Feasibility Aspects Research Articles

Profitability and Financial Feasibility Analysis of Hydroponic Vegetable Business at Bahagia Farm

Purpose: This study aims to explore the profitability and financial feasibility aspects of hydroponic farming. Methodology: The study was conducted at Bahagia Farm, located in Bahagia Village, Babelan District, Bekasi Regency, from May 2023 to June 2023. The Non-Probability Sampling technique with a Saturated Sample (census) approach was used for sample selection. Data collection involved primary information from interviews, direct observations, and original documents, analyzed through profitability and financial feasibility analysis. Results: The results indicate that the farming business is profitable and feasible, with profitability indicators such as a Gross Profit Margin of 75.21% and a Net Profit Margin of 48.83%. Findings: The financial analysis shows a Net Present Value (NPV) above the neutral point at Rp553,272,251, a Net B/C ratio of 2.63, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 41.82%, and a payback period of 2 years, 4 months, and 18 days. Novelty: This research provides detailed insights into the financial viability and profitability of hydroponic farming, enhancing understanding of its economic potential. Originality: The study offers a comprehensive analysis of economic benefits and financial metrics, contributing to knowledge on sustainable agriculture practices. Conclusions: Hydroponic farming at Bahagia Farm is profitable and financially feasible, making it a viable agricultural practice. Type of Paper: Empirical Research Article

Chemical nature evolution of solid supports used in electromembrane extraction procedures: A comparative analysis based on metric tools

BackgroundIn recent decades, green chemistry has been focusing on the adaptation of different chemical methods towards environmental friendliness. Sample preparation procedures, which constitute a fundamental step in analytical methodology, have also been modified and implemented in this direction. In particular, electromembrane extraction (EME) procedures, which have traditionally used plastic supports, have been optimized towards greener approaches through the emergence of alternative materials. In this regard, biopolymer-based membranes (such as agarose or chitosan) have become versatile and very promising substitutes to perform these processes. ResultsDifferent green metric tools (Analytical Eco-Scale, ComplexGAPI and AGREEprep have been applied to study the evolution of solid supports used in EME from nanostructured tissues and polymer inclusion membranes to agar films and chitosan flat membranes. The main goal is to evaluate the usage of these new biomaterials in the analytical procedure to quantify their environmental impact in the frame of Green Analytical Chemistry (GAC). In addition, both RGB model and BAGI metrics have been employed to study the sustainability of the whole procedure, including not only greenness, but also analytical performance and feasibility aspects. Results obtained after the performance of the mentioned metrics have demonstrated that the most efficient and environmentally friendly analytical methods are based on the use of chitosan supports. This improvement is mainly due to the chemical nature of this biopolymer as well as to the removal of organic solvents. SignificanceThis work highlights the advantages of biodegradable materials employment in EME procedures to achieve green analytical methodologies. These materials also contribute to raise the figure of merits regarding to the quantification parameters in a wide range of applications compared to classical supports employed in EME, thus enhancing sustainability of procedures.

Nano-TiO2 enhanced fruit storage chambers: unveiling the potential for prolonging banana shelf life

ABSTRACT This manuscript focuses on the development of Fruit Storage Chamber (FSC) equipped with nano-TiO2 and its modular prototype to improve the value of bamboo-based FSC by its photocatalytic and feasibility aspects. Its effects on fruit shelf life and ripening-related gene expression were studied. Cavendish bananas were stored in FSC equipped with nano-TiO2 and modular FSC for treatments. Relative expression level of ethylene biosynthesis-related (MaACS1, MaACO1) and polyphenol oxidase (MaPPO4, MaPPO5) genes were examined. The dynamics of ripening variables throughout the storage period were illustrated in regression lines, followed with hypothesis testing. Banana quantity showed no significant changes upon storage in FSC equipped with nano-TiO2. Physical appearance indicated a ripening delay of up to two days on nano-TiO2 treatments compared to control. Ethylene production rate and ethylene related gene expression were not significantly altered. Browning index was more maintained in nano-TiO2 treated samples, supported by the observation of slower increase of MaPPO4 and MaPPO5 relative expressions compared to control. The findings highlight the suppression of fruit ripening related gene expression and the maintenance of fruit quality in treated samples compared to control, indicating the potential use of nano-TiO2 to prolong banana shelf life.

