Methodological Issues Research Articles

Database of aspect triplets in Polish, Czech and Russian: presentation, considerations and case studies

The article discusses the significance of (bi-imperfective) aspect triplets in the aspect systems of Slavic languages, concerning both their status in the contemporary stages and their significance in the evolution of these systems. From either of these perspectives, the determination of aspect triplets crucially hinges on the role assigned to Natural Perfectives, i.e. perfective stems whose prefixes show some semantic overlap with meaning components of unprefixed (i.e. simplex) imperfective stems. Another crucial point to be accounted for is whether secondary imperfectives (IPFV2), i.e. stems derived with suffixes from prefixed perfective stems, really oust imperfective simplex stems (IPFV1) in their lexical relation to Natural Perfectives. A closer look at diachronic facts shows that this need not be the case; in fact, it has often not been the case, and a triplet relation between two imperfective stems and a perfective stem (with the latter serving as semantic and morphological pivot) is by no means deemed to be instable.These general points provide the background for the presentation of a comprehensive database of potential aspect triplets in Polish, Czech and Russian from 1750 to 2020. This database provides a tool necessary for the study of aspect triplets from a diachronic perspective, i.e. with an account of their dynamics. Apart from methodological issues connected to the creation of such a database, the article also gives insights into possible ways of how the database may open the door for in-depth studies. The database can also be used as an expanded list of Natural Perfectives in Czech, Polish, and Russian since 1750, as well as a starting point for investigations of near synonyms (also in applications for language learners).In general, aspect triplets constitute a rather heterogeneous class. This corresponds to intricacies which, to a large extent, repeat those known from debates about aspect pairs and which show aspect triplets to be a gradable concept (just as are aspect pairs). Heterogeneity, and gradability, is caused by the degree at which IPFV1 and IPFV2 stems tend toward complementary functions of imperfective stems and, jointly with this, whether both stems show an identical range of polysemy and valency patterns. Moreover, IPFV1 stems may differ as for the number of triplets they enter into, which, in turn, depends on their meaning range. Other factors relevant for a subclassification of aspect triplets are related to (i) their “age” and provenance (based on inherited Slavic roots vs borrowings, time of borrowing), and, in this connection, (ii) attestation rates of triplets over time, which are the best available proxy for the persistence of aspect triplets. Moreover, one may consider (iii) comparative token frequencies of the imperfective stems in a triplet and (iv) the productivity of particular prefixes, together with suffixes. The mentioned parameters have been changing, and a closer view at the dynamics of aspect triplets discloses insights into hitherto less prominent properties of the architecture of the whole aspect system in Slavic languages.

Challenges in nature-based health and therapy research and critical considerations for application in musculoskeletal health.

Nature-based health and therapy (NBHT) is a term incorporating a broad suite of practices that focus on engagement with the natural world and nature-rich spaces for potential physical and mental health benefits. As healthcare professions such as physiotherapy and osteopathy move away from biomedical/reductionist models of care for complex conditions towards approaches which take into account social and environmental determinants of health, NBHT may become part of clinical interventions and public health messaging. However, there are multiple challenges in aspects of NBHT research and application, from methodological issues in the primary research base, to questions of environmental injustice and access inequalities in many areas. In addition, engaging with natural environments which are vulnerable to the entwinned threats of climate change and biodiversity collapse requires consideration of the effects of ecological disturbance and the underlying anthropocentric/utilitarian view of the natural world. In this perspective, we outline a critique of NBHT literature and offer positive suggestions for how better-quality research can be conducted and implemented by focusing on local environmental, social, and political factors. We conclude by outlining a set of critical considerations that healthcare professionals might use to develop and implement NBHT programmes in their specific regional contexts.

