Group Interaction Research Articles

The comparison of Pilates with cognitive functional therapy in adults with chronic neck pain: a protocol for randomized controlled trial

Background Chronic Neck Pain is one of the main musculoskeletal problems in the general population that negatively affects the lives of patients. Its treatment can include various treatment methods, such as Pilates and Cognitive Functional Therapy. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of Pilates in relation to Cognitive Functional Therapy in people with Chronic Neck Pain. Methods This single-blind randomized controlled study included 60 patients with Chronic Neck Pain who were randomly divided into two groups (Group 1: Pilates, Group 2: Cognitive Functional Therapy). All patients will undergo 16 sessions over 8 weeks. Outcome measures (pain, disability, fear perception, functionality, quality of life, cervical range of motion, and neck muscle isometric strength) will be evaluated at baseline, at the end of the treatment (week 8) and three months after randomization (week 12). Outcome measures will be analyzed via random effects at the three assessment time points, and the interactions of the treatment groups with the assessment points will be included in the results of the fixed model. Discussion This is the first Randomized Controlled Trial to compare the effectiveness of Pilates and Cognitive Functional Therapy in patients with chronic neck pain. The results of this research will provide information on the effectiveness of each intervention separately and whether one of the two can outperform the other.

An Exploratory Study of Small-Group Learning Interactions in Pre-Clerkship Medical Education: Uncovering a Mismatch Between Student Perceptions and Real-Time Observations

Small-group learning is a mainstay of medical education, and group functioning can have a major influence on these learning experiences. Our objective was to explore verbal exchange patterns within small-group learning sessions and examine how different patterns related to tutor involvement, tutor expertise, and participants’ perceptions. A non-participant observer collected group interactivity data using a real-time mobile device-based system. Verbal interaction patterns were visualized and analyzed using social network analysis and correlated with participant survey data and aggregate course grades. There were 46 observations across 30 separate groups. Group interactions clustered into four patterns defined by (1) tutor involvement (high vs. low) and (2) interactivity (high vs. low). Interaction patterns were largely stable for a given group and groups with content expert facilitators were generally less interactive. Students reported objectively fewer interactive groups as more interactive and enjoyable. There were no significant intergroup differences in aggregate course grades. Paradoxically, student perceptions were not aligned with observed interactivity data, and tutor content expertise influenced group interactivity. These findings suggest the need to better manage learner expectations of small-group learning, and to explicitly reflect on and develop skills for effective collaborative learning with both faculty and students.

Exploring the Impact of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Functional Measures and Quality of Life in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent disabling condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and functional limitations, significantly impacting quality of life, particularly among older adults. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a technique that has shown promise in reducing pain and increasing the range of motion. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of IASTM on functional measures and quality of life in KOA patients. Methods: Thirty participants with unilateral KOA were randomized into IASTM and sham groups. The intervention consisted of four sessions over two weeks, combining IASTM with exercise therapy. Functional performance was assessed using the 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and the timed up and go test (TUG). Quality of life was evaluated using the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) and the Lequesne Algofunctional Index (LAI) Questionnaires. Results: A mixed ANOVA revealed significant improvements in functional performance in both groups after treatment in the 6MWT (P < 0.001) and TUG (P = 0.003) tests. Significant improvements were observed in the SF-36 subgroups for physical functioning (P = 0.002), role limitations due to physical problems (P < 0.001), energy/vitality (P < 0.001), pain (P < 0.001), and total score (P < 0.001). There was also a significant time*group interaction effect for role limitations due to emotional problems (P = 0.005), with the IASTM group showing improvement after treatment while the sham group experienced a decline. The LAI questionnaire also indicated significant improvements in both groups (P < 0.001) after treatment. Conclusions: Both IASTM and sham interventions, combined with exercise therapy, led to improvements in functional measures and quality of life. However, the IASTM group exhibited a more pronounced positive trend in the 6MWT and TUG tests, as well as a significant interaction effect for emotional role limitations. These findings suggest that while exercise alone can improve function and quality of life, the addition of IASTM may further enhance these outcomes, supporting its integration into KOA management strategies to improve activities of daily living and overall quality of life.

