Psychometric Research Articles

Developing a Xenophobia Scale for Healthcare Workers in Türkiye

This study proposes a psychometric measurement tool to determine the levelof xenophobia among healthcare workers. To this end, 312 healthcare workers serving in Istanbul were reached through convenience sampling and data was generated through face-to-face interviews. A preliminary scale comprising 33 items was initially created. Following expert opinions and pilot study phases, six items were removed from the draft scale, leaving 27 items. Exploratory factor analysis was initially applied to the data, resulting in the removal of nine more items from the scale, thus reducing the number of items to a final scale of 18. The final scale was grouped into three factors: “General Xenophobia,” “Occupational Xenophobia,” and “Cultural Xenophobia.” The items obtained following exploratory factor analysis were subjected to confirmatory factor analysis. The analysis demonstrated that the model obtained fits the data perfectly. The Cronbach’s alpha value for the developed scale was found to be 0.905. In conclusion, the developed scale was found to be a valid and reliable measurement tool for the measurement of xenophobic attitudes among healthcare workers.

The technology acceptance model and adopter type analysis in the context of artificial intelligence

IntroductionArtificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative technology impacting various sectors of society and the economy. Understanding the factors influencing AI adoption is critical for both research and practice. This study focuses on two key objectives: (1) validating an extended version of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) in the context of AI by integrating the Big Five personality traits and AI mindset, and (2) conducting an exploratory k-prototype analysis to classify AI adopters based on demographics, AI-related attitudes, and usage patterns.MethodsA sample of N = 1,007 individuals individuals (60% female; M = 30.92; SD = 8.63 years) was collected. Psychometric data were obtained using validated scales for TAM constructs, Big Five personality traits, and AI mindset. Regression analysis was used to validate TAM, and a k-prototype clustering algorithm was applied to classify participants into adopter categories.ResultsThe psychometric analysis confirmed the validity of the extended TAM. Perceived usefulness was the strongest predictor of attitudes towards AI usage (β = 0.34, p < 0.001), followed by AI mindset scale growth (β = 0.28, p < 0.001). Additionally, openness was positively associated with perceived ease of use (β = 0.15, p < 0.001). The k-prototype analysis revealed four distinct adopter clusters, consistent with the diffusion of innovations model: early adopters (n = 218), early majority (n = 331), late majority (n = 293), and laggards (n = 165).DiscussionThe findings highlight the importance of perceived usefulness and AI mindset in shaping attitudes toward AI adoption. The clustering results provide a nuanced understanding of AI adopter types, aligning with established innovation diffusion theories. Implications for AI deployment strategies, policy-making, and future research directions are discussed.

Perceived Stress: Psychosocial-Sociodemographic Factors as Predictors of Tension, Irritability, and Fatigue Among Ecuadorian University Professors

The objective of this study was to identify the factors that best predict variations in tension, irritability, and fatigue (TIF) among university professors in Ecuador. Using a quantitative approach with a non-experimental, cross-sectional design, data were collected from a probabilistic sample of 364 participants. Psychometric measures were adapted and linguistically validated to assess TIF, and participants completed the Perceived Stress Questionnaire, alongside a sociodemographic questionnaire. Written informed consent was obtained, and participation was entirely voluntary. The results indicated that TIF significantly contribute to perceived stress levels among professors. Specific sociodemographic predictors were identified as statistically significant, providing insight into the multifaceted nature of work-related stress in academic settings and its potential implications for health and job satisfaction. The findings underscore the importance of targeted strategies to reduce stress-related outcomes, addressing factors unique to the academic environment in Ecuador. Additionally, while sociodemographic aspects were associated with variations in stress levels, other stress types also triggered TIF among university professors.

Development of the Lee Symptom Scale-Skin Sclerosis for chronic GVHD-associated sclerosis.