Nanoparticle-assisted PCR: fundamentals, mechanisms, and forensic implications.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) has transformed forensic DNA analysis butis still limited when dealing with compromised trace or inhibitor-containing samples. Nanotechnology has been integrated into nanoPCR (nanoparticle-assisted PCR) to overcome these obstacles. Nanomaterials improve PCR sensitivity, selectivity, and efficiency. Examples of these materials are semiconductor quantum dots and metal nanoparticles. They enhance DNA binding to primers, stabilize enzymes, and function as effective heat conductors, making accurate amplification possible even with tainted samples. The developments in nanoPCR have potential uses in forensics, as they allow for the more sensitive analysis of smaller, polluted, or deteriorated samples. Nevertheless, there are methodological and ethical issues. To provide credible and legitimate forensic evidence, rigorous validation and standardization of NanoPCR techniques are vital. The article addresses the relevant ethical and methodological aspects in forensic casework while examining the integration of nanotechnology into PCR.

The proper application of logistic regression model in complex survey data: a systematic review

BackgroundLogistic regression is a useful statistical technique commonly used in many fields like healthcare, marketing, or finance to generate insights from binary outcomes (e.g., sick vs. not sick). However, when applying logistic regression to complex survey data, which includes complex sampling designs, specific methodological issues are often overlooked.MethodsThe systematic review extensively searched the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases from January 2015 to December 2021, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, focusing primarily on the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS). 810 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. When discussing logistic regression, the review considered multiple methodological problems such as the model adequacy assessment, handling dependence of observations, utilization of complex survey design, dealing with missing values, outliers, and more.ResultsAmong the selected articles, the DHS database was used the most (96%), with MICS accounting for only 3%, and both DHS and MICS accounting for 1%. Of these, it was found that only 19.7% of the studies employed multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression to account for data dependencies. Model validation techniques were not reported in 94.8% of the studies with limited uses of the bootstrap, jackknife, and other resampling methods. Moreover, sample weights, PSUs, and strata variables were used together in 40.4% of the articles, and 41.7% of the studies did not use any of these variables, which could have produced biased results. Goodness-of-fit assessments were not mentioned in 75.3% of the articles, and the Hosmer–Lemeshow and likelihood ratio test were the most common among those reported. Furthermore, 95.8% of studies did not mention outliers, and only 41.0% of studies corrected for missing information, while only 2.7% applied imputation techniques.ConclusionsThis systematic review highlights important gaps in the use of logistic regression with complex survey data, such as overlooking data dependencies, survey design, and proper validation techniques, along with neglecting outliers, missing data, and goodness-of-fit assessments, all of which point to the need for clearer methodological standards and more thorough reporting to improve the reliability of results. Future research should focus on consistently following these standards to ensure stronger and more dependable findings.

Environmental impact of Norwegian food and beverages: compilation of a life cycle assessment food database

Background: Food production contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. Climate and environmental impacts from food production vary across geographical areas. To estimate these impacts of food and diets, country-specific data are needed. Objective: This project aimed to compile an environmental impact food database, including the impact categories (ICs) global warming potential, soil acidification, freshwater and saltwater eutrophication, water use and land use, representative of the Norwegian diet. Design: The compilation was based on literature searches for original life cycle assessment (LCA) studies on foods, including domestic and imported foods, which constitute the habitual diet in Norway. Food items of importance in the average Norwegian diet were identified based on the national dietary survey Norkost 3. The study’s generic system boundaries included impacts from farm to fork: production, processing, packaging, transportation, storage and food preparation at home. Conversion factors for edible portions were applied when relevant. When LCA data of a certain food were missing, data from foods with similar cultivation conditions and nutritional composition were used as proxies. Data from other LCA food databases were also used if original LCA studies were not identified, or the LCA studies found were evaluated as being of poor quality. Results: The compiled database is tailored specifically for and covers main animal- and plant-based foods in the Norwegian diet. Discussion: Limitations of the compilation project include the fact that most LCA studies identified in the present project covered ICs up to the farm gate and used varying methodology. Also, proxy values were used when data for specific food items were missing. These methodological issues introduce variability and complicate direct comparisons. The strength of the present study is the thorough work in compiling and filling data gaps for the IC values of foods in the Norwegian diet. Conclusions: The Norwegian LCA food database enables simultaneous estimation of food and nutrient intakes and estimation of climate and environmental impacts of Norwegian diets.

