Technical Skills Research Articles

A Systematic Review of Simulation in Burn Care: Education, Assessment, and Management.

Assessment and management of burns require nuanced, timely interventions in high-stake settings, creating challenges for trainees. Simulation-based education has become increasingly popular in surgical and nonsurgical subspecialties to supplement training without compromising patient safety. This study aimed to systematically review the literature on existing burn management-related simulations. A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Articles describing burn-specific surgical and nonsurgical simulation models were included. The model type, study description, simulated skills, assessment methods, fidelity, cost, and outcomes were collected. Of 3,472 articles, 31 met inclusion criteria. The majority of simulations were high-fidelity (n=17, 54.8%). Most were immersive (n=17, 54.8%) and used synthetic benchtop models (n=13, 41.9%), whereas none were augmented/virtual reality. Simulations of acute and early surgical intervention techniques (n=16, 51.6%) and burn wound assessments (n=15, 48.4%) were the most common, whereas burn reconstruction was the least common (n=3, 9.7%). Technical skills were taught more often (n=29, 93.5%) than non-technical skills (n=15, 48.4%). Subjective assessments (n=18, 58.1%) were used more often than objective assessments (n=23, 74.2%). Of the studies that reported costs, 91.7% (n=11) reported low costs. This review identified the need to expand burn simulator options, especially for burn reconstruction, and highlighted the paucity of animal, cadavers, and augmented/virtual reality models. Developing validated, accessible burn simulations to supplement training may improve education, patient safety, and outcomes.

Training for a Mass Casualty Incident: Conception, Development and Implementation of a Crew-Resource Management Course for Forward Surgical Teams.

The purpose of this article is to describe the development of a crew resource management (CRM) training course dedicated for the forward surgical teams (FSTs) of the French Military Health Service. Since 2021, the predeployment training of French FSTs has included a simulation-based curriculum consisting of organizational and human factors. It combines lectures, laboratory exercises, and situational training exercises to consider four fundamental "nontechnical" (cognitive and social) skills for effective and safe combat casualty care: (a) leadership, (b) decision-making, (c) coordination, and (d) situational awareness. The approach was based on three steps: (1) establishment of a conceptual framework of FSTs deployment; (2) development and implementation of an aircrew-like CRM training dedicated to combat casualty care; and (3) assessment of FSTs' CRM skills using an audio/video recording of a simulated mass-casualty incident. To ensure complete and high-quality predeployment training, French FSTs undergo a high-quality training that takes into account both technical and non-technical skills to maintain quality of combat care during mass-casualty incidents.

Ward-based in situ simulation: lessons learnt from a UK District General Hospital

IntroductionIn situ simulation (ISS) enables multiprofessional healthcare teams to train for real emergencies in their own working environment and identify latent patient safety threats. This study aimed to determine ISS...

Testing the validity of feminization U-shape hypothesis for female labor force participation and economic development in Pakistan: a reexamination

Purpose The participation of females in economic activity remains a challenge, and received a lot of attention for a better labor policy discourse. The empirical research focused widely on the relationship between female labor force participation (FLFP) and economic development, called the feminization U-shape hypothesis. However, the linear/nonlinear relationship has been questioned due to empirical and methodological anomalies. Hence, this study aims to extend the previous work by reexamining this relationship in Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach The annual data from 1980 to 2021, the unit root tests augmented Dickey–Fuller and Phillips and Perron, the conventional autoregressive distributed lag bound test approach by including the quadratic-term of GDP per capita and the novel Sasabuchi–Lind–Mehlum (SLM) U test (2010) used for empirical estimation. Findings The findings revealed the prospects of a long-run nonlinear association between FLFP and economic development in Pakistan. However, an inverse U-shape exists between the female labor force participation rate (FLFPR) and GDP per capita, predicting that FLFP may decline in the future. Research limitations/implications The traditional feminization U-shape hypothesis has little empirical support in the case of Pakistan. Therefore, the Government of Pakistan should enhance the enabling environment for females through the provision of better job opportunities, technical skills, on-the-job training and social security benefits during all phases of economic development. Originality/value The conventional approach of testing U-shape is insufficient. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, therefore, this study incorporated a wider data set in a time series that is less evident, an advanced methodology SLM U test (2010), to validate the feminization U-shape hypothesis in Pakistan for the first time.

