Post Questionnaires Research Articles

Immersive virtual reality aggression and violence management education for nursing students: A pre-test, post-test, follow-up evaluation

BackgroundNursing students attending clinical placement encounter similar exposure to aggression and violence as qualified clinicians. Universities encounter barriers in aggression and violence management education delivery due to resourcing and time requirements. Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) education may reduce barriers while maintaining comparable learning outcomes to face-to-face simulation-based education. MethodNursing students (n = 72), recruited from one public university in Perth, Western Australia, completed a 15-20 minute IVR education program. Pre-, post-, and 4-month post-intervention questionnaires investigated self-reported confidence. Cross-sectional data were collected for system usability and motion sickness. ResultsSignificant differences in self-reported confidence were observed (p < .001, partial η2 = 0.53), with large improvements from pre- to post-intervention (p < .001, d = 1.21) and follow-up (p < .001, d = 1.25). Cross-sectional data indicated the program is easy to use and incurs negligible motion sickness. ConclusionIVR can deliver effective aggression and violence education for nursing students. The short duration, high usability, and persistence of confidence improvements over time indicate potential for IVR to support current nursing education practices.

Effects of Simulation on Nursing students' Knowledge and Learning Related to Measles Vaccine and Vaccine Hesitancy: A Mixed Method Study.

Vaccine hesitancy is a persistent, global public health concern that community health nurses are well-positioned to manage. Simulations involving standardized patients are effective experiential learning on managing vaccine hesitancy for other allied health disciplines. A pretest-posttest design, with a mixed-methods, one-group, quasi-experimental approach, was used to examine the effectiveness of a simulation on nursing students' knowledge of measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine hesitancy, as well as their attitudes toward the intervention. The study was completed with 61 participants. After participation in the simulation, pretest/posttest data showed a mean increase in participants' knowledge of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine. There was a significant improvement in the test scores from 62.62 ± 14.82 to 69.50 ± 15.75; z = -3, 897 (1-17 days) (p = 0.001). A postintervention questionnaire revealed participants most appreciated the direct interaction with a live person, the opportunity to observe classmates' performance and share feedback, multistage structure, and safety. Drawbacks included stress from being observed by peers, time constraints, and the necessity of sharing the nursing role with a partner during the scenario. Another drawback is the simulation's inability to effectively prepare participants for hesitancy in clinical settings as they needed to assess natural clinical settings. Simulations incorporating vaccine hesitancy education and standardized patients can effectively prepare nursing students for situations related to vaccine hesitancy in community clinical settings.

Effects of Intra-Articular Stromal Vascular Fraction Injection on Clinical Symptoms and Cartilage Health in Osteoarthritic Knees: A Single-Center Pilot Study

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent form of arthritis worldwide. Intra-articular stromal vascular fraction (SVF) injections are a potential therapeutic option for patients with OA. This study aims to assess the effects of intra-articular SVF injections on knee OA. Ten patients with knee OA participated in this study. After administering them with intra-articular SVF injections, their outcomes were evaluated using various questionnaires. MRI T2 mapping was conducted and compared before the intervention and 6 months after. All the data underwent analysis using various tests. Significant differences were observed in the change of Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index, VAS, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score between pre-intervention and 6 months post-intervention. The T2 values were significantly lower in the anterior superficial layer of the medial femoral cartilage and middle superficial layer of the lateral femoral cartilage. However, no positive effects were observed in any other regions of the knee cartilage. This study revealed significant differences between the pre- and 6-month post-intervention questionnaires. However, the T2 values did not show consistent changes across all regions of the knee cartilage. Despite positive effects in two regions, the degenerative process appeared to continue in other regions during the tracking period.