Study on The Design Scheme of The East Extension Project of Qiushi Elevated Road

This paper takes the east extension project of Qiushi elevated road as an example, according to the planning and status quo situation of the project, combined with the traffic forecast and the analysis of the status quo, through the comprehensive selection of the program, the most reasonable scheme is selected from the aspects of scheme feasibility, traffic function and economy.

Development of test instruments to measure problem-solving and science literacy of grade XI students on ion equilibrium material in salt hydrolysis

Low science literacy in students will have an impact on students' ability to solve problems. To improve it, it is necessary to develop an assessment instrument in the form of a science literacy instrument. This study aims to develop valid, reliable problem solving and science literacy assessment instruments for students. The material chosen is ion equilibrium in salt solution. The research was conducted in high, medium and low ability schools namely SMA Negeri 1 Pekanbaru, SMA Negeri 12 Pekanbaru and SMA Negeri 15 Pekanbaru. There are 16 questions out of 20 questions that are constructively valid with a correlation value> 0.36. The questions developed have met the reliability requirements with a Cronbach alpha coefficient value greater than 0.6, reaching a value of 0.874. The level of difficulty of questions between 0.3 -0.7 is in the good enough category and differentiating power ≥ 0.3. Based on two trials, namely one-on-one trials and limited trials, the same results were obtained that the assessment instruments developed for students had very good readability aspects (85%), good adequacy aspects (64%) and assessment instruments developed for teachers had very good feasibility aspects (91%). There is a significant difference in the ability of students in high schools with medium and low ability schools.

Development of Monopoly Learning Media in Lactation Education Class to Improve Pregnant Women's Knowledge and Attitude about Breastfeeding

Exclusive breastfeeding coverage for infants aged 0-6 months was 71.58% in 2021, but most provinces still have coverage below the national average. One of the causes is knowledge. Interesting and fun learning media can affect knowledge or learning outcomes, one of which is interactive media in the form of a monopoly game. The study aims to develop a learning media monopoly game that is feasible in terms of media and material and to determine the effectiveness of learning media monopoly games to improve the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women in breastfeeding. This research method uses a research and development model developed by Borg and Gall consisting of 10 steps starting from potential and problems to mass production. The results showed that the feasibility aspects by material experts and users obtained an average score of 4.32 and media experts for engineering aspects 4.9 and visual communication aspects 4.62, all of which were in the good category, meaning that they were feasible and validated to be tested. The statistical test results show that there is an increase in knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women about breastfeeding after lactation education using educational media in the form of monopoly games with p-value = 0.000 < α 0.05. The conclusion is that lactation education learning media in the form of Monopoly games is effective in increasing the interest of pregnant women in breastfeeding preparation.

International guidelines for intratumoral and intranodal injection of NBTXR3 nanoparticles in head and neck cancers.

An international multidisciplinary panel of experts aimed to provide consensus guidelines describing the optimal intratumoral and intranodal injection of NBTXR3 hafnium oxide nanoparticles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) of the oral cavity, oropharynx, and cervical lymph nodes and to review data concerning safety, feasibility, and procedural aspects of administration. The Delphi method was used to determine consensus. A 4-member steering committee and a 10-member monitoring committee wrote and revised the guidelines, divided into eight sections. An independent 3-member reading committee reviewed the recommendations. After two rounds of voting, strong consensus was obtained on all recommendations. Intratumoral and intranodal injection was deemed feasible. NBTXR3 volume calculation, choice of patients, preparation and injection procedure, potential side effects, post injection, and post treatment follow-up were described in detail. Best practices for the injection of NBTXR3 were defined, thus enabling international standardization of intratumoral nanoparticle injection.

