Key Areas For Improvement Research Articles

A Systematic Review of the Recent Research on the Usefulness of Chatbots for Language Education

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe rise of intelligent chatbots powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning has ignited interest in their potential for revolutionising second language (L2) acquisition and foreign language learning (FLL). While their potential seems vast, understanding their actual impact on learning outcomes requires comprehensive analysis. Also required is the continuous evaluation of this technology due to the rapid pace of advancements in chatbots, highlighting the need for a fresh look using the latest research. This systematic review aims to address this need by investigating the effectiveness of modern chatbots in L2 learning and FLL, offering valuable insights for language educators and researchers.ObjectivesThis study systematically reviews existing research to assess the usefulness of chatbots in L2 acquisition and FLL, identifying key areas of improvement and future research directions.MethodsFollowing the PRISMA methodology, 33 relevant studies published between 2020 and May 2024 were analysed. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes related to chatbot applications, language skills impacted, and learning outcomes achieved.ResultsThe findings clearly reveal specific language skills (i.e., speaking) and language knowledge (i.e., vocabulary) that have a significant impact on enhancing students' learning outcomes by using chatbots, while pointing out insufficient research in this area. The results also show major benefits of chatbots for FLL, such as individualised learning, immediate feedback, enhancing willingness to communicate, and increased interaction.ConclusionsThis systematic review highlights specific practical implications and suggestions that have a direct impact on the usefulness of chatbots in FLL and L2 acquisition, and a need to investigate further variables such as age, language skills, personality traits, or teacher's role with respect to the use of chatbots in foreign language classes. Further implications are also raised in terms of learning design considerations when such a technology is incorporated in the FLL classroom.

Stakeholder Focus Groups: Co‐creation of a toolkit for public consultations

Abstract Three online focus groups were convened as part of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)'s initiative to enhance communication and engagement with EFSA's registered stakeholders participating in public consultations. The primary objective was to gather insights and feedback from EFSA's registered stakeholders regarding their experiences, expectations and challenges related to EFSA's consultation process. Additionally, the aim was to identify key areas for improvement and inform the development of a comprehensive communication toolkit. The chosen format, which included three focus groups following the same style and agenda, proved effective. The length of the focus groups and the number of participants in each group were well‐suited for this purpose, bringing the desired results and meeting the assignment objectives. The focus groups provided valuable insights into the stakeholders' perspectives on EFSA's public consultations. The findings underscore the importance of effective communication, transparency, and stakeholder engagement in facilitating meaningful participation and enhancing the quality of EFSA's decision‐making processes. Moving forward, the development and implementation of a comprehensive communication toolkit based on these insights will be instrumental in fostering greater collaboration and trust between EFSA and its stakeholders.

P-1800. Antimicrobial Stewardship Compliance with Accreditation Requirements within a Hospital Pharmacy Organization

Abstract Background Between 2022 and 2023 the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and The Joint Commission updated requirements and/or guidance related to antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs). In June 2023, an antimicrobial stewardship gap analysis survey was required within all Cardinal Health pharmacy managed facilities to assess for compliance with accreditation requirements and identify areas for improvement. Methods This was a 55 question multi-site survey assessing compliance with accreditation requirements for hospital ASPs. Participants responded to questions as yes, no, or not applicable. Compliance was defined as a “yes” or “not applicable” response. A chi-square was used to assess responses between hospital types and average daily census (ADC). Results 122 hospitals completed the survey (41 hospitals, 17 critical access, 27 long-term acute care (LTAC), 29 rehabilitation, 8 LTAC/rehabilitation). Most facilities had an ADC of < 50 (< 26: 46, 26-50: 44, 51-100: 17, 101-200: 7, 201-500: 8). The mean (+ STD) compliance within all hospitals was 81.7% (+ 5.1%). A significant difference in compliance with accreditation requirements was found based on hospital type (p< 0.001) and ADC (p< 0.001). Rehabilitation and LTAC hospitals had the highest compliance rates of 89% and 83%, respectively. When assessed by ADC, the lowest compliance rates were found in hospitals with less than 26 beds (78.8%). The top five needs with < 75% compliance included documentation of program outcomes, documentation of evidence-based use of antibiotics in all departments and services of the hospital, reporting progress towards antibiotic stewardship goals and initiatives to hospital leadership, evaluating adherence to an evidence-based guideline, and providing competency-based education to hospital staff. Conclusion This standardized survey identified ASP gaps based on accreditation requirements and identified key areas for improvement. Interestingly, LTACs and rehabilitation hospitals had the highest compliance rates of all facility types; however, the largest post-acute system within the pharmacy managed hospitals, which accounted for 84.4% of all LTAC and rehabilitation hospitals, has a system-level antimicrobial stewardship committee as well as a dedicated infectious diseases pharmacist. Disclosures Katherine M. Shea, PharmD, BCIDP, T2 Biosystems: Advisor/Consultant