The feasibility, acceptability and perceived impact of a theory-based intervention on non-medical prescribing students’ antibiotic prescribing behaviour: an experimental study

Abstract Introduction Acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are one of the most common infections. URTIs usually resolve spontaneously but 60% of all prescriptions issued in UK primary care are for URTIs1 contributing to antimicrobial resistance. Non-medical prescribers are a growing group of prescribers but there are few if any antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions to support their prescribing practices. Introducing AMS interventions when learning to prescribe can play an important role to embed appropriate practice at the start of a prescribers’ journey. Aim To test the feasibility, acceptability and perceived impact of a theory-based electronic learning intervention on the antibiotic prescribing behaviour of non-medical prescribing students. Methods Non-medical prescribing students registered at the study setting (university) were recruited via email and word of mouth. Following consent, participants completed an online pre-intervention questionnaire that explored their perceived prescribing behaviour and confidence in treating patients with URTIs. Participants then completed the intervention, accessible from any internet-enabled device via a weblink. The intervention was previously developed2 using the behaviour change wheel and comprised an animation of a prescriber opting against prescribing antibiotics for an adult with self-limiting URTI using a motivational interviewing approach. The patient felt satisfied and confident about their care. Four questions followed the scenario. Participants then completed an online post-intervention questionnaire that explored the usefulness of the intervention, and the same pre-intervention confidence questions. A one-to-one online audio-recorded semi-structured interview followed, exploring participants’ experiences of using the intervention. Questionnaire and interview questions were informed by the Capability Opportunities Motivation-Behaviour model. Questionnaire data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis3. Ethical approval was given by the School Research Ethics Committee where the researchers were based. Results Twelve participants (of 50 approached) consented to take part. Eight completed the pre- and post-intervention questionnaires and the intervention. Seven completed all stages of the study. 87.5% of participants worked in a hospital setting. All were qualified for at least two years. Interviews lasted between 9-15 minutes. Participants’ confidence in treating patients with URTI increased in all statements; gain information on patient expectations, support patients’ comprehension of health information, build rapport, communicate effectively, help patients to see and examine different viewpoints (highest mean increase) and patients understand and are happy with their prescribing decision. These increases aligned with qualitative accounts. Participants agreed that the intervention would be useful to them and would change their practice positively. Participants found the intervention easy to use; access was straightforward and took between 5-20minutes to complete. The addition of a wider range of complex, challenging scenarios to the intervention were suggested. Discussion/conclusions The intervention was feasible to complete and acceptable to the participants. Participants’ confidence in treating patients increased; even though many were familiar with AMS, the intervention gave them further confidence to support a no antibiotic prescribing strategy. Participants suggested including more complex patient scenarios; this will be considered in a future study. Study limitations includes a small sample size and most participants worked in hospital settings but the intervention was set in primary care.

Effect of Behavioral Activation on Stigma and Quality of Life in Patients With Advanced Esophageal and Gastric Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Esophageal cancer and gastric cancer patients require researchers' attention to address and resolve the issue of stigma. The aim of this study was to investigate whether behavioral activation (BA), an emerging psychosocial intervention method, can mitigate the stigma experienced by these patients and enhance their quality of life (QoL). One hundred fifty-three patients with advanced esophageal cancer and gastric cancer were recruited and randomly assigned to either the BA plus care as usual group (BA+CAU group) or the care as usual group (CAU group). Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, including the Social Impact Scale (SIS), as well as all functional areas and global health and QoL modules from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30, version3). Generalized estimating equation analysis revealed that compared to usual care alone, combining BA with usual care significantly reduced stigma (time-by-group interaction, T1: β=-10.584, p<0.001; T2: β=-22.619, p<0.001) while improving physical, role, emotional, social functioning and global health and QoL particularly at T2 time point. Additionally, it also has the potential to decelerate the progressive decline of cognitive functioning. Furthermore, correlation analysis demonstrated a significant association between stigma levels and all functional areas as well as global health and QoL. The issue of stigma among esophageal cancer and gastric cancer patients warrants increased attention due to its close relationship with patient QoL. This study presents a promising psychosocial intervention approach suitable for clinical application that deserves further promotion among cancer patients. NCT06348940.