Quality of accounting graduates and employers’ expectationsin Ghana

Purpose This paper aims to examine the skills expected by employers and the skills demonstrated by accounting graduates with data from 160 employers of accounting graduates in Ghana. From the perspective of employers, the authors compare the expected skills to the skills demonstrated by accounting graduates and identify any significant gaps. Design/methodology/approach One-way analysis of variance, T-tests and factor analysis are used to test significant gaps that exist between expected and demonstrated skills by employers and accounting graduates using survey questionnaires and purposive sampling. Findings The results reveal that there are significant gaps between the expected skills of employers and the demonstrated skills of accounting graduates. The authors find generic skills to be more expected by employers, while technical skills are demonstrated most by accounting graduates. The top five skills expected by employers are: business ethics and integrity; problem solving and decision analysis; written communication skills; learning skills; and application of accounting principles. Research limitations/implications The study focuses only on organizations that use fresh accounting graduates in Ghana. Further studies may consider other business-related fields like finance, human resource management and marketing. Practical implications The study provides insights on standards that serve as benchmarks for the conduct of accounting graduates as well as the development of accounting curriculum in Ghana. Accounting education should incorporate work-integrated learning as part of their curriculum to enable accounting graduates to solve problems and make decisions through a practical application of accounting principles, standards and concepts, especially in conducting audit and writing reports. Originality/value This study fills the gap in the literature on accounting education from employers’ perspectives in a developing country. It conducts a comparative analysis between the most important skills required by employers and the ones demonstrated by accounting graduates to provide insights on standards that should serve as benchmarks for the development of the accounting curriculum from an emerging economy perspective.

Factors Influencing Management of Human Excrement through Biogas Technology in Mukuru Kwa Njenga Slums, Nairobi City County Kenya

One of the factors influencing the achievement of sustainable sanitation is the proper disposal of human excrement. The problem is most prevalent in informal settlements, where sewerage systems are rare. One of the approaches considered sustainable is the conversion of human excrement into renewable energy via biogas technology. The purpose of the study, which was guided by Roger's theory of innovation diffusion, was to investigate the key factors that influence human excrement management through biogas technology. Mukuru Kwa Njenga slums were chosen as a study area. A sample of 100 people was selected using systematic random sampling. Data were analysed using a social science statistics package. Multiple linear regression was used to determine demographic factors that influence technology adoption. The Chi-square test was used to examine the relationship between various variables. Tables and charts were used to present the data. The study revealed that gender (p=.001) and education level (p=.000) significantly influence the use of biogas technology in the management of human excrement. Technology failure ((χ2= 10.301, p=.036) and lack of technical skills ((χ2= 7.518, p=.128) have no significant effect on the technology adoption rate. Cultural beliefs (χ2= 23.665, P=.000) have a significant effect on the use of biogas produced from human excrement. The ability of technology to prevent overflowing of faecal matter during heavy rainfall (χ2= 23.937, P=.000) and the prevention of odour from sanitation facilities (χ2=17.983, p= .001) has encouraged many residents to use the technology. The study concludes that technical and socio-economic factors, as well as its relative advantage over other excrement disposal methods, influence its adoption rate

Enhancing technical proficiency through small-sided basketball games: A strategic approach for students athletes

Background Problems: Due to the intricate nature of the game and the requirement for proficiency in core skills like dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive positioning, basketball players frequently have difficulties developing their technical abilities. Traditional training approaches may not focus enough on these skills, leaving room for growth. Research Objective: This study investigates how well basketball players' technical skills may be improved through game-based instruction, particularly small-sided basketball games. The study aims to address the need for a more focused approach to technical elements by highlighting the value of focused practice in pertinent game scenarios. Methods: The type of research used was quantitative research with a sample of 12 amateur athletes. The instrument used is the game performance evaluation tool (GPET). Quantitative data from pre- and post-assessments were examined using the appropriate statistical techniques, such as paired t-tests or analysis of variance (ANOVA). For the study, basketball players with various skill levels were listed. Small groups of participants received specialised training to develop their technical abilities. Findings and Results: Participants' technical proficiency significantly improved after strategically focused practice using small-sided basketball games. The outcomes show that this game-based method works well for improving basic abilities, including passing, dribbling, shooting, and positioning defensively. The results highlight how effective it is to use small-sided games to help basketball players enhance their skills. Conclusion: The study concludes that small-sided basketball games are an effective strategy for improving basketball players' technical proficiency. Notwithstanding several constraints, such as a comparatively limited sample size and consistency in participant skill levels, the findings indicate that focused practice in pertinent gaming environments produces notable enhancements. To better understand the potential of this strategy for players of different skill levels, future studies should include additional variables like training amounts and differences in small-sided game structures.

