High Level Of Reliability Research Articles

Multi-Professional Family Support Programme: A Collective Development at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

This study was undertaken to structure and validate a Multi-Professional Family Support Programme that was collectively developed at a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This is participative research of the action-research category with a qualitative–quantitative approach conducted at a University Hospital in the southeast of Brazil with the participation of their multi-professional staff. The study was done in four interdependent stages, adapted from the method proposed by Thiollent (2011): organisation, structuring, validation, and diffusion. Qualitative data were analysed following Bardin’s (2016) Content Analysis Technique and presented in categories and sub-categories. The evaluation instruments followed the evaluation criteria proposed by Pasquali (2010). In the analysis of quantitative data, Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient was used to verify reliability, Fleiss’ Kappa coefficient for measuring agreement, and the Content Validity Index for relevance and representativeness. The programme was built collectively and is based on the Family-Centred Care model. Cronbach’s Alpha reached values above 0.90, which is excellent reliability. There was varying agreement between substantial/perfect and significant (k = 0.68–1.00; p < 0.001), and all the evaluation criteria were considered relevant and representative (CVI > 90.0%). The programme and its guiding technologies were structured and validated with high levels of reliability, agreement, relevance, and representativeness.

Development and validation of the academic hope scale (AcHS) for students

Since the majority of hope-related instruments constructed so far assessed the domain-general concept of hope, developing the domain-specific hope scale can provide valuable information in academic fields. The present study aimed at developing and validating the academic hope scale (AcHS). This scale consisted of 27 items which were extracted from the results of interviews with students and based on the theoretical foundations of Snyder’s (The psychology of hope: you can get there from here, 1994) and Pekrun’s theories (Educ Psychol Rev 18(4):315–341, 2006). The psychometric properties of AcHS were examined in two studies. For the first study, 241 high school students and for the second study, 566 undergraduate students were selected using the multi-stage random cluster sampling method. The results of an exploratory factor analysis in the first study showed that there were 4 components of AcHS, namely hope to gain opportunities, hope to gain life skills, hope in school’s usefulness, and hope to gain competency. In the second study, the results of the confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the existence of the 4 components of AcHS. The Cronbach’s Alpha (α) and McDonald’s Omega (ω) coefficients in both studies indicate high levels of scale reliability. The results provide evidence that the AcHS has appropriate reliability and validity in both high school and university populations.

Patient Profile and Cost Savings of Long-Term Care in a Spanish Hospital: Retrospective Observational Study.

Long-term care hospitals have been considered an efficient response to the health care needs of an increasingly aging population. These centers are expected to contribute to better hospital bed management and more personalized care for patients needing continuous care. The evaluation of their outcomes is necessary after a sufficient period to assess their impact. Hospitals for Acute and Chronic Long-Term Extended Stay (HACLES) emerged in Spain in the late 20th century as a response to the aging population and the increase in chronic diseases. This study aimed to analyze the profile of patients treated in a HACLES, particularly analyzing gender differences, and evaluate the cost savings associated with using these centers. A retrospective study was conducted based on data from patients 65 years old or older admitted to a HACLES between 2022 and 2023. Gender, age, household cohabitation data, diagnosis and comorbidity, daily medication intake, and degree of dependency were obtained to describe the profile of patients who attended the HACLES. Data coded in SIA-Abucasis (version 37.00.03; Consellería Sanitat, Generalitat Valenciana; a digital medical record system used in the Valencian region) were reviewed, and descriptive statistics and comparison tests were used. The direct cost savings of HACLES admissions were calculated by comparing the daily cost of a general hospital bed with that of a HACLES bed. Data from 123 patients with a mean age of 77 years were analyzed. Most (n=81, 65.9%) had a cohabiting family member as their primary caregiver. Palliative care was the most frequent reason for admission (n=75, 61%). The mortality rate (odds ratio [OR] 61.8, 95% CI 53.2-70.5) was similar between men and women (OR 54.1, 95% CI 47.8-71.5 vs OR 59.7, 95% CI 42.2-66.0; P=.23). The cognitive assessment, using the Pfeiffer scale, improved at discharge (mean 3.2, SD 3.2 vs mean 2.5, SD 3.1; P=.003). The length of stay was significantly larger for patients who returned home compared with patients discharged to other facilities (mean 89.8, SD 58.2 versus mean 33.1, SD 43.1 days; P<.001). The direct cost savings were estimated at US $42,614,846 per 1000 admissions. Patients typically treated in HACLES are older, with a high level of cognitive impairment and physical dependency, and a significant proportion are in palliative care, highlighting the importance of adapting care to the individual needs of the admitted patients. The HACLES model contributes to the sustainability of the public health system.