Usability and engagement of web application on parental behaviors for child obesity intervention

Background: Childhood obesity is a growing global health issue, with increasing prevalence in Asian countries, including Malaysia. Web applications such as JEJAK BMI offer an alternative intervention to address this concern by targeting parental behaviors that could influence their children’s weight. The usability and engagement of the app used are important elements that could influence the intervention outcome. Objective: To assess the engagement and usability of JEJAK BMI apps that could affect parental use of apps in child obesity interventions. Methods: To evaluate the app’s usability, three criteria were evaluated which were ease of use, visual appeal and functionality, post-intervention questionnaires were completed by the parents. Results: The study found that most parents considered the app practical, easy to use, visually engaging and functional. However, the impact on children's BMI over the short term was inconclusive. Conclusion: The JEJAK BMI web application demonstrated strong usability and positive effects on parental behaviors. Nonetheless, significant changes in children's BMI may require longer-term interventions and additional strategies.

Implementation of an Optimized Preoperative Checklist for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Within a Multiinstitutional Resident Education Curriculum.

Preoperative review of computed tomography (CT) imaging assists with endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) planning, where trainees may benefit from a systematic approach. We have previously developed an optimized preoperative checklist for sinus CT imaging using an iterative modified Delphi method. In this study, we assess the utility of an optimized preoperative checklist for residents performing ESS. Resident sinus CT scan education consisted of a preintervention questionnaire, an 18-min video outlining the optimized preoperative checklist, and a delayed postintervention questionnaire; these were distributed via Qualtrics to otolaryngology residents across 5 training programs in the NY metro area. The preintervention questionnaire contained 25 survey questions and a 225-point quiz on sinus CT anatomy; the delayed postintervention questionnaire contained the same 25 survey questions and a second, distinct 225-point quiz. In total, 74 residents completed the preintervention questionnaire, 47 completed the postintervention questionnaire, and 36 completed both. Among residents completing both questionnaires, the average preintervention quiz score was 136.8 ± 24.0 and the average postintervention quiz score was 156.0 ± 23.5 (P < .001). Resident habitual utilization of a systematic preoperative CT imaging checklist increased significantly from 21.6% to 72.9% as a result of the curriculum intervention. We find that an educational program centered on an iteratively optimized preoperative checklist for ESS improves the ability of trainees to identify critical sinus CT structures. Further integration of checklists and educational curricula may enhance rhinology education efforts and improve surgical anatomy competency.

Learning through playing in public health: a card game’s evaluation

Abstract Background In medical education and particularly in public health, the shift toward active learning addresses the limitations of traditional lecture-based methods. Game-based learning, such as serious games, showed potential to overcome these limitations. “Accidémie” is a card game designed to improve medical students’ knowledge of home accidents and their competencies in public health through an interactive format. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of “Accidémie”. Methods We conducted a quantitative pre-post assessment study among sixth-year medical students of the University of Versailles. Data were collected through a 20-item true/false repeated questionnaire before and after. In addition, the post-intervention questionnaire included questions on students’ satisfaction and an open-ended question. Responses to the questionnaires were converted into scores. The main outcome measured was the change in the scores. The scores before and after the intervention are presented with their mean and standard deviation. They were compared using a paired t-test. Student satisfaction is presented in terms of frequency and includes verbatim responses from the students. Results Thirty-eight students participated, with pre-test scores averaging 13.13 (SD = 1.98) and post-test scores averaging 14.89 (SD = 1.94). A paired t-test provided statistical evidence of the difference between the pre- and post-test scores (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Students provided positive feedback: 81.6% of the students were very satisfied with the game; 42.1% considered it extremely useful. They also underlined that ‘Accidémie’ is an enjoyable learning tool, praising its innovative approach. Conclusions “Accidémie” improved students’ knowledge of home accidents and their engagement. It supports the use of serious games in medical education complementary to traditional methods. Applying the concept of “Accidémie” across various subjects and among diverse groups of health students offers promising prospects. Key messages • ‘Accidémie’ significantly improves students’ knowledge of home accidents, a public health topic. • “Accidémie” allows medical students to learn while playing, boosting satisfaction and engagement.