Sclerosis is a highly morbid manifestation of chronic GVHD (cGVHD), associated with distressing symptoms and significant long-term disability. A patient-reported outcome measure (PRO) for cGVHD-associated sclerosis is essential to advance therapeutic trials. We aimed to develop a PRO for adults with cGVHD-associated sclerosis and evaluate and refine its content validity. Adults age ≥18 years with cGVHD-associated sclerosis participated in semi-structured interviews to identify salient symptoms and functions. Sclerosis-relevant symptoms and functions from existing PROs were also used to prompt discussion of topics not spontaneously mentioned. Symptoms and functions (subcodes) of importance were clustered and mapped to overarching domains (codes) using inductive analysis, and candidate items were developed. Cognitive interviews were employed to evaluate content validity of the items, response options, recall period, and respondent instructions.Thirty-five open-ended interviews, conducted to saturation, revealed the breadth of the patient experience with cGVHD-associated sclerosis including 5 overarching domains: (1) skin changes, (2) symptoms, (3) emotional and social functioning, (4) mobility restrictions, and (4) activity limitations. A pool of 54 items was tested and iteratively refined through cognitive debriefing interviews (n=25). Phrasing changes were made to improve relevance and comprehension. One item was removed and two items were added to address respondent feedback, resulting in 55 items. Results support the relevance, comprehensibility, and comprehensiveness of the provisional Lee Symptom Scale-Skin Sclerosis. Concept elicitation and cognitive interviewing have informed the development of the Lee Symptom Scale-Skin Sclerosis. Psychometric testing and determination of minimal clinically important difference are underway in an external cohort to validate the PRO.

TRADUÇÃO, ADAPTAÇÃO TRANSCULTURAL E VALIDAÇÃO DA ESCALA SANE PARA PACIENTES SUBMETIDOS À ARTROPLASTIA TOTAL DE JOELHO

This study conducted the translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and validation of the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) Scale into Brazilian Portuguese, aimed at assessing the functionality of patients undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). The process included translation, back-translation, expert committee review, and semantic validation with patients, following rigorous methodological guidelines. The adapted version of the SANE proved to be understandable, culturally relevant, and appropriate for the Brazilian population, facilitating the accurate collection of data on functional recovery. Psychometric analyses demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.70) and excellent reproducibility (ICC > 0.75). Construct validity was confirmed through significant correlations with established measures such as the KOOS and IKDC. The SANE Scale has shown to be an effective tool for quick and objective assessment, standing out for its practicality in clinical settings. The study concludes that SANE is a valid and reliable alternative for orthopedic practice, with the potential to simplify functional assessment in post-TKA patients.

Italian adaptation and psychometric analysis of the moral foundations questionnaire 2

Abstract Within the framework of Moral Foundations Theory (MFT; Haidt & Graham, Social Justice Research, 20(1), 98–116, 2007; Haidt & Joseph, Daedalus, 133(4), 55–66, 2004), the aim of the present study is to adapt and discuss the psychometric features of the Moral Foundations Questionnaire 2 (MFQ-2; Atari et al., Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2023) in the Italian context. Utilizing a sample of 947 Italian adults, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was conducted, which confirmed the six-factor solution initially proposed for the MFQ-2. Each moral foundation demonstrated acceptable reliability, underscoring the robustness of the questionnaire’s internal consistency. Correlation analyses between the MFQ-2 and MFQ-1 dimensions indicate a significant consistency across the dimensions of both versions, affirming the convergent validity of the MFQ-2. Additionally, Multi-Group Confirmatory Analyses (MGCFAs) indicated that the MFQ-2 exhibits configural invariance across genders. Despite several limitations, this study provides precious insights into the adaptation process of the MFQ-2 for the Italian cultural context, contributing to a broader understanding of the MFT in Italy.

AI-assisted neurocognitive assessment protocol for older adults with psychiatric disorders

IntroductionEvaluating neurocognitive functions and diagnosing psychiatric disorders in older adults is challenging due to the complexity of symptoms and individual differences. An innovative approach that combines the accuracy of artificial intelligence (AI) with the depth of neuropsychological assessments is needed.ObjectivesThis paper presents a novel protocol for AI-assisted neurocognitive assessment aimed at addressing the cognitive, emotional, and functional dimensions of older adults with psychiatric disorders. It also explores potential compensatory mechanisms.MethodologyThe proposed protocol incorporates a comprehensive, personalized approach to neurocognitive evaluation. It integrates a series of standardized and validated psychometric tests with individualized interpretation tailored to the patient’s specific conditions. The protocol utilizes AI to enhance diagnostic accuracy by analyzing data from these tests and supplementing observations made by researchers.Anticipated resultsThe AI-assisted protocol offers several advantages, including a thorough and customized evaluation of neurocognitive functions. It employs machine learning algorithms to analyze test results, generating an individualized neurocognitive profile that highlights patterns and trends useful for clinical decision-making. The integration of AI allows for a deeper understanding of the patient’s cognitive and emotional state, as well as potential compensatory strategies.ConclusionsBy integrating AI with neuro-psychological evaluation, this protocol aims to significantly improve the quality of neurocognitive assessments. It provides a more precise and individualized analysis, which has the potential to enhance clinical decision-making and overall patient care for older adults with psychiatric disorders.

