Practical Evaluation Research Articles

Innovative integration of sustainable technologies in educational programs: Fostering freshwater production and environmental preservation awareness

This study highlights the integration of sustainable desalination technologies into educational programs to raise awareness of freshwater production and environmental preservation. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students explore innovative methods such as pressure-retarded osmosis, multi-effect desalination, and seawater source heat pumps, all powered by renewable seawater thermal energy. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering reliance on fossil fuels, and protecting aquatic ecosystems. Students engage in practical evaluations of energy efficiency, economic viability, and environmental impact. Sensitivity analyses are incorporated to help students identify critical factors affecting system performance and optimize operational conditions for various modes. Through hands-on experiments, students learn that components like the heat pump condenser contribute the most to energy loss (29 %), followed by the expansion valve (12 %), compressor (11 %), and seawater heat exchanger (8 %). Economic analyses reveal that while the heat pump condenser and seawater heat exchanger have the lowest financial impact (0.33 % and 2.48 %, respectively), the pressure-retarded osmosis and compressor units have the highest (100 % and 60.3 %, respectively). The findings demonstrate that an optimally designed desalination system can produce freshwater at 80 % lower costs compared to traditional plants, while also reducing carbon emissions by 15 %. Educational experiments also show that integrating pressure-retarded osmosis downstream of multi-effect desalination significantly reduces brine salinity and temperature, highlighting the system's potential for environmental sustainability. This approach not only fosters a deeper understanding of desalination technologies but also equips students with the tools to address future global water challenges.

Lewy body pathology exacerbates brain hypometabolism and cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease

Identifying concomitant Lewy body (LB) pathology through seed amplification assays (SAA) might enhance the diagnostic and prognostic work-up of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in clinical practice and trials. This study examined whether LB pathology exacerbates AD-related disease progression in 795 cognitively impaired individuals (Mild Cognitive Impairment and dementia) from the longitudinal multi-center observational ADNI cohort. Participants were on average 75 years of age (SD = 7.89), 40.8% were female, 184 (23.1%) had no biomarker evidence of AD/LB pathology, 39 (4.9%) had isolated LB pathology (AD-LB+), 395 (49.7%) had only AD pathology (AD+LB-), and 177 (22.3%) had both pathologies (AD+LB+). The AD+LB+ group showed worst baseline performance for most cognitive outcomes and compared to the AD+LB− group faster global cognitive decline and more cortical hypometabolism, particularly in posterior brain regions. Neuropathological examination (n = 61) showed high sensitivity (26/27, 96.3%) and specificity (27/28, 96.4%) of the SAA-test. We showed that co-existing LB-positivity exacerbates cognitive decline and cortical brain hypometabolism in AD. In vivo LB pathology detection could enhance prognostic evaluations in clinical practice and could have implications for clinical AD trial design.

Calibrated absolute optical contrast for high-throughput characterization of horizontally aligned carbon nanotube arrays

Horizontally aligned carbon nanotube (HACNT) arrays hold significant potential for various applications in nanoelectronics and material science. However, their high-throughput characterization remains challenging due to the lack of methods with both high efficiency and high accuracy. Here, we present a novel technique, Calibrated Absolute Optical Contrast (CAOC), achieved through the implementation of differential principles to filter out stray signals and high-resolution calibration to endow optical contrast with physical significance. CAOC offers major advantages over previous characterization techniques, providing consistent and reliable measurements of HACNT array density with high throughput and non-destructive assessment. To validate its utility, we demonstrate wafer-scale uniformity assessment by rapid density mapping. This technique not only facilitates the practical evaluation of HACNT arrays but also provides insights into balancing high throughput and high resolution in nanomaterial characterization.

Application of transformer architectures in generative video modeling for neurosurgical education.