Development and validation of a questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the addictive and detrimental effects of novel psychoactive substances among university students

BackgroundThe misuse of novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) is highly prevalent among university students, leading to significant public health and social safety concerns. To improve our drug education efforts related to NPSs, we developed a knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP)-based questionnaire for university students.MethodsWe developed a KAP-based questionnaire after performing a comprehensive literature review and consulting experts. The questionnaire was then administered to randomly selected college students in Fujian Province. The items were evaluated using the critical ratio, correlation analysis, and Cronbach’s α coefficient. Furthermore, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to assess the construct validity of the questionnaire. Subsequently, the convergent validity, discriminant validity, and reliability of the questionnaire were evaluated.ResultsA total of 587 college students were enrolled, including 280 (47.7%) males and 550 (93.7%) students who had received anti-drug education. Item analysis revealed that 3 items did not meet the t value (t < 4) or correlation coefficient thresholds (r < 3) or that Cronbach’s α coefficient increased after removing these items. After conducting EFA, 7 items with multiple loading factors above 0.4 or loading factors below 0.4 were removed, and 5 subdimensions were observed. CFA indicated that the questionnaire model exhibited a strong fit and acceptable convergent validity. However, there were some limitations in discriminant validity. The Cronbach’s α coefficients for the overall questionnaire and each dimension exceeded 0.9, indicating excellent internal consistency. Additionally, the questionnaire exhibited excellent split-half reliability (Cronbach’s α coefficients > 0.8, Spearman-Brown value = 0.982).ConclusionThe questionnaire developed herein exhibited high levels of reliability and validity, making it a suitable KAP-based tool for evaluating NPS-related addiction and harm among university students. These findings can guide the development of drug education and behavioral interventions.

Global processes of solid biofuel production: Trends and prospects of its development in Ukraine

The article highlights current global energy problems concerning the consumption of fossil fuels, their negative consequences, and trends in the growth of the consumption of renewable energy resources. It has been established that one of the most promising alternative energy sources in the world and Europe is solid biomass of plant origin, an environmentally friendly and rapidly renewable energy resource. An intensive process of growth in production and consumption of fuel briquettes and pellets, which in 2014–2020 made up averagely 27.2 %, can be observed in Ukraine. The constructed trend line of fuel briquettes and pellets production and consumption in Ukraine from 2014 to 2025 has a high level of reliability with a 0.92 coefficient of determination. Based on the analysis of the consumption of fuel briquettes and pellets in the regions of Ukraine, they were divided into low, medium, high, and very high levels of consumption. The developed miscanthus cultivation technology ensures: 20–25 t/ha dry biomass yield; 25–28 t/ha solid fuel yield; 500–520 GJ/ha solid fuel energy output; 160–190 % production profitability. The developed switchgrass growing technology provides: 15–20 t/ha dry biomass yield; 8.5–12.0 t/ha solid fuel yield; 150–220 GJ/ha solid fuel energy output; 160–230 % production profitability. The further development of solid biofuel production will ensure the expansion of technologies for the combined generation of electrical and thermal energy, which will be obtained due to the cheap biological resources processing. Development of domestic bioenergy engineering can be considered as an additional socio-economic effect.

