Post-training Assessments Research Articles

The Effects of Differential Learning on the Standing Broad Jump.

In this investigation, we examined the influence of two approaches of motor skill learning (differential learning and repetition-based) for an explosive motor skill. Twenty-seven individuals completed four training sessions of a standing broad jump task, presented with either differential training or a repetition-based approach. We collected pre-and post-training assessments that included maximal jump distances used to index performance and the recording of ground reaction forces to determine potential biomechanical changes (normalized vertical ground reaction force - GRFvert, rate of force development - RFD, and horizontal take-off velocity - Vhor). Results showed that differential training exhibited greater jump distances than repetition-based training (p < .001) but no training effect was found for jump distances between pre- and post-assessments for either training approach (p = .15). However, a significant increase occurred for Vhor with greater velocities achieved following training (p = .03). Overall, differential training failed to show the expected performance enhancements for a discrete, explosive motor task; this may be related to limited exposure and task specific demands of the movement. Further research is needed to better understand the task factors influencing skill acquisition from differential training.

Impact of mhGAP-IG training on primary care physicians' knowledge of mental, neurological and substance use disorders in Iraq.

To address the growing need for good-quality mental health service provision to patients in Iraq, mhGAP-IG 2.0 training in mental, neurological and substance use (MNS) disorders was delivered for primary care physicians in May-June 2022 by the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) volunteers scheme. An innovative hybrid model was used to deliver this training to improve engagement compared with virtual training alone. Pre- and post-training assessment tools showed a significant improvement in participants knowledge of MNS disorders. Follow-up fortnightly supervision sessions by RCPsych volunteers were planned to help participants consolidate their learning in managing MNS disorders.

Long-term outcomes of standardized training for caregivers of children with tracheostomies: The IStanbul PAediatric Tracheostomy(ISPAT) project.

We included 32 caregivers (31 children) who had received standardized training a year ago and administered the same theoretical and practical tests 1 year after training completion. We recorded tracheostomy-related complications and the number and reasons for admission to the healthcare centers. All data just before the training and 1 year after training completion were compared. After 1 year of training completion, the median number of correct answers on the theoretical test increased to 16.5 from 12 at pretest (p < 0.001). Compared with pretest, at 1-year post-training practical skills assessment scores, including cannula exchange and aspiration, were significantly higher (both p < 0.001) and mucus plug, bleeding, and stoma infection reduced significantly (p = 0.002, 0.022, and 0.004, respectively). Hands-on-training scores were better than pretest but declined slightly at 1 year compared to testing immediately after training. Emergency admission decreased from 64.5% to 32.3% (p = 0.013). Hospitalization decreased from 61.3% to 35.5% (p = 0.039). Our findings indicate that caregiver training can lead to a persistent increase in knowledge and skill for as long as 1 year, as well as improvements in several measurable outcomes, although a slight decrease in scores warrants annual repetitions of the training program.

Construction and effect evaluation of a hierarchical training system for nosocomial infection based on hospitals at all levels

INTRODUCTION: Nosocomial infection is a critical global public health issue. The education of medical personnel can effectively enhance compliance with nosocomial infection protocols and reduce the incidence of such infections. However, the current training provided to third-party staff is inadequate, necessitating an urgent enhancement of their knowledge on nosocomial infection through effective and tailored training programs. OBJECTIVES: The objective is to establish a hierarchical training system for nosocomial infection, customized to meet the specific requirements of hospitals at all levels, and evaluate its efficacy. METHODS: A questionnaire survey was conducted among third-party staff members at hospitals of different levels to assess their understanding of nosocomial infection prevention measures. Based on the survey results, a hierarchical training system was developed for nosocomial infection among the participants. After the training, a post-training assessment was carried out to evaluate the participants' comprehension of nosocomial infections. RESULTS: A total of 561 third-party employees participated in the baseline hospital infection knowledge questionnaire. The baseline findings unveiled disparities in the extent to which third-party staff members across various tiers of medical institutions have mastered their knowledge on nosocomial infections. After undergoing hierarchical training, the deficiencies of hospitals at all levels have been rectified, thereby effectively enhancing the level of knowledge regarding nosocomial infections among third-party personnel. The results of multivariate analysis indicate that individuals with limited work experience should enhance their training in medical waste disposal and acquire a deeper understanding of personal protection measures related to nosocomial infections. Moreover, infrequent annual training sessions may impede the comprehension of nosocomial infection among third-party staff. CONCLUSION: The knowledge of hospital infection among third-party staff at all levels of medical institutions exhibits varying deficiencies. Implementing a hierarchical training approach is a meaningful strategy that effectively enhances the level of hospital infection knowledge among these staff members.