Tailoring robot-assisted arm training to individuals with stroke: bridging neuroscience principles and clinical practice

Robot-assisted arm training (RAAT) has demonstrated promising potential in improving rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with neurological conditions, particularly stroke. Despite 20 years of their use in clinical and research settings, there are still significant needs to be made concerning clinical indications. In the present perspective manuscript, we provide some hypotheses of the suitability of different RAAT according to the features of the available devices and clinical characteristics, showing their limitations and strengths. Several factors were considered in the optimization of RAAT intervention, including the technological characteristics of the devices (e.g., support and constriction), the residual upper limb motor function, and the clinical phase of stroke. Finally, we outline key areas for improvement to advance the field in the near future and provide neuroscientific bases for hypotheses of tailored RAAT training to improve the outcome of robotic rehabilitation.

Spotlighting Nigeria's New Health Agenda: A Case Study on the Alignment of Global Health Initiatives with National Health Priorities Through the SRMNCAEH+N Lens

Background: Alignment of global health initiatives (GHIs) with national health priorities is crucial for effective and sustainable healthcare interventions and strengthening health systems. Despite widespread recognition of this need, achieving alignment between GHIs and national priorities has proven challenging. The importance of addressing this challenge has led to a growing focus on GHIs alignment, evident in forums such as the Paris Conference in 2015 and the Lusaka Agenda in 2023. As Nigeria embarks on a new mid-term health agenda based on the sector-wide approach (SWAp), understanding the country-level implications of alignment becomes paramount. Method: This study utilized qualitative research methods to examine the issues affecting GHI alignment within the context of the sexual, reproductive, maternal, neonatal, adolescent, elderly, nutrition health plus nutrition (SRMNCAEH+N) program. Through 24 interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders including government officials, representatives of global health institutions, civil society actors, health workers, and community members, this research identified and validated six critical issues influencing GHI alignment at the country level. Result: The findings shed light on current practices, challenges, and recommendations, highlighting Nigeria's readiness to implement the new health agenda and SWAp effectively. The research identified and validated six critical issues influencing GHI alignment at the country level through the perspectives of diverse stakeholders. Conclusion: The paper underscores the importance of extensive stakeholder involvement, including communities, in achieving optimal alignment between GHIs and national health priorities. The study's insights into the alignment dimensions of Nigeria’s SRMNCAEH+N program reveal key areas for improvement and collaboration, essential for the successful implementation of Nigeria's new health agenda.

A System Dynamics Model to Optimize Purified Water Supply from the Dam for Residences Use in Rural Communities

The effective management of water supply is important to ensure sustainable health and wellbeing of residents in communities. This paper presents a system dynamics model to optimize the delivery of clean water from dams to communities more especially in rural areas. The developed model includes elements such as water inflow, purification processes, storage capacities, distribution channels as well as consumption patterns. The dynamics of water supply is influenced by various factors such as seasonal fluctuations or variations, maintenance schedules, as well as population growth. The developed model employs feedback loops to simulate the interactions between these components and identify potential inefficiencies in the system. This study aims to suggest and develop strategies to enhance the reliability and efficiency of water supply to the targeted areas. Different scenarios are analysed to evaluate the impact of management and administrative practices, such as adjusting purification capacity, optimizing storage levels, as well as improving distribution methods. The objective of the study is to provide insights for policy makers and stakeholders to ensure sustainable and equitable water supply for rural communities. The results of the study demonstrate that system dynamics modelling can effectively identify key areas of improvement in the water supply chain and better service delivery. This approach presents a comprehensive framework for addressing the complex challenges associated with rural water supply systems and support informed decision making in water resource management.