Assessment of e-cigarette dependence and influencing factors among Palestinian young adults: a cross-sectional study

E-cigarette use is a growing public health concern, especially because of the potential health risks it poses. This study focuses on assessing e-cigarette dependence and the factors associated with it among Palestinian young adults. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to May 2023 among university students in the West Bank. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect demographic data, knowledge, and attitudes regarding e-cigarettes. E-cigarette dependence was assessed using the Penn State Electronic Cigarette Dependence Index. The study included 386 university students who used e-cigarettes. Many of them started using e-cigarettes at a young age, and 54.7% were dual users of e-cigarettes and traditional tobacco. High levels of dependence were reported in 11.4% of participants, and moderate dependence in 28.8%. Several factors were identified through multivariate linear regression as significantly associated with e-cigarette dependence: a higher monthly allowance (β = 0.116, 95% CI: 0.128- 1.124, p = .014), having a father who uses tobacco (β = 0.095, 95% CI: 0.030- 1.638, p = .042), having a close friend who smokes traditional cigarettes (β = 0.095, 95% CI: 0.019- 1.667, p = .045), using e-cigarettes in areas where traditional smoking is prohibited (β = 0.175, 95% CI: 0.689–2.330, p < .001), using e-cigarettes to quit other forms of tobacco (β = 0.134, 95% CI: 0.434–2.314, p = .004), and a more negative attitude score (β = − 0.210, 95% CI: − 0.285- − 0.112, p < .001). The study revealed high levels of e-cigarettes dependence among the participants among young adults, with associated variables such as monthly allowance, attitudes, and age of e-cigarette initiation. Policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals should collaborate to address e-cigarette dependence among young adults, taking into consideration social, environmental, and socioeconomic factors.

An integrated approach to a predictive and ranking model of use error using fuzzy BWM and fuzzy TOPSIS

Avoiding error in handling artifacts is crucial for achieving a high level of system reliability and safety assessment. This study develops a predictive and ranking model of use error (PRUE). In the first phase, use errors are systematically detected and anticipated via an inquiry process in two levels (activity and function). In the second phase, the fuzzy best–worst method (F-BWM) is employed to determine relative weights of three criteria including consequence of use error (CUE), detection of use error (DUE) and probability of use error (PUE). Fuzzy TOPSIS is then employed to rank use errors according to their risk level. The use errors of an infant ventilator device are assessed to demonstrate applicability of the PRUE method. The results of the present study confirm the reliability and applicability of this approach to assess artifact use errors. Moreover, the PRUE method can be utilized in investigation of user interface design.

The Application of PID Control in DC Motor Control Systems

Abstract. The application of Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control in direct current (DC) motor control systems is essential for achieving high levels of precision and reliability in both industrial and robotic applications. As DC motors are widely utilized in environments requiring accurate speed and torque control, this study seeks to address common challenges such as overshoot, instability, and sluggish response times that can compromise performance. The research is centered on the development and implementation of a PID-based control strategy using MATLAB/Simulink as the primary tool for simulation and testing. The study involves detailed simulation models and experimental validation, using data collected from controlled lab environments to evaluate the effectiveness of various tuning methods. These methods include adjusting the proportional, integral, and derivative gains to optimize motor responsiveness and system stability. The results indicate that with appropriate tuning, PID controllers can significantly enhance DC motor performance, leading to reduced overshoot, faster response times, and greater overall system reliability. The research concludes that adaptive PID control strategies, which dynamically adjust parameters in response to changing operating conditions, provide a robust solution for improving DC motor control in complex, dynamic, and nonlinear environments. This study lays the groundwork for future innovations in automation and precision-driven industries, offering insights that could be applied across a wide range of applications.

Internal Validation of the Latvian Version of 16-Item Prodromal Questionnaire in A Help-Seeking Adolescent Population: Psychometric Analysis and Associated Factors.