Basic Counseling and Emotional Regulation Training for Guwosari Village Cadres in Bantul Yogyakarta

Purpose: This research focuses on addressing challenges in Guwosari Village by enhancing the counselling skills of village cadres and providing emotional regulation training.&#x0D; Method: The research utilized a community service approach to achieve its objectives. It involved training sessions to enhance the counselling skills of Guwosari Village cadres and provided emotional regulation training. Data collection methods included participant observation and pre-and post-training assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of the program.&#x0D; Practical Applications: The study's outcomes benefit Guwosari Village and similar communities, aiding in community development and cadre performance. By enhancing the counselling skills of village cadres, this research contributes to the improvement of community development efforts.&#x0D; Conclusion: This research underscores the significance of equipping village cadres with essential counselling skills and emotional regulation abilities. It has practical implications for community development and the well-being of cadres, ultimately contributing to the betterment of Guwosari Village and similar communities.

Evaluation of knowledge and awareness of pediatric oral health among school teachers of Hazaribag before and after oral health education.

Background: Oral health education of school teachers will surely have a direct influence on evolving oral habits at an inchoate stage and assuredly help to garner oral health knowledge in children. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of school teachers about pediatric oral health and the assessment of the impact of a webinar training intervention in improving their knowledge. Methods: A total of 153 teachers participated in the research. A self‑administered, 30‑item questionnaire was designed in the English language and consisted of two sections: the first section included demographic details; the second section included 30 questions on pediatric oral health with three divided subsections as follows: Subsection A (including 7 questions): Questionnaire on general pediatric oral health, Subsection B (including 9 questions): Questionnaire on preventive pediatric oral health, Subsection C (including 14 questions): Questionnaire on clinical pediatric oral health. After receiving Google forms, all the participants participated in an oral health education webinar program using a web-based online education training protocol on the Zoom platform. After this webinar training session, post-training assessment of the oral health knowledge scores was done using the same online semi‑structured self‑administered questionnaire. Results: The inadequacy in knowledge of school teachers was evident and they need to be trained in many preventive and clinical protocols of pediatric oral health. However, a highly statistically significant increase (P &lt; 0.001) in mean knowledge scores of school teachers was seen after a 1‑day training program. Conclusion: The training method was well received and improved the knowledge of school teachers on pediatric oral health.