DOP093 ECCO Topical Review on predictive models for IBD disease course and treatment response

Abstract Background Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) poses a clinical challenge due to its variable progression and treatment response. Despite the development of predictive models, their clinical application remains limited due to validation and methodological inconsistencies. This ECCO Topical Review examines existing predictive models, assesses their relevance, and discusses the barriers to their clinical implementation. Methods A panel formed by the European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation (ECCO), including gastroenterologists, surgeons, and methodologists, reviewed predictive models on IBD disease course and treatment response. Using the Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases, they systematically identified relevant literature to evaluate clinical significance, performance, and barriers to clinical integration. Results The panel developed 21 statements on predictive models for IBD disease course and response, with supporting text. Predictive models for IBD disease course For ulcerative colitis (UC), models included clinical factors (e.g., age at diagnosis, male gender), biochemical markers (e.g., C-reactive protein [CRP], anemia), and treatment history. Crohn’s disease (CD) models incorporated disease characteristics like stricturing behavior, perianal disease, and imaging findings. Predictive models for treatment response UC models focused on severe flares and moderate-to-severe cases managed with biologics, with predictors like CRP, disease duration, and endoscopic severity. CD models emphasized predictors like body mass index, smoking status, and CRP levels. The utility of omics data remains inconsistent. Barriers to clinical implementation Models lacked generalizability across diverse populations and face barriers related to clinical integration, healthcare acceptance, regulatory factors, and economics. Methodological approaches Future models should use diverse datasets and adhere to TRIPOD guidelines (1). Validation through metrics like calibration and discrimination, as well as trials, will be essential for real-world effectiveness. Future directions Predictive models should identify treatment responders, aid in safe discontinuation, and support personalized strategies. Models need biomarkers that are cost-effective, reproducible, and adaptable to individual patient profiles. Conclusion Based on this ECCO Topical Review currently being finalized, predictive models for IBD hold promise, but challenges persist in clinical integration. Overcoming methodological issues, performing validation, improving biomarkers, and conducting impact studies are critical. Collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and regulators is pivotal to advance models that improve patient outcomes. References (1)Collins et al. Transparent reporting of a multivariable prediction model for individual prognosis or diagnosis (TRIPOD): the TRIPOD statement. The TRIPOD Group. Circulation 2015;131(2):211–9.

Declaration of Sweeteners on Food Labels: A Scoping Review of Methodological Issues and Prevalence.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently published a guideline that recommends against the use of nonsugar sweeteners. Food labels are a key source of information for consumers, to enable them to make informed decisions regarding the consumption of food additives. However, discrepancies in the concepts and categorizations of sweeteners in labeling recommendations and regulations may influence the results of studies on the prevalence of sweeteners in foods. This study aimed to analyze the scientific literature related to the declaration of sweeteners on food labels. Focus was placed on methodological issues related to data collection and analysis, including the categorization of sweeteners, as well as on the reported prevalence of sweetener declaration on food labels. A scoping review was conducted based on a search for terms related to sweeteners, food labeling, and packaged foods. Nine studies, published between 2012 and 2022, were included. Variability among studies was observed in terms of data collection methods, approaches for identifying the sweeteners declared on food labels, the criteria for categorizing sweeteners, and the definitions underlying the categorization. Moreover, there was a lack of standardization in the bibliographic sources consulted in formulating the categorization, and failure to report specific sources, leading to heterogeneity in the substances regarded as sweeteners. The prevalence of the declaration of sweeteners in food labeling ranged from less than 1% to 43.6%. The findings of the present work emphasize the need to standardize the methodologies used for the identification of sweeteners declared on food labels and the criteria for their categorization.

