Survey Of Practices Research Articles

Brachytherapy for rhabdomyosarcoma: Survey of international clinical practice and development of guidelines

Background and purposeThe purpose of this study was to address the lack of published data on the use of brachytherapy in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma by describing current practice as starting point to develop consensus guidelines. Materials and methodsAn international expert panel on the treatment of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma comprising 24 (pediatric) radiation oncologists, brachytherapists and pediatric surgeons met for a Brachytherapy Workshop hosted by the European paediatric Soft tissue Sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG). The panel’s clinical experience, the results of a previously distributed questionnaire, and a review of the literature were presented. ResultsThe survey indicated the most common use of brachytherapy to be in combination with tumor resection, followed by brachytherapy as sole local therapy modality. HDR was increasingly deployed in pediatric practice, especially for genitourinary sites. Brachytherapy planning was mostly by 3D imaging based on CT. Recommendations for patient selection, treatment requirements, implant technique, delineation, dose prescription, dose reporting and clinical management were defined. ConclusionsConsensus guidelines for the use of brachytherapy in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma have been developed through multicenter collaboration establishing the basis for future work. These have been adopted for the open EpSSG overarching study for children and adults with Frontline and Relapsed RhabdoMyoSarcoma (FaR-RMS).

A survey of practice in the anesthetic management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis spine fusion by the North American Pediatric Spine Anesthesiologists Collaborative.

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) affects 2%-4% of the general pediatric population. While surgical correction remains one of the most common orthopedic procedures performed in pediatrics, limited consensus exists on the perioperative anesthetic management. To examine the current state of anesthetic management of typical AIS spine fusions at institutions which have a dedicated pediatric orthopedic spine surgeon. A web-based survey was sent to all members of the North American Pediatric Spine Anesthesiologists (NAPSA) Collaborative. This group included 34 anesthesiologists at 19 different institutions, each of whom has a Harms Study Group surgeon performing spine fusions at their hospital. Thirty-one of 34 (91.2%) anesthesiologists completed the survey, with a missing response rate from 0% to 16.1% depending on the question. Most anesthesia practices (77.4%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 67.7-93.4) do not have patients come for a preoperative visit prior to the day of surgery. Intravenous induction was the preferred method (74.2%; 95% CI 61.3-89.9), with the majority utilizing two peripheral IVs (93.5%; 95% CI 90.3-100) and an arterial line (100%; 95% CI 88.8-100). Paralytic administration for intubation and/or exposure was divided (51.6% rocuronium/vecuronium, 45.2% no paralytic, and 3.2% succinylcholine) amongst respondents. While tranexamic acid was consistently utilized for reducing blood loss, dosing regimens varied. When faced with neuromonitoring signal issues, 67.7% employ a formal protocol. Most anesthesiologists (93.5%; 95% CI 78.6-99.2) extubate immediately postoperatively with patients admitted to an inpatient floor bed (77.4%; 95% CI 67.7-93.3). Most anesthesiologists (87.1%; 95% CI 80.6-99.9) report the use of some form of an anesthesia-based protocol for AIS fusions, but our survey results show there is considerable variation in all aspects of perioperative care. Areas of agreement on management comprise the typical vascular access required, utilization of tranexamic acid, immediate extubation, and disposition to a floor bed. By recognizing the diversity of anesthetic care, we can develop areas of research and improve the perioperative management of AIS.

