Opportunities For Interaction Research Articles

Using Project ECHO to deliver a tele-mentoring and teaching program on palliative care in South Asia: Interpretive description of participants' experiences with a community of practice for learning.

To explore the learning experiences of participants (learners and teachers), in a yearlong tele-teaching and mentoring program on pediatric palliative care, which was conducted using the Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) model and consisted of 27 teaching and clinical case discussion sessions for palliative medicine residents in India and Bangladesh. The goal of the study is to explore how participation and learning is motivated and sustained for both residents and teachers, including the motivators and challenges to participation and learning in a novel online format. Qualitative interviews with ECHO participants, including learners and teachers were conducted. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis of interview data was conducted within an interpretive description approach. Eleven physicians (6 residents, 5 teachers) participated in interviews. Key elements of the ECHO program which participants identified as supporting learning and participation include small group discussions, a flipped classroom, and asynchronous interactions through social media. Individual learner characteristics including effective self-reflection and personal circumstances impact learning. Providing opportunities for a diverse group of learners and teachers, to interact in communities of practice (COP) enhances learning. Three major themes and 6 subthemes describing learning processes were identified. Themes included (1) ECHO program structure, (2) learner characteristics, and (3) COP. Subthemes included flipped classroom, breakout rooms, learning resources, personal circumstances, self-awareness of learning needs, and community interactions. Project ECHO suggests a novel model to train health providers, which is effective in low- and middle-income countries. Online learning programs can lead to learning through community of practice when learners and teachers are able to interact and engage in peer support and reflective practice. Educators should consider incorporating small group discussions, a flipped classroom design, and opportunities for asynchronous interactions to enhance learning for participants in online learning programs.

Exploring Norwegian teachers’ perceptions of shy students at recess and their strategic responses

ABSTRACT Recess (break times) during the school day offers children opportunities for peer interactions which enrich social development. For shy children, however, these periods can produce anxiety, leading to withdrawal and onlooker behaviour. The analysis reported here is from a national study of how Norwegian elementary school teachers support the engagement of shy children in school life. Nineteen teachers with recognised success with shy students were interviewed to elicit their interpretations of shy children’s behaviour and their strategies with them. Qualitative analyses found that these teachers recognised that recess was integral to creating inclusive schools, took the perspectives of shy children, and ascribed anxiety-related emotions to them. Teachers also mentioned that asking other children to include them in activities left shy children feeling pitied. However, giving designated roles to the child; allowing them to stay inside with friends to build real friendships; and starting playful activities with the child that attracted other children were all described as successful strategies.

Examining the Quality of Learning Environment of Sandwich Programmes in Ghana: A Case of Institute of Education

This paper reports on a study that examined the quality of the learning environment of sandwich programmes in Ghana. The study used a sequential explanatory mixed method design and focused on tutors and 400 students of the programme. The Total Quality Management Theory, Expectation Confirmation/Disconfirmation Theory, Context, Input, Process, and Product Evaluation Model underpined the study. A disproportional stratified selection method was used to select 1,000 students and 50 tutors from each of the four teaching centres. While a purposive sampling method was employed to select 12 students and eight tutors involved in sandwich programmes for follow-up interviews. The data were collected using a questionnaire and an interview guide. The quantitative data was analysed using means and standard deviation, while the qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. These findings revealed that the tutors show concern for the welfare of the students and offer chances for student-teacher contact. However, big class sizes limit how much faculty can customise the learning environment. Also, students were friendly, helpful, cooperative, and supported one another during activities. The study recommended that the management of the Institute of Education and centre coordinators make every effort to secure spacious classrooms to help reduce large class sizes and increase opportunities for student-teacher interactions, cohesiveness, and students' participation in the classroom. In addition, tutors should foster an atmosphere that invites student interaction and identify students' strengths and weaknesses.