Architectural Framework and Feasibility of Internet of Things-Driven Mars Exploration via Satellite Constellations

This study outlines a technical framework for Internet of Things (IoT) communications on Mars, leveraging Long Range (LoRa) technology to connect Martian surface sensors and orbiting satellites. The designed architecture adapts terrestrial satellite constellation models to Martian environments and the specific needs of interplanetary communication with Earth. It incorporates multiple layers, including Martian IoT nodes, satellite linkage, constellation configuration, and Earth communication, emphasizing potential Martian IoT applications. The analysis covers four critical feasibility aspects: the maximum communication range between surface IoT nodes and orbiting satellites, the satellite constellation’s message processing capacity to determine IoT node volume support, the communication frequency and visibility of IoT nodes based on the satellite constellation arrangement, and the interplanetary data transmission capabilities of LoRa-based IoT devices. The findings affirm LoRa’s suitability for Martian IoT communication, demonstrating extensive coverage, sufficient satellite processing capacity for anticipated IoT node volumes, and effective data transmission in challenging interplanetary conditions. This establishes the framework’s viability for advancing Mars exploration and IoT in space exploration contexts.

Eksplorasi Arsitektur Masjid Agung Sang Cipta Rasa Cirebon sebagai Bahan Ajar Matematika

Integrating cultural context into teaching and learning activities can help students understand the material. However, the development of teaching materials that integrate local cultural contexts is still not widely practiced. This study aims to (1) describe the results of exploring the architecture of the Grand Mosque of Sang Cipta Rasa Cirebon as a teaching material for mathematics, (2) determine students' responses to the mathematics teaching material resulting from the exploration of the architecture of the Grand Mosque of Sang Cipta Rasa Cirebon, and (3) determine the difference in mathematics learning outcomes before and after using the mathematics module. This study applied the ADDIE development model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). In the architecture of the Grand Mosque of Sang Cipta Rasa, concepts of two-dimensional shapes such as triangles and quadrilaterals were found, including squares, rectangles, trapezoids, and rhombuses. The expert validation results show that the developed mathematics module is highly feasible to implement, with percentages of content, presentation, and language feasibility aspects reaching 88%, 90%, and 89% respectively. Students' responses to the mathematics module were categorized as good (71%). Paired sample t-test results show that students' learning outcomes before and after using the developed mathematics module are significantly different, with higher learning outcomes after using the mathematics module compared to before its use. Thus, the mathematics module resulting from the exploration of the architecture of the Grand Mosque of Sang Cipta Rasa Cirebon can be implemented in learning to improve mathematics learning outcomes.

Industrial-scale manufacturing of particleboards using agricultural waste camellia oleifera shells

The search for materials made from renewable resources and free of toxic substances is a global trend towards cleaner production, which can be extended to the development of wood-based panels. However, the industrial sector of wood-based panels has been facing several gaps and challenges related to the shortage of wood raw materials for panel manufacturing with the toxic emissions of traditional adhesives. Camellia oleifera shell (COS), as a common waste, is a potential alternative raw material for wood-based panels and also has an important role in alleviating environmental stress. Faced with these problems, the aim of this study was to assess the technical feasibility and environmental aspects of manufacturing particleboard from COS waste at scale. For this purpose, particles made from conventional eucalyptus species were used as particleboard reinforcing phase. Particleboard was manufactured and tested by varying some production parameters, namely: of 10, 20 and 30% content of COS addition; and adhesive types of melamine-urea-formaldehyde (MUF) and polymeric 4–4 diphenylmethane diisocyanate (pMDI) adhesives. The results showed that the physical-mechanical properties of COS-based particleboards were satisfactory for a 10% MUF resin loading or a 3.5% pMDI resin loading. COS-based particleboards with 20–30% COS content similarly met the standards and requirements for non-structural applications. This study presents an informative discussion for decision makers in the wood-based panel industry, providing a trade-off between lower adhesive application and higher COS substitution that is more suitable for direct production at total plant scale.

An Evaluation of English Language Textbook for Senior High School Students in Indonesia

The transition from the revised 2013 curriculum in Indonesia to the Merdeka curriculum necessitates the utilization of learning resources, particularly textbooks employed by teachers and students in teaching and learning process. Consequently, this study aims to evaluate English textbooks utilized for the tenth grade of senior high schools in Indonesia. This research employs a qualitative approach with a content analysis design. The subject of this research is an English textbook designed for the tenth grade at the high school level, focusing on on odd semester material. The analysis of the textbooks took into account aspects of content feasibility and presentation. The study’s findings indicate that, in terms of content feasibility: 1) three chapters scored below four on the compatibility of materials with learning objective indicator, 2) three chapters scored below four on the accuracy of the materials indicator, and 3) three chapters scored below four on the supporting materials indicator. In terms of presentation feasibility, some chapters some chapters still received a score of two on the presentation of the material indicator, particularly in the project-based learning sub-indicator. The study’s results suggest that curriculum changes should be accompanied by adjustments to the learning resources utilized by teachers and students.
 Keywords: English textbook, content analysis, senior high school