Real-life clinical management patterns in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer across France: a multi-method study

BackgroundWe designed this study based on both a physician practice survey and real-world patient data to: (1) evaluate clinical management practices in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) among medical centers located across France; and (2) describe first-line treatment patterns among patients with ES-SCLC following the introduction of immunotherapy into clinical practice.MethodsA 50-item questionnaire was completed by physicians from 45 medical centers specialized in SCLC management. Responses were collected from June 2022 to January 2023. The survey questions addressed diagnostic workup of ES-SCLC, chemoimmunotherapy in first-line and second-line settings, and use of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) and radiotherapy. In parallel, using a chart review approach, we retrospectively analyzed aggregated information from 548 adults with confirmed ES-SCLC receiving first-line treatment in the same centers.ResultsIn ES-SCLC, treatment planning is based on chest computed tomography (CT) (as declared by 100% of surveyed centers). Mean time between diagnosis and treatment initiation was 2–7 days, as declared by 82% of centers. For detection of brain metastases, the most common imaging test was brain CT (84%). The main exclusion criteria for first-line immunotherapy in the centers were autoimmune disease (87%), corticosteroid therapy (69%), interstitial lung disease (69%), and performance status ≥ 2 (69%). Overall, 53% and 36% of centers considered that patients are chemotherapy-sensitive if they relapse within ≥ 3 months or ≥ 6 months after first-line chemoimmunotherapy, respectively. Among the 548 analyzed patients, 409 (75%) received chemoimmunotherapy as a first-line treatment, 374 (91%) of whom received carboplatin plus etoposide and 35 (9%) cisplatin plus etoposide. Overall, 340/548 patients (62%) received maintenance immunotherapy. Most patients (68%) did not receive radiotherapy or PCI.ConclusionsThere is an overall alignment of practices reflecting recent clinical guidelines among medical centers managing ES-SCLC across France, and a high prescription rate of immunotherapy in the first-line setting.

Survey of current practices in the management of cervical cancer by Moroccan radiotherapists

ObjectiveTo assess the applicability degree of the international guidelines by Moroccan radiotherapists, in order to improve the management of cervical cancer (CC), since CC is the second most common cancer for women in Morocco. MethodsThis cross-sectional study was carried out using a questionnaire sent online to Moroccan radiotherapists. The questionnaire covered participants' characteristics, initial assessment and treatment preparation, techniques and indications for radiotherapy and brachytherapy, dose and indications, as well as on the protocol adopted in the intermediate stages and the location of adjuvant treatments and assessments' follow-up. Results74 radiotherapists out of 300 have responded to the survey. Only 27.0% of practitioners reported discussing patient records systematically in a multidisciplinary consultation meeting (MCM). For the initial assessment, 77.0% requested pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is significantly less requested in regional oncology centers (ROCs) than in university hospital centers (UHCs) or the private sector (P ​< ​0.001). Furthermore, Clinicians in ROCs do not have access to new techniques of radiotherapy. In 83.8% of cases, the most prescribed radiotherapy protocols were 45–46 ​Gy in 1.8–2 ​Gy per fraction. Three-dimensional gynaecological brachytherapy high-throughput dose guided by dosimetric scanner was available in 75.5% of structures while interstitial gynaecological brachytherapy was only available in 23% of centers. The two most prescribed dose protocols were 4 ​× ​7 ​Gy and 3 ​× ​7 ​Gy in 74.4% and 21.6% of cases, respectively. Finally, monitoring during the first two years was based mainly on pelvic MRI (82.2%) while PET/CT was recommended by only less than 10%. ConclusionsThe findings obtained show that our radiotherapists generally comply with international guidelines for the cervical cancer management. However, they should still enhance their practices for the first staging evaluation, the use of systematic MCMs, the doses and treatment techniques used, and the follow-up evaluation.