Feasibility and pilot study of Indonesia’s first telehealth support program for gynecological cancer survivors undergoing chemotherapy

Most Indonesian gynecological cancer survivors experience chemotherapy side effects on their physical and mental health as they face unmet needs of supportive care, which increases the likelihood of discontinuing treatment. Interventions in telehealth assist survivors in resolving these issues. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of fighting distress, self-efficacy, health effects, and sexual (FoRSHE-X) interventions and evaluate their potential impact on distress level, side effects knowledge and management, self-efficacy, and sexual quality of life. The study involved gynecological cancer survivors who underwent chemotherapy and participated in ten weeks of individual social media-based education, tele-coaching, and teleconsultations, from September 2023 to June 2024. The study feasibility and pilot outcomes were evaluated using descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis. Of the twelve women recruited, six (50%) completed the study, filled out pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, and participated in interviews. Fifty-four virtual education, coaching, and consultation sessions were performed individually. The statistical results indicated that participants were highly satisfied with the telehealth program, which significantly increased their knowledge (p=0.02), health practices (p=0.04), and self-efficacy (p=0.01). The qualitative analysis highlighted participants' and coaches' perspectives on the study’s acceptance, barriers, and recommendations. In conclusion, this pilot study suggests that a definitive trial to assess the FoRSHE-X interventions is feasible, acceptable, and can be applied not only to gynecological cancer survivors but also to other types of cancer, thereby broadening the potential impact of the study.

Improving Social Communication in Autistic Adolescents Through a Clinic-Home-School Collaboration.

Differences in social communication are common in highly verbal autistic adolescents and can interfere with development of friendships as well as lead to other co-occurring challenges. The purpose of this initial study was to assess whether targeted areas of social communication would improve following the implementation of a manualized social communication package with parent participation and school coordination. Autistic adolescents who demonstrated challenges with social communication participated in this study in the context of a rigorous concurrent multiple baseline experimental design. Weekly intervention targeting social communication was implemented over a period of six to seven weeks (depending on preintervention scores). Additionally, parents and participants completed standardized assessments of anxiety and depression and a post-intervention questionnaire was administered to assess their satisfaction with the intervention. This study demonstrated that social communication could be improved with a short-term intervention program with parent and school participation. All participants showed improvements in social communication, which was maintained at follow-up. Also, all participants and their parents reported high satisfaction with the program. These findings corroborate a growing literature base suggesting that support in the area of social communication is needed and can benefit autistic adolescents.

The SEMinal impact of contemporary science: integrated authentic science design and students’ self-efficacy and career aspirations

ABSTRACT Authentic science learning has a significant potential for contributing to students’ self-efficacy (SE) and science career aspirations (SCA) by introducing contemporary science. However, the design of authentic learning remains challenging due to the elusive and subjective nature of experiencing authenticity and the interdisciplinarity and complexity of contemporary science. This study aimed to transform these challenges into opportunities by integrating theoretical frameworks of authentic design with a unique setting, including: (a) authentic pedagogy highlighting social experiences, (b) authentic scientific equipment including hands-on operation of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) situated in a research institute, (c) contemporary science theme (biomineralization). This integrated design was investigated by collecting data from 70 secondary science students on their perceived-authenticity, SE, and SCA using pre–post Likert-type questionnaires. After discovering that authenticity was intensely perceived, we used inferential statistics to examine the relationships between different authentic aspects related to both hard and soft science skills and SE and SCA. We identified a significant connection between students’ experience of acquiring authentic knowledge (i.e. hard skills) and their SCA, as well as between the social experience (i.e. soft skills) and students’ SE. This study contributes to understanding the design and impact of authentic science activities in research institutes.

Evaluating the Confidence of Non-specialty Doctors Working in Trauma and Orthopedics in Performing Knee Arthrocentesis Through Simulation-Based Teaching.