This article explores the potential impact of OpenAI's Sora, a generative video modeling technology, on neurosurgical training. It evaluates how such technology could revolutionize the field by providing realistic surgical simulations, thereby enhancing the learning experience and proficiency in complex procedures for neurosurgical trainees. The study examines the incorporation of this technology into neurosurgical education by leveraging transformer architecture and processing of video and image data. It involves compiling a neurosurgical procedure dataset for model training, aiming to create accurate, high-fidelity simulations. Our findings indicate significant potential applications in neurosurgical training, including immersive simulations for skill development and exposure to diverse surgical scenarios. The technology also promises to transform assessment and feedback, introducing a standardized, objective way to measure and improve trainee competencies. Integrating generative video modeling technology into neurosurgical education marks a progressive step toward enhancing training methodologies. Despite challenges in technical, ethical, and practical domains, continuous development and evaluation could lead to substantial advancements in surgical education, preparing neurosurgeons more effectively for their demanding roles.

Sharing midwifery philosophy through a positive learning environment prepares students for a future providing midwifery continuity of care: A mixed method study

BackgroundGlobal and national frameworks for midwifery education recognise and prioritise the provision of midwifery continuity of care. Previous studies report that learning is enhanced when students have professional experience placements within these models, however there remains wide variation in midwifery students’ access to placements within these models in Australia. AimTo evaluate Bachelor of Midwifery students’ experiences in midwifery continuity of care models within two local health districts in New South Wales, Australia. MethodA mixed methods design was used: qualitative data collected through interviews, and quantitative data collected via an online survey using the Midwifery Student Evaluation of Practice (MidSTEP) tool. Thematic analysis of qualitative data and descriptive analysis of quantitative data was undertaken. ResultsSixteen students responded, four students were interviewed, and 12 students completed the survey. The MidSTEP mean scores for all sub-scales rated above 3.0/4.0. Participants rated ‘work across the full scope of midwifery practice’ and five out of eight subscales of Philosophy of Midwifery Practice at 100 %. ‘Experiences prepare me to be a change agent for maternity service reform’ rated the lowest (67 %). Three qualitative themes emerged: care versus carer model; learning experience; and future career as a caseload midwife. ConclusionA mixed method approach using a validated tool to measure student experiences, contributes to the evidence that students value professional experience placements within midwifery continuity of care models. Currently this is not an option for all midwifery students and as midwifery continuity of care models expand, these findings will inform further implementation of student professional experience placement within these models.

Towards the new primary care reform in Greece: a focus on patients' expectations, views and perceptions from rural healthcare centres.

Patient perception of quality of care is an essential component in evaluating healthcare delivery. This article reports data from primary health care (PHC) centers before Greece's most recent PHC reform. The study was undertaken to offer some baseline information about patient experience, support the decision-making processes taking place, and provide valuable input for future policy-making comparisons in Greece. The research was conducted across the 16 PHC centers of Epirus, a region of north-western Greece, from June to September 2017, with 532 patients rating the importance of different aspects of three main healthcare domains (clinical behavior, support and services, and organization of care) of PHC provision. The Greek version of the European Task Force on Patient Evaluations of General Practice (EUROPEP) questionnaire was implemented for research purposes. Univariate comparisons were performed for patients with and without chronic disease, using Pearson's χ2 test for categorical data. Study findings support that the organization of care domain is of highest importance and priority, with clinical behavior and support and services following closely. Among recruited patients, on average, only 2.1% of patients with a chronic disease were satisfied (rated 4 or 5 on the Likert scale) with the organization of care aspects under consideration, compared to 18.4% of patients without a chronic disease. Furthermore, only 4% of patients with a chronic disease were satisfied with the aspects examined in the clinical behavior domain, compared to 27% of patients without a chronic disease. Finally, 18% of sampled patients with a chronic disease reported being satisfied with the quality of support and services provided, compared to 38% of patients without a chronic disease. It is necessary to back up available past information to afterwards estimate reform imprinting on expectations and perceptions. The items and aspects of EUROPEP, in line with the new tasks of the personal doctor within the PHC system that patients perceive as most essential, can be used to prioritize quality improvement activities to strengthen PHC delivery in Greece. Communication skills, practices, and behavioral change skills seem to need more attention for an efficient PHC model.