Human Resource: Futuristic Role of HR Professional Enhancing Technical Skills

As technology continues to revolutionize the workplace, the role of HR professionals is undergoing a profound transformation. In the future, HR professionals will play a pivotal role in leveraging advanced technologies to drive strategic HR initiatives and enhance organizational performance. This abstract explores the key aspects of this evolving role, focusing particularly on the imperative for HR professionals to enhance their technical skills. One critical area where HR professionals will need to excel is in data analysis and analytics. By harnessing the power of data-driven insights, HR professionals can make informed decisions, predict future workforce needs, and optimize workforce management strategies. Additionally, as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation become increasingly prevalent, HR professionals must understand how to effectively implement and manage these technologies to streamline HR processes and enhance efficiency. Furthermore, in the realm of recruitment and talent acquisition, HR professionals must adapt their strategies to the digital age. This involves leveraging digital platforms, social media, and applicant tracking systems to attract, engage, and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive landscape. Moreover, the rise of remote work necessitates proficiency in collaboration tools and virtual communication platforms. HR professionals must ensure that remote teams remain connected, engaged, and productive by leveraging tools such as Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. In addition to these technical skills, HR professionals must prioritize cybersecurity and data privacy to protect sensitive employee information in an increasingly digitized HR environment. By implementing robust security measures and complying with data protection regulations, HR professionals can safeguard employee data and maintain trust within the organization. Finally, proficiency in HR information systems (HRIS) and other HR technology platforms is essential for streamlining HR processes, managing employee data effectively, and driving operational excellence. Keywords- HR professionals, technical skills, Data analysis, Artificial intelligence, Recruitment, Talent acquisition, Digital platforms, Remote work, Collaboration tools, Cybersecurity, Data privacy, HRIS, HR technology.

Microfluidics-based EGFR mutation detection and its implication in the resource-limited clinical setting.

Management of lung cancer today obligates a mutational analysis of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene particularly when Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) therapy is being considered as part of prognostic stratification. This study evaluates the performance of automated microfluidics-based EGFR mutation detection and its significance in clinical diagnostic settings. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples from NSCLC patients (n = 174) were included in a two-phase study. Phase I: Validation of the platform by comparing the results with conventional real-time PCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform. Phase II: EGFR mutation detection on microfluidics-based platform as part of routine diagnostics workup. The microfluidics-based platform demonstrates 96.5% and 89.2% concordance with conventional real-time PCR and NGS, respectively. The system efficiently detects mutations across the EGFR gene with 88.23% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Out of 144 samples analysed in phase II, the platform generated valid results in 94% with mutation detected in 41% of samples. This microfluidics-based platform can detect as low as 5% mutant allele fractions from the FFPE samples. Therefore the microfluidics-based platform is a rapid, complete walkaway, with minimum tissue requirement (two sections of 5 μ thickness) and technical skill requirement. The method can detect clinically actionable EGFR mutations efficiently and can be considered a reliable diagnostic platform in resource-limited settings. From receiving samples to reporting the results this platform provides accurate data without much manual intervention. The study helped to devise an algorithm that emphasizes effective screening of the NSCLC cases for EGFR mutations with varying tumour content. Thus it helps in triaging the cases judiciously before proceeding with multigene testing.

Can open cholecystectomy be taught by cadaveric simulation?

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the current standard of treatment for surgical gallbladder removal as it has an overall improved post-operative recovery compared to Open Cholecystectomy (OC). This has resulted in the loss of exposure to surgical trainees and the associated technical skills and decision-making required to convert to OC. The aim of this study is to provide construct validity to the proposition that cadaveric simulation can be used successfully to teach and learn open cholecystectomy. Participants (n = 25) were surveyed on a 9-point questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale to determine their opinion on cadaveric simulation as a tool for teaching OC. Overall respondents deemed the tool as highly translatable. There was no significant correlation in the responses between candidates versus tutors (P = 0.05, r = 0.51). The outcome of the survey revealed that participants agreed that cadaveric simulation is a positive learning tool to aid in OC.