The Power of a Good Word: Enhancing the Efficacy of Analgesics in Clinical Settings.

Communication between medical staff and patients about treatment efficacy elicits expectations of benefit and improves treatment outcomes. While demonstrated in multiple studies via different research methodologies, uniform communication protocols have not been adopted in clinical practice. Here, we summarize the results of two sister studies aimed at bridging this gap. Women undergoing C-section (study 1, randomized controlled trial) and patients undergoing general or otolaryngologic surgeries (study 2, control group design) were recruited and assigned to the "regular communication" (RC) or "enhanced communication" (EC) arms. The EC arm received positive information about treatment, while the RC arm received no such information. In both studies, the primary outcome was change in pain intensity; in study 2, an additional outcome was morphine consumption. Eighty women successfully completed study 1, and 102 patients successfully completed study 2. In both studies, significant time*group interactions were observed (p < 0.001). The analgesic effect was virtually twice as large in the EC arm compared to the RC arm. In study 2, in the last two timepoints of assessment, participants in the EC arm also consumed fewer doses of opioids than participants in the RC arm (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found in vital signs. We provide ecological evidence that positive information about treatment significantly decreases pain and opioid consumption during routine clinical care. This study and others could encourage healthcare providers to harness the powerful effects of patients' expectations of benefit to improve analgesics outcomes and, potentially, the outcomes of other symptoms.

Efficacy of a WeChat-Based, Multidisciplinary, Full-Course Nutritional Management Program on the Nutritional Status of Patients With Ovarian Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy: Randomized Controlled Trial.

As the most malignant type of cancer in the female reproductive system, ovarian cancer (OC) has become the second leading cause of death among Chinese women. Chemotherapy is the main treatment for patients with OC, and its numerous adverse effects can easily lead to malnutrition. It is difficult to centrally manage patients with OC in the intervals between chemotherapy. The use of WeChat, an effective mobile tool, in chronic disease management has been highlighted. This study aimed to implement a continuous follow-up strategy and health monitoring based on the WeChat platform for patients with OC undergoing chemotherapy to ensure that each phase of chemotherapy was delivered on schedule and to improve the survival rate of patients with OC. Participants were recruited and randomly assigned to either the WeChat-based nutrition intervention group or the usual care group. A self-administered general information questionnaire was used at enrollment to obtain basic information about the patients. The Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) Scale was used to investigate the nutritional status of the patients at 3 time points (T0=before the first admission to the hospital for chemotherapy, T1=2 weeks after the first chemotherapy, and T6=2 weeks after the sixth chemotherapy). The blood indices of patients were investigated through the inhospital health care system at 3 times（T0=before the first admission to the hospital for chemotherapy, T1=2 weeks after the first chemotherapy, and T6=2 weeks after the sixth chemotherapy). Patients in the intervention group were introduced to the nutrition applet, invited to join the nutrition management group chat, and allowed to consult on nutritional issues in private chats with nutrition management team members. Linear mixed models were used to analyze changes in each nutritional indicator in the 2 groups, with their baseline measurements as covariates; with group, time, and group-time interactions considered as fixed effects; and with patients considered as random effects. A total of 96 patients with OC undergoing chemotherapy were recruited into the study. Distribution was based on a 1:1 ratio, with 48 patients each in the nutrition intervention group and the usual care group. The attrition rate after the first chemotherapy session was 18.75%. The mixed linear model revealed that the group-based effect and the group-time interaction effect on PG-SGA scores were significant (F38,38=4.763, P=.03; F37,37=6.368, P=.01), whereas the time-based effect on PG-SGA scores was not (F38,38=0.377; P=.54). The findings indicated that the group-based effect, the time-based effect, and the group-time interaction effect on nutrition-inflammation composite indices were significant (F38,38=7.653, P=.006; F38,38=13.309, P<.001; F37,37=92.304, P<.001; F37,38=110.675, P<.001; F38,38=10.379, P=.002; and F37,37=5.289, P=.02). This study provided evidence that a WeChat-based, multidisciplinary, full-course nutritional management program can significantly improve the nutritional status of patients with OC during chemotherapy.