Seed-Bird co-occurrence networks in cocoa agroforests: Morphological matching analysis reveals shading effects on network organization

Tropical forests are highly vulnerable to ongoing deforestation, which often involves converting land for agricultural use. While tropical agroforests have been promoted as wildlife-friendly systems, limited information is available on the ability of agroforests to provide diverse fruits that attract birds and thus contribute to essential ecological processes, such as seed dispersal. Here, we evaluated the organization of tropical seed-bird co-occurrence networks in cocoa agroforests of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Specifically, we investigated the influence of (i) landscape and local predictors in shaping the structure of seed-bird co-occurrence networks; and (ii) species traits in explaining their interactive role in the networks. We constructed matrices of presence-absence interactions based on morphological matching among the beak width of frugivorous bird species and the size of ornithochorous seed species (both native and exotic species), using field data of seed rain and understory bird surveys from 15 cocoa agroforests. We further evaluated both the effects of landscape forest cover and local shading on five network indices and how functional traits of birds and seeds explain their importance to the network. In total, we obtained 467 events of potential plant-bird interactions, which revealed a modular pattern. We also observed that only canopy shading significantly affected network connectance, and seed diameter was a significant predictor in explaining tree species contribution in the network. Therefore, our findings show that cocoa agroforests with greater shading will have greater opportunities for interactions between frugivorous birds and plants. We also observed that plants with small seeds play a more relevant role in the co-occurrence interaction network. Based on findings, we emphasized that cocoa agroforests likely maintain certain mutualistic relationships to ensure ecosystem functionality and demonstrate that co-occurrence networks have great potential for future seed dispersal networks in agricultural ecosystems.

Influences of Outdoor Experiences During Childhood on Time Spent in Nature as an Adult

IntroductionTime spent in nature provides myriad physical and mental health benefits for both adults and children. Despite these benefits, most people spend too little time in nature to realize the maximal effect. Different types of childhood experiences may have differential influence on adult time in nature. This study assessed the influences of different kinds of childhood outdoor experiences on time spent in nature as an adult. The first aim was to utilize 20 childhood nature experience items to construct summative scales. The second aim was to examine the influence of each scale and other factors on adult time in nature. MethodsA 2-factor scale measuring “wild” and “domesticated” childhood nature experiences was developed using principal and confirmatory factor analyses. An on-line study of 2,109 American adults was conducted. Multiple linear regression examined the influences of the two childhood nature experiences scales, attitude and self-efficacy scales, and sex and age covariates, on adult time spent in nature. ResultsSignificant predictors of adult time in nature were wild childhood nature experiences (β = 0.279, < 0.001), positive attitudes about nature (β = 0.12, p < 0.05), negative attitudes about nature (β = -0.23, p < 0.001) and self-efficacy (β = 0.71, p < 0.001). ConclusionsWild childhood nature experiences (e.g., camping, hiking, and fishing) that include skill-building, that are immersive and engaging, and that involve opportunity for social interaction may translate better into adult nature activities. Programs that introduce and support wild experiences may increase lifelong time spent in nature.

Timing of seasonal events is correlated with social network position in a wild mammal

Across animal systems, abiotic environmental features, including timing of seasonal events and weather patterns, affect fitness. An individual’s degree of social integration also has fitness consequences, but we lack an understanding of how abiotic features relate to patterns of individual sociality. A deeper understanding of this relationship could be developed from studying systems where these two links with fitness have already been identified. We explored the relationship between individual social behavior and seasonal timing, seasonal length, and weather patterns. We used social network analysis on a sixteen-year dataset of a wild population of hibernating yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventer). We fit a series of generalized linear mixed models and found that longer growing seasons before winter hibernation and longer winters were associated with increased individual sociality in the following spring. However, later snowmelt was associated with decreased sociality that spring. We found no relationship between individual sociality and various measures of precipitation and temperature. This suggests that seasonal timing and length may be a more important driver of sociality than weather patterns in this system, both as a lag and contemporary effect. Seasonal timing and length may mediate the opportunity or intensity of social interactions. The entwined relationships between the seasonal schedule and weather, and the seemingly contradictory role of winter length and snowmelt, suggests the timing of seasons and its relationship with sociality is complex and further exploration of environment-sociality relationships is required across taxa.Significance statementWhile the adaptive benefits of social behavior are well studied, less is known about how features of the abiotic environment drive variation in individual social behavior. Given increasing stochasticity in the timing of seasonal events and weather patterns, mapping the environment-sociality relationship will provide important insights to the drivers of sociality in the wild. This is particularly salient for species most vulnerable to climate and environmental change, such as seasonal hibernators, like yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventer). We found that features of seasonal duration were positively associated with increased sociality, whereas the timing of seasonal onset was negatively associated. This work provides empirical evidence towards an important gap in the behavioral ecology literature.