P0343 Gender Identity and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: The Patient Perspective

Abstract Background The experience of transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) individuals in healthcare is under-researched particularly in relation to the impact of chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is believed to affect 1 in 123 individuals in the United Kingdom (UK)(1) and can have a profoundly negative impact upon both quality of life and mental health. However, the impact of the duality of suffering from IBD and identifying as TGNC is poorly understood and there is no data examining the experiences of these patient groups nor the specific challenges that they face when engaging with IBD healthcare services. We therefore aimed to explore the experiences of TGNC individuals with IBD (TGNC-IBD) in the UK healthcare system. Methods A literature review was performed to identify themes for discussion which were used to create an interview guide. Individuals who identified as TGNC and suffered from IBD were recruited through the charity Crohn’s and Colitis UK.(2) Participant information sheets were distributed to potential participants and once consented, an in-depth semi-structured focus group was performed with all participants. A second independent researcher reviewed the transcript and audio-visual recordings to ensure validity of the findings. Inductive thematic analysis was used to identify recurrent themes. Ethical approval was obtained from St. George’s University of London. Results Seventeen individuals contacted the team expressing interest in participating. Six respondents continued to engage and two pulled out on the preceding day. Four TGNC-IBD patients participated in the study with their demographics summarised in table 1. Six main themes emerged when discussing their experiences of healthcare encounters: 1. Healthcare professionals’ assumptions about gender identity 2. Inadequate mental health care provision 3. A lack of research and evidence-based practice specific to TGNC-IBD individuals 4. Distressing experiences due to gender-specific healthcare facilities 5. Transphobic comments from healthcare staff 6. The need for greater staff training. Participants reported that these factors contributed to negative healthcare experiences and exacerbated both the physical and mental health challenges they faced. Conclusion TGNC-IBD individuals face unique challenges that negatively affect their healthcare experiences. Key areas for improvement include increased staff training, the creation of gender-neutral facilities and more research into the interplay between a TGNC identity and IBD. Addressing these concerns will enhance the quality of care and improve patient experiences for this underserved minority.

Exploring performance measurement practices in public housing tenancy management in Malaysia

PurposeThis paper aims to explore existing performance measurement (PM) practices in Malaysian public housing, specifically focusing on tenancy management operational practices and PM initiatives, thereby contributing valuable insights to this under-researched area.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing open-ended interviews to gather insights. To enhance the validity and reliability of the data, a purposive sampling technique was applied, selecting experts based on predefined criteria. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data, extracting meaningful themes and providing a comprehensive understanding of PM practices in Malaysian public housing.FindingsThe findings reveal significant disparities in PM practices across different states in Malaysia. While some public housing entities have established their own key performance indicators, others lack structured frameworks, leading to inconsistencies in monitoring and effectiveness. The discrepancy highlights the need for a more uniform approach to ensure transparency and reliability in PM.Originality/valueThis study provides unique insights into the current state of PM, particularly in the context of tenancy management, which has been underexplored. By employing qualitative methods and thematic analysis, the research offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges and gaps in PM. It highlights significant disparities across different states and identifies key areas for improvement. These findings underscore its potential to inform and transform PM practices in Malaysian public housing, paving the way for more standardized and effective PM practices in the future.

Study on the construction of multi-level protection system for non-emergency transfer under the perspective of structuring.