The feasibility and technical aspects of trigemino-cervical reflex elicitation in humans under general anesthesia

ObjectiveTo analyze the feasibility, neurophysiological aspects, stimulation patterns, and topographic distribution of trigemino-cervical reflex (TCR) components in humans under general anesthesia. MethodsThis prospective observational study enrolled 20 participants who underwent posterior fossa surgery, surgical proceduresin thecraniovertebral junction,or spinal cord surgery. TCR responses were simultaneously recorded in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and trapezius muscles after electrical stimulation of the supraorbital and infraorbital nerves. TCR responses were recorded preoperatively and intraoperatively using single-pulse and multipulse (trains of 2–7 electrical stimuli) stimulation, respectively. Two stimulus duration patterns were evaluated: 0.2–0.5 ms and 0.5–1.0 ms. ResultsIntraoperatively, short- and long-latency TCR components were obtained in the SCM ipsilateral to the stimulation with variable recordability. Short-latency responses were the most commonly recorded components. A longer stimulus duration (0.5–1.0 ms) seems to favor the elicitation of TCR responses under general anesthesia. ConclusionsShort-latency components recorded in the SCM ipsilateral to the stimulation could be regularly elicited under general anesthesia when a larger stimulus duration (0.5–1.0 ms) was applied. SignificanceThis is the first study to demonstrate the elicitation of TCR components in humans under general anesthesia. This neurophysiological technique can potentially optimize intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring during brainstem surgery.

Identification of health-related problems in youth: a mixed methods feasibility study evaluating the Youth Health Report System

BackgroundBecause poor health in youth risk affecting their entry in adulthood, improved methods for their early identification are needed. Health and welfare technology is widely accepted by youth populations, presenting a potential method for identifying their health problems. However, healthcare technology must be evidence-based. Specifically, feasibility studies contribute valuable information prior to more complex effects-based research. The current study assessed the process, resource, management, and scientific feasibility of the Youth Health Report System prototype, developed within a youth health clinic context in advance of an intervention study.MethodsThis mixed-methods feasibility study was conducted in a clinical setting. The process, resource, management, and scientific feasibility of the Youth Health Report System were investigated, as recommended in the literature. Participants were youth aged 16–23 years old, attending a youth health clinic, and healthcare professionals from three clinics. The youth participants used their smart phones to respond to Youth Health Report System health questions and healthcare professionals used their computer to access the results and for registration system entries. Qualitative data were collected from interviews with healthcare professionals, which were described with thematic analysis. Youth participants’ quantitative Youth Health Report System data were analyzed for descriptive statistics.ResultsFeasibility analysis of qualitative data from interviews with 11 healthcare professionals resulted in three themes: We expected it could be hard; Information and routines helped but time was an issue; and The electronic case report form was valuable in the health assessment. Qualitative data were collected from the Youth Health Report System. A total of 54 youth participants completed the evaluation questionnaire, and healthcare professionals retrieved information from, and made post-appointment system entries. Quantitative results revealed few missing items and acceptable data variability. An assessment template of merged qualitative and quantitative data guided a consensus discussion among the researchers, resulting in acceptable feasibility.ConclusionsThe process-, resource-, management-, and scientific feasibility aspects were acceptable, with some modifications, strengthening the potential for a successful Youth Health Report System intervention study.

Evaluation of the Anatomical Reference Point in Posterior Minimally Invasive Atlantoaxial Spine Surgery: A Cadaveric Anatomical Study.