Blended Learning in EFL Classrooms at a Vietnamese University from Students’ Perspectives

The utilization of blended learning in the field of English language instruction has shown a notable rise in recent times. Blended learning has the ability to provide an optimal setting for language education, enabling a transition from conventional instructional approaches to more progressive ways through the integration of technology. Nevertheless, several unresolved issues remain in relation to this methodology. This paper examines the perceptions of students regarding the potential benefits and obstacles associated with the implementation of blended learning in English language courses at a university in Vietnam. Additionally, the study proposes many solutions with the objective of enhancing the current situation and establishing a solid foundation for the future growth of blended learning. The study involved a sample of 165 first-year students, with online surveys and interviews being utilized as the primary methods of data collection The results of the study indicate that contemporary students can be classified as digital natives. While they demonstrate proficiency in various technical skills, have easy access to technology, and exhibit a propensity for self-directed learning, their inclination towards traditional classroom environments is evident when it comes to their attitudes regarding online engagement with instructors and peers in English courses.

Transformative Landscape of Anesthesia Education: Simulation, AI Integration, and Learner-Centric Reforms: A Narrative Review

Transformative Landscape of Anesthesia Education: Simulation, AI Integration, and Learner-Centric Reforms: A Narrative Review

Determinants of urban households in the diversification of livelihood activities: The case of Wolaita zone in southern Ethiopia

Diversification of Livelihood Activities (DLA) is indeed crucial for populous countries like Ethiopia, where it serves as a strategy to mitigate food insecurity. Despite its significance, empirical studies focusing on DLA among urban households in Ethiopia are relatively scarce. Therefore, this study examines factors affecting urban households' participation in the DLA in selected towns of the Wolaita zone. The study used both primary and secondary data. A total of 310 sample respondents from three town administrations in the Wolaita zone: Areka, Boditi, and Sodo, were selected using a multi-phase sampling technique. The study used a survey questionnaire, Key Informant Interviews, Focus Group Discussions, and observations as methods for primary data collection. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed that among the sampled respondents, 23.9 %, 28.4 %, and 33.2 % depend on on-farm, on-farm + non-farm, non-farm + off-farm activities, respectively, while the remaining 14.5 % diversify their livelihood activities through combinations of on-farm + non-farm + off-farm Livelihood Diversification Activities (LDA). The Multinomial Logot (MNL) model result shows that the participation of LDA in the study areas was positively and negatively determined by cooperative membership, development agent training, gender, education, home ownership, rural connections, household income, and technical skills that were found to be statistically significant at 1 %, 5 %, and 10 %. Therefore, the government should prioritize empowering the diversification of livelihood activities and develop policies and programs that support urban households’ livelihoods, with a specific focus on promoting off-farm and non-farm endeavors.

‘I'm a resourceful person and I ask questions everywhere I go:’ adult job seekers’ adaptive literacy practices in the platformized workforce development system

ABSTRACT This article focuses on the experiences of adult job seekers in a community technology center, primarily exploring three cases. In adult education, the term digital literacy has been used to refer to technical skills, reflecting a hierarchical framing of learning that positions technologies as neutral tools. Drawing from a sociomaterial perspective, I explore the broader range of adaptive literacy practices emerging for adult job seekers as they moved across entangled platforms and workforce agencies during a six-month ethnographic case study. Findings explore three aspects of the adults’ practices across the platforms: maneuvering resumes across platforms as boundary objects; collaboratively navigating platforms’ rules; and drawing from formal and informal knowledge.

Determinant Intention to Become Nazir: An Empirical Study to Improve the Waqf Ecosystem in Indonesia

It is crucial to recognize the need for human resources to sustain Indonesia's waqf ecosystem as it develops in that country. This study aims to identify the factors that affect a person's decision to become a nazir. The theoretical underpinning for this study is the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). This study had 220 respondents from Cirebon, Indonesia. With the use of SmartPLS 3.0, structural equation modeling was used to examine the data for this investigation. The analysis results show that Attitude – Job Market Consideration significantly positively affects a person's intention to become Nazir. Subjective Norm also has a significant positive effect on intention. In addition, Perceived Behavioral Control – Technical Skills Self-Efficacy has a significant positive effect on a person's intention to become a Nazir.

Operating room black box: GIMMICK or a patient safety tool?

The Operating Room Black Box (ORBB) is a relatively recent technology that provides a comprehensive solution for assessing technical and non-technical skills of the operating team. Originating from aviation, the ORBB enables real-time observation and continuous recording of intraoperative events allowing for an in-depth analysis of efficiency, safety, and adverse events. Its dual role as a teaching tool enhances transparency and patient safety in surgical training. In comparison to traditional methods, like checklists that have limitations, the ORBB offers a holistic understanding of clinical and non-clinical performances that are responsible for intraoperative patient outcomes. It facilitates systematic observation without additional personnel, allowing for review of numerous surgical cases. This review highlights the potential benefits of the ORBB in enhancing patient safety, its role as a surgical training tool, and addresses barriers especially in resource-constrained settings. It signifies a transformative step towards global surgical practices, emphasizing transparency and improved surgical outcomes.