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Community Pharmacists in Managing Chronic Diseases in Lahore, Pakistan

Background: The rising number of chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, osteoarthritis, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents a major danger to the worldwide health community. The ability of individuals to successfully manage their medical problems with the help of healthcare professionals is essential to the effective control of chronic illnesses. Objective: The current study focuses to evaluate the knowledge of community pharmacist’s regarding chronic disease management, their attitude, and their practice to control chronic diseases. Methods: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted using random sampling method in Lahore, Pakistan. The samples collected for this study was 110. However, the final sample size was 93, the remaining forms were discarded. Data was collected by visiting community pharmacies in Lahore. The filled questionnaires were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences program software (SPSS Inc., version 21.0, IBM corp., Armonk NY, USA). P-value of less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant values. Results: The results, with a p value of 0.001, indicate a significant difference in adequacy of knowledge between the male and female groups. Majority of the participants have bachelor’s education and are unmarried. The p-value of 0.871 for level of education shows insignificant association between the higher education and better practice scores. The most important finding in this study is significant relationship between technology proficiency and adequacy of knowledge with p-value of 0.005. This shows that those who are more proficient in the technology are significantly more likely to have adequate knowledge. Conclusion: This study concludes that the majority of community pharmacists had adequate knowledge regarding chronic disease management. But showed neutral attitude and fair practice towards the control of chronic diseases. In order to optimize the management of chronic diseases, community pharmacists need to exhibit best practices and a positive attitude.

Simulation of interior ballistic two-phase flow of storage propellant charge

ABSTRACT The launch safety evaluation of artillery considering the properties changes of propellant charge during storage has attracted much attention, and the determination of the interior ballistic process of storage propellant charge has been a bottleneck problem. Large scale firing test is difficult to implement due to its high risk and uncontrollability, and simulation is limited by the difficulty in describing the interaction of propellant parameters. In order to describe the multiple physical fields in the chamber and reveal the influence mechanism of storage on interior ballistic process, the theoretical analysis and physical simulation are combined in this paper. The fracture and the subsequent combustion of the storage propellant charge in the chamber environment were physically simulated, and then, the interior ballistic two-phase flow simulation method considering the fracture of storage propellant charge is proposed by coupling these performance parameters. Though describing the interior ballistic process variation with storage time, this paper provides a practical evaluation method for the interior ballistic performance of energetic materials.

Practical evaluation of risk factors in patients with osteoporosis-induced thoracic and lumbar vertebral compression fractures requiring surgery

This descriptive longitudinal study aims to assess the risk factors for severe thoracic and lumbar vertebral compression fractures before and after surgery, contributing to preventive knowledge enhancement in communities and effective treatment management. The study involved 34 patients diagnosed with thoracic and lumbar vertebral compression fractures requiring surgery with bio-cement-augmented pedicle screws between June 2021 and June 2022. Postoperative complications, notably adjacent segment injury, were monitored, and patients received osteoporosis management post-surgery.The majority of patients were female (61.8 %), with an average age of 66.4 ± 9.2 years. Daily life accidents were the most common cause of injuries (88.2 %). Most patients underwent surgery more than 3 months after injury (58.8 %), with a notable percentage seeking examination and treatment post-injury. Osteoporosis prevalence was high among patients at the time of spinal injury, indicating a need for improved osteoporosis management strategies post-surgery. Various comorbidities were observed, with a portion of patients having pre-existing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and kidney failure. Changes in bone mineral density correlated with age, highlighting the increased fracture risk seen in older individuals. Two patients required vertebral body reconstruction due to adjacent vertebra damage post-surgery. A significant proportion of patients received osteoporosis treatment after the surgical intervention.Patients with lumbar-thoracic osteoporosis fractures need a comprehensive assessment of clinical and paraclinical factors to select appropriate and effective treatment methods. Postoperatively, these patients also require osteoporosis management, regular monitoring, and evaluations to reduce postoperative complications, including the risk of adjacent segment injury and other vertebral compression fractures.