Methodological aspects of the statistical analysis of entrepreneurial confidence in the sectors of the Russian economy

The article examines the sources of information on the entrepreneurial confidence of organizations and consumer expectations of the population collected by Rosstat. The features of programmatic, methodological and organizational issues of monitoring the conjuncture and business activity of organizations and consumer behavior of the population are summarized. The limitations of the statistical analysis of non-quantitative information (balances of evaluation of indicators as a difference in the frequency of responses) of marketoriented sample surveys are formulated. The dynamics and seasonality of the index of entrepreneurial confidence of enterprises extracting minerals, engaged in manufacturing, providing electric energy, gas and steam, air conditioning, construction, retail trade, services, and the index of consumer confidence of the Russian population for 2022-2024 are analyzed. The degree of influence of the components of the index of entrepreneurial (consumer) confidence in Russia on its dynamics for 2018-2024 was measured. The factors limiting the activities of Russian enterprises and organizations were analyzed, stable and unstable among them were identified, and structural shifts in respondents' responses about the impact of these factors for 2020-2024 were also assessed.

Methods for assessing peri-implant marginal bone levels on digital periapical radiographs: a meta-research.

This meta-research assessed methodologies used for evaluating peri-implant marginal bone levels on digital periapical radiographs in randomised clinical trials published between 2019 and 2023. Articles were searched in four databases. Data on methods for assessing peri-implant marginal bone levels were extracted. Risk of bias assessment was performed. During full-text reading, 108 out of 162 articles were excluded. Methodological issues accounted for these exclusions, including the absence of radiograph-type information, the lack of radiographic positioners, the missing anatomical references, and the use of panoramic radiographs or tomography. Fifty-four articles were included, most from Europe (70%) and university-based (74%). Radiographic positioners were specified in 54% of articles. Examiner calibration was unreported in 54%, with 69% lacking details. In 59%, no statistical measure assessed examiner agreement. Blinding was unreported or unused in 50%. Marginal bone level changes were the primary outcome of 61%. Most articles (59.3%) raised "some concerns" regarding bias, while 37% showed a high risk of bias, and only two articles (3.7%) demonstrated a low risk of bias. Several limitations and areas for improvement were identified. Future studies should prioritize protocol registration, standardize radiographic acquisitions, specify examiner details, implement calibration and statistical measures for agreement, introduce blinding protocols, and maintain geometric calibration standards.

Methodological Insights on Biomarker-Based Patient Selection: A Review of Scientific Advice Procedures at the European Medicines Agency.

Biomarkers play a pivotal role in the selection and enrollment of trial participants. Particularly, predictive biomarkers help tailor medical care to individual patients; however, also prognostic biomarkers require consideration at the design stage. At the time of initiating a clinical trial, there may be uncertainty about whether a biomarker is predictive or prognostic, and the trial design may need to account for this. Relevant discussions between drug developers and regulators on the role of a biomarker in a specific drug development program are expected to take place during Scientific Advice (SA) procedures. SA procedures at the European Medicines Agency from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2020, were systematically searched for methodological discussions around the use of predictive or prognostic biomarkers. The final analysis included 45 SA procedures for which key characteristics were summarized quantitatively. Selected methodological issues such as the cutoff selection of continuous biomarkers or study design considerations were elaborated in a qualitative summary. Our results identify commonly encountered points for discussion between drug developers and the European Medicines Agency for biomarker-informed patient selection and enrollment. Identified topics addressed during SA procedures include cutoff selection, study design, multiplicity control, and data-driven subgroup selection. The majority of the identified 45 SA procedures concern development programs in oncology. Addressing these issues upfront will allow for an improved dialogue between drug developers and regulators and support the drug development program and ultimately patient-centered access to medicines.

Incidental findings from cone-beam computed tomography in children and adolescents: a systematic review.