The Effectiveness of a Neurofeedback-Assisted Mindfulness Training Program Using a Mobile App on Stress Reduction in Employees: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Mindfulness-based training programs have consistently shown efficacy in stress reduction. However, questions regarding the optimal duration and most effective delivery methods remain. This research explores a 4-week neurofeedback-assisted mindfulness training for employees via a mobile app. The study's core query is whether incorporating neurofeedback can amplify the benefits on stress reduction and related metrics compared with conventional mindfulness training. A total of 92 full-time employees were randomized into 3 groups: group 1 received mobile mindfulness training with neurofeedback assistance (n=29, mean age 39.72 years); group 2 received mobile mindfulness training without neurofeedback (n=32, mean age 37.66 years); and group 3 were given self-learning paper materials on stress management during their first visit (n=31, mean age 38.65 years). The primary outcomes were perceived stress and resilience scales. The secondary outcomes were mindfulness awareness, emotional labor, occupational stress, insomnia, and depression. Heart rate variability and electroencephalography were measured for physiological outcomes. These measurements were collected at 3 different times, namely, at baseline, immediately after training, and at a 4-week follow-up. The generalized estimating equation model was used for data analysis. The 4-week program showed significant stress reduction (Wald χ22=107.167, P<.001) and improvements in psychological indices including resilience, emotional labor, insomnia, and depression. A significant interaction was observed in resilience (time × group, Wald χ42=10.846, P=.02). The post hoc analysis showed a statistically significant difference between groups 1 (least squares mean [LSM] 21.62, SE 0.55) and 3 (LSM 19.90, SE 0.61) at the posttraining assessment (P=.008). Group 1 showed a significant improvement (P<.001) at the posttraining assessment, with continued improvements through the 1-month follow-up assessment period (LSM 21.55, SE 0.61). Physiological indices were analyzed only for data of 67 participants (22 in group 1, 22 in group 2, and 23 in group 3) due to the data quality. The relaxation index (ratio of alpha to high beta power) from the right electroencephalography channel showed a significant interaction (time × group, Wald χ22=6.947, P=.03), with group 1 revealing the highest improvement (LSM 0.43, SE 0.15) compared with groups 2 (LSM -0.11, SE 0.10) and 3 (LSM 0.12, SE 0.10) at the 1-month follow-up assessment. The study demonstrated that the neurofeedback-assisted group achieved superior outcomes in resilience and relaxation during the 4-week mobile mindfulness program. Further research with larger samples and long-term follow-up is warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03787407; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03787407.

Design and implementation of a “crisis resource management” training program for the initial assessment of polytrauma patients

IntroductionTo describe the design and implementation of a Crisis Resource Management (CRM) training program for the initial assessment of polytrauma patients. MethodsProspectively implemented CRM training program in acute-care tertiary hospital by hospital personnel involved in the care of polytraumatisms. The program has a blended format and 23-h duration, including 11 h of online theoretical training followed by 12-h simulation modules and practical cases devoted to the roles of members of the trauma team, functioning of the polytrauma room, and key aspects of teamwork. The Human Factors Attitude Survey (HFAS) was used to assess attitudes related to non-technical skills, and the End-of-Course Critique (ECC) survey to evaluate satisfaction with training. We evaluated changes in the pre- and post-training assessments. ResultsEighty staff personnel (26% specialists, 16% residents, 29% nurses, 14% nursing assistant, 15% stretcher bearer) participated in three editions of the program. Theoretical knowledge improved from a mean (SD) of 5.95 (1.7) to 8.27 (2.1) (P < .0001). In the HFAS, statistically significant differences in 18 of 23 attitudinal markers were observed, with improvements in all items of “leadership” and “roles”, in 4 of 5 items of “situational awareness”, and in 4 of 8 items of “communication”. Mean values obtained in the ECC questionnaire were also very high. ConclusionsA CRM training model developed for the initial care of polytrauma patients improved theoretical knowledge and participants perceptions and attitudes regarding leadership, communication, roles, and situational awareness of members of the trauma team.

Development of MSME potential through branding and digital marketing

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact, particularly on the economic sector, including Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These businesses have a very important role in the economy, especially in the Hargorejo Village area. A strong branding strategy with a focus on quality is essential to increase product reach and competitiveness. This community service aims to improve the community's economy and support the community by actively providing assistance to MSMEs in Hargorejo Village, Kokap District, Kulonprogo Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region. The methods used in this community service include outreach, training, and evaluation for MSME participants. The training curriculum covers topics such as the use of technology in MSME products, branding, packaging, and the use of online markets. After completing the training, MSME participants gain a deeper understanding of the importance of using technology in marketing their products. In addition, real improvements can be seen in the branding and packaging of MSME products. This positive transformation can be seen from the post-training assessment which shows that 64% of MSME participants now understand the importance of integrating IT, branding, packaging, and effective online markets into their business strategy. It is hoped that this increased awareness can provide significant benefits for MSME players, especially by strengthening product marketing efforts and improving the overall welfare of MSME stakeholders.