Reconstruction of extended ureteral defects using sections of the ileum and colon

The incidence of extended ureteral strictures has been on the rise in the past decade. This increase is attributed to the growing number of endoscopic surgeries, expanded criteria for surgical treatment of cancer patients, and complications from radiation therapy. When correcting an extended ureteral stricture, if there is a lack of urinary system tissues to replace the defect or if they are involved in the pathological process, replacement reconstruction using a segment of small or large intestine becomes necessary. Options for ureteral reconstructions using ileum and colon sections were discussed, as well as the use of the appendix as a graft. Data on the effectiveness and frequency of postoperative complications were analysed, and the pros and cons of different surgical techniques for ureteroplasty were evaluated. It is necessary to conduct further scientific and practical research and evaluation of long-term results to solve the remaining unclear problems and to inform the doctors of our country about the existence of this pathology.

A new hyperchaotic system: circuit realization, nonlinear analysis and synchronization control

This paper presents a novel seven-dimensional nonlinear hyperchaotic system characterized by a minimal number of nonlinear terms and variables, yet exhibiting high complexity. Standard nonlinear analysis is conducted to unveil the system’s intricacies, emphasizing its notable feature of possessing four to five Lyapunov exponents in certain intervals, signifying its volatility and complexity. Hyperchaotic synchronization is explored using a novel nonsingular terminal sliding control design, effectively achieving synchronization between two hyperchaotic master systems and a hyperchaotic slave system within finite time while mitigating the chattering phenomenon. Practical evaluations through orbital analysis, numerical simulations, and practical implementations further substantiate the efficacy and performance of the proposed system. This study contributes to the advancement of chaotic and hyperchaotic systems, particularly those with dimensions exceeding 5D, offering insights into synchronization techniques and practical applications in engineering and other scientific disciplines.

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) of Artificial Intelligence in Endodontics and Implantology Education: A Cross-sectional Study

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of AI in Endodontics and implantology education among dental professionals' and dental students in Endodontics and implantology education at the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: The present study is a descriptive cross-sectional online survey that was carried out among dental students and dental professionals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A self-structured, close-ended questionnaire that was administered that consisted of 17 questions was included. The questionnaire validity and reliability were evaluated for vetting and remarks. The questions were circulated through Google Forms, and it was circulated among the study participants through online mode. The data were collected systematically, and SPSS Statistics version 26.0 was used for data analysis. Results: There were 805 responses, (443 dental students and 362 dental professionals') participated in the study through Google Forms. Among these, 435 (54%) were females and 370 (46%) were males. In the study group, 491 (61.0%) were aware of AI, and 314 (39.0 %) were not aware (p-value 0.000). Among the 17 questions used to assess the KAP, 12 questions were significant with a p-value less than 0.05. More than 73 % prefer to use artificial intelligence in endodontics and implantology education. About 120 (14.9%) agreed that AI will replace the role of dentists in the future. There were no significant results in comparing dental students and dental professionals. Conclusion: The current study contributes valuable insights into knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions related to artificial intelligence among dental student and professionals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Despite some reservations, the majority show a positive view towards the role of AI in the endodontic education, which indicates fertile ground for further exploration and integration of AI technologies into endodontic education. There is a need for continued future research to explore strategies to improve the potential of AI while test their reliability and relevance in endodontic and implantology education.

James Lind and the evaluation of clinical practice.

James Lind and the evaluation of clinical practice.