Minimally invasive atlantoaxial surgery offers the benefits of reduced trauma and quicker recovery. Previous studies have focused on feasibility and technical aspects, but the lack of comprehensive safety information has limited its availability and widespread use. This study proposes to define the feasibility and range of surgical safety using the intersection of the greater occipital nerve and the inferior border of the inferior cephalic oblique as a reference point. Dissection was performed on 10 fresh cadavers to define the anatomical reference point as the intersection of the greater occipital nerve and the inferior border of the inferior cephalic oblique muscle. The study aimed to analyze the safety range of minimally invasive atlantoaxial fusion surgery by measuring the distance between the anatomical reference point and the transverse foramen of the axis, the distance between the anatomical reference point and the superior border of the posterior arch of the atlas, and the distance between the anatomical reference point and the spinal canal. Measurements were compared using Student's t test. The point where the occipital greater nerve intersects with the inferior border of the inferior cephalic oblique muscle was defined as the anatomical marker for minimally invasive posterior atlantoaxial surgery. The distance between this anatomical marker and the transverse foramen of the axis was measured to be 9.32 ± 2.04 mm. Additionally, the distance to the superior border of the posterior arch of the atlas was found to be 21.29 ± 1.93 mm, and the distance to the spinal canal was measured to be 11.53 ± 2.18 mm. These measurement results can aid surgeons in protecting the vertebral artery and dura mater during minimally invasive posterior atlantoaxial surgery. The intersection of the greater occipital nerve with the inferior border of the inferior cephalic oblique muscle is a safe and reliable anatomical landmark in minimally invasive posterior atlantoaxial surgery.

Group, Blended and Individual, Unguided Online Delivery of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for People With Cancer: Feasibility Uncontrolled Trial.

Online mindfulness based cognitive therapy (eMBCT) has been shown to reduce psychological distress in people with cancer. However, this population has reported lack of support and asynchronous communication as barriers to eMBCT, resulting in higher nonadherence rates than with face-to-face MBCT. Using a co-creation process, we developed 2 formats of eMBCT: group, blended (combination of therapist-guided group and individual online sessions) and individual, unguided (individual, unguided online sessions only). Group, blended eMBCT offers peer support and guidance, whereas individual, unguided eMBCT offers flexibility and the possibility of large-scale implementation. The objective of this nonrandomized feasibility study was to assess aspects of feasibility of the group, blended and individual, unguided eMBCT interventions. Participants were people with cancer who chose between group, blended and individual, unguided eMBCT. Both intervention conditions followed the same 8-week eMBCT program, including an introductory session and a silent day (10 sessions total). All sessions for individual, unguided eMBCT occurred via the platform Minddistrict, whereas group, blended eMBCT consisted of 3 online videoconference sessions guided by a mindfulness teacher and 5 sessions via Minddistrict. We assessed the feasibility of the intervention quantitatively and qualitatively by evaluating its acceptability among participants. Additionally, we assessed limited efficacy by looking at the number of questionnaires participants completed pre- and postintervention. We included 12 participants for each eMBCT condition. Participants in group, blended eMBCT completed, on average, 9.7 of 10 sessions, compared with an average 8.3 sessions for individual, unguided eMBCT (excluding dropouts). Of the 24 participants, 13 (54%) agreed to be interviewed (5 unguided and 8 blended). Participants in both conditions reported positive experiences, including the convenience of not having to travel and the flexibility to choose when and where to participate. However, among the barriers for participation, participants in the group, blended condition reported a preference for more group sessions, and participants in the individual, unguided condition reported a lack of guidance. Additionally, for the group, blended condition, the effect sizes were small for all outcome measures (Hedges g range=0.01-0.36), except for fatigue, which had a moderate effect size (Hedges g=0.57). For the individual, unguided condition, the effect sizes were small for all outcome measures (Hedges g range=0.24-0.46), except for mindfulness skills (Hedges g=0.52) and engagement with the intervention (Hedges g=1.53). Participants in this study had a positive experience with group, blended and individual, unguided eMBCT. Based on the results from this study, we will adjust the intervention prior to conducting a full-scale randomized controlled trial to evaluate effectiveness; we will add 1 group session to the group, blended eMBCT using Zoom as the platform for the group sessions; and we will send reminders to participants to complete questionnaires. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05336916; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05336916.