Evaluation of junior doctors’ retention of knowledge and skills after simulation training in shockable rhythm cardiac arrest in a low-resource setting in Nepal

AimsTo test junior doctors’ abilities to retain advanced life support psychomotor skills and theoretical knowledge in management of shockable rhythm cardiac arrest. MethodsA repeated measure pre-post study design was used with 43 junior doctors, recruited after notifying them with robust method of attraction through flyers, brochures, email and phone calls. Written and performance tests, initial pre-test, immediate post-training, 30-days post-training and 60-days post-training, using simulation-based scenarios with a low-fidelity manikin were used with recording performance of ALS. InstrumentationResuscitation Council UK ALS algorithms and guidelines1 were used in a simulated testing environment. ResultsThere was a highly significant improvement in knowledge immediately after training (p < 0.00), with a net gain of marks from a mean value of 63.2% before training to 87.7% after training by 24.5% (95% CI 19.4, 29.6).There was a gradual decline of retained knowledge with time from immediate post-training over, 30-days and 60-days post-training (p < 0.00). The simulation pre-training assessments and immediate post-training assessments results were statistically significant (p < .00). The mean difference was 44.1% (95% CI 50.11, 38.10). There was a statistically significant decline of the competency with time (p < .00). Unlike for the knowledge test, the drop was significant on the 30th day (p < .00) with a mean difference of −10.5% (95% CI −13.55, −7.40). ConclusionThe training of junior doctors in shockable rhythm cardiac arrest in a low resource setting, improved knowledge and skills in the participants after training. However, retention of knowledge declined at 30 days and more significantly after 60 days and retention of skill was declined more significantly at 30 days.

Empowering Digitalization: Nurturing Content Creators for Enhanced Soft Skills

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; The burgeoning wave of digitalization has pervaded diverse sectors, catalyzing transformative impacts on economics, society, and education. This study investigates the pivotal role of content creators in propelling digital marketing endeavors, fueled by the amplification of internet accessibility and technological infrastructure. Leveraging the potential of this trend, a community service initiative was undertaken to impart soft skill training to students at SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Taman Sidoarjo. Employing a methodological approach encompassing content creator awareness, module development, laboratory training, and post-training assessment, this research seeks to equip students with essential competencies. Results showcase the potency of content creators as linchpins in the digital landscape, elucidating their significance in disseminating educational and engaging content. The implications of this endeavor reverberate globally, underscoring the critical synergy between digitalization and content creation for sustainable advancements across sectors.&#x0D; Highlight:&#x0D; &#x0D; Multisectoral Impact: Digitalization's pervasive influence across economics, society, and education drives transformative change.&#x0D; Content Creator Significance: Investigates content creators' pivotal role in fueling digital marketing via amplified internet access and tech infrastructure.&#x0D; Soft Skill Empowerment: Community initiative imparts crucial competencies to students, employing a structured methodology for effective learning.&#x0D; &#x0D; Keyword: Digitalization, Content Creators, Soft Skill Training, Internet Accessibility, Technological Infrastructure&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

Pre and Post Training Assessment of Mango Growers Regarding Mango Production in Sindhudurg District of Maharashtra, India

The investigation was undertaken to study the assess pre and post training assessment of mango growers regarding mango production in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. The training were organized in three tahsils during the December, 2019 on different management aspects in mango production. The overall average of knowledge level indicated that 49.44 per cent growers had medium knowledge and 32.22 per cent mango growers had high knowledge level. However, low knowledge level was seen in 18.33 per cent growers. Among different phases and management practices, 67.78 per cent growers were well acquainted with harvesting technique. Before training, the lowest score (25.56) was in knowledge about induction of flowering as the flowering in mango is complex phenomena and associated with several factors which may need to explain deeply. The maximum score (82.22) was recorded in harvesting technique. The mean knowledge score on Pest and diseases in mango blossom phase and their management after imparting training was maximum (95.56) compared to the mean knowledge score 48.89 before training. The highest per cent change in knowledge (112.12 per cent) was observed in the causes of fruit drop and remedy for control.