National survey of transplant pharmacist ambulatory care practices

AbstractIntroductionThere has been sustained growth in transplant pharmacist positions. However, the scope of pharmacist involvement, frequency of patient visits with a transplant pharmacist, and description of the transplant pharmacists' role in the ongoing management of transplant recipients have not been well described.ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence and role of transplant pharmacists in the management of transplant recipients in the ambulatory care setting.MethodsA 53‐question online survey was developed with the primary outcome being the incidence of solid organ transplant (SOT) programs with ambulatory care pharmacy services. Secondary outcomes included describing the scope of ambulatory transplant pharmacist activities for posttransplant recipients. The survey was distributed via transplant listservs and remained open from April 25, 2023 to May 27, 2023.ResultsA total of 174 responses were included for analysis, with 47 (27%) being partial responses. The total number of pediatric adult and pediatric transplant centers in the United States was 248 with a total number of 748 active programs, giving an estimated response rate of 23.8%. Of those, 93.7% reported having ambulatory transplant pharmacy services. The median of ambulatory care full‐time employees was 1 (interquartile range [IQR] 1–2) across the responding institutions. Transplant pharmacists were also involved in outpatient infusions (69.2%), immunization screening and administration (82.5%), telehealth services (57.0%), prescription refill authorization (61.0%) electronic medical record in‐basket, or equivalent messaging tasks (91.1%).ConclusionThe incidence of SOT pharmacist involvement in ambulatory care is overall high (93.7%). Analysis of this project allows for a better understanding of the landscape of SOT ambulatory care pharmacy services and can be used as an assessment for standard practice activities.

What do Australians do with their dog poo? A survey of dog-owning household practices and attitudes

ABSTRACT Australian dog owners are seeking sustainable alternatives to dog faecal collection and disposal, such as compostable waste bags and home composting. Little is known about dog owners’ attitudes towards composting dog faeces or how they manage dog faeces within private households. Australian dog owners’ (N = 1054) were surveyed to investigate household demographics, how they collect and dispose of dog faeces, their home composting practices, and their attitudes, experiences, and concerns regarding home composting dog faeces. Within households, most dog faeces were collected using tools such as shovels and scoops more than single use bags. General waste bins were the most common home disposal location followed by organic waste bins, home compost and burial. Few participants included compostable plastic dog waste bags in home compost. Most composted dog faeces were applied to non-edible plants within gardens. Over half of dog owners viewed home composting as a potentially effective disposal method and many wanted to home compost dog faeces but were not yet doing so. Reported challenges included a lack of reliable compost information, hygiene concerns and uncertainty how canine de-worming treatments affect compost. Findings are important for conducting future research that reflects current practices and address dog owners’ main concerns and challenges.

Social Care Education and Training Among US Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Programs.

The aim of the study is to assess the association of social determinants of health (SDOH) education and social needs training on pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) physician perception and practices of social care. Data were derived from the 2021 National Social Care Practices Survey of PEM program directors (PDs) and fellows. Ordinal and binary logistic regression modeling were completed for educational/training factors and social care perspective and practice outcomes. A national sample of 44 PDs (49% response rate) and 109 fellows (28%) participated. A minority of fellows received SDOH education and social needs training during fellowship. Fellows and PDs with SDOH education had a 3.1 odds (95% confidence interval CI, 1.4-6.9) of screening for social needs, with 4.4 odds among fellows (95% CI, 1.2-20.7). Those with social needs training were more comfortable assessing social risk, with 2.4 odds overall (95% CI, 1.2-4.7) and 3.1 odds among fellows (95% CI, 1.4-6.7). They also had 2.4 odds overall (95% CI, 1.1-4.9) of screening for social needs, with a 2.9 odds among fellows (95% CI, 1.3-6.8). Social care education and training appear to be associated with comfort assessing social risk and social needs screening tendency among both PEM PDs and fellows. Key areas for educational interventions are identified among PEM fellows, who are uniquely positioned as clinical leaders and patient advocates.

The Survey of Professional Development Practices for the Emerging Trends among Academic and Research Librarians in Lagos State

The field of librarianship is undergoing profound transformation in response to the digital revolution and evolving user needs. Developing knowledge and skills is therefore essential to remain relevant and effective. The study investigated the professional development practices for adaptation to the emerging technologies and trends among academic and research librarians (ARLs) in Lagos state. It also determined the sources of their professional development strategies and sponsors, and the training need of the academic and research librarians. Descriptive statistics of frequency and simple percentages were used to analyse the data collected. The study revealed that librarians are aware of the emerging trends, they are committed to their professional development through self-sponsored and also have challenges facing them. It was recommended that librarians should be encouraged to be more committed to their profession development, the library should be involved in generating funds to support professional development to alleviate the problem of fund scarcity.

Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Predictors for Loss to Follow Up among Marginalized Homeless and Migrant Communities: a Cross-Sectional Study.

In Europe and Italy, marginalized communities have a higher risk for both contracting sexually transmitted infections (STI) and progressing towards adverse outcomes. This study focuses on the screening of HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis among homeless individuals and agricultural migrant workers living in Apulia, Italy. It aims to assess STI prevalence and investigate factors that might hinder return to collect test results. In addition, it explores STI knowledge, attitudes, and practices among these vulnerable populations. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023. Participants were recruited from community health centers and migrant camps. Blood tests for HBV, HCV, HIV, and syphilis were performed, and Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) survey were conducted via face-to-face interviews. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were used to assess factors influencing the return for test results. A total of 149 persons were recruited, including 64 agricultural migrant workers and 85 homeless people. Overall, 24.8% (n = 37) tested positive for at least one infection, and only 50.3% (n = 75) of the screened participants returned to collect their test results. Significant disparities in STI knowledge and healthcare access were observed between the two populations, with only 14.1% (n = 9) of migrants having access to primary healthcare. At multivariable analysis, the strongest predictor for not returning for test results was being positive for HCV. Among homeless people and agricultural migrant workers, STI prevalence was high, and only half of the population returned to collect test results. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy reevaluation to address healthcare disparities in marginalized communities.

Entrepreneurial marketing strategies, resources and social disadvantage: exploring the role of resources and minority status among US agrofood enterprises

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate associations between firm resources and reliance on entrepreneurial marketing (EM) channels among agrofood ventures. It accounts for agropreneur gender and racial/ethnic status in the context of marketing channel portfolio composition. The authors examine the established assumption that resource limitations drive EM and whether socially disadvantaged status of agropreneurs is associated with marketing strategy beyond standard resourcing measures.Design/methodology/approachUsing 2015 Local Foods Marketing Practices Survey data, the authors apply linear regression to investigate differences in the use of EM channels, accounting for resources, social status and other factors.FindingsLimited-resource ventures rely more on consumer-oriented channels that require EM practices. Socially disadvantaged entrepreneurs favor these channels, even when accounting for resources. Notably, ventures headed by men of color rely more on the most customer-centric local foods marketing channel.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should investigate how social and human capital influences the use of EM.Practical implicationsEntrepreneurial support policy and practice for agropreneurs should be cautious about the “double-burden” folk theorem of intersectional disadvantage and review how to best direct resources on EM to groups most likely to benefit.Originality/valueThis paper uses a unique, restricted, nation-wide, federal data set to examine relationships between resource endowments, social status and the composition of agrofood enterprises’ marketing channel portfolios. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first to include racial- and ethnic-minority status of agropreneurs and to account for intersectionality with gender.

Neonatal Blood Transfusion in Africa; Towards Optimizing Scarce Resource

Neonatal transfusion is a common practice in Africa, where many infants are born with low birth weight and require blood transfusions. The use of paediatric packs for neonatal blood transfusions has been recommended. However, the optimal use of these packs in Africa is not clearly understood by some healthcare practitioners. This review aims to provide insights into the optimal use of paediatric packs in neonatal transfusion in Africa.The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends restrictive transfusion practices for paediatric patients, including neonates, based on expert opinion. Transfusion triggers in neonates are controversial and mainly based on expert clinical opinion, although recent randomized controlled trials of ‘liberal’ versus ‘restrictive’ red cell transfusion policies in very low birth weight preterm babies are starting to influence clinical guidelines. Many neonatal red cell transfusions are given to replace losses from frequent blood sampling. This can be reduced by avoiding non-essential tests, using low-volume sample tubes, validated near patient testing, micro-techniques in the laboratory, and non-invasive monitoring where possible.The use of CMV-seronegative blood products for transfusion in low birth weight neonates is not deemed necessary. The primary rationale is that the risk of transfusion-transmitted infections should be reduced by stringent screening of donors, restrictive transfusion practice and certain interventions like irradiation of blood units before transfusion. A recent international survey of transfusion practices for extremely premature infants showed that factors considered “very important” regarding the need to administer blood transfusions included degree of oxygen requirement and need for respiratory support. Donor exposure can also be reduced by allocating single donor units, split into paedipacks, to babies predicted to need more than one transfusion episode within the expiry date of the donation. Implementing a program to improve compliance with neonatal intensive care unit transfusion guidelines was accompanied by a reduction in transfusion rate. The implementation of guidelines to improve compliance with neonatal intensive care unit transfusion guidelines can also reduce the transfusion rate.