Monitoring Metacognitive Strategies Use During Interaction Collaborative Groups

This study of the use of metacognitive strategies during learning interaction in collaborative groups is considered referential for understanding the development of such strategies. The use of metacognitive strategies is related to better learning outcomes. We monitored the interaction in five collaborative groups at three points in time (initial, intermediate and final). These groups consisted of undergraduate health science (n = 9) and biomedical engineering students (n = 10). The aims were the following: (1) To check whether there were significant differences in the use of metacognitive strategies between the groups of students monitored depending on the type of degree or the point in time measurement. (2) To test whether there were significant differences in students’ learning outcomes depending on whether or not they had participated in the interaction monitoring during collaborative interaction. (3) To test clustering without a pre-assignment variable against learning outcomes in collaborative groups. Significant differences were detected in the use of some of the metacognitive strategies of orientation, planning and elaboration in favor of the collaborative groups of the biomedical engineering students. Also, students who participated in monitoring collaborative groups in both clusters obtained better learning outcomes. Lastly, the assignment groups were exactly related to the collaboration groups with respect to the use of metacognitive strategies in the final measurement.

Brain structural associations of syntactic complexity and diversity across schizophrenia spectrum and major depressive disorders, and healthy controls

Deviations in syntax production have been well documented in schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD). Recently, we have shown evidence for transdiagnostic subtypes of syntactic complexity and diversity. However, there is a lack of studies exploring brain structural correlates of syntax across diagnoses. We assessed syntactic complexity and diversity of oral language production using four Thematic Apperception Test pictures in a sample of N = 87 subjects (n = 24 major depressive disorder (MDD), n = 30 SSD patients both diagnosed according to DSM-IV-TR, and n = 33 healthy controls (HC)). General linear models were used to investigate the association of syntax with gray matter volume (GMV), fractional anisotropy (FA), axial (AD), radial (RD), and mean diffusivity (MD). Age, sex, total intracranial volume, group, interaction of group and syntax were covariates of no interest. Syntactic diversity was positively correlated with the GMV of the right medial pre- and postcentral gyri and with the FA of the left superior-longitudinal fasciculus (temporal part). Conversely, the AD of the left cingulum bundle and the forceps minor were negatively correlated with syntactic diversity. The AD of the right inferior-longitudinal fasciculus was positively correlated with syntactic complexity. Negative associations were observed between syntactic complexity and the FA of the left cingulum bundle, the right superior-longitudinal fasciculus, and the AD of the forceps minor and the left uncinate fasciculus. Our study showed brain structural correlates of syntactic complexity and diversity across diagnoses and HC. This contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between linguistic and neural substrates in syntax production in psychiatric disorders and HC.

Educational Robotics and Preservice Teachers: STEM Problem-Solving Skills and Self-Efficacy to Teach

Integrating STEM education within the elementary school science curriculum in Ontario, Canada, elevated the expectation for elementary preservice teachers to teach STEM skills such as problem-solving through coding. Research shows that educational robotics can promote STEM knowledge and skills. This mixed methods study investigates the effect of an educational robotics intervention on preservice teachers’ STEM problem-solving skills and their self-efficacy to teach with educational robotics during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data sources included a pre- and post­questionnaire on problem-solving, a pre- and post- self-efficacy teaching questionnaire, a problem-solving worksheet, and transcripts of group interactions. Quantitative findings were statistically significant for preservice teachers’ self-efficacy to teach with educational robotics (large effect size) and for problem-solving competencies (small effect size). Using a STEM problem-solving framework, two preservice teacher group interactions were analysed. Qualitative findings indicated that preservice teachers exhibited similar problem-solving processes as STEM experts, but preservice teachers’ prior STEM knowledge limited the types of decisions considered at the problem-solving stages. The study provides an example of how preservice teachers’ self-efficacy to teach with educational robotics was developed within a science education course and lends unique insights into the problem-solving processes these preservice teacher groups engaged in.

Bimanual Arm Trainer Versus Traditional Occupational Therapy Services in Upper Extremity Function.