Effect of lower body, core and upper body kinematic chain exercise protocol on throwing performance among university shot put athletes: A pilot study

A coordinated sequence of movements is required to generate maximum power and velocity in shot put. Kinematic chains emphasize the interactions between various body segments during a movement. They suggest that force production and transfer are optimized by coordinating multiple joints and muscle groups. In previous research, the kinematic chain has been attributed to shot put performance. Few studies have examined the effects of a comprehensive kinematic chain exercise protocol on throwing performance among shot put athletes, particularly at universities. Pilot study investigating lower body, core, and upper body kinematic chain exercise protocol on university shot put athletes' throwing performance. A total of twenty-four young athletes specializing in shotput, with an average age of 19.87 years and a standard deviation of 1.31 years, were divided into two groups, namely the experimental group and the control group, using a random assignment method, the experimental group, consisting of 12 participants, underwent an 8-week kinematic chain training program alongside their regular training sessions. On the other hand, the control group, also consisting of 12 participants, only participated in their regular training sessions without any additional intervention. Pre- and post-training assessments were conducted to measure shotput throwing performance, preference for throwing style, and the participants' satisfaction with the exercise protocol, using a questionnaire. The athletes who took part in the kinematic chain program demonstrated a significant improvement in throwing distance compared to the control group (p = 0.01). Additionally, the athletes in the experimental group reported higher levels of satisfaction with the exercise protocol (p = 0.005). These findings indicate that incorporating an 8-week Lower Body, Core and Upper Body kinematic chain exercise protocol into regular training sessions can lead to more pronounced improvements in sport-specific throwing performance among young shotput athletes.

Implementing The “P3KU Mertion” Mobile App In Improving The Senior and Rover Scout’s Disaster Preparedness

Indonesia’s geographical area which is vulnerable to various kinds of disasters remains a major concern. Given the extent of the dangers, disaster management is a critical issue that goes beyond the scope of single entities or institutions, requiring a comprehensive and inclusive approach including all sectors of society. Unfortunately, present disaster management systems are mostly focused on engagement from designated agencies, and there needs to be more active community involvement in emergency disaster response. This study aims to investigate the impact of disaster response training on the disaster preparation levels of the Senior and Rover scouts in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This study used a quasi-experimental approach with pre and post-training assessments without a control group. A total of 25 scouts participated in disaster response training, and their disaster readiness was evaluated both before and after the program. A disaster preparation questionnaire, a disaster response module, and a Simple Emergency Management (SEM) mobile app called “P3KU Mertion” were utilized in this study. The non-parametric Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was used to evaluate the data. The study findings showed that disaster response training significantly impacted disaster readiness, with the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test providing a p-value of 0.000 (p 0.05), indicating statistical significance. These findings have the potential to serve as an innovative model for disaster response programs targeted at improving catastrophe preparedness. The study emphasizes the importance of active involevement and community engagement in disaster response programs to supplement the work of authorized organizations and institutions, establishing an all-inclusive approach to disaster management in Indonesia.

Novel educational training of para medical professionals in cervical cancer screening

BackgroundCervical cancer is a public health problem in India due to weak national screening policy compounded by lack of resources including scarcity of trained personnel to carry out community-based screening program. Para medical professionals (PMPs) are closely related to women in local communities. Hence, training PMPs by incorporating novel technology and reduced time duration to achieve adequate competence in screening is an area underutilized and needs to be explored. Materials and methodsA pilot cross sectional analytical study was conducted at a tertiary referral cancer center using a shorter version of educational intervention of 2 weeks duration (EI2W) involving PMPs. Pre- and post-training assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) was done using questionnaires consisting of 5 domains viz. awareness of cervical cancer, awareness of cervical pre-cancer, practical screening methodology (practice oriented), data management and aspects of human papilloma virus (HPV). Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for comparison and the degree of change was measured using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). A p value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results118 PMPs were included. There was a significant improvement in scores of all domains (except cervical pre-cancer domain), following introduction of EI2W. Knowledge scores, post EI2W was better in Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) than other participants. Awareness regarding cervical cancer was higher with more years of experience. The KAP analysis showed excellent interrater reliability in the practice 0.726 (0.649–0.792) followed by knowledge domain 0.711 (0.626–0.783). ConclusionEI2W was effective in significantly improving the competence of PMPs, thus reducing human resource constraints in cervical cancer prevention and elimination.

