. Many posts indicated opinions that psychedelic care was unnecessary or optional for consumers, particularly for LSD and LSA. 5-MeO-DMT was strongly associated with a perceived need for care. A correlation was identified between greater psychedelic purity, dosage intensity, and a perceived need for care. Oral administration, the most common ROA, showed lower dosage intensity.ConclusionMore research is needed to understand factors influencing psychedelic care practices. Educational information, emphasizing risk management strategies, should be provided to psychedelic consumers, emphasising psychedelic products and administration methods more likely to be dosed at a strong or heavy intensity.

Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of &lt;i&gt;The Continuous Traumatic Stress Response Scale&lt;/i&gt;: Ukrainian version

Adapting and validating diagnostic tools aimed to evaluate the post-traumatic effects of war in low-income countries is essential for assessing needs and planning support programs. This paper will describe the process of cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Continuous Traumatic Stress Response (CTSR) Scale for war-affected Ukraine. The study includes Phase 1, Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Scale, and Phase 2, Psychometric validation of the Scale. Cross-cultural adaptation goes through four stages: forward translation, expert panel review and back translation (n=3), pretesting and cognitive interviewing mental health professionals (n=8), and final version. Psychometric validation includes exploratory (n=200) and confirmatory (n=219) factor analyses, internal consistency, construct validity and test-retest reliability. Findings from the current research indicate that the components identified through factor analyses differed from those in the original questionnaire. While all original items in the questionnaire were retained, they merged into two new factors: “Exhaustion and Rage” and “Fear and Betrayal”. The results show that the overall Cronbach’s Alpha is .858, indicating a high level of internal consistency. Significant correlations exist between the total CTSR Scale score, the subscale scores, PTSD (PCL-5), moral injury (MISS-C-SF), depression (PHQ-9), and anxiety (GAD-7) symptoms, indicating construct validity. The findings demonstrate the test-retest reliability of the CTSR Scale and have practical implications for how it could be implemented in trauma-informed care. Disclosure Statement The authors reported no potential conflicts of interest. * Corresponding author: Larysa Zasiekina, 0000-0001-8456-0774zasyekina.larisa@vnu.edu.ua