The non-emergency transfer multi-level protection system is a pivotal livelihood endeavor in China, serving as a vital diversified component within the robust framework of a Chinese-style modern social security system. This system faces various challenges, including displacement of emergency capacity by non-emergency demands, uneven allocation of transfer resources, service quality variations, inadequate management structures, limited regulatory frameworks, and social acceptance issues. Leveraging structural theory, this study analyzes the primary issues in the current implementation of China's non-emergency transfer security system. A structured approach is employed to investigate these challenges and propose solutions. The study identifies key areas for improvement in the non-emergency transfer security system. It highlights the need for an enhanced internal resource allocation mechanism to boost service efficiency, skilled workforce development to improve service quality, optimized management systems and coordination mechanisms to strengthen patient confidence in recovery, and strengthened comprehensive information technology management for market oversight. The proposed structured approach aims to foster sustainable development of the non-emergency transfer security system within a positive feedback loop. The recommendations aim to address the identified challenges and enhance the overall effectiveness of the system. By improving resource allocation, workforce skills, management systems, and information technology, the study suggests fostering deeper emotional engagement and connections, ultimately contributing to the system's long-term success.

Comparison of opportunities and perceptions towards neurosurgery between the public and private sector in Pakistan: a national survey of medical students and recent graduates.

Public and private medical institutes must adhere to the same standards of quality set by the Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC). However, studies have noted varied learning environments. The current study aims to assess opportunities and compare the differences in perceptions between the two sectors. An online survey was conducted among medical students, interns, and medical officers across Pakistan. Respondents were divided into two groups: private and public sector and the survey responses of the two groups were compared. Descriptive statistical analyses of responses were performed, and a chi-square test was used to obtain the p-values. 2,481 responses were collected (48.6% public vs 51.3% private sector). A higher proportion of public sector respondents reported neurosurgery within their curriculum (71.2% public, 58.9% private) ( p < 0.001), while a greater proportion of private sector respondents had less exposure to neurosurgery clerkships (58.5% public, 71.9% private). A higher proportion from the private sector reported that sufficient mentorship opportunities (38.3% private, 29.5% public) (p < 0.001) were provided by their medical college. More private sector respondents reported lack of work-life balance (39.5% public, 42.4% private), competitive work environment (55.9% public, 61.3% private) (p < 0.001) and financial burden (67.3% private, 60.8% public) (p < 0.001) as major barriers towards pursuing neurosurgery. Our study outlines key areas for improvement from the perspective of the learners themselves. These include increasing exposure to neurosurgery in medical colleges and affiliated hospitals and improving post-graduate training among all sectors. Addressing these concerns of the medical students, interns, recent graduates and medical officers can foster the pursuit of neurosurgery as a career in Pakistan. It is crucial to further investigate medical education in Pakistan and study differences in the public and private education sector globally.

Optimizing Policy for Online Seaman Book Services at the Class III Gorontalo Port Authority and Harbor Master's Office

This study aims to evaluate and analyze the development of online Seafarer Book services at the Port Authority and Syahbandar Class III Gorontalo Office, focusing on various aspects of public service theory indicators such as tangibles, empathy, reliability, responsiveness, and assurance. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study design, focusing on implementing the online Seafarer Book service. Data is collected through interviews, observations, and document reviews from various stakeholders involved in providing services. The findings show that the online Sailor Book service has improved service efficiency but faces challenges regarding system reliability, user education, and infrastructure support. The study identifies key areas for improvement, including improving the reliability of online systems, better training for users in using the system and improving the physical and technical infrastructure to support services. The study concluded that while online Seafarer’s Book services have the potential to significantly improve seafarers’ documentation processes, ongoing improvements and adjustments are needed to address the challenges identified. Improving system reliability and user support is critical to the success of the online service model.

MetaRange.jl: A Dynamic and Metabolic Species Range Model for Plant Species.