Upper extremity (UE) dysfunction resulting from stroke significantly affects a person's ability to complete self-care activities, consequently diminishing functional independence. Effective interventions that improve UE function in persons with stroke are needed. To explore the effectiveness of the Bimanual Arm Trainer (BAT) compared with traditional occupational therapy treatment sessions (i.e., a control group) on improving UE function after acute ischemic stroke. Clinical trial, two-group, nonrandomized repeated-measures design. Inpatient rehabilitation facility. Twenty-seven persons with ischemic stroke and an Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) score ≤17. Minimum of three 10-min sessions on the BAT. ARAT, Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Motor Recovery after Stroke (FMA-UE). Both the intervention and control groups showed significant improvement on the ARAT from evaluation to discharge (main effect of time: p = .02). There was no statistically significant main effect of group and no significant Time × Group interaction (p = .63). FMA-UE scores also improved significantly in the intervention group from evaluation to discharge (p < .001). FMA-UE scores were not available for the control group. Both the intervention and control groups demonstrated significant improvements in UE function from evaluation to discharge. There were no statistically significant differences between groups, indicating that the BAT results in similar improvements in UE function, as would be expected in traditional occupational therapy. Further research is warranted to examine additional BAT programs, use different outcome measures, and assess participants over a longer time span. Plain-Language Summary: The Bimanual Arm Trainer (BAT) is a novel device that can be used in occupational therapy to improve arm function among stroke patients. There is limited research on BAT's effectiveness in improving arm function among stroke patients. In an acute inpatient rehabilitation setting, we compared outcome scores of patients who received traditional occupational therapy services with those who also used the BAT. Both groups achieved significant improvements in arm function from evaluation to discharge. We found that the addition of the BAT interventions did not significantly affect the outcome measure scores for either group. We conclude that more research is needed to examine additional BAT programs, use different outcome measures, and assess participants over a longer period of time.

Blended CBT Intervention vs. a Guided Web-Based Intervention for Postpartum Depression: Results From a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

This pilot randomized controlled trial evaluated the acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of a blended cognitive behavioural intervention-combination of a web-based program and sessions with a psychologist (intervention group)-compared to a guided web-based intervention (active control group) for the treatment of postpartum depression. Adult Portuguese women in the postpartum period (up to 12 months) presenting clinically relevant depressive symptoms were considered eligible. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 17) or the control group (n = 17) and completed self-report questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention and at 3-month follow-up. In both arms, dropout rates were low, and participants considered the treatment acceptable and useful. Mixed ANOVAs revealed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and improvements in secondary outcomes (anxiety, negative thoughts, emotion regulation, self-compassion and psychological flexibility) from baseline to post-intervention in both groups. No time × group interactions were found. A significant clinical change in depressive symptoms was observed in more than 80% of the participants in both groups. Significant associations were observed among therapeutic alliance and depressive symptoms. The results of our study support the acceptability, usability and preliminary effects on postpartum depression of both interventions and highlight the important role of therapist support in blended and guided web-based interventions. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04441879.

Effects of variation in exercise training load on cognitive performances and neurotrophic biomarkers in patients with coronary artery disease.

This study compared the effects of linear (LP) and nonlinear (NLP) training periodization on cognitive functions, neurotrophic biomarkers [plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)], and cathepsin-B in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Forty-four patients with CAD reported to our laboratory on two occasions to undergo testing procedures before and after training sessions, and were then blindly randomized to NLP or LP for 36 training sessions. Visit 1 included blood samples and a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing to get maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2peak). Visit 2 included cognitive functions assessment. Thirty-nine patients completed the study (LP: n = 20, NLP: n = 19), with no observed changes in cognitive performances after the training intervention in either group. IGF-1 concentration decreased in both groups (time-effect: P < 0.001), whereas BDNF concentration increased (time-effect: P < 0.05) without group interaction, and cathepsin-B did not change after the intervention. Associations were found between ΔV̇o2peak and ΔBDNF (R2 = 0.18, P = 0.04), and ΔIGF-1 and Δshort-term/working memory (R2 = 0.17, P = 0.01) in the pooled sample, with ΔIGF-1 and ΔBDNF accounting for 10% of the variance in Δshort-term/working memory. In the LP group, associations were found between ΔV̇o2peak and ΔBDNF (R2 = 0.45, P = 0.02), ΔBDNF and Δshort-term/working memory (R2 = 0.62, P = 0.004), ΔIGF-1 and Δshort-term/working memory (R2 = 0.31, P = 0.01), and ΔIGF-1 and Δexecutive function (R2 = 0.22, P = 0.04). This study indicates that linear and nonlinear training periodization led to an increase in BDNF, and a decrease in IGF-1, without change in cognitive function in individuals with stable CAD.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We used a novel and supervised iso-energetic training, integrating both moderate- and high-intensity aerobic exercises. Our findings indicate that greater variation in training load did not yield cognitive enhancements, although both protocols exhibited positive effects on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Moreover, this study establishes a clear positive association between short-term and working memory and neurotrophic biomarkers. In addition, the independent predictive value of change in insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on improvement in short-term and working memory highlight the close relationship between neurotrophic markers and cognition. Consequently, our results advocate for exercise training interventions targeting neurotrophic biomarkers to enhance cognitive function among individuals with coronary artery disease.