ВПРОВАДЖЕННЯ ТЕХНОЛОГІЇ МІКРОНАВЧАННЯ СТУДЕНТІВ-ЕКОНОМІСТІВ ЗА ДОПОМОГОЮ ОНЛАЙН-КУРСІВ

After the outbreak of the pandemic in 2019 and the outbreak of war in the country in 2022, educational institutions at different levels of Ukraine switched to a mixed format of the educational process and were forced to look for modern approaches and technologies for organizing the education of students. This study examines the implementation of microlearning technology using online courses developed on the Moodle platform. Microlearning is a modern learning technology that involves short, intensive training modules focused on the development of specific theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Available online courses, which provide the ability to create and deliver different types of educational content, focus mainly on the formation of necessary knowledge and skills of students, but do not take into account their individual needs and interests in the learning process, and pay little attention to their satisfaction with education in modern conditions. This article investigates the impact of microlearning technology using online courses on students' satisfaction with learning. To determine the level of student satisfaction, an online survey was conducted among 61 students enrolled in the specialty 051 "Economics" programs, which include Business Economics, International Economics, Economic Cybernetics, and Digital Economy, at the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine. All these students were studying using microlearning technology with the use of online courses. As a result, that the level of student satisfaction with learning using this technology is most influenced by such factors as the availability of learning resources, consideration of individual abilities and needs in the online course, opportunities for interaction and communication with the teacher, as well as the format of learning materials and acquired knowledge. Accordingly, these factors should be taken into account when developing online courses and implementing microlearning technologies in the educational process.

The promise and perils of coworking in residential areas: a systematic review of health and community impacts

PurposeThis study aims to explore the manifold implications – health, environmental and economic – of integrating coworking spaces (CSs) into residential settings. The research emphasizes the health-related potential and connected benefits of situating these contemporary spaces of work in retrofitted buildings.Design/methodology/approachThe research highlights the potential of retrofitted buildings – owing to their urban locations, existing infrastructure, and available space – to accommodate CSs. Employing the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology, the paper systematically reviews literature from 2010 to 2021. It investigates the influence of residential CSs on health, community cohesion and environmental sustainability.FindingsThe results indicate that integrating CSs within residential areas can significantly enhance user wellbeing, create a healthier residential environment and positively impact the broader community. Retrofitted buildings emerge as optimal venues for CSs due to their urban positioning and potential to contribute to users' physical, mental and social health. However, the strategic (re)use of retrofitted buildings is crucial, alongside planning to address potential downsides like gentrification.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is based on a literature review and may not fully capture the specificities of certain regional or local conditions that could affect the health benefits associated with CSs. In addition to that, the study primarily references European-centric research between 2010 and 2021, indicating a need for more diverse geographic and cultural studies. Further empirical studies are needed to validate the findings behind the following study.Practical implicationsThe findings of this study can guide urban planners, policymakers and architects in assessing the feasibility of converting residential buildings into CSs and planning relevant activities. They can leverage the potential health benefits to promote CSs and encourage healthier lifestyle practices in residential communities.Social implicationsIntroducing CSs in residential areas can lead to reduced commuting stress, opportunities for physical activities and social interactions, and healthier lifestyle practices. These benefits can enhance the overall well-being of individuals and communities, fostering a stronger social fabric in urban settings.Originality/valueThis research is novel in examining the health benefits associated with CSs in residential areas and the role of retrofitted buildings in promoting such advantages.