Process-based models for range dynamics are urgently needed due to increasing intensity of human-induced biodiversity change. Despite a few existing models that focus on demographic processes, their use remains limited compared to the widespread application of correlative approaches. This slow adoption is largely due to the challenges in calibrating biological parameters and the high computational demands for large-scale applications. Moreover, increasing the number of simulated processes (i.e., mechanistic complexity) may further exacerbate those reasons of delay. Therefore, balancing mechanistic complexity and computational effectiveness of process-based models is a key area for improvement. A promising research direction is to expand demographically explicit metapopulation models by integrating metabolic constraints. We translated and expanded a previously developed R metapopulation model to Julia language and published it as a Julia module. The model integrates species-specific parameters such as preferred environmental conditions, biomass and dispersal ability with demographic rates (e.g., reproductive and mortality rates) derived from local temperature and biomass via the metabolic theory of ecology. We provide a simple application example for the model in which we illustrate a typical use case by predicting the future occurrence of Orchis militaris in Bavaria under different climate change scenarios. Our results show that climate change reduces habitat suitability overall, but some regions like the Franconian Forest and the Alps see increased suitability and abundance, confirming their role as refugia. Simulating metapopulation dynamics reveals that local population dynamics and dispersal are crucial for accurate predictions. For instance, increasing dispersal distance reduces overall abundance loss but also lessens population growth in refugia. This highlights the importance of measuring traits like dispersal ability to improve climate change forecasts.

Sensitivity of Chlorophyll Vertical Structure to Model Parameters in the Biogeochemical Southern Ocean State Estimate (B‐SOSE)

AbstractThe Southern Ocean is a region of intense air–sea exchange that plays a critical role for ocean circulation, global carbon cycling, and climate. Subsurface chlorophyll‐a maxima, annually recurrent features throughout the Southern Ocean, may increase the energy flux to higher trophic levels and facilitate downward carbon export. It is important that model parameterizations appropriately represent the chlorophyll vertical structure in the Southern Ocean. Using BGC‐Argo chlorophyll profiles and the Biogeochemical Southern Ocean State Estimate (B‐SOSE), we investigate the sensitivity of chlorophyll vertical structure to model parameters. Based on the sensitivity analysis results, we estimate optimized parameters, which efficiently improve the model consistency with observations. We characterize chlorophyll vertical structure in terms of Empirical Orthogonal Functions and define metrics to compare model results and observations in a series of parameter perturbation experiments. We show that chlorophyll magnitudes are likely to respond quasi‐symmetrically to perturbations in the analyzed parameters, while depth and thickness of the subsurface chlorophyll maximum show an asymmetric response. Perturbing the phytoplankton growth tends to generate more symmetric responses than perturbations in the grazing rate. We identify parameters that affect chlorophyll magnitude, subsurface chlorophyll or both and discuss insights into the processes that determine chlorophyll vertical structure in B‐SOSE. We highlight turbulence, differences in phytoplankton traits, and grazing parameterizations as key areas for improvement in models of the Southern Ocean.

Comprehensive multidisciplinary care for adult Duchenne muscular dystrophy in South Korea

Background With advancements in cardiorespiratory care, the lifespan of patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) has significantly increased, shifting the focus from merely extending life to enhancing quality of life and managing complications effectively. However, there is a lack of interest in the management of adult DMD, highlighting a gap in holistic care approaches for this aging population. Objective This study aims to assess the current state of care for adult DMD patients in South Korea, focusing on multidisciplinary management and identifying key areas for improvement. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 168 adult DMD patients who visited the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center at [blinded for review] from 2022 to 2023. Demographic data, ventilatory support status, cardiac function, gastrointestinal, renal, and skeletal health were analyzed. Results Of the patients, 93.8% required non-invasive ventilatory support, while 6.2% used invasive ventilation. Cardiac medications were prescribed to 82.1% of patients, with beta-blockers being the most common. Renal dysfunction was found in 10.1% of patients, with one patient requiring dialysis. A significant portion (54.8%) were on anti-constipation medications due to gastrointestinal issues, and 41.7% of patients had undergone scoliosis correction surgery. Bone mineral density was significantly reduced in most patients, with an average Z-score of −3.3. Conclusions This study emphasizes the need for improved care protocols that enhance lifespan and quality of life and manage complications for patients with DMD. This study advocates a shift in healthcare strategies toward a more integrated and holistic care model for adult patients with DMD.