Building Capacity of Community Nurses to Strengthen the Management of Uncomplicated Hypertension in Persons Living with HIV in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Poor training of non-physician healthcare workers (especially community nurses) could hinder the successful integration of cardiovascular disease (CVD) management into HIV chronic care in primary healthcare facilities in low- and middle-income countries. To address this limitation, we included a holistic training programme with a robust module for both practice facilitators and community nurses as part of the formative stages of the managing hypertension among people living with HIV: an integrated model (MAP-IT), which is a study that is evaluating the effectiveness of practice facilitation on the integration of a task-strengthening strategy for hypertension control (TASSH) into primary healthcare centres in Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria. Between June and November 2021, 3 didactic training workshops were conducted using a training module which is based on the simplified Nigerian Hypertension Protocol for primary care and the World Health Organization (WHO) heart package. Knowledge acquired by the participants was assessed using anonymized pre- and post-training assessments in the first two workshops. Participants' view of the training was assessed using a comprehensive course evaluation questionnaire. A total of 92 community nurses and six practice facilitators were trained in the workshops on managing hypertension in persons living with HIV. Mean pre- and post-test scores improved from 11.9(3.4) to 15.9(2.9); p < 0.001 in the first workshop, and from 15.4(0.9) to 16.4 (1.4); p < 0.001 in the second workshop. The methodology used in the training, understanding of the MAP-IT study programme, and the level of engagement was highly rated by the participants with LIKERT scores of 3.2/4.0, 3.2/4.0, and 3.1/4.0 respectively. Our training methodology, which involved the train-the-trainer model to deliver simplified HIV and HTN care guidelines, showed improvement in the knowledge of managing hypertension in persons living with HIV and was highly rated by participants.

Multi-Site Spinal Cord Transcutaneous Stimulation Facilitates Upper Limb Sensory and Motor Recovery in Severe Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Study.

Individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) rank regaining arm and hand function as their top rehabilitation priority post-injury. Cervical spinal cord transcutaneous stimulation (scTS) combined with activity-based recovery training (ABRT) is known to effectively facilitate upper extremity sensorimotor recovery in individuals with residual arm and hand function post SCI. However, scTS effectiveness in facilitating upper extremity recovery in individuals with severe SCI with minimal to no sensory and motor preservation below injury level remains largely unknown. We herein introduced a multimodal neuro-rehabilitative approach involving scTS targeting systematically identified various spinal segments combined with ABRT. We hypothesized that multi-site scTS combined with ABRT will effectively neuromodulate the spinal networks, resulting in improved integration of ascending and descending neural information required for sensory and motor recovery in individuals with severe cervical SCI. To test the hypothesis, a 53-year-old male (C2, AIS A, 8 years post-injury) received 60 ABRT sessions combined with continuous multi-site scTS. Post-training assessments revealed improved activation of previously paralyzed upper extremity muscles and sensory improvements over the dorsal and volar aspects of the hand. Most likely, altered spinal cord excitability and improved muscle activation and sensations resulted in observed sensorimotor recovery. However, despite promising neurophysiological evidence pertaining to motor re-activation, we did not observe visually appreciable functional recovery on obtained upper extremity motor assessments.

Role of Meditation in Ameliorating Examination Stress Induced Changes in Cardiovascular and Autonomic Functions.