Introduction Acute monoarthropathies that present in emergency settings include septic arthritis, where urgent joint arthrocentesis is the diagnostic gold standard. Literature indicates low confidence amongtrainee doctors in performing knee aspirations.Simulation-based teaching can be used to supplement procedural skills training and improve their confidence in performing such procedures. Methods This study aimed to assess the self-rated confidence of non-specialty doctors (N=8) in Trauma and Orthopedics in conducting knee aspirations using simulation-based teaching with an anatomically accurate knee model. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires investigated self-reported confidence using a 10-point Likert-type scaleand participant experience using a 7-point Likert scale. Pre- and post-intervention surveys further qualitatively explored attitudes toward conducting the skill. Results Pre-intervention mean confidence was rated 3.9 (SD=2.70) out of 10, with a noted increase to 8.1 (SD=1.25) out of 10, providing a mean difference of 4.2 (SD=2.82) out of 10with p=0.007. All attendees agreed or strongly agreed on the usefulness and satisfaction of the activity. Qualitative analysis indicated themes of nervousness and lack of confidence pre-interventionand attitudes of increased confidence in the skill post-intervention. Conclusions Overall, increased statistically significant confidence was concluded amongnon-specialty doctors in conducting knee arthrocentesis following simulation-based teaching, with perceived usefulness and satisfaction of the activity. Nonetheless, we must consider potential limitations of clinical accuracy and realism through such procedural skills training.

Early Mobilization Training Education for Sectio Caesarea Patients

Background: The global rise in caesarean section (C-section) rates, particularly in Asia where the incidence stands at 19.5%, underscores the need for effective post-operative care strategies. Early mobilization is critical for post-C-section recovery, as it enhances patient mobility, reduces complications, and promotes overall health. Purpose: This study aims to assess the impact of early mobilization education on post-C-section patients' knowledge. Methods: This community service initiative, conducted at the Albarokah Room of Purwokerto Islamic Hospital, targeted 30 post-C-section maternal patients. The educational intervention was delivered using audiovisual media and the caramah method. Knowledge levels were assessed using a pre- and post-intervention questionnaire, which evaluated understanding of early mobilization, its benefits, contraindications, and procedural stages. Findings: Prior to the educational intervention, participants' knowledge was predominantly categorized as poor, with 40% (12 participants) scoring in this range. Post-education assessment revealed a significant improvement, with 100% (30 participants) achieving a good knowledge level regarding early mobilization. Conclusions: The implementation of early mobilization education through audiovisual media markedly improved participants' knowledge about early mobilization post-C-section. This study demonstrates that structured educational interventions can effectively enhance patient understanding and potentially improve post-operative outcomes. Further research is warranted to explore long-term effects on recovery and health

Impacts and Pathways of Behavioral Activation on Psychological Distress Among Patients Diagnosed With Esophageal and Gastric Cancer in China: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The objective of this study is to investigate the efficacy of behavioral activation (BA), a novel psychological intervention, in ameliorating psychological distress and anxiety symptoms among patients diagnosed with esophageal and gastric cancer, as well as the mediating role of self-efficacy between BA and psychological distress. A total of 139 patients diagnosed with esophageal and gastric cancer were recruited in China from March 2023 to October 2023 and randomly assigned to either the BA plus care as usual group (BA+CAU group) or the care as usual group (CAU group). Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, including the Psychological Distress Thermometer (DT), Generalized anxiety disorder 7-item (GAD-7) Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and the activation subscale of Behavioral Activation for Depression Scale (BADS-A), were administered. Generalized estimating equation analyses revealed that, compared to usual care alone, combining BA with usual care significantly ameliorated psychological distress, anxiety as well as improved self-efficacy and activation. The mediation analysis revealed that self-efficacy served as a mediator in the relationship between activation and psychological distress. BA primarily based on telephone or WeChat can not only directly ameliorates psychological distress and anxiety symptoms in patients with esophageal cancer and gastric cancer but also indirectly alleviates psychological distress by enhancing self-efficacy. The study also demonstrates the potential of BA in cancer patients, a skill that can be effectively acquired by primary care workers without specialized training and implemented more flexible. NCT06348940.