Measurement Properties of the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale in Patients with Spinocerebellar Ataxia.

The Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale-Activities of Daily Living (FARS-ADL) is a valid, highly utilized measure for assessing ADL impacts in patients with Friedreich ataxia. We provide evidence of the psychometric validity of the FARS-ADL in two cohorts of patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA). Using data from a cohort of real-world subjects with SCA (recruited at Massachusetts General Hospital [MGH]; n = 33) and a phase 3 trial of troriluzole in adults with SCA (NCT03701399 [Study 206]; n = 217), comprising a subset of patients with the SCA3 genotype (n = 89), the psychometric measurement properties and minimal change thresholds of the FARS-ADL were examined. Ceiling effects for the FARS-ADL were absent within the MGH cohort while floor effects were observed for eight of nine items. Excellent internal consistency reliability was observed (αtotal = 0.88; αitems-removed = 0.86-0.87), and item-to-total correlations were acceptable (r = 0.55-0.89 per item). Convergent and divergent validity were supported with strong correlations demonstrated between FARS-ADL and scales measuring similar concepts (Neuro-QOL [Upper], Neuro-QOL [Lower], PROM-ADL, PROM-PHYS, and FARS-FUNC; all P < 0.001) and weaker correlations shown between measures of differing constructs. A two- to three-point threshold for meaningful changes was supported as 0.5 × SD = 2.43, SEM = 2.19. Mean changes from baseline for subjects classified as "improved," "no change," or "deteriorated" were -0.54, 0.22, and 1.47, respectively. Similar trends were observed in the Study 206 all-SCA and SCA3 cohorts. Psychometric evaluation showed that the FARS-ADL performed well on analyses examining the reliability and validity of the measure and can detect meaningful changes in patients with SCA, including those with SCA3. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03701399 (Study 206).

A psychometric analysis of the artificial intelligence skills scale developed through chat gpt

A psychometric analysis of the artificial intelligence skills scale developed through chat gpt

Predictive value of an unsupervised web-based assessment of the neuropsychological function

Neuropsychological assessment has to consider the subjective and objective functional deficits of help-seeking individuals in several cognitive domains. Due to time constraints in clinical practice, several web-based approaches have been developed. The current study examined whether functional deficits in the mnestic and attentive domain can be predicted based on an unsupervised self-administered online assessment neuropsychological online screening (NOS): This screening includes self-reports and psychometric memory tests (face-name association, visual short-term memory). Data of help-seeking individuals (n = 213, mean age: 48.2 years) running an extensive in-person assessment were analyzed. A functional deficit in at least one cognitive domain was detected in 48 individuals. This classification was supported by the preceding online screening (sensitivity = 0.75, specificity = 0.80), and a linear regression model identified two significant predictors (free recall performance, form discrimination in visual short-term memory). The predictive quality was enhanced for individuals with selective deficits in the mnestic domain (n = 23: sensitivity = 0.78 and specificity = 0.78) as compared to the attentive domain (n = 25: sensitivity = 0.68 and specificity = 0.75). Our results show that a neuropsychological in-person assessment cannot be replaced by an unsupervised self-administered online test. However, a specific pattern of results in the online test might indicate the necessity of an extensive assessment in help-seeking individuals.

The level of cognitive functioning in school-aged children is predicted by resting EEG Directed Phase Lag Index

Quantifying cognitive potential relies on psychometric measures that do not directly reflect cortical activity. While the relationship between cognitive ability and resting state EEG signal dynamics has been extensively studied in children with below-average cognitive performances, there remains a paucity of research focusing on individuals with normal to above-average cognitive functioning. This study aimed to elucidate the resting EEG dynamics in children aged four to 12 years across normal to above-average cognitive potential. Our findings indicate that signal complexity, as measured by Multiscale Entropy (MSE), was not significantly predictive of the level of cognitive functioning. However, utilizing Directed Phase Lag Index (DPLI) as an effective connectivity measure, we observed consistent patterns of information flow between anterior and posterior regions. Fronto-parietal as well as local connectivity patterns were seen across most of the cognitive functions. Moreover, specific connectivity patterns were obtained for each intellectual quotient index (namely verbal comprehension, visuospatial, fluid reasoning, and processing speed indexes as well as full-scale intellectual quotient). These results underscore the presence of long-range connections and support fronto-parietal theories of cognitive abilities within the resting state brain dynamics of children.