Challenges, Opportunities, and Recommendations for Sino-Thai Cross-Border Cultural Tourism Cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative

The Belt and Road Initiative aims to promote cooperation in infrastructure construction, trade cooperation, cultural exchanges, and other aspects among the countries along the route. Over the past decade, the implementation of this initiative in Thailand has achieved remarkable results, injecting new vitality into Sino-Thai cultural exchanges. The implementation of visa exemption policies has made personnel exchanges between China and Thailand more convenient, providing new opportunities for cultural interactions. Cultural exchanges help to enhance the understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries, promoting cooperation in culture, education, and other aspects. As a key medium of cultural exchange, the tourism industry plays a very important role. This paper discusses the opportunities and challenges of Sino-Thai cross-border cultural tourism cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and proposes corresponding strategies. The aim is to help promote cultural exchanges and mutual learning, contributing to the construction of a closer Sino-Thai community of shared destiny.

The impact of out-of-school L2 input and interaction on adolescent classroom immersion and community-L2 learners’ L2 vocabulary: opportunities for interaction are key

Abstract Comparing young second-language (L2) learners in different learning contexts is a valuable, but under-researched, design for determining how L2 experiences impact L2 development. This study addressed this gap by comparing the out-of-school L2 experiences of adolescents (N = 64) learning L2-English as either a community majority language or as a foreign language in an immersion classroom, and examining how differences in L2 experience impacted English receptive vocabulary ability. Participant questionnaires yielded information on sources of L2 input and L2 interaction out-of-school. Results showed the groups were comparable for L2 input, but immersion learners experienced less interactional L2 use and also had significantly smaller L2 vocabularies. Out-of-school L2 experience explained more variance in receptive vocabulary for community-L2 participants, with more significant predictor variables than immersion-L2 participants. L2 interaction variables explained more variance than L2 input variables for both groups, indicating that, overall, interaction is a key source of L2 receptive vocabulary development.

Environmental Communication Challenges in The Development Process of the Ciletuh Palabuhanratu Geopark Area, Sukabumi Regency

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to Explaining the process of environmental communication dynamics in the Ciletuh Palabuhanratu Geopark area, explaining the dynamics of environmental communication in the Ciletuh Palabuhanratu Geopark area, formulating follow-up actions to environmental communication dynamics in the Ciletuh Palabuhanratu Geopark area, Sukabumi Regency.   Method: The research methodology this study used qualitative research methods. Research with a qualitative paradigm is flexible and open by emphasizing inductive analysis (empirico inductive) (Suprayogo and Tabroni 2001: 161). Based on the research objectives to be achieved, this type of research is a case study type of research. This research is based on the type of case study, including the type of exploratory case study research. An exploratory approach seeks to find general information about a topic/problem that is not yet fully understood by researchers. In this research, the data collected consists of primary data and secondary data. Primary data sources are objects observed directly in the field and data obtained through interviewed informants. In this research, informants came from four sub-districts which are representatives of the Ciletuh Palabuhanratu Geopark, including the PAPSI and Palapah community groups, community leaders from four sub-districts, local government, academics, and figures who initiated the Ciletuh Palabuhanratu Geopark. This data is also accompanied by photo, image and map data to complement the primary data. Secondary data sources are in the form of documents or written sources in general, such as village monographs, population statistics, building inventories, natural conditions, and also about the history of the formation and development of the Ciletuh Geopark area. Secondary data is obtained from research results, journals, the internet and matters related to data needs. This secondary data is useful for researchers to understand more deeply the problem that is the object of research. In general, the techniques that can be used to collect data for this research are interviews, observation and documentation studies. An interview is a process of direct interaction or communication between the interviewer and the respondent.   Results and conclusion: Based on the literature review and analysis the Ciletuh Geopark area is an area that has unique geological, biological and cultural potential that can be developed as a complete natural and cultural tourism destination that has comparative and competitive advantages. The dynamics of environmental communication that occur are aimed at ensuring that conservation aspects can run in balance and in line with aspects of community empowerment.   Research implications: The findings of this research have implications for environmental communication which has an important role in efforts to empower and develop the community's economy so that it is more environmentally friendly and of course can be more targeted. Environmental communication provides opportunities for good interaction between various parties in community empowerment activities by equalizing perceptions of various environmental problems, so that the expected goals can be achieved with the active participation of the community in overcoming environmental problems in the Geopark area. Originality/value: This research contributes to existing literature by focusing on the intersection between environmental communication dynamics and regional development in the Indonesian context. By identifying obstacles and providing recommendations, this research offers insight into community empowerment activities by equalizing perceptions of various environmental problems in the Geopark area.