Examination stress is a very well-known model of psychological stress in students. It induces changes in systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), along with changes in heart rate variability (HRV) and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), due to autonomic perturbations. To find out if Raj Yoga meditation (RYM) practice affects autonomic and cardiovascular function in healthy young subjects during periods of examination stress. Our primary objective was to evaluate the effect of one month of supervised RYM practice on ameliorating examination-induced changes in cardiovascular and autonomic function. The secondary objective was to measure the stress levels of medical students before and after RYM. Pre-training measurements of SBP, DBP, HRV, and BRS were done, and the Medical Student Stressor Questionnaire (MSSQ) was administered to 80 participants one month before examinations. They were then trained in RYM. Post-training assessment of the same parameters was done after examinations and also after two months. In our study, RYM training decreased DBP (p = 0.01) but not SBP. BRS showed a trend towards an increase after RYM practice, but it was not statistically significant (p = 0.44). The standard deviation of the NN interval (SDNN) (p = 0.03), low-frequency (LF) nu (0.003), and high-frequency (HF) nu (0.04) showed a statistically significant change. Average RR, median RR, average rate, square root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals (RMSSD), pRR, total power, LF (µs2), and LF/HF ratio were not statistically significantly different between the three groups. There was a statistically significant decline in MSSQ scores for MSSQ I (p = 0.04), MSSQ II (p = 0.04), and MSSQ IV (p = 0.03). Short-term practice of supervised RYM during stressful periods is protective for the cardiovascular and autonomic systems and decreases stress in medical students.

Capacity-building for Coastal Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in the Pacific Islands

Abstract Capacity-building for coastal climate change adaptation in the Pacific Island countries (PICs) is paramount in ensuring resilience building and sustaina-ble management of coastal resources. The Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) program, through its capacity-building component, works at achieving this by supporting delivery of technical and vocation education and training (TVET) and continuing professional development programs. The PEUMP training programs focus on addressing capacity needs associated with coastal resource management in the PICs, including but not limited to, inadequate economic considerations in coastal fisheries regulations; limited capacity to support community-based coastal resource management; insufficient Pacific-relevant training and qualifications for sustainable coastal resource management through inclusive approaches; and insufficient in-depth understanding of the government’s role in com-munity and ecosystem-based approaches. To address some of these gaps PEUMP delivered TVET programs, micro-qualifications, non-formal training, and professional short courses across 15 PICs. Post-training impact assess-ments found the PEUMP training programs to have improved the knowledge and skills of participants, with more than 70 percent of the par-ticipants gaining new skills and/or knowledge, which they attempted to pass on to their colleagues. A number of lessons learned were identified through the PEUMP training programs, such as the pros and cons of deliv-ering training through virtual means within the Pacific context. The article wraps up with a set of recommendations as a way forward for capaci-ty-building in the Pacific Island region through further inclusive training, localization, and community-based approaches.

Subliminal attentional bias modification training for itch.

Itch is unpleasant and induces the urge to scratch. This is adaptive to remove the itch-inducing stimulus from the skin. Accordingly, itch draws attention to protect our bodily integrity. Recent studies investigated whether attention is preferentially drawn towards its location, i.e., attentional bias (AB), and also whether this bias could be changed in healthy individuals. So far, results are mixed concerning the existance of an attentional bias towards itch stimuli in healthy individuals as well as the impact of modifications. However, available studies have typically focused on conscious processing and might miss preconscious aspects of attention and potential biases at these stages. This study included 117 healthy individuals who underwent a subliminal Attentional Bias Modification (ABM)- training for itch based on a dot-probe paradigm with itch- related pictures. Participants were randomly assigned to a training towards itch group, a training away from itch group and a control group. This was done by manipulating the itch-target congruency of the dot-probe task during a training block. Pre- and post-training assessments were regular dot-probe tasks. Exploratorily, also attentional inhibition, cognitive flexibility and itch-related cognitions were assessed. Lastly, participants received an itchy stimulus on the inner forearm before and after the ABM-training to assess potential effects on itch sensitivity. Results showed no AB towards itch across groups at baseline, i.e., pre-training, but an AB away from itch, hence, avoidance of itch, post-training. Further analyses showed that this effect was driven by an attentional bias away from itch in the control group, while there were no significant effects in the experimental groups. There was no effect on itch sensitivity. These findings are in line with recent studies on conscious ABM-training for itch and pain that also did not find significant training effects. Therefore, it is suggested that the field of AB might need to reconsider the current assessment of AB. Moreover, AB is probably a dynamic process that is highly dependent on current itch-related goals and relevance of itch in a specific situation. This suggests that processes probably differ in patients with chronic itch and that also ABM-training might work differently in these populations. https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NTR7561, identifier NTR7561.