The prodromal phase of a psychotic disorder is a period of altered functioning before the onset of the acute state; several interviews have been developed to determine whether individuals present with prodromal symptoms. The 16-item Prodromal Questionnaire (PQ-16) is a screening tool for evaluating those at risk of developing a psychotic disorder. The study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Latvian version of the PQ-16 in a sample of help-seeking adolescents referred for diagnostic assessment and look for possible associated socio-demographic and health-related factors. A cross-sectional study included patients admitted for evaluation between November 2022 and February 2023 in Riga's Children's Clinical University Hospital Child Psychiatry clinic. The data were collected during outpatient consultations by mental health professionals. We used the Latvian translation of PQ-16 and the socio-demographic and health-related factors questionnaire. Data were analysed with IBM SPSS 28; the scale's diagnostic accuracy and internal validity were examined. The study involved 107 adolescents aged 12% to 17%, 80.5% female, with a mean age of 14.98 (CI 14.70-15.26). Socio-demographic data and health-related variables did not significantly differ between the sexes (p > 0.05). The Latvian PQ-16 demonstrated excellent internal reliability with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.890. All 16 items were found to be valid with p < 0.001. A significant number of participants (73.8%) scored above the current cut-off of ≥ 6 with a mean of 9.17 (95% CI 8.41-9.93). Certain socio-demographic factors, such as female gender (p < 0.001), fair school performance (p = 0.048) and recent changes in school performance (p < 0.001), demonstrated a significant association with higher scores. Additionally, there were found significant associations between positive screening and health-related factors such as obstetric complications (p = 0.044), smoking (p = 0.002), alcohol consumption (p = 0.021), history of bullying in school (p < 0.001) and emotional abuse at home (p = 0.011). Latvian translation of PQ-16 showed high internal reliability and validity levels. Positive PQ-16 screening was associated with female gender, worsened school performance, obstetric complications, substance abuse and experienced emotional violence. The average score of 9.17 positive answers and 73.8% of participants screening positive for attenuated psychotic symptoms is significantly higher than in recent studies under similar conditions.

Superstatistical functions of modified shifted Morse potential for diatomic molecules

The application of the molecular potential model to the study of different thermodynamic systems has been a focus of interest in recent time due to its importance in molecular and chemical physics. Hence, the asymptotic iteration method and the Laguerre polynomials are employed to obtain the eigensolutions of the Schrödinger equation with the modified shifted Morse potential model. Vibrational energy results for different diatomic molecules have been presented numerically, and these results are compared with experimental data and other results from available literature. The variation of normalised wave function and probability density of modified shifted Morse potential for some selected diatomic molecules at the ground- and first-excited states have been considered. Results obtained show that the equally spaced sinusoidal wave curves and varying nodes depend on the level of electron concentrations in the diatomic molecules considered. Partition function and other superstatistical function expressions of modified shifted Morse potential for some diatomic molecules within the modified Dirac delta distribution are obtained, using the Poisson summation formula. The superstatistical plots show a high level of dependence on the temperature parameter, maximum vibrational quantum number and deformation parameter. The superstatistical functions for a deformation parameter of zero correspond to the conventional thermodynamic functions.

Analysis of the visual function with the continuous transitional focus intraocular lens Precizon Presbyopic.

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of a refractive multi-segmented continuous transitional focus intraocular lens (IOL), analyzing the potential influence of patient pupil dynamics on these outcomes. Retrospective consecutive case series study enrolling 40 eyes (20 patients, 47-81 years) implanted with the Precizon Presbyopic IOL (Ophtec BV). The following clinical outcomes were analyzed during a mean follow-up of 12.1 months (2-24 months): visual acuity, refraction, contrast sensitivity (CS) under photopic and mesopic conditions, binocular defocus curve and evaluation of the perception of disturbing visual symptoms with a validated questionnaire. Mean binocular uncorrected distance (UDVA), distance-corrected intermediate (DCIVA), uncorrected near (UNVA) and distance-corrected near visual acuities (DCNVA) were -0.09 ± 0.07, 0.04 ± 0.05, 0.17 ± 0.12, and 0.15 ± 0.10 logMAR, respectively. In the binocular defocus curve, mean distance-corrected visual acuity was over 0.20 logMAR for defocus levels from +1.50 to -3.00 D. No significant correlations of photopic pupil diameter with postoperative visual data were found (-0.165 ≤ r ≤ 0.192, p ≥ 0.235). Moderate correlations of mesopic pupil size were found with visual acuities for the defocus levels of -2.50 (r = 0.454, p = 0.003), -3.00 (r = 0.609, p < 0.001), -3.50 (r = 0.519, p < 0.001), and -4.00 D (r = 0.403, p = 0.010). Only significant differences were found between mesopic and photopic CS for 12 cycles/degree (p = 0.010). No cases of severe glare or halos were detected. In contrast, 10% of patients referred the severe perception of starbursts postoperatively. Full spectacle independence was referred by almost all patients (90%). The IOL demonstrates effective visual restoration at various distances, characterized by high levels of visual quality and minimal dependence on pupil dynamics.