Strong culture, healthy lifestyles: a mixed methods feasibility study for a co-created afterschool cultural programme for Australian Aboriginal children

BackgroundHaving a strong connection to culture and Country is fundamental to the health and wellbeing of Australian Aboriginal children. The aim of the research was to evaluate the feasibility of study methods and programme implementation of a co-created afterschool cultural programme, and identify areas for improvement.MethodsAboriginal Relational Research Methodology and mixed methods were applied to evaluate the feasibility of the implementation of the programme and study methods using a non-randomised single-group study design. Australian Aboriginal children and their siblings aged 5–13 years were recruited within regional New South Wales, Australia. The primary outcomes for feasibility included recruitment rates of children and Aboriginal programme mentors, compliance rates of outcome data collection and of the planned programme activities, programme attendance, retention rates and mean enjoyment scores. Follow-up yarning circles were conducted with the children, their parents/caregivers, programme mentors and teachers to explore aspects of feasibility, and areas for improvement.ResultsA total of 90 caregivers consented to their children (n = 111) being part of the research. Sixteen Aboriginal mentors were recruited to deliver the programmes across the communities. Overall, 74.4% of all health outcome measures were completed across baseline (86.5%) and follow-up (55.9%). Only 61.0% of the programme activities were delivered as originally planned. The average programme attendance rate was 70.0% with a 92.0% retention rate. Eighty-nine percent of children reported a high level of enjoyment with the programmes. Follow-up yarning identified the importance of relational methodologies and flexibility within the programme design and implementation to ensure programmes were adapted to the local community, conditions and differing age groups. Considerations for future programmes included the timing of the programme and identifying health outcome assessment tools and methods that acknowledge cultural protocols and experiences.ConclusionsEngaging the communities in the development, implementation and evaluation of the programmes were key to community support of the programme and conducting the feasibility study. Future programmes and evaluations need to be built on strong partnerships and embrace flexible and culturally embedded methodologies in order to be adaptive and responsive to research approaches, communities and to Country.Trial registrationACTRN12619001224112. Retrospectively registered on 05 September 2019.

Cognitive Functional Therapy compared with usual physiotherapy care in people with persistent low back pain: a mixed methods feasibility randomised controlled trial in the United Kingdom National Health Service

ObjectivesTo determine the feasibility of completing a definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT), evaluating the clinical and cost-effectiveness of Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT) in comparison to usual physiotherapy care (UPC), for people with persistent low back pain (LBP). Design and settingA two-arm parallel feasibility RCT completed in a United Kingdom (UK) Secondary Care National Health Service (NHS) physiotherapy service. ParticipantsSixty adult participants who reported LBP lasting for more than three months, that was not attributable to a serious (e.g. cancer) or specific (e.g. radiculopathy) underlying cause, were invited to participate. Participants were allocated at random to receive CFT or UPC. InterventionsCognitive Functional Therapy and Usual Physiotherapy Care for persistent LBP. Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome was the feasibility of completing a definitive RCT, defined by recruitment of at least 5 participants per month, delivery of CFT per protocol and securing relevant and acceptable outcome measures. Data concerning study processes, resources, management and participant reported outcome measures were collected at baseline, 3, 6 and 12-month follow-up. ResultsSixty participants (n = 30 CFT and n = 30 UPC) were recruited with 80% (n = 48), 72% (n = 43) and 53% (n = 32) retained at 3, 6 and 12-month follow-up respectively. NHS physiotherapists were trained to competence and delivered CFT with fidelity. CFT was tolerated by participants with no adverse events. Relevant and clinically important outcome data were collected at all time points (0.4%, 3%, 1% and 0.8% of data was missing from the returned outcome measure booklets at baseline and 3, 6 and 12-month follow-up respectively). The Roland-Morris disability questionnaire was considered the most suitable primary outcome measure with a proposed sample size of 540 participants for a definitive cluster RCT. ConclusionIt is feasible to conduct a randomised study of CFT in comparison to UPC for NHS patients. A future study should incorporate an internal pilot to address aspects of feasibility further, including participant retention strategies. Clinical trial registration numberISRCTN12965286 Contribution of the paper•Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT) has shown encouraging results for reducing pain and disability in people with persistent LBP in previous clinical trials. The clinical and cost-effectiveness of CFT has not previously been evaluated in a definitive trial in the United Kingdom National Health Service. This is the first study to evaluate the feasibility of completing such a trial.•The findings of this study confirmed that;•NHS patients can be recruited on time and to target, with no safety concerns regarding a randomised controlled trial.•NHS physiotherapists can be trained to competence to deliver CFT with fidelity.•Clinically relevant and important data can be collected using standardised outcome measures.•New knowledge about the feasibility of completing a definitive trial of CFT in the UK NHS has been gained.