Grafting of cinchonine onto rice husk nanosilica and its potential application in the synthesis of 2‐arylideneindan‐1,3‐diones and 2‐arylidene-5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione

In this study, an eco-friendly and green procedure for Knoevenagel condensation reaction of aromatic aldehydes with indan-1,3-dione and dimedone was reported utilizing a rice husk silica‐anchored cinchonine nanocomposite as a heterogeneous catalyst in aqueous media. Without the need for an additional surfactant, rice husk was utilized as a raw material to create nanosilica. Through the grafting of 3-mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane, the rice husk nanosilica was modified. Next, azobisisobutylonitrile initiator was used to trigger the thiol-ene free radical interaction of the SH groups with the Cinchonine's alkene function. The morphology and structure of the nano SiO2-S-cinchonine were characterized using fourier transform infrared spectra, field emission scanning electron microscope, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The catalytic activity of the nanocomposite was investigated in the synthesis of 2-arylideneindan-1,3-diones and 2-arylidene-5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione through an aqueous medium at 80 °C by the Knoevenagel condensation reaction. The advantages of this method are simple methodology, high yields, easy work-up, and green solvent.

Structure-Driven Performance Enhancement in Palladium–Graphene Oxide Catalysts for Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution

Graphene oxide (GO) has recently gained significant attention in electrocatalysis as a promising electrode material owing to its unique physiochemical properties such as enhanced electron transfers due to a conjugated π-electron system, high surface area, and stable support for loading electroactive species, including metal nanoparticles. However, only a few studies have been directed toward the structural characteristics of GO, elaborating on the roles of oxygen-containing functional groups, the presence of defects, interlayer spacing between the layered structure, and nonuniformity in the carbon skeleton along with their influence on electrochemical performance. In this work, we aim to understand these properties in various GO materials derived from different graphitic sources. Both physiochemical and electrochemical characterization were employed to correlate the above-mentioned features and explore the effect of the location of the palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) on various GO supports for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The interaction of the functional groups has a crucial role in the Pd dispersion and its electrochemical performance. Among the different GO samples, Pd supported on GO derived from graphene nanoplate (GNP), Pd/GO-GNP, exhibits superior HER performance; this could be attributed to the optimal balance among particle size, defect density, less in-plane functionalities, and higher electrochemical surface area. This study, thus, helps to identify the optimal conditions that lead to the best performance of Pd-loaded GO, contributing to the design of more effective HER electrocatalysts.

Upaya Meningkatkan Kesadaran Orang Tua tentang Hak dan Perlindungan Anak di Lembaga Pusat Pengembangan Anak (PPA) Linggang Mapan Kabupaten Kutai Barat