Socioeconomic support for victims of criminal offenses

This paper presents a comprehensive evaluation of the victim support system in the Czech Republic in an international comparative context. The analysis reveals that although the Czech Republic has a legislative framework and a network of organizations providing assistance, the system still has certain shortcomings, particularly in the areas of comprehensive support, availability of services in regions, and specialization for specific victim groups. The study identifies several key areas for improvement, including increased financial support, specialization of services, prevention of secondary victimization, international cooperation, and strengthening the role of non-profit organizations. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for further research on the long-term impacts of crime on victims, the effectiveness of different types of interventions, the needs of specific victim groups, the role of family and social environment, and intercultural aspects. In conclusion, the victim support system in the Czech Republic has the potential for further improvement. The implementation of the proposed measures would contribute to improving the quality of life of victims and building a more just society.

The Finnish Model of Inclusive Education – an Unmatched Ideal or a Viable Model of Good Practice?

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The research presented here was aimed at finding out Polish teachers’ perspectives on the Finnish education model, which is widely regarded as exemplary, and to assess the feasibility of applying its principles to the Polish education system, particularly in relation to inclusive education. THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The study focused on three main questions: What factors characterizing the Finnish education system are relevant to the quality of inclusive education? Which of these factors are already present in the Polish education system? Which factors from the Finnish model should be implemented in the Polish education system? The study involved 258 Polish teachers and utilized a quantitative approach, employing a diagnostic survey method, a questionnaire technique, and a self-developed survey questionnaire. THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The analysis focused on identifying the barriers to inclusive education based on recent research and the changes needed to improve the effective- ness of the Polish education system. This evaluation was grounded in a comparison with the key characteristics of the Finnish system and its relevant solutions. RESEARCH RESULTS: The results indicate that the key areas for improvement, according to the respondents, are the professional preparation of teachers, efforts to raise the prestige of the teaching profession, and improvements in working conditions, particularly those related to school climate. CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND APPLICABLE VALUE OF RESEARCH: The Finnish education system is not only effective but also inclusive of all students. As such, its solutions can serve as a model for Polish teachers and policymakers as they work towards making the Polish education system more inclusive. Implementing the study’s findings may contribute to improving the Polish education system and fostering its inclusiveness.

A Comparative Analysis on Recruitment and Selection Process at Chennai Shoes and Industrial Supplies LLP, T Nagar Chennai

This study investigates the recruitment and selection practices at Chennai Shoes and Industrial Supplies LLP, located in T. Nagar, Chennai, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of their current strategies and identifying areas for improvement. The research combines both qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the organization's recruitment sources, selection techniques, and overall efficiency. A t-test is employed to compare the effectiveness of two key recruitment strategies: Traditional interviews and Online recruitment platforms. The objective is to determine whether there is a significant difference in employee satisfaction between candidates hired through these two methods. The results of the t-test reveal that there is no significant difference (p-value &gt; 0.05) in employee satisfaction between the two recruitment methods, suggesting that both approaches yield similar levels of candidate satisfaction. The findings also highlight key areas for improvement, including the integration of technology in recruitment processes, the need for standardized interview techniques, and the importance of enhancing employee retention strategies. The study concludes by offering actionable recommendations, such as adopting an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and improving employee development programs, to optimize recruitment, selection, and retention processes, thereby enhancing the company's competitive advantage. Keywords: Recruitment and Selection, T-test, Employee Satisfaction, Traditional Interviews, Online Recruitment Platforms, Chennai Shoes and Industrial Supplies LLP.

Satisfaction Levels of Ambulatory Patients with the Quality of Nursing Care: Validation and Application of the Patient Satisfaction with Nursing Care Quality Questionnaire in Albania.