The use of cone-beam computed tomographies (CBCT) in orthodontics and pediatric dentistry is constantly increasing. The aim of this systematic review was to critically appraise and summarize evidence from clinical studies on the prevalence of incidental findings from CBCTs of children and adolescents. Systematic literature searches without restrictions were undertaken in eight databases from inception up to March 2024 for studies reporting on incidental findings from CBCT images of children and adolescents. After duplicate study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment with a custom tool based on the Joanna Briggs institute's tool for prevalence studies, qualitative (narrative) data synthesis was performed. Ten studies covering a total of 1818 patients (48.5% male; average age 12.3years) were included. The prevalence of incidental findings ranged from 0.4 to 80.3%, but high heterogeneity was seen between studies (I2 = 99%). Incidental findings were most often related to airways (63.7%), followed by bone (23.6%), teeth (19.2), spine (26.2) and temporomandibular joint (3.8%). However, several methodological issues existed with included studies (incomplete reporting of patient- or CBCT-related details, incomplete categorization and reporting on the severity of findings, small sample sizes, and research transparency issues). Evidence indicates that incidental findings can be often found in the CBCTs of child and adolescent patients. However, when a CBCT image is justified for children or adolescents, it should be adequately assessed for incidental findings by either a specialist oral and maxillofacial radiologist or a dentist with appropriate training and experience.

A Comprehensive Review on Smartphone Overuse: Analysing Its Influence on Physical Health and Social Relationships in the Digital Age

The aim of this paper is to analyse trends by reviewing the growing body of research on smartphone overuse in humans. This literature review focuses exclusively on original research articles. It begins by explaining key concepts, such as the levels and symptoms of smartphone usage excessively. There is a term “Nomophobia” which is frequently linked to poor mobile technology use. It, often known as "no-mobile-phone phobia," is the anxiety of not being able to use or reachable via one's cell phone. Additionally, it highlights the fundamental challenges and methodological issues discussed in the existing studies. The paper explores the relationship between student smartphone overuse and academic performance. While some researchers have identified gender differences in smartphone usage, others have found minimal correlation between gender and smartphone use. Several studies also link smartphone usage pattern to musculoskeletal problems. Moreover, research indicates that mobile phone use while driving is a major contributor to road accidents today. Also, it is crucial to understanding the impact of negative side of mobile phone usage on mental health, academic performance, and social interactions. Researches on this topic helps in developing effective interventions and policies to promote healthier usage habits. Therefore, raising awareness about smartphone overuse and its consequences is crucial. Parents should actively monitor their children’s schedules to help prevent them from developing a dependency on mobile devices.

CONSTRAINTS IN SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH: DATA COLLECTION AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUES FOR HARD-TO-REACH POPULATION

In recent times, various methodological approaches and techniques are used in carrying out social science research, particularly in unlikely situations and among people in hard-to-reach places. This paper intends to explore new trend in research, statistical tools, its relative importance and usefulness for carrying out survey research in hard-to-reach places. It will also contrast and compare the effectiveness of methods used, and in addition, probabilistic and non-probabilistic sampling techniques needed for hard-to-reach places will be addressed. Thus, inferences will be drawn in order to proffer probable solutions for solving future methodological issues relating to social science-based research studies in hard-to-reach-places.

О некоторых проблемах и предложениях по совершенствованию управления природными ресурсами России. Региональный аспект

The article discusses methodological issues and methods of resource management at the regional level. The problems that hinder the improvement of the efficiency of using Russia's resource potential are analyzed, and proposals for their solution are given. The features of mineral resource management, the impact of raw material extraction on the socio-economic development of the territory, and the spatial development of the region are considered in more detail. It is proposed to radically transform the existing mechanisms of financial relations "center - regions" in favor of the latter, the use of economic methods to stimulate mining enterprises in the rational use of natural resources. The author recommends the creation of a unified federal body for integrated environmental management in the country, and the expansion of the degree of participation in natural resource management by territorial authorities – both subjects of the Russian Federation and municipalities. In the context of growing economic uncertainty and fragmentation of the global economy, external shocks, unprecedented sanctions, man-made internal crises, abnormal instability of the ruble, as well as a difficult demographic situation and a shortage of able-bodied people, finds it more rational to get out of the confrontation, search for ways to jointly develop the global economy and the place of Russia and its regions in this process.