Nation-wide survey of oral care practice in Japanese intensive care units: A descriptive study.

Oral care for critically ill patients helps provide comfort and prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. However, a standardized protocol for oral care in intensive care units is currently unavailable. Thus, this study aimed to determine the overall oral care practices, including those for intubated patients, in Japanese intensive care units. We also discuss the differences in oral care methods between Japanese ICUs and ICUs in other countries. This study included all Japanese intensive care units meeting the authorities' standard set criteria, with a minimum of 0.5 nurses per patient at all times and admission of adult patients requiring mechanical ventilation. An online survey was used to collect data. Survey responses were obtained from one representative nurse per intensive care unit. Frequency analysis was performed, and the percentage of each response was calculated. A total of 609 hospitals and 717 intensive care units nationwide participated; among these, responses were collected from 247 intensive care units (34.4%). Of these, 215 (87.0%) and 32 (13.0%) reported standardized and non-standardized oral care, respectively. Subsequently, the data from 215 intensive care units that provided standardized oral care were analyzed in detail. The most common frequency of practicing oral care was three times a day (68.8%). Moreover, many intensive care units provided care at unequal intervals (79.5%), mainly in the morning, daytime, and evening. Regarding oral care methods, 96 (44.7%) respondents used only a toothbrush, while 116 (54.0%) used both a toothbrush and a non-brushing method. The findings of our study reveal current oral care practices in ICUs in Japan. In particular, most ICUs provide oral care three times a day at unequal intervals, and almost all use toothbrushes as a common tool for oral care. The results suggest that some oral care practices in Japanese ICUs differ from those in ICUs in other countries.

On the Sample Size Determination based on the Randomized Response Surveys

In general, the well known Chebyshev’s inequality is used to determine the sample size in order to conduct a survey using direct responses. The same technique intending to cover for sensitive variables are attempted recently by many statisticians. However it has been observed that in many cases the acceptable sample sizes are hard to be obtained, mainly because of appearance of some easily non-controllable part. Chaudhuri and Sen (2020), Chaudhuri and Patra (2023) and others have illustrated different situations and solutions are proposed therein. In this paper, following Chaudhuri, Bose and Dihidar (2011), we have made an attempt to deterimine the sample size corresponding to the estimators of sensitive population proportion using multiple randomized responses from distinct persons sampled. Along with the theoretical derivations, some numerical illustrations are presented. Based on the important extractions of our numerical illustration results, the recommendable sample size in practical real survey situations are observed. International Journal of Statistical Sciences, Vol. 24(1) March, 2024, pp 115-132

Rh immune globulin immunoprophylaxis after RhD-positive red cell exposure in RhD-negative patients via transfusion: A survey of practices.