Magnitude and Correlates of Nicotine Dependence Among Brick Kiln Workers in A Rural Block of Murshidabad District, West Bengal, India

Background: Nicotine dependence, a major public health problem, causes respiratory illnesses like asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, pneumoconiosis (e.g. silicosis) and respiratory infections. Occupational exposure of smoke and dust among brick kiln workers, in addition to tobacco addiction result in worsening of lung function and increase the risk of mortality. This study planned to estimate the prevalence of nicotine dependence among tobacco users of a brick kiln factory and identify the factors associated with nicotine dependence among them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of one month in a brick kiln of Murshidabad district among 135 adult workers who had been consuming any form of tobacco. Nicotine dependence was assessed by interviewing the participants using Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) and Fagerstrom Nicotine Dependence Scale for smokeless Tobacco (FTND-ST) questionnaire. Results: About, 52.6% were smokers, 24.4% were smokeless tobacco users and 23% were addicted to both. Approximately 73.6% and 78.2% were nicotine dependent among smokers and smokeless tobacco users respectively. Age, illiteracy, initiation of nicotine consumption at an adult age and long duration of consumption were found to be significantly associated with nicotine dependence. Conclusions: A high level of nicotine dependence was found among workers. Awareness generation and behavior change communication is recommended.

A NEW NESTED HYBRID DWT-HD-SVD WATERMARKING SCHEME FOR DIGITAL IMAGES

Digital watermarking encrypts private information with the original data to protect the ownership rights of the digital asset. This paper suggests a brand-new nested watermarking technique (two-level watermarking technique) to protect copyrights of digital images. It based on a hybrid discrete wave transformation-Hessenberg decomposition-Singular value decomposition (DWT-HD-SVD). The gray-watermark image is first split into n parts, and each portion goes through two steps of watermarking, using two host images, using hybrid DWT-HD-SVD method and one final level of encryption (based on the Lightweight algorithm, the high-speed cryptographic method). The results of the simulation reveal that the suggested system offers a high level of imperceptibility, reliability and robustness. Also it can be used for both the colored and the grayed images.

Level of tobacco dependence and beliefs towards heated tobacco products

Abstract Nicotine dependence affects not only behaviors related directly to smoking, quit attempts or looking for alternative products but also beliefs about smoking. We sought to assess whether the level of tobacco dependence is associated with beliefs and feelings towards heated tobacco products (HTP) and to assess the relationship between tobacco dependence and the motivators to quit HTP use. Random population sample of Polish citizens aged 18+ years, former smokers, current HTP users was recruited. Tobacco dependence was assessed using 5 question; participants were classified into two groups of tobacco dependence (low or high) using a two-stage cluster analysis. An extensive questionnaire on beliefs on HTP use was administered. The χ2 test and logistic regression were used. There were 2,500 participants (62.6% women) of median age=36 years (Q1=29, Q3=45). The median number of years of smoking was 10 (Q1=5, Q3=15) and median number of years of HTP use was 2 (Q1=1, Q3=3). High tobacco dependence was found in 958 (38,3%) participants. Compared to low dependence, high tobacco dependence was related with feeling of strong need for HTP use (69.7% vs. 47.6%, p &amp;lt; 0,001). High level of tobacco dependence was positively related to perceived social pressure against smoking (72.9% vs. 44.9%, p &amp;lt; 0,001), but it did not differentiate perceived social pressure against HTP use. Compared to low tobacco dependence, participants with high tobacco dependence more often indicated fear of illness OR = 1,73 95%CI=1,46-2,07, own resolution OR = 1,32 95%CI =1,12-1,55 and price OR = 1,34 95%CI=1,13-1,59 as possible motivators to quit HTP use. Level of tobacco dependence in former smokers shaped beliefs and feelings towards HTP use. High tobacco dependence contributed to strong need to use HTP and also increased perception of social pressure against smoking, but not against using HTP. It also increased the importance of fear of illness, price and one’s own resolution as motivators to quit HTP use. Key messages • High level of tobacco dependence in former smokers results in stronger perceived social pressure against smoking but not against HTP use. • High tobacco dependence in former smokers is related with stronger need to use HTP.