Hegel’s Metaphilosophy and Its Relevance for Contemporary Philosophy

Abstract In recent years, many studies on the relationship between G. W. F. Hegel and metaphilosophy have appeared, articulating it in various ways. The goal of this paper is to specify in what sense it is possible to speak of a Hegelian metaphilosophy, while also assessing the relevance of Hegel for the current metaphilosophical debate. In particular, I will proceed as follows. First, I will outline the main features of the contemporary metaphilosophical debate. Second, I will discuss some important metaphilosophical interpretations of Hegel. Third, I will specify in what sense it is possible to speak of a Hegelian metaphilosophy. Fourth, I will address several methodological issues that arise whenever one attempts to assert the contemporary relevance of Hegel’s philosophy. Finally, I will assess to what extent Hegel’s philosophy can be relevant for the current metaphilosophical debate. As a result, the present paper outlines a concrete option for current philosophical research.

Digital interventions for alcohol use and alcohol use disorders in low- and-middle-income countries: a systematic review

Abstract Background Despite the high burden of alcohol use and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs), access to health care is poor. Digital interventions (DIs) have recently emerged as promising avenues for addressing substance use. Such interventions could potentially address barriers to help-seeking in LMICs such as travel costs, shortage of professionals, stigma etc. Aim To synthesise evidence on effectiveness and implementation of DIs for AUDs in LMICs. Methods The systematic review had a comprehensive search strategy that combined search terms for DIs (e.g. SMS, ehealth), alcohol use (e.g. hazardous drinking), and LMICs (e.g. India). Studies presenting primary data that reported effectiveness (e.g. relapse) and/or implementation or intervention-related outcomes (e.g. feasibility) of DIs for AUDs in LMICs were eligible. Three databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PsycInfo) were searched from their inception till June 2023. Data was extracted in relevant categories and analysed. Results 21 reports from 19 studies were included. Types of DIs ranged from standalone mobile applications and web portals, to human-delivered interventions via digital platforms. 12 studies reported positive or partially-positive alcohol use outcomes (e.g. number of drinking-days, abstinence). DIs with human-involvement were found to be more effective than standalone DIs. Additionally, high levels of acceptability, feasibility, and satisfaction were reported across interventions. Conclusion DIs are acceptable and feasible in LMICs and broadly effective in improving alcohol use outcomes. Firm conclusions could not be drawn because of methodological issues such as small sample sizes, short follow-up periods, and limited generalisability. Adequate investment, improved research methodology, and increased focus on implementation outcomes is required for determining the role that DIs can play in addressing AUDs in LMICs.

Post-earthquake structural damage assessment, lessons learned, and addressing objections following the 2023 Kahramanmaras, Turkey earthquakes

Abstract This paper provides a comprehensive examination of post-earthquake structural damage assessment efforts following the Kahramanmaras, Turkey, earthquakes that occurred on February 6, 2023. Drawing on global damage assessment protocols, the study compares and analyzes the methods implemented in the aftermath of the earthquakes, offering insights into lessons learned and challenges faced. The analysis of objections raised regarding the assessment efforts reveals significant changes in structures with moderate and severe damage, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in assessment strategies. The paper advocates for a realistic and two-stage application method, consideration of crack type and cause, and active involvement of local communities in the assessment process. Furthermore, the study identifies key issues in the current earthquake damage assessment methodology and proposes solutions, including a more precise classification system, regular volunteer training, consideration of secondary disaster risks, and effective communication methods. The paper concludes by underscoring the importance of effective damage assessment in disaster management, addressing objections from the affected population, and continual enhancement of strategies to improve resilience in earthquake-prone regions.