Active Chat Monitoring and Suspicious Chat Detection Over Internet

In today's digital landscape, the proliferation of online communication platforms has brought about unprecedented opportunities for interaction and collaboration. However, this vast virtual space also presents challenges in ensuring safety and security, particularly concerning the monitoring of chat activities and the detection of suspicious behaviour. This research paper investigates the methods and technologies employed proactive chat monitoring and random chat across the web. The paper begins by examining the importance of monitoring chat platforms to prevent various forms of malicious activities, including cyberbullying, fraud, terrorism, and other illicit behaviours. It then delves into the techniques utilized for real-time monitoring of chat conversations, such as keyword filtering, sentiment analysis, and natural language processing algorithms. Furthermore, the paper explores the principles behind suspicious chat detection, highlighting the indicators of potentially harmful or illegal activities within chat communications. This includes analysing patterns of conversation, identifying anomalous behaviour, and integrating machine learning models to improve detection accuracy. Moreover, the research discusses the ethical considerations and privacy concerns associated with active chat monitoring, emphasizing the need for transparent policies and safeguards to protect user privacy while ensuring effective security measures. Keywords: Active chat monitoring, Suspicious chat detection, Online communication platforms, Cybersecurity, Malicious activities, Keyword filtering, Sentiment analysis, Natural language processing algorithms.

Mixed Method Evaluation of ACTS: Advancing Connection Through Storytelling-A Novel Approach to Improve Older Adult Engagement and Staff Interactions in Korean Nursing Homes.

A culture centered on relationships and communication is necessary to improve the quality of life of older adults living in nursing homes. To examine the effects of a storytelling program by examining the cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial changes in older adults in facilities and explore staff experience of changes in care. This mixed method study delivered a 6-week storytelling program based on relationship-centered care for residents of nursing homes (aged >65 years). Changes in emotional expression, depression, communication skills, social support, interpersonal relationships, nurse-patient interaction, and the person-centered environment as perceived by older adults were quantitatively analyzed using pre-intervention and post-intervention surveys. Qualitative data were collected through weekly stories created by residents, followed by focus group interviews with nursing home staff, analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to enhance understanding of the program's outcomes. The 42 residents reported significant changes in their emotional expression, depression, communication skills, social support, interpersonal relationships, nurse-patient interaction, and person-centered environment scores after the 6-week intervention. Analysis of the residents' stories identified 5 themes. The staff focus group interviews identified 2 themes and 7 subthemes. Intervention group residents were more likely to initiate conversations, express themselves, carefully observe themselves and others, and actively participate in social activities. The storytelling program was useful in reducing older adults' negative emotions by allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings and improve their relationships, creating opportunities for social interaction. These effects could help foster relationship- and communication-centered facility cultures.

E054 Rituximab dose minimisation in rheumatoid arthritis, a retrospective outcome analysis