Child protection aims to guarantee the fulfillment of children's rights so that they can live, grow, develop and participate optimally in accordance with human dignity, as well as receive protection from violence and discrimination, for the sake of realizing Indonesian children who are of good quality, have noble character and prosperous. The aim of this activity is to increase parents' awareness about children's rights and protection at the Linggang Mapan Child Development Center (CDC), Linggang Bingung District, West Kutai Regency. To help partners improve parents' ability to understand and be aware of the increasing impact of violence against children, education is carried out regarding children's rights and protection. The reason for using the group counseling method or group approach is because the concept of extension is related to group counseling targets. This method is more profitable because it allows for feedback and group interaction which provides the opportunity to exchange experiences and influence the behavior and norms of its members. After carrying out activities for two weeks with two meetings with the parents of the Linggang Mapan Child Development Center (CDC) children, the author can conclude that during the process, parents can understand and comprehend what is meant by children's rights and protection by paying attention to each other's environment. a place for children to play and develop and explain to children what should be avoided while playing and socializing with other people, because violence or abuse can happen anywhere and be done by anyone, including family members.

Enhancing Focus and Short Reaction Time in Épée Fencing: The Power of the Science Vision Training Academy System

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a six-week visual training protocol, based on the Science Vision Training Academy (SVTA) method, on reaction times and executive functions in high-ranking fencers. Methods: Twenty-seven fencers, aged 17.34 ± 3.63 years, were randomly assigned to an experimental Visual Training Group (VTG = 16) and a Control Group (CG = 11). The VTG, in addition to regular fencing training, underwent SVTA training two times per week using six different visual modules, while the CG followed only their traditional fencing training. Simple and complex reaction times and movement times were assessed before and after the intervention using the Fit-Light System. Results: Both groups showed a significant improvement in all four reaction time tests: simple reaction time with and without a weapon and complex reaction time ability (motor inhibition ability) with and without a weapon (p &lt; 0.001). No significant differences were observed between the groups. A significant Time* Group interaction was found in the short reaction time and movement time (p &lt; 0.001). This trend suggests that, although genetically determined and difficult to significantly improve through training, short reaction time can be stimulated through SVTA protocols. Conclusions: Training in realistic conditions is always preferable to non-ecological protocols; however, the SVTA method may be beneficial to enhance simple reaction time in elite fencers.

Implementation of marriage dispensation towards early marriage: A case study in Selo District, Boyolali Regency

Marriage dispensation is a granting of the right to a person to marry even though they have not reached the minimum age limit for marriage. Marriage dispensation is regulated in Article 7 paragraph (2) of Law No. 16 of 2019 amending Law No. 1 of 1974 concerning marriage. Underage marriage or so-called early marriage is a marriage carried out by a person who is still under the age specified in the statutory regulations. In Law No. 16 of 2019 it is stated that permission to marry is given if the man and woman are 19 years old. If it will be done under that age, it can be done through a marriage dispensation at the Religious Court. This shows that the application for a marriage dispensation case is a major concern of the Government as an effort to minimize the practice of underage marriage in Indonesia. This type of research is field research. Field research is research conducted by collecting data and information obtained directly from the research location, which aims to study intensively about the background of the current situation and environmental interactions of a social group, individual, institution or community. The results of the study showed that there are several factors that cause early marriage, namely economic factors, educational factors, customary and habit factors. From this it can be said that the factors that cause early marriage are due to poor economic factors in society, low educational factors in society, and customary and habit factors in society to marry off their children at an early age

Characterization of anti bacterial biocomposite films based on poly lactic acid and prosopis juliflora bark powder

Biocomposites can be a solution for environmental pollution and sustainability by acting as an alternative to petroleum-based products used in the field of packaging and biomedical applications. Herein, an attempt to valorize the potential of Prosopis juliflora plant to fabricate Polylactic acid (PLA) based biocomposites. The biocomposites comprised of Prosopis juliflora bark powder (PJBP) and PLA were fabricated by solution casting method with various weight percentages (Wt%) of PJBP. PJBP/PLA films show uniform functional group interactions through FTIR analysis. The 25 % PJBP/ PLA biocomposite shows the highest crystalline size of 8.9 nm. The 25 wt% included PJBP increases the thermal stability by 6.9 %, surface roughness by 212 %, and tensile strength by 45.5 % compared to PLA film. The 25 % PJBP film shows increment in the water absorption and water vapor permeability test. In addition, the antibacterial behavior of 25 % PJBP bio composite shows higher inhibition zones against the gram-positive and gram-negative pathogens. Biocomposite films with PJBP content show 40 % degradation in soil for degradation analysis. This PLA/25 % PJBP biodegradable film can be used as an alternative for petroleum-based products in the field of packaging as well as the biomedical field.