Characterizing Revascularization After Encephalo-Duro-Arterio-Synangiosis (EDAS) in Adult Patients With Moyamoya Disease Using the Orbital Grading System

The Matsushima Grade has traditionally been used to evaluate vessel ingrowth from the STA after EDAS for MMD-patients. However, this grading is subjective and prone to measurement variability. Herein, we propose the orbital grading system quantifying leptomeningeal and burr hole-related vessel-ingrowth from the STA and/or MMA to the middle and anterior cerebral arteries post-EDAS in MMD patients. An anatomical classification was developed by reference to two parallel vertical lines from the bony landmarks of the orbit, categorized from Grade 0-3. Regression models were used to compare clinical and functional outcomes of our grading system with the Matsushima scale. Forty MMD patients, with median age of 48 years, mostly females (72.5%), were included. Presentation included ischemic events (65.0%), hemorrhage (22.5%), and seizures (7.5%). Most patients were categorized as Suzuki ≥ IV (69.5%). Fifty EDAS (89.9%) had concurrent burr holes placed (parietal and frontal regions). At a median follow-up of 13.7 months, collateral growth was graded as follows: grade 0 (6;10.8%), grade 1 (12;21.4%), grade 2 (23;41.1%) and grade 3 (15;26.8%). Linear regression showed similarities in the distribution between the orbital grading system and Matsushima grading (r=0.86;p<0.01). Ischemic events were fewer in hemispheres categorized as grade 2-3 compared to grade 0-1 (p=0.047) as well as in Matsushima grading A or B compared to C (p=0.047). The orbital grading system demonstrated agreement in identifying postoperative ischemic events as the Matsushima grade and provides a more practical and objective evaluation of collateral vessel ingrowth after EDAS with and without burr-holes.

A practical new approach to ultrasonographic detection of the fetal situs: Modified Cordes technique.

This study presents the modified Cordes method, a novel ultrasonographic technique that provides a precise and practical evaluation of fetal situs during pregnancy, particularly in the first and earlysecond trimesters. This method entails precisely aligning the probe and hand to obtain a clear image of the fetal thorax in the axial plane. The fundamental procedures involve ascertaining the initial location of the fetal head, rotating the probe, aligning the thorax at the center, and positioning the lefthand to clearly identify the fetal situs. Tests conducted in many pregnancies have verified that the modified Cordes approach offers prompt and precise identification of fetal situs and is more accessible to acquire, particularly for new practitioners. The modified Cordes approach is a straightforward and reliable technique for establishing the position of the fetus. Its application during the first and early second trimesters improves diagnostic accuracy by minimizing the chances of misinterpretation. This method offers benefits by making the process of determining fetal situs more objective and straightforward for practitioners with varying degrees of experience.

Exploring the impact of custodial parkrun in an English women’s prison: HMPPS psychologists and partners delivering a best practice evaluation

Exploring the impact of custodial parkrun in an English women’s prison: HMPPS psychologists and partners delivering a best practice evaluation

Exploring medical and dental practitioner perspectives and developing a knowledge attitude and practice (KAP) evaluation tool for the common risk factor approach in managing non-communicable and periodontal diseases