Abstract Background/Aims Rituximab was originally developed as a non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment and rheumatology adopted the same dosing for rheumatoid arthritis(RA); two 1000mg doses two weeks apart for each maintenance cycle. UHSussex utilises self-referral for maintenance rituximab dosing once disease control lessens. Evidence demonstrates patients treated with lower dose rituximab still enjoy good disease control with less immunosuppression, reduced hospital attendance and reduction in drug expenditure. Following one two-dose cycle, stable RA patients were prescribed a single 1000mg dose from 2020 onwards. A retrospective outcome analysis was completed in August 2022; however, results were highly impacted by Covid-19 and a repeat analysis was required. Aim: to assess impact of a single 1000mg dose rituximab regime on patient sustained outcomes, dose intervals, Disease Activity Scores (DAS) and drug expenditure. Methods The pharmacy database was used to identify RA patients receiving rituximab from March 2020 to August 2023. Patients received at least one standard two-dose cycle before switching to a single infusion. Patients were excluded if lost to follow up (under care of rheumatology for less than a year following dose switching) or considered clinically unstable. Patient letters and departmental records were accessed for disease scores and treatment intervals. Results Table1: Results from the two analysis periods From the original cohort (31/59)53% remained on single dosing. Switch back tended to occur within 18 months of switching. DAS scores were not collected reliably and were omitted. Conclusion Covid-19 impacted services and attitudes during the initial study period. Many patients stopped treatment, particularly rituximab, due to the prolonged duration of effect, excluding them from analysis. The dose-interval increase during the first analysis was considered a result of the pandemic. Patients and clinicians delayed infusions; minimising immunosuppression due to perceived increased risk of Covid-19. The continued interval increase in the second analysis may identify a patient cohort in deep remission eligible for therapy review. The study highlights poor practice in collecting and recording DAS scores and appropriate patient-clinician interaction opportunities. 53% of patients remained on single infusions in August 2023 resulting in resource savings, reduced hospital attendance, immunosuppression and significant cost savings demonstrating the rationale for this option. Disclosure S. Butler: Honoraria; Abbvie, Janssen. H. Smith: Honoraria; Novartis, Abbvie.

EXPLORING HOME-BASED LEARNING: PERSPECTIVES AND EXPERIENCES OF GRADESCHOOLERS IN A PRIVATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

This qualitative study delved into the experiences of grade school students within a private elementary school setting during the period of home-based learning. Utilizing semi-structured and structured interview techniques, twelve participants were engaged to gather rich insights into their encounters. Thematic analysis served as the primary method for data interpretation. The research revealed that modular learning presented considerable hurdles for students. The shift to home-based learning appeared to diminish opportunities for socialization and peer interaction, given the limitations on direct engagement with teachers and classmates. Students encountered difficulties in managing time and maintaining focus without the direct supervision of teachers. Understanding modular learning materials proved to be challenging, particularly without timely clarification from educators. Moreover, restricted access to essential resources hindered students active engagement in the learning process. This study sheds light on the implications of home-based learning in the context of private elementary schools. It emphasizes the urgent necessity for educational institutions and educators to address these challenges effectively, thereby enhancing the overall learning experience for students during periods of home-based education.

The Value of Master's Degree Programmes in Health Professions Education: A Scoping Review.

There are increasing numbers of Master's Degree Programmes in Health Professions Education (MHPE), and the value to their students and graduates is not well understood. We conducted a scoping review to explore what is known about the value of MHPE programmes to their students and graduates. A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage framework. PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, BEI, ERIC and EThOs databases were searched in addition to cited reference searching. Original research with an evaluation and published in the English language were included. Nineteen studies were included. Studies were based in a variety of locations on five continents, and included in-person, distance and blended learning. Students and graduates of MHPE programmes self-reported development of their pedagogical knowledge, confidence and credibility in their role as an educator, and educational scholarship. Enhanced career opportunities and opportunities for collegial interactions and networks were also reported. Important barriers included struggling with the time and financial commitments required for studying on a MHPE programme. There are a variety of dimensions of value of MHPE programmes to their students and graduates. Important practical recommendations for MHPE programme providers and employers include providing opportunities for the development of networks and supporting the time and financial commitments required for studying.