Registries on transcatheter edge-to-edge repair in heart failure: Current evidence and future perspectives.

Secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are the most common valvular heart diseases in patients with heart failure (HF). Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) devices designed for treating MR and TR have been successfully tested in randomized controlled trials, but methodological issues have often challenged their interpretation. This manuscript aimed to provide an overview of TEER registries on SMR and TR in HF, highlighting their key features, describing clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients receiving these devices, and exploring the available data limitations. PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE were searched for registries reporting on TEER in SMR or TR. Registries were excluded if single-centre and with <100 patients. Twenty-six registries (46% prospective, 12% ongoing), including a total cohort of 18 925 patients, were retrieved for TEER in SMR, and six registries (50% retrospective, 33% ongoing) reported on the use of TEER for TR in a total cohort of 1412 patients. Limited geographical representativity outside North America and Europe, high number of missing values, and inconsistency in data reporting were the main existing evidence limitations. Registries on TEER represent a key data source in a setting where it is difficult to conduct randomized controlled trials. However, limitations in design, patient characterization, and outcomes reporting restrain their use. A novel conceptual framework for future prospective TEER registries, as proposed in this document, might inform current practice, address relevant clinical questions and future trial design.

ESTUDANTES COM TEA NO ENSINO SUPERIOR

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is due to neurodevelopment changes, characterized by difficulties in communication, social interaction and the presence of repetitive and restricted behaviors. In the present study, we mapped and analyzed theses and dissertations produced between 2012 and 2022, about the specialized care offered to students with ASD in higher education. The problematization of this theme was based on the question: what has been investigated in stricto sensu research on special and inclusive education for students with ASD in higher education? The study is characterized as a state of knowledge, as recommended by Romanovski and Ens (2006). The searches were carried out in the Capes Theses and Dissertations Bank and in the Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (BDTD), using the keywords “autism” and “higher education”; “ASD” and “higher education”; “autism” and “higher education”. In total, we selected and analyzed twenty research studies, fifteen of which were dissertations and five theses. The results highlight the complex process of including students with ASD in higher education, with emphasis on the inadequate teacher training to deal with the specificities of the spectrum, especially with regard to teaching methodological issues and the process of curricular adaptations and flexibility for this public.

Borders of physical self in virtual reality: a systematic review of virtual hand position discrepancy detection.

Virtual reality (VR) holds significant promise for psychiatric research, treatment, and assessment. Its unique ability to elicit immersion and presence is important for effective interventions. Immersion and presence are influenced by matching-the alignment between provided sensory information and user feedback, and self-presentation-the depiction of a user's virtual body or limbs. Discrepancies between real and virtual hands can affect the sense of presence and thus treatment efficacy. However, the precise impact of positional offsets in healthy individuals remains under-explored. This review assesses how various factors influence the detection thresholds for positional offsets in VR among healthy subjects. A comprehensive database search targeted English-language studies on the detection thresholds of virtual hand positional offsets using head-mounted displays (HMDs) with specific tracking capabilities. Data on methodologies, participant demographics, and VR system specifics were extracted. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria, revealing significant variability in detection thresholds-from a few millimeters to 42 cm for linear shifts and from 2° to 45° for angular shifts. Sensitivity to these offsets was affected by hand movement direction and magnitude, hand representation realism, and the presence of distractions. VR system specifications, such as resolution and tracking accuracy, also played a significant role. Methodological issues included small sample sizes, inadequate demographic reporting, and inconsistent presence or avatar embodiment measures. The results highlight the need to consider identified influencing factors to maximize user presence in VR-based therapies. Variability in VR device capabilities also emphasizes the need for detailed reporting of device properties in research. The individual variability in offset detection further illustrates VR's potential as a tool for studying body ownership and multisensory integration.