BackgroundThe Common Risk Factor Approach (CRFA) is one of the methods to achieve medical-dental integration. CRFA addresses shared risk factors among major Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs). This study aimed to explore the perspectives of dental and medical practitioners concerning CRFA for managing NCDs and periodontal diseases and to create and validate a tool to evaluate the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) of medical and dental practitioners in relation to utilization of CRFA for management of NCDs and Periodontal diseases.MethodsThis research employed a concurrent mixed-method model and was carried out from January 2021 to February 2022, focusing on medical and dental practitioners in South India. In the qualitative phase, online interviews were conducted with dental and medical practitioners, recorded, and transcribed. Thematic analysis was applied after achieving data saturation. In the quantitative phase, a KAP questionnaire was developed. The sample size was determined by using the G power statistical power analysis program. A sample size of 220 in each group (dentists and medical practitioners) was estimated. Systematic random sampling was used to recruit the potential participants. The data obtained through the online dissemination of KAP tool was analysed and scores were standardized to categorize the KAP.ResultsQualitative thematic analysis identified four major themes: understanding of common risk factors, risk factor reduction and disease burden, integrating CRFA into clinical practice, and barriers to CRFA. In addition, thematic analysis revealed seventeen subthemes. For the quantitative phase, standardization was applied to a 14-item KAP questionnaire for medical practitioners and a 19-item KAP questionnaire for dental practitioners. The total KAP score for medical practitioners in the study was 21.84 ± 2.87, while dental practitioners scored 22.82 ± 3.21, which indicated a high level of KAP regarding CRFA. Meta integration of qualitative and quantitative data identified eight overarching themes: four were concordant, three were discordant, and one theme provided the explanatory component.ConclusionThe study’s structured, validated questionnaire showed that both medical and dental professionals had a high knowledge of CRFA. However, they were not appreciably aware of the risk factors that are shared between NCDs and periodontal disease. Both groups were interested in the idea of using CRFA in integrated medical and dental care.

EXPERIMENTAL LABORATORY SET VIA INTERNET SYSTEM ON ELECTRICAL INSTRUMENT AND MEASUREMENT COURSE OF HIGHER VOCATIONAL CERTIFICATE PROGRAM OF RAJAMANGALA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY ISAN, SAKON NAKHON CAMPUS

Development qualities, efficiency, and user satisfaction of the experimental laboratory set via internet system are electrical instrument and measurement course of the Higher Vocational Certificate Program of the Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Sakon Nakhon campus. The research sample group consists of 21 first-year students in the Electronics Engineering Department, Higher Vocational Certificate Program, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Sakon Nakhon campus, and the choose a specific type. The research tools were the experimental laboratory set via internet system on electronic measurement tools course of Higher Vocational Certificate Program of Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Sakon Nakhon campus., content and media production technical quality evaluation forms, academic achievement test and practice evaluation form, and user satisfaction evaluation form. Statistics used in this research were mathematical mean (x̄), standard deviation (SD), and percentage. The research results found that the experimental laboratory set via the internet system on electronic measurement tools course of Higher Vocational Certificate Program of Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Sakon Nakhon campus have the content quality was good level (x̄ = 3.96, SD = 0.79) and the media production technical quality was good level (x̄ = 4.20, SD = 0.66).

Born4Life: Creating and Supporting Meaningful, Authentic Intergenerational Experiences

ABSTRACT Intergenerational Practice, which brings two or more generations together for mutual benefit, is growing in popularity in the United Kingdom. While practices are well meaning, they are not always research informed. This critical evaluation research draws upon an evaluation of meaningful practice undertaken by Born4Life practitioners; a network of early years educators based in some Early Years settings across the UK, who are on an intergenerational journey. Through surveys, focus groups, and interviews, this research aimed to determine what an intentional, meaningful, and sustainable intergenerational community looks like and how such communities can be supported by identifying training and development requirements for the intergenerational team.

Training IoT Development for Enhancing Search and Rescue Tracking and Educational Tools

The Internet of Things (IoT) Development Training at Universidade Oriental Timor Lorosa’e aims to address challenges in tracking search and rescue teams and enhance educational tools. This training is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of IoT technology and its applications in operational and educational contexts. The methods used include theoretical sessions, hands-on practice, and project evaluation. The evaluation results show a significant increase in participants' knowledge levels: understanding of IoT concepts increased from 40% to 85%, knowledge of IoT applications rose from 35% to 80%, the ability to use IoT devices improved from 30% to 75%, and skills in developing IoT systems advanced from 25% to 70%. The success of this training reflects the positive impact of IoT technology in enhancing participants' skills, potentially bringing long-term benefits to both fields discussed at Universidade Oriental Timor Lorosa’e.