Current Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB) standards require transfusion services to have a policy on Rh immune globulin (RhIG) immunoprophylaxis for when RhD-negative patients are exposed to RhD-positive red cells. This is a survey of AABB-accredited transfusion services in the United States (US) regarding institutional policies and practices on RhIG immunoprophylaxis after RhD-negative patients receive RhD-positive (i.e., RhD-incompatible) packed red blood cell (pRBC) and platelet transfusions. Approximately half of the respondents (50.4%, 116/230) have policies on RhIG administration after RhD-incompatible pRBC and platelet transfusions, while others had policies for only pRBC (13.5%, 31/230) or only platelet (17.8%, 41/230) transfusions, but not both. In contrast, 18.3% (42/230) report that their institution has no written policies on RhIG immunoprophylaxis after RhD-incompatible transfusions. Most institutions (70.2%, 99/141) do not have policies addressing safety parameters to mitigate the risk of hemolysis associated with the high dose of RhIG required to prevent RhD alloimmunization after RhD-incompatible pRBC transfusions. With approximately half of US AABB-accredited institutions report having policies on RhIG immunoprophylaxis after both RhD-incompatible pRBC and platelet transfusions, some institutions may not be in compliance with AABB standards. Further, most with policies on RhIG immunoprophylaxis after RhD-incompatible pRBC transfusion do not have written safeguards to mitigate the risk of hemolysis associated with the high dose of RhIG required. This survey underscores the diverse and inadequate institutional policies on RhIG immunoprophylaxis after RhD exposure in Rh-negative patients via transfusion. This observation identifies an opportunity to improve transfusion safety.

Farmers’ Perception Survey and Evaluation of Management Practices for Mango Fruit Borer (Citripestis Eutraphera)

Mango fruit borer (MFB) is a significant pest that damages mango fruits and leaves. This study explores farmers’ perceptions of the mango fruit borer and evaluates management practices. Survey findings indicated that 48% of mango growers believed MFB attacks occur during April-May, while 30% identified May-June as the peak season. Additionally, 84% of mango growers believed MFB affects fruits, while only 2% think it also targeted leaves. Most mango growers (78%) preferred chemical methods to manage MFB, with 40% using bifenthrin, 28% using emamectin benzoate, and only 8% applying imidacloprid. Experiments evaluating MFB’s preference for different mango varieties revealed that nearly all commercial varieties had varying infestation levels. Sindhri was the most infested (29.9%), while Doseri was the least infested (12.6%). Light trap data suggested that the maximum moth population occurred during the last week of April. Evaluations of chemical pesticides showed that bifenthrin (250 ml / 100 L of water) was the most effective, while Thiamethoxam + Chlorantraniliprole (80 ml / 100 L of water) was the least effective for MFB. Emamectin benzoate, Chlorantraniliprole, and Lufenuron were better options than synthetic pyrethroids (Bifenthrin) because they were safer for natural enemies and pollinators. Integrated management strategies, such as installing one light trap per hectare and monitoring MFB on mango leaves and weeds in March/April for early detection, were recommended. Additionally, collecting fallen infested fruits and judicious use of insecticides can help mitigate losses caused by MFB.

Should we come to the defence of God? Dealing with an alleged case of blasphemy in predominantly Catholic Philippines

ABSTRACT On 10 July 2023, Amadeus Fernando Pagente, also known as Pura Luka Vega, posted a video of his drag performance on X, formerly known as Twitter. In the controversial clip, he is seen dancing with revellers to a remix of the ‘Our Father’, a prayer attributed to Christ himself, while wearing a gold and maroon outfit with metallic accessories evocative of the vestments of the Black Nazarene, a popular religious icon among Catholics in the Philippines. The post quickly became viral, drew public criticism, and eventually led to Pagente’s arrest on 4 October 2023. Through a survey and analysis of related doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church, from Scriptures to current times, and their application to the case in question, this paper re-examines the ethical issue of blasphemy and the question of defending God, proposing Christ’s patience as an alternative model of response towards the pursuit of peace in an increasingly plural and secular world.