Transitions in heating systems and impact on perceived wellbeing: a qualitative study

Abstract Background as part of the larger European WELLBASED project an urban program focusing on transitions in heating to tackle energy poverty, is implemented in 4 disadvantaged, predominantly Roma neighborhoods of Edirne, Türkiye. These neighborhoods have high levels of vulnerability, aid dependency, and energy poverty. This study investigated the impact on perceived wellbeing of implementing the heating system transition. Methods A qualitative methodology was applied; data was collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews among participants in the intervention group of the larger WELLBASED evaluation study. Diversity was ensured regarding gender, age, education level, and working status. Participants were 13 individuals from 13 households in which energy-efficient heating systems were installed. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcript verbatim and coded; thematic analysis was conducted. Results 3 main themes and 7 sub-themes (st) emerged in the preliminary analysis with regard to impact on well-being: perceived changes in living conditions (st: physical changes, financial implications, domestic burden), perceived effects on health (st. mental health, physical health), and expectations versus reality (st. insulation, efficiency). Experiences differed as per housing condition, type of energy used, usage proficiency, and income level. Conclusions Energy efficient heating system transition to tackle energy poverty at homes may not be sufficient to realize impact on perceived wellbeing. Housing conditions (ie. insulation), supported energy sources and management of expectations need to be considered as part of the program.

Implementation of Augmented Reality Teaching and Learning Kit to Enhance Visualization, Motivation and Understanding among TVET Students

Augmented Reality (AR) technology is one of the increasingly preferred choices for educational development of education. This study aims to identify the level of visualization, motivation and understanding by designing and developing an AR application for the topic of Engineering Drawing. This application enhances the user's clarity and comprehension on the types of drawings and the form of the drawing to be presented. The design and development process of this AR application uses the Hannafin and Peck model as a guideline. The research instruments used are expert review forms for product development and questionnaires. The study included a total of 52 students from Sungai Buloh Vocational College, Selangor, as participants. The findings were analysed descriptively using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 27. The evaluation was conducted on three (3) aspects, namely the level of visualisation, motivation and comprehension of the students, as well as the significance of research to examine the gender differences between the three aspects. The findings of the study revealed that the use of the AR application produced for the three (3) components yielded a favourable outcome with a reliability value of r=0.855, which demonstrates that the instrument possesses a high level of reliability. However, no significant difference was found between the genders of the students that participated in the study. In general, the findings of the study indicate that the implementation of the AR teaching and learning kit has yielded positive outcomes in terms of enhancing students' visualisation skills, motivation levels and comprehension of the Engineering Drawings subject.

Navigating the Social Shift: A Preliminary Study of Consumer Behavior on Malaysia's Social Commerce Platforms

The proliferation of online businesses coupled with the advancement of information and communication technologies (ICT) has led to the emergence of social commerce. The integration of social media platforms into e-commerce offers businesses a convenient avenue for engaging with consumers and a novel method for capturing additional sales volume. This seamless integration of social media platforms into current e-commerce practices has significantly increased its success. Research on the factors that affect purchase intentions in social commerce is still sparse, especially in the context of Malaysian consumers. In general, the causal model of purchase intentions on social commerce in this study aims to investigate the impact of the constructs of visibility and metavoicing on purchase intentions among Malaysian millennial consumers. Henceforth, this initial study specifically aims to evaluate the reliability and validity of the IT affordance constructs of visibility and metavoicing through rigorous assessments. At the items-construct level, the internal consistency assessment was conducted using McDonald’s Omega, which is known for its robustness in measuring the reliability of multi-item constructs. At the construct level, discriminant validity and the strength of linear relationships among variables were assessed using Pearson correlation analysis. The pilot dataset gathered was analyzed with SPSS 29, and the results have validated that the predictive model achieved high levels of reliability and validity at both the item and construct levels. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the independent variables, metavoicing and visibility, have a significant association with purchase intentions, underscoring their importance in understanding consumer behavior.