Exploring the Impact of Extended Amino Acid Supplementation on Body Composition and Psychopathology in Patients with Eating Disorders Undergoing Psycho-Nutritional Rehabilitation.

Eating disorders are frequently linked to protein-energy malnutrition, resulting from chronic energy intake reduction, and leading to reduced body weight and altered body composition. A nutritional approach based on the supplementation with a mixture of essential amino acids has proven effective in conditions characterized by reduced dietary intake and increased degradation of endogenous proteins and might also contribute to correct the amino acid deficiency possibly involved in the pathogenesis of eating disorders. This study aimed to explore the effects of amino acid supplementation in conjunction with a standard psycho-nutritional rehabilitation program on body composition, symptoms and psychopathology status in 30 female patients with eating disorders hospitalized at the Residenza Palazzo Francisci in Todi, Italy. Enrolled patients were divided in two groups receiving amino acid supplementation for 45 and 90 days, respectively. Each patient underwent bioelectrical impedance analysis at baseline, after 45 days and after 90 days. Validated psychometric tests were administered at study entry and study end to all enrolled patients. Results from bioelectrical impedance analysis suggest that amino acid supplementation contributes to restoring nutritional and metabolic balance, with effects proportional to the duration of administration. Conversely, interpreting the effects on psychopathologic state and symptoms was challenging, probably due to the small sample size and short observation period. Prolonged amino acid supplementation may play a role in the management of patients with eating disorders, favoring the correction of the catabolic state and possibly contributing to improvement of the psychopathologic state.

Redefining the concept of green transformational leadership through psychometric analysis: Evidence from educational setup of developing country prospective

Redefining the concept of green transformational leadership through psychometric analysis: Evidence from educational setup of developing country prospective

Multiple sclerosis twin study reveals distinct genetic, disease-specific, and psychometric impact on coping with critical life events.

Critical life events challenge our competence to develop coping strategies. In people with multiple sclerosis (MS), the impact of genetics, disease-specific, and psychometric factors on coping strategies have not been explored to date. In a unique cohort of 56 monozygotic twins discordant for MS, we applied comprehensive psychometric and clinical testing to measure factors influencing the psychosocial impact (including stressors and coping strategies) of a critical life event, exemplified by the COVID-19 pandemic (measured by the COVID-19 Pandemic Mental Health Questionnaire, CoPaQ). CoPaQ results were compared to an independent age- and sex-matched control cohort. We applied factor analysis, structural equation modeling, hypothesis testing, and regression models. We detected no differences in the perception of 14 CoPaQ subscales between MS and non-MS co-twins. However, compared to the independent control group, MS co-twins valued 5/14 CoPaQ subscales differently. Strong perception of pandemic-related stressors in MS co-twins was accompanied by higher HADS-Anxiety (ρ=0.69, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), HADS-Depression (ρ=0.57), BDI-II (ρ=0.74, Beck Depression Inventory), and MSIS-29-psychological scores (ρ=0.58, Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale 29). In a generalized linear mixed model, individuals who perceived pandemic-related stressors as more burdensome relied on inner resources, with a notable dependency on twinship. Using a unique twin approach, our study suggests that coping with critical life events is mainly driven by the genetic background. However, in people with MS, coping and the perception of stressors is further confounded by psychometric and disease-related factors.

Engagement in learning activities for newly graduated nurses: Development and psychometric testing of a scale

Engagement in learning activities for newly graduated nurses: Development and psychometric testing of a scale

Psychometric evaluation of the elderly mobility scale in Indonesia.

The Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS) is widely used to identify mobility limitations in older adults, though it has not been validated in Indonesia. To evaluate the reliability and validity of the Indonesian version of the EMS (EMS-I). A cross-sectional design involving 230 older adults in South Tangerang City, Indonesia, was used. The EMS was translated and culturally adapted following a multistage process. Psychometric testing included content validity, exploratory, and confirmatory factor analysis. The participants had a mean age of 70, with 65.7 % female. Results demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .942) and item content validity index (I-CVI > .75). Exploratory factor analysis confirmed a unidimensional structure, with confirmatory factor analysis supporting a good model fit. The EMS-I shows high reliability and validity, enabling healthcare professionals to monitor mobility status and facilitate targeted interventions for enhancing well-being in community-dwelling older adults in Indonesia.