The role and value of professional membership for emergency nurses: What are the key elements?

Granovetter (1973) wrote on the ‘Strength of Weak Ties’, even though published all those years ago, there was value and recognition placed on the strength of smaller group interactions and how they can impact on more macro level patterns, the same sociological theory holds true today. There are strengths in professional memberships, whether they are conducted on a small or large scale. They are powerful vessels for nurses to have impactful interactions. We recognize that professional memberships for nursing are available globally, whether that is through a local, national, or international organization. They offer a broad range of opportunities including education, bursaries, conferences, networking, and leadership opportunities. They are seen to connect and engage with peers and in some countries professional organizations also drive change, politically lobby, or even offer professional indemnity insurance or union support. Despite a strong presence in nursing professional organizations, the evidence shows that membership is declining or staying stagnant, and it is growing more difficult to bring nurses together through these channels. So, the question must be asked, ‘Why do nurses not strongly engage with professional organizations?’ This study focuses on emergency nurses to gain a greater understanding of drivers for professional membership and engagement.

School canteens healthier for children and the planet in the Valencian Region

Abstract Issue SchoolFood4Change (SF4C), an EU Horizon 2020 project in 12 EU countries, aims at making school meals healthier for children and the planet through innovative and sustainable food procurement, promotion of planetary health diets and cooking, and a Whole School Food Approach. In the Valencian Region two subsequent market dialogues (MDs) were organised to explore a new school food procurement and feeding model. Description In our context, most children have lunch at school daily. SF4C sees schools as catalysts for a systemic change. Two intersectoral MDs were conducted with the participation of public authorities, food procurers, cooks and schools. The first one MD1, 23 attendees, used a gamification dynamic through building blocks. MD2, 58 participants, used a World Cafe methodology to analyse nutritional, environmental, educational, social and economic determinants. Results MD1 highlighted the need to increase food education in the curricula, value regional products and cuisine, improve culinary training and reduce food waste. It suggested establishing percentages of local and organic products in tenders and improving communication between the public administration and the educational community. MD2 emphasised the objective of promoting the Mediterranean diet and sustainability in canteens. To that end, participants identified the importance of establishing requirements in public tenders, annual planning of procurement, optimising logistics and integrating the canteen into the educational project. This would enhance predictability, economic sustainability, and social support for a new innovative model. Lessons Structured interaction between stakeholders was essential to devise innovative and sustainable solutions. The creation and dynamization of intersectoral working groups is an effective public health strategy to build networks for the co-creation of viable alternatives to achieve a healthier and more environmentally sustainable school feeding. Key messages • Structured interaction in intersectoral working groups is an effective public health strategy for the co-creation of viable alternatives to make school feeding healthier for children and the planet. • Tailored innovative and sustainable solutions entail a framework for structured discussions, specific context analysis, negotiations between stakeholders and locally adaptation of good practices.

Insights Into Critical Discussion: Designing a Computer‐Supported Collaborative Space for Middle Schoolers

Collaborative learning environments that support students' problem solving have been shown to promote better decision‐making, greater academic achievement, and more reasonable argumentation about controversial issues. In this research, we developed a technology‐based critical discussion platform to support middle school students' argumentation, with a focus on evidence‐based reasoning and perspective taking. A feasibility study was conducted to examine the patterns of group interaction and individual students' contributions to the critical discussion and their perceptions of the critical discussion activity. We found that more students used text‐based communications than audio, but students who used audio collaborated with each other more frequently. In addition, student engagement in argumentative discourse varied greatly across groups as well as individuals. At the end of the discussion, most groups provided a solution that integrated both sides of the controversial issue. Survey and interview results suggest an overall positive experience with this technology‐supported critical discussion activity. Using the insights from our research, we develop a conceptual dialogue analysis framework that identifies relevant skills under the argumentation and collaboration dimensions. In this report, we discuss our design considerations, feasibility study results, and implications of engaging students in computer‐supported collaborative argumentation.