Family and consumer science students' technical skill attainment and postsecondary success

AbstractThis study's purpose was to determine if passing the technical skill attainment test predicted Missouri Family and Consumer Sciences students' postsecondary placement. Using quantitative data obtained from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education from 2015 to 2019, data from 8622 students enrolled in at least one Family and Consumer Sciences class were analyzed. Results indicate Family and Consumer Sciences completers who pass their technical skill attainment have a statistically significant relationship with postsecondary placement in either a related career field, higher education with a related major, or the military. Findings also reveal some inequities among race and ability status.

How to improve firm performance using big data analytics capability and business strategy alignment

The current fascination with big data has some organizations make big data analytics activities to improve firm performance. Thus, regarding big data analytics capability, it might work for some companies but not for others. It seems that almost no one has made a significant difference through big data. To address this challenge, this study suggests a big data analytics capability model based on the resource-based theory and the entanglement view of socio-materialism. The results show the big data analytics capability hierarchy, which has three basic components (i.e., management, technology, and employee capability) and eleven subcomponents (i.e., planning, investment, coordinating, controlling, connectivity, compatibility, modularity, technology management skills, technical skills, business skills, and relational skills). Through Delphi studies together with online surveys of business analysts at the organization, the entanglement perspective of the high-order big data analytics capability model and its impact on firm performance was affirmed. This article investigates how organizations capitalize on big data analytics to create a sustainable competitive edge and progress business efficiency through big data analytics. On the other hand, the study delineates different resources and sub-capabilities which it takes to develop the big data analytics capability.

The importance of non-technical skills in robot-assisted surgery in gynaecology.

Robot-assisted surgery (RAS) in gynaecology has undergone exponential growth in recent decades, with utility in treating both benign and malignant gynaecological conditions. The technological complexities and amended theatre dynamics that RAS demands mean that effective non-technical skills (NTS) are vitally important to overcome these unique challenges. However, NTS have been neglected in RAS-training programmes with focus placed instead on the exclusive acquisition of technical skills (TS). NTS include teamwork, communication, leadership, situational awareness, decision-making and stress management. Communication is the most frequently cited NTS impacted during RAS, as the physical limitations imposed by the robotic hardware make communication exchange difficult. The full immersion that RAS enables can contribute to situational awareness deficits. However, RAS can complement communication and teamwork when multidisciplinary (MDT) surgeries (such as complex endometriosis excisions) are undertaken; dual-console capabilities facilitate the involvement of specialties such as general surgery and urology. The development of NTS in RAS cannot be achieved with in-situ experience alone, and current training is poorly standardised. RAS-training programmes and curricula for gynaecology do exist, however the integration of NTS remain limited. Simulation is a viable tool to facilitate enhanced-NTS integration, yet cost implications form a barrier to its wider implementation. However, given that RAS will continue to occupy a greater proportion of the gynaecological caseload, integration of NTS within gynaecological RAS training curricula is necessary. Patients undergoing gynaecological RAS would benefit from the improved safety standards and enhanced surgical outcomes that would result.

Mapping the landscape of small-sided games in team sports: A bibliometric analysis and literature review

Background Problems: Small-sided games (SSGs) have become a significant focus of research in the context of team sports, and a thorough review and analysis of the existing research landscape is needed to identify trends, gaps, and emerging themes. Research Objectives: This study aims to map the research landscape on small-sided games (SSGs) in the context of team sports through a bibliometric approach and a literature review. Methods: Literature was drawn from established research sources in the Scopus and Web of Science databases from 2014 to 2023. The final data used for this study consisted of 1012 articles, which were then analysed using a bibliometric approach, and the literature review was limited to 237 articles after grouping ten types of team sports using the ScientoPy tool. Findings and Results: The results showed a consistent increase in interest in SSGs, with journals such as “Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research” and “Biology of Sport” playing an important role in expanding understanding of the topic. The analysis also revealed that authors such as Clemente F.M. and Praca G.M. had a significant impact on developing knowledge about SSGs. Although football dominated the related literature, the results also highlighted other sports such as basketball, futsal, and handball. However, there is still a lack of SSG research for sports such as cricket and dodgeball. The benefits of SSGs in team sports include improved technical skills, physical fitness, tactical understanding, and physical performance. Conclusion: This study provides insight into the important role of SSGs in athlete development and team sports training and highlights the need for further research to optimise the full potential of this training method.