In the last decades, there has been a growing demand for outpatient services; understanding the factors influencing patient satisfaction is critical for improving healthcare quality. This study evaluates patient satisfaction with nursing care and examines how satisfaction varies based on socio-demographic factors in ambulatory settings across five healthcare centers in the municipality of Vlora, Albania. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 246 patients were surveyed using the Patient Satisfaction with Nursing Care Quality Questionnaire (PSNCQQ), adapted for outpatient contexts, after assessing its validity and reliability. The mean age of the sample was 63.9 ± 13.1 years old with a range of 21 to 94 years, and 47.2% were aged between 50 and 69 years. The results indicate that the overall satisfaction level was fair, with a mean PSNCQQ score of 2.55 on a five-point scale. Socio-demographic factors, such as age, gender, education, and socio-economic status, significantly impacted patient satisfaction. Younger patients (aged 20-49), females, and those with a higher education and socio-economic status reported higher satisfaction. Medical history also played a role, with patients attending general check-ups showing greater satisfaction compared to those with chronic conditions. Older patients tend to report a lower level of satisfaction with the care provided compared to younger patients. Communication and nurse-patient interactions emerged as key areas for improvement, particularly in outpatient settings where care is episodic. These findings suggest that personalized care, improved communication, and greater attention to socio-demographic and medical factors can enhance patient satisfaction in ambulatory care settings.

COVID-19: Lessons from the Past to Inform the Future of Healthcare

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its global spread have left an indelible mark, disrupting multiple aspects of human life. It is therefore crucial to retrospectively analyze the factors that have contributed more to the initial inefficiency of the global response, thus enhancing preparedness and proactively addressing the risk of similar events occurring in the future. Critical areas were identified based on our expertise. Relevant bibliographic references were subsequently gathered through an open search of scientific databases to substantiate the concepts discussed in this article. The key issues that hindered an effective response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are numerous and multifaceted, and some of these will be critically examined in this article, including delayed identification of the pathogen, inadequate public health preparedness, inadequate therapeutic management, and deficiencies in laboratory diagnostics. From this analysis, key areas for improvement emerge to ensure more efficient responses to future health crises, including (i) enhancing and strengthening health information systems, (ii) improving pandemic preparedness and response planning, (iii) developing a resilient healthcare workforce, (iv) increasing investment in research and development, (v) expanding the use of telemedicine and digital health, (vi) ensuring universal access to healthcare, and (vii) improving public health communication and trust.

Dynamics of Russians’ perception of the situation in various spheres of life: from assessments to requests for social policy

The article analyzes the dynamics and specifics of Russians’ assessments of the ongoing changes in various spheres of life. Based on the data of studies conducted by the Institute of Sociology of FCTAS RAS in different years, it is shown that the most significant improvements have occurred over the past almost two decades in terms of the level and quality of life of the population, as well as education and health care. In particular, the share of positive perception of the situation with unemployment and expansion of opportunities for earning, with the availability of housing and pre-school institutions is growing. “Cautious” positivity is noted with regard to the situation with social justice, living standards, as well as secondary and higher education. However, the dominance of positive assessments is not recorded in any of the spheres. This signals the persistence of separate problems in them, relevant for different groups of the population. Assessments of the situation in the spheres related to collective security deserve special attention, in respect of which a sharp increase in negative assessments is recorded. The groups with relatively homogeneous views on the dynamics of the situation in different spheres of life in society were considered. Among them, Russians with pessimistic and moderately optimistic views of the ongoing changes are approximately equal in number. It has been noted that the key differences between these groups, and, accordingly, their requests for changes in certain spheres, are formed under the influence of factors mainly of a subjective nature. They are related to the perception of their own well-being, the number and nature of problems experienced in the last year, as well as some “we-identities”. In particular, it is shown that the request for qualitative changes for pessimists is formed largely spontaneously and under the effect of the cumulative negative impact of many factors on their lives. Requests for further improvements in key areas of life are more differentiated among moderate optimists and “stability-oriented” part of society.