Turkish adaptation and psychometric test of the health literacy scale in old age

To determine the validity and reliability of the Health Literacy Scale in Old Age in Turkish and to examine the psychometric properties of the scale. A total of 450 older individuals aged over 65 years living in a community in a province of Türkiye constituted the sample of this research. Data were collected using a personal information form, the European Health Literacy Short Form, and the Health Literacy Scale in Old Age. The Cronbach α value of the five-factor 18-item scale of four-point Likert type was 0.83, the total variance explained by the factor regarding the scale was 55.973 %, the content validity index was 0.85, and the test-retest reliability value was 0.887. The relationship between the adapted scale and the European Health Literacy Scale Short Form was 0.512. As a result, 18 items of the Health Literacy Scale in Old Age have reasonable length and reliable and valid features.

Disentangling the topological symptom structure of schizophrenia: A network analysis.

The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), comprehensively assesses schizophrenia severity. While network analyses of schizophrenic symptoms have yielded inconsistent results, components of disorganized thought consistently rank high in centrality. The present study aims to explore the centrality of disorganized thought across patient subgroups and its potential as a treatment target. We hypothesize that disorganized thought will emerge as a central feature in the symptom network across different patient populations. We conducted a network psychometric analysis on data from 1435 schizophrenia patients, stratified into four groups based on family history and sex. Local and global network properties, including centrality, clustering coefficient, degree, density, and community detection, were investigated. Network comparisons were performed across groups, and results were validated using an independent dataset. Disorganized thought emerged as the most central factor in Marder 5-factor model, maintaining stability across family history and sex differences. While family history did not significantly impact symptom structures (Females: M=0.2, P=0.4; S=0.4, P=0.7; Males: M=0.2, P=0.7; S=0.1, P=0.9), significant differences were observed between male and female symptom structures (Positive family history: M=0.3, P<0.05; Negative family history: M=0.3, P<0.01). The centrality and high stability of disorganized thought were further confirmed in the validation dataset. The consistent centrality of disorganized thought across different patient subgroups suggests its potential as a key treatment target for schizophrenia.

Development of a perceived eHealth literacy scale for individuals with serious mental illness: A cross-sectional study.

The development of an electronic health literacy scale for the population with serious mental illness (SMI) is needed due to individuals' characteristics. Develop a graphic-based perceived electronic health literacy scale for SMI (GP-eHLS-SMI). A cross-section study. This study was conducted from May 2023 to February 2024. The GP-eHLS-SMI was constructed based on qualitative interviews. Experts reviewed the items, and a pilot questionnaire was developed. A total of 436 community-dwelling participants with SMI from 20 medical facilities were recruited for psychometric analysis. Ten questionnaires were invalid, and 426 questionnaires were used for analysis. We used the first 220 questionnaires to perform the item and exploratory factor analyses. The last 206 questionnaires were used for confirmatory factor analysis. All valid questionnaires were used to examine test-retest reliability and criterion validity. Research tools included a demographic data questionnaire, the GP-eHLS-SMI, and the Chinese eHealth Literacy Scale (C-eHEALS). The C-eHEALS was used as the gold standard to explore the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and cut-off point of the GP-eHLS-SMI. The Cronbach's alpha for the 16-item GP-eHLS-SMI was 0.882. The GP-eHLS-SMI score was significantly correlated with the C-eHEALS score (r=0.733, p<.001). The AUC was 0.863 (95% CI: 0.828, 0.897), and the cut-off point was 41. The test-retest reliability was r=0.929 (p<.001), and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.961. The GP-eHLS-SMI is a valuable tool.

Psychometric analysis of the resonance concept inventory

Many undergraduate chemistry students hold alternate conceptions related to resonance—an important and fundamental topic of organic chemistry. To help address these alternate conceptions, an organic chemistry instructor could administer the resonance concept inventory (RCI), which is a multiple-choice assessment that was designed to identify resonance-related alternate conceptions held by organic chemistry students. In this study, two iterations of the RCI were administered to undergraduate organic chemistry students: the RCI-Pilot (N = 484) and the RCI-Final (N = 595). Evidence was collected to support the quality of the RCI items, the validity of the data obtained with the RCI based on internal structure, and the reliability of the data obtained with the RCI. Classical test theory (CTT) was utilized to determine the quality of the items. To gather validity evidence, the Rasch model was used and a differential item functioning (DIF) analysis was conducted. Reliability estimates were made using McDonald's Omega. Since validity and reliability evidence was gathered for the assessment scores, the data obtained in this study supports the use of the 14-item RCI for detecting student alternate conceptions with resonance.