Group cognitive remediation therapy for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: Outcomes before, after, and during follow-up in a real-world setting in Japan.

Objective: Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) can be used as an adjunct treatment for adolescents with severe and complex anorexia nervosa (AN) requiring inpatient treatment. However, there has been only one study on CRT for adolescents with AN in Japan. This study explored group CRT as an adjunct to inpatient treatment for Japanese adolescents with severe and complex AN requiring inpatient care. Methods: Thirty-one adolescents with AN underwent group CRT. Neuropsychological (set-shifting and central coherence) and psychological assessments (motivation, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms) were measured before and after the intervention. Weight and AN symptoms were measured before and after the intervention and at follow-up, and the adolescents completed post-intervention and follow-up questionnaires. Results: Set-shifting led to medium to large effect size improvements. Medium effect size improvements in central coherence and depressive symptoms were also observed. The feedback from the adolescents was mainly positive, and the treatment completion rate was high. The patients also reported that the skills learned through group CRT could be applied in daily life. Conclusion: Group CRT may be beneficial for adolescents with severe and complex AN who require inpatient care.

Learning to Integrate STEM Into Physical Education Through Asynchronous Professional Development Modules

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand nine physical education (PE) teachers’ experiences with an asynchronous professional development module focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) integration, and the barriers they perceived to integrating STEM into PE. Methods: Semistructured interviews, pre- and post open-ended questionnaires, and discussion board posts were analyzed through a collaborative coding process. Trustworthiness was increased by using a peer debriefer, multiple coders, negative case checks, and data triangulation. Results: Four themes describe the experiences of PE teachers learning to integrate STEM into PE: teacher’s knowledge about technology and STEM, barriers to PE teachers in integrating STEM, “We’re already integrating STEM,” and issues in professional development. Discussion/Conclusion: STEM integration is possible if PE teachers are provided time and opportunities to work with content experts to learn STEM concepts and have STEM be a by-product of PE lessons rather than the sole focus of the lesson.

디자인 씽킹을 적용한 친환경 건축 디자인교육 프로그램 개발 및 효과성 분석 - 중학교 1학년 자유학기제 예술·체육 활동 적용을 중심으로

The recently fast urban growth is leading to being deepened the severe environmental pollution and to being damaged the earth. According to the importance of the global sustainable power generation energy amid this destruction, the eco-friendly education is being carried out. Hence, in the wake of recognizing this issue, this study developed the eco-friendly architectural design education program by connecting the 2022 Revised Curriculum with the achievement standard for a free-semester system in middle school and applied it to the first grade of M middle school during the period of 5 weeks starting from April 29. And to verify effectiveness, the pre and post questionnaires and the student participation reviews were confirmed targeting 43 first graders of M middle school in Jungnang-gu, Seoul who take free semester arts and sports classes for 5 weeks from April 29, 2024 to May 20. As the pre and post survey questions include totally 3 realms such as ‘perception, problem-solving, environment’ in terms of the design thinking and the environmental problem, the item number corresponds to 10 pieces. As a result of t-test in the questions of all realms regarding ‘perception, problem-solving, environment,’ it could be known to have gotten higher after proceeding with the program at the significance level. This outcome shows that the implementation of a class with the application of design thinking leads to being capable of solving a problem by applying and using it even in daily life. It urgently needs the participation in social problem solving and the transformation of school education into self-directed experimental and practical education. In this situation, this study is expected to be likely able to be used as basic data that suggests the directivity of new design education.