Feasibility of Recovery Assessment Scale - Domains and Stages (RAS-DS) for everyday mental health practice.

Routine use of self-rated measures of mental health recovery can support recovery-oriented practice. However, to be widely adopted, outcome measures must be feasible. This study examined the feasibility of Recovery Assessment Scale - Domains and Stages (RAS-DS) from the perspectives of mental health workers. Mental health workers who had previously sought permission to use RAS-DS (n=58) completed an online survey that explored three aspects of feasibility: practicality, acceptability and applicability. The highest-rated feasibility items related to applicability, or usefulness in practice, with over 90% of participants reporting that RAS-DS helps "promote discussion" and covers areas that are "meaningful to consumers". Acceptability items indicated that the purpose of RAS-DS is clear but length was an issue for some participants. At a practical level, RAS-DS was seen as easy to access but training was seen by many as necessary to ensure optimal use. Results suggest potential usefulness of RAS-DS as a routine outcome measure and identify aspects that can be addressed to further enhance feasibility including provision of training materials and opportunities, wide-reaching promotion of its use as a collaborative tool, and further investigation of issues around instrument length.

The Free Movement of People in SADC

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states committed under Article 5(2) (d) of the SADC Treaty to develop policies aimed at the progressive elimination of the obstacles to the free movement of capital, labour, goods and services. The 2005 SADC Protocol on the Movement of People was celebrated as a giant step towards the realization of the regional integration objective of building SADC into a regional community that is fully integrated where citizens enjoy the freedom of movement across regional borders. Whilst substantial efforts have been invested in developing various legal and policy frameworks to open up borders for the free movement of people within SADC, thirty (30) years since the formation of SADC in April 1980 as the Southern African Development Coordination Conference (SADCC); the region is facing serious challenges relating to the free movement of people, migration and labour movement. In reality, SADC member states’ governments have been confronted with serious feasibility challenges, complexities, risks and dilemmas as they attempt to implement commitments made towards the free movement of people in the region, with political, security, economic, strategic, and technical factors often cited as obstacles. This paper sought to critically reflect on the feasibility aspects, policy dilemmas at member state level as well as strategic considerations that stand on the way of free movement of people in SADC. The focus was on examining possibilities, capacities and prospects of SADC member states (in their collectivity and individuality) in addressing the underlying, structural and operational obstacles that are impeding the free movement of people in the region. Secondary data sources are used for analysis, and the three concepts of free movement of people, migration and regional integration provide conceptual lenses for analysis. Findings are key in providing perspectives on how SADC member states may need to collectively address the fundamental questions and issues that facilitate the free movement of people in the region.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SELF-HELP APPLICATION BASED ON SELF DIRECTED SEARCH IMPROVES STUDENT CAREER EXPLORATION

This study aims to produce career field applications that meet acceptability criteria which include aspects of usability, feasibility, accuracy and compliance for guidance and counseling teachers at SMPN 1 Beji as a guide in providing guidance and counseling to class VIII students at SMPN 1 Beji. This development was carried out based on the distribution of a needs questionnaire in class VIII to guidance and counseling teachers in charge of class VIII and class VIII students totaling 372 students. This research uses the Borg & Gall development method. The development of this application is used by guidance and counseling teachers for additional information in career counseling and guidance activities. The development of the SDS Self Help application for class VIII students of SMPN 1 Beji was tested to see the acceptability and effectiveness of the application for class VIII students. Therefore, tests were carried out on material experts, media, prospective users (guidance and counseling teachers for class VIII) and class VIII students. The results of the test get a score of 0.9, it can be concluded that the product is very good, does not need to be revised. In testing the effectiveness of the application using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test which was conducted on 372 class VIII students, it was seen that the application was effectively used, so that the development of the SDS Self Help application for Class VIII SMPN 1 Beji met the acceptability criteria