The impact of widely used algorithms of large language models on information retrieval and the associated potential risks

Thesis. The aim of this work is to perform an analysis concerning the subject of arti- ficial intelligence integration and its application in modern knowledge acquisition. The article will be an overview of scientific research and papers to raise a discussion of the ad- vantages and potential hazards associated with the widespread implementation of large language models. Concept. The main part of the article will focus on describing the AI enhanced tools available on the market and common ways of utilising them. This knowledge will be jux- taposed with psychological research on human consciousness in the context of decision- making, creativity, and held beliefs to list potential threads related. Results. The analysis of tools that have recently been enhanced with algorithms un- equivocally indicates the dominance of the sector providing informational and creative support. These tools possess a measurably high level of reliability among the public, re- sulting in a reduced number of verification actions. A review of existing literature and research on human psychology shows a very strong correlation between the influence of previous social authorities on decision-making behaviour and an uncritical approach to information obtained through AI. Studies have shown that access to these tools, without proper controlling actions of results, exposes users to bias, manipulation, or susceptibility to marketing activities. Alternatively, with proper and rational use of these implemented algorithms, humans are able to obtain extraordinarily precise and knowledge-based sup- port in decision-making. Similar polarisations of results have been observed in the con- text of creativity, innovation, and inquisitiveness. Originality. The article addresses topics that relate to the psychological nature of hu- mans in the context of new and expanded AI augmented tools. The results of the explora- tory study clearly indicate that programmes supported by algorithms show potential in terms of both scientific and social development. Unfortunately, they also present many potential dangers for both, which, discussed in the foundation, provide the groundwork for more in-depth research.

Human Factors Considerations in Artificial Intelligence Applications for Nuclear Power Plants

In recent years, there has been a wave of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that offer to solve problems from shopping habits to mortgage approvals to critical systems operations. The rapidity of the development of these systems has led to both excitement and apprehension about the roles these systems should play in our modern societies. This paper focuses on the critical infrastructure industry, in general, and nuclear power generation, in particular, and seeks to scrutinize how we can leverage these novel technologies in human-centered ways to maintain or enhance the established high levels of reliability and resilience in these industries. First, we discuss the broader aspects of cognitive systems and activities that are critical to understanding the human-AI space. Then we explore different approaches to explainability in AI and the notions of trust. We then move on to discuss several human factors concepts and methods and how they can support the design of human-AI teams. We then explore recent research related to nuclear power that has been undertaken and evaluate the current industry and regulatory landscapes. Finally, we discuss identified research gaps and recommendations for solving these for the critical infrastructure space.

Functional Capacity of Institutionalized Older People and Their Quality of Life, Depressive Symptoms and Feelings of Loneliness: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The increasing number of institutionalized older individuals worldwide stresses the need to evaluate the association between the functional profile of institutionalized older adults and their quality of life (QoL), depressive symptoms and feelings of loneliness. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 19 residential facilities in Alentejo, Portugal. Between March and September 2023, all individuals aged ≥65 years were invited to complete a structured questionnaire (n = 1303). Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, and validated scales for the Portuguese older population were used. Linear regression and unconditional binary logistic models were computed. The highest level of dependence was observed in the self-care dimension (mean (SD) = 2.93 (1.21)), with 40% of participants exhibiting levels of dependence requiring daily care or total replacement. QoL was inversely associated with functionality in all dimensions, as well as with severe or complete dependence, even after adjusting for sex, age and education. Participants with depressive symptoms and feelings of loneliness were, respectively, three and two times more likely to be dependent on care (adjusted OR = 3.69, 95% CI: 1.80-7.52; adjusted OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.07-3.87). Public policies and interventions should include social and emotional support strategies alongside traditional medical interventions.