Transdermal Carboxytherapy for Treating Vulvovaginal Atrophy: A Pilot Study

Objective: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a prevalent disorder that can negatively impact the overall health, sexual function, and quality of life of affected women; however, available data do not support specific treatment protocols. A novel product enables the noninvasive transdermal administration of carboxytherapy with a topical gel (CO2Lift®, Lumisque, Inc.; Weston, FL). The following randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study assessed the safety and efficacy of the transdermal carboxytherapy gel for treating GSM-related vulvovaginal changes. Methods: Menopausal or postmenopausal women 40 to 70 years old with signs or symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy and Female Sexual Dysfunction were randomized to receive topical carboxytherapy gel (n=40) or placebo gel (n=10) in a randomized, double-blind fashion. The assigned treatments were placed into the vagina and on the vulva for 45 minutes before removal. Treatment was applied daily for 5 days, stopped for 2 days, then continued for 5 additional days. Subjects completed four validated pre- and posttreatment questionnaires to assess female sexual function, sexual health, and genital self-image. Additionally, control (n=10) and treatment subjects (n=10) were randomized to undergo 3 mm pre- and posttreatment punch biopsies of vulva and vaginal tissue. Results: Overall, carboxytherapy-treated subjects achieved significant improvements in Female Sexual Function Index scores with strong positive correlations between sexual desire and arousal, arousal and sexual satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction and desire. The Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging Questionnaire results demonstrated a significant difference in mean pre- and posttreatment values for each assessment among subjects receiving topical carboxytherapy. Biopsy improvements included hyperplasia of the keratinized squamous epithelium, discrete hyperplasia of the basal layer and neovascularization, and increased thickness of mucous squamous epithelium. There were no adverse events. Conclusion: Transdermal carboxytherapy represents a safe, noninvasive means of treating the genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms and is suitable for home use. Additional research on this treatment is warranted.

Enhancing social presence in online learning through metaverse platform

The rapid growth of online learning has led to the exploration of various strategies for improving its effectiveness. One such strategy is the use of metaverse platforms, which are believed to enhance social communication and presence. This study aimed to investigate the impact of using GatherTown, a metaverse platform, on the social presence of online learning. The study involved a 2-week intervention with 148 students using GatherTown, and data were collected through a pre- and post-intervention questionnaire, as well as interviews with learners. The results indicate that the use of GatherTown positively influences the social presence of online learning. The learners reported higher levels of social presence after using GatherTown, which was attributed to the platform’s ability to facilitate social interaction and personalization of the learning environment. The interviews also revealed that the learners felt more engaged and connected to the learning community as a result of virtual space design. The results of this study shed light on the possible use of metaverse platforms to improve online learning.

Evaluation of an Occupational Therapy led Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Programme in an Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons

Abstract Background Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a non-pharmacological, evidence-based approach specifically designed to support people with dementia to maintain their cognitive functions e.g. reminiscence, higher executive skills, sensory integration, orientation, memory strategies and day-to-day activities. Methods Participants referred to a community specialist ICPOP team were identified for CST following Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA), where cognitive impairment or dementia was identified. Inclusion criteria: Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale ≤5, Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living ≥11, Lawton Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (IADL) ≥4, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) ≥10, and ability to consent to participate. Addenbrooks Cognitive Examination (ACE-III) scores were obtained pre and post CST, alongside post CST feedback questionnaires. Results 5 CST programmes of seven weeks duration were conducted over a ten-month period. 31 (male=16, female=15) participants completed the programme. 3 participants dropped out due to lack of transport/interest. The average ACE-III score pre-CST was 68.3 +/- 14.31; post-CST was 76.1 +/- 11.4. 28 participants completed feedback questionnaires. Positive feedback included “Got a great sense of achievement with each session, and eagerly looked forward to the coming weeks”, “Each session topped the previous session” “Gave me a reason to get out, a routine to my week”. 45 % commented that they felt safe sharing difficulties/problems with the group. 71% reflected that CST provided an opportunity to meet others in a similar situation. 100% would recommend CST to others. Conclusion Experience of CST was overwhelmingly positive demonstrating benefit not only from a cognitive perspective but from informal peer support and connections made in group settings. Participants commented on lack of follow-on programmes, identifying the need to develop maintenance CST programmes led by trained community stakeholders which would sustain these benefits long-term as well as increasing awareness and knowledge of dementia within communities.