Impact of the initial COVID-19 response in the UK on speech and language therapy services: a nationwide survey of practice

PurposeGlobally “non-urgent” health care services were ceased in response to the 2020 outbreak of COVID-19, until 2021, when restrictions were lifted. In the UK, this included speech and language therapy services. The implications of COVID-19 restrictions have not been explored. This study aimed to examine the impact of the UK’s COVID-19 response on speech and language therapy services.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey of the practice of speech and language therapists (SLTs) in the UK was undertaken. This explored SLTs’ perceptions of the demand for their services at a time when COVID-19 restrictions had been lifted, compared with before the onset of the pandemic. The analysis was completed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.FindingsRespondents were mostly employed by the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) or the private sector. Many participants reported that demands on their service had increased compared with before the onset of the pandemic. The need to address the backlog of cases arising from shutdowns was the main reason for this. Contributing factors included staffing issues and redeployment. Service users were consequently waiting longer for NHS therapy. Private therapy providers reported increased demand, which they directly attributed to these NHS challenges.Originality/valueThis presents the only focused account of the impact of the national response to COVID-19 on speech and language therapy services in the UK. It has been identified that services continue to face significant challenges, which indicate a two-tier system is emerging. Healthcare system leaders must work with service managers and clinicians to create solutions and prevent the system from being overwhelmed.

Digital resources and parental mediation parallelly mediate the impact of SES on early digital literacy among Chinese preschoolers

ABSTRACT Digital literacy development begins in early childhood and contributes to a widening digital divide. The present study examines the complex interplay between family socioeconomic status (SES), home digital resources (HDR), parental mediation (PM), and early digital literacy development in young children. A survey titled Home Digital Practice Survey (HDPS) was responded to by 1,876 Chinese parents of preschoolers (Mage = 4.28 years, SD = 0.98, 48.8% girls). Results, derived from both correlation analysis and structural equation modeling, established that (1) there was a significant correlation between family SES and early digital literacy in children (β = .102, p < .01), and (2) HDR (β = 0.285, p < .001) and PM (β = 0.290, p < .001) served as simultaneous mediators linking family SES and early digital literacy. The findings are discussed as relevant to minimizing the digital divide and enhancing children's digital literacy.

Down-sampling from hierarchically structured corpus data

Abstract Resource constraints often force researchers to downsize the list of tokens returned by a corpus query. This paper sketches a methodology for down-sampling and offers a survey of current practices. We build on earlier work and extend the evaluation of down-sampling designs to settings where tokens are clustered by text file and lexeme. Our case study deals with third-person present-tense verb inflection in Early Modern English and focuses on five predictors: year, gender, genre, frequency, and phonological context. We evaluate two strategies for selecting 2,000 (out of 11,645) tokens: simple down-sampling, where each hit has the same selection probability; and structured down-sampling, where this probability is inversely proportional to the author- and verb-specific token count. We form 500 subsamples using each scheme and compare regression results to a reference model fit to the full set of cases. We observe that structured down-sampling shows better performance on several evaluation criteria.

A registered report survey of open research practices in psychology departments in the UK and Ireland.

Open research practices seek to enhance the transparency and reproducibility of research. While there is evidence of increased uptake in these practices, such as study preregistration and open data, facilitated by new infrastructure and policies, little research has assessed general uptake of such practices across psychology university researchers. The current study estimates psychologists' level of engagement in open research practices across universities in the United Kingdom and Ireland, while also assessing possible explanatory factors that may impact their engagement. Data were collected from 602 psychology researchers in the United Kingdom and Ireland on the extent to which they have implemented various practices (e.g., use of preprints, preregistration, open data, open materials). Here we present the summarized descriptive results, as well as considering differences between various categories of researcher (e.g., career stage, subdiscipline, methodology), and examining the relationship between researcher's practices and their self-reported capability, opportunity, and motivation (COM-B) to engage in open research practices. Results show that while there is considerable variability in engagement of open research practices, differences across career stage and subdiscipline of psychology are small by comparison. We observed consistent differences according to respondent's research methodology and based on the presence of institutional support for open research. COM-B dimensions were collectively significant predictors of engagement in open research, with automatic motivation emerging as a consistently strong predictor. We discuss these findings, outline some of the challenges experienced in this study, and offer suggestions and recommendations for future research. Estimating the prevalence of responsible research practices is important to assess sustained behaviour change in research reform, tailor educational training initiatives, and to understand potential factors that might impact engagement.