"They Don't Come With a Handbook": Exploring Design Opportunities for Supporting Parent-Child Interaction around Emotions in the Family Context

Parenting practices have a profound effect on children's well-being and are a core target of several psychological interventions for child mental health. However, there is only limited understanding in HCI so far about how to design socio-technical systems that could support positive shifts in parent-child social practices in situ. This paper focuses on parental socialisation of emotion as an exemplar context in which to explore this question. We present a two-step study, combining theory-driven identification of plausible design directions with co-design workshops with 22 parents of children aged 6-10 years. Our data suggest the potential for technology-enabled systems that aim to facilitate positive changes in parent-child social practices in situ, and highlight a number of plausible design directions to explore in future work.

Urban segregation on multilayered transport networks: a random walk approach

We present a novel method for analysing socio-spatial segregation in cities by considering constraints imposed by transportation networks. Using a multilayered network approach, we model the interaction probabilities of socio-economic groups with random walks and Lévy flights. This method allows for evaluation of new transport infrastructure’s impact on segregation while quantifying each network’s contribution to interaction opportunities. The proposed random walk segregation index measures the probability of individuals encountering diverse social groups based on their available means of transit via random walks. The index incorporates temporal constraints in urban mobility with a parameter, α∈[0,1)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\alpha \\in [0,1)$$\\end{document}, of the probability of the random walk continuing at each time step. By applying this to a toy model and conducting a sensitivity analysis, we explore how the index changes dependent on this temporal constraint. When the parameter equals zero, the measure simplifies to an isolation index. When the parameter approaches one it represents the city’s overall socio-economic distribution by mirroring the steady-state of the random walk process. Using Cuenca, Ecuador as a case study, we illustrate the method’s applicability in transportation planning as a valuable tool for policymakers, addressing spatial distribution of socio-economic groups and the connectivity of existing transport networks, thus promoting equitable interactions throughout the city.

COVID-19 experience of people with severe mental health conditions and families in South Africa.

People with severe mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, and their family caregivers are underserved in low- and middle-income countries where structured psychosocial support in the community is often lacking. This can present challenges to recovery and for coping with additional strains, such as a pandemic. This study explored the experiences and coping strategies of people with lived experience of a severe mental health condition, and family caregivers, in South Africa during the initial stages of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This qualitative study was conducted in the Nelson Mandela Bay District, Eastern Cape, South Africa, in the most restrictive period of the COVID-19 lockdown. Telephonic qualitative interviews were conducted with people with lived experience (n = 14) and caregivers (n = 15). Audio recordings were transcribed and translated to English from isiXhosa. Thematic analysis was conducted with NVivo 12. Participants described negative impacts including increased material hardship, intensified social isolation and heightened anxiety, particularly among caregivers who had multiple caregiving responsibilities. Coping strategies included finding ways to not only get support from others but also give support, engaging in productive activities and taking care of physical health. The main limitation was inclusion only of people with access to a telephone. Support needs for people with severe mental health conditions and their families should include opportunities for social interaction and sharing coping strategies as well as bolstering financial security. These findings indicate that current support for this vulnerable group is inadequate, and resource allocation for implementation of additional community-based, recovery-focused services for families must be prioritised.

The development and evaluation of a virtual, asynchronous, trauma-focused treatment program for adult survivors of childhood interpersonal trauma

Background The long-term mental and physical health implications of childhood interpersonal trauma on adult survivors is immense, however, there is a lack of available trauma-focused treatment services that are widely accessible. This study, utilizing a user-centered design process, sought feedback on the initial design and development of a novel, self-paced psychoeducation and skills-based treatment intervention for this population. Aims To explore the views and perspectives of adult survivors of childhood interpersonal trauma on the first two modules of an asynchronous trauma-focused treatment program. Methods Fourteen participants from our outpatient hospital service who completed the modules consented to provide feedback on their user experience. A thematic analysis of the three focus groups was conducted. Results Four major themes emerged from the focus groups: (1) technology utilization, (2) module content, (3) asynchronous delivery, and (4) opportunity for interactivity. Participants noted the convenience of the platform and the use of multimedia content to increase engagement and did not find the modules to be emotionally overwhelming. Conclusions Our research findings suggest that an asynchronous virtual intervention for childhood interpersonal trauma survivors may be a safe and acceptable way to provide a stabilization-focused intervention on a wider scale.