Performance Assessment Tool Research Articles

Wingate anaerobic test as a potential predictor of 500-m time in short track speed skating

ABSTRACT Short-Track Speed Skating (STSS) is an Olympic discipline in which anaerobic performance plays a central role. An established assessment tool for anaerobic performance in STSS athletes is the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT). The aim of this study was to investigate whether WAnT could be used as a predictor of sport-specific performance in the STSS 500-m races. Data from 72 German national STSS athletes (33 female, 39 male) were analysed retrospectively. The statistical analyses included descriptive procedures as well as linear mixed-model analyses. The results showed significant correlations between WAnT outcomes and 500 -m performance of STSS athletes. In male athletes, the coefficients were −0.40 for relative Mean Power (rMP) and −0.32 for relative Peak Power (rPP) (p < 0.001). For female athletes, the rMP showed no significant correlation whereas rPP was significantly correlated with a coefficient of −0.41 (p < 0.001). Marginal R2 values ranged between 0% and 12%. Conditional R2 reached up to 76% depending on sex and WAnT parameter investigated. In conclusion while WAnT can be regarded as a potential predictor of time in 500-m STSS races, it should be used in conjunction with other performance metrics and individualized assessments to better predict performance.

Saturated pool film boiling of cryogenic fluids: Review of databases, assessment of existing models and correlations, and development of new universal correlation

The present study is motivated by the absence of a comprehensive pool film boiling database for cryogenic fluids. Amassing such a database is deemed essential for the thorough evaluation of existing models and correlations, simultaneously laying the groundwork for the development of new advanced predictive methodologies. To address this research gap, a Consolidated Cryogenic Pool Film Boiling Database was meticulously compiled, encompassing 1,209 data points for heat transfer coefficient (HTC) from flat surfaces across various orientations, from horizontal (θ = 0°) to vertical (θ = 90°). The exhaustive database enabled a comprehensive evaluation of prior models and correlations, revealing significant errors, particularly for elevated superheat conditions. In response, a finely tuned universal correlation for all cryogenic fluids is proposed, surpassing the predictive capabilities of its predecessors. The inclusion of a radiation term in the correlation contributes to its superior performance, especially in scenarios involving elevated temperatures, resulting in a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 12.94 % for the entire database, with 91.07 % of predictions falling within ±30 % of the data, and 98.92 % within ±50 %. Furthermore, outstanding performance is realized for specific orientations, with MAEs of 15.47 %, 7.92 %, 3.78 %, and 11.59 % for orientations θ = 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°, respectively. This achievement situates the new correlation as a robust tool for thermal design and performance assessment across a diverse spectrum of devices and systems, also marking a significant advancement in understanding of cryogenic pool film boiling heat transfer phenomena.

An analysis of the relationship between project management and safety management in the Norwegian construction industry

The significance of general project management performance for safety performance in construction projects is studied in a sample of Norwegian construction projects. The data used are from a benchmarking tool for performance assessment and incident data from construction projects across the industry. Statistical analysis through independent-sample Mann–Whitney U-tests is performed to test for and identify significant relationships between project management, safety management and safety performance. The analysis confirms that good overall management of a construction project positively impacts safety management. The results advocate for applying safety management as an integral aspect of all management activities in a project rather than as a disconnected sub-system. The work is novel by empirically demonstrating the impact of project management aspects on safety management in construction projects.

Web metrics and key performance indices of the Villagemath instructional content repository

This study presents the outcomes of common web metrics and key performance indices of VillageMath, an online culture-based Instructional Content Repository for STEM learners and teachers. The study adopts a developmental research design. The developed intervention is accessible at (https://villagemath.net). Data collection on common web metrics and key performance indices (KPIs) was handled using standard web performance assessment tools such as WP Statistics, Pingdom Tools, Google PageSpeed Insights, GTmetrix, and WebPage Test. The metric platforms were chosen based on their industry standing, ease of use, and the wide range of KPIs that they measure. The metrics provide a median run performance result accounting for Time to First Byte (when did the content start downloading?), Start Render (when did pixels start to appear?), Speed Index (how soon did the page look usable?), Cumulative Layout Shift (how much did the design shift while loading?), Page Weight (how many bytes downloaded?), speed (from 7 different locations on five continents strategically placed around the globe), total page size, and suggestions for improvement. The data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics such as tables, charts, and averages. The analysis of results obtained from the web performance assessment tools indicated that the web-based VillageMath Repository appeals to a wide range of highly engaged users. Key performance indicators such as speed index, page size, and last painted hero for the VillageMath Instructional Content Repository were above industry averages and affirmed that the platform is robust, elegantly designed, and fast.

Assessment tools for cognitive performance in Parkinson's disease and its genetic contributors.

We have shown that genetic factors associating with motor progression of Parkinson's disease (PD), but their roles in cognitive function is poorly understood. One reason is that while cognitive performance in PD can be evaluated by various cognitive scales, there is no definitive guide indicating which tool performs better. Data were obtained from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative, where cognitive performance was assessed using five cognitive screening tools, including Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Benton Judgment of Line Orientation, Modified Semantic Fluency Test, and Letter Number Sequencing Test, at baseline and subsequent annual follow-up visit for 5 years. Genetic data including ApoE and other PD risk genetic information were also obtained. We used SPSS-receiver operating characteristic and ANOVA repeated measures to evaluate which cognitive assessment is the best reflecting cognitive performance in PD at early stage and over time. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine the genetic associations with the rapidity of cognitive decline in PD. SDMT performed better in detecting mild cognitive impairment at baseline (AUC = 0.763), and SDMT was the only tool showing a steady cognitive decline during longitudinal observation. Multigenetic factors significantly associated with cognitive impairment at early stage of the disease (AUC = 0.950) with IP6K2 rs12497850 more evident, and a significantly faster decline (AUC = 0.831) within 5 years after motor onset, particularly in those carrying FGF20 rs591323. SDMT is a preferable cognitive assessment tool for PD and genetic factors synergistically contribute to the cognitive dysfunction in PD.

Saturated nucleate pool boiling of cryogenic fluids: Review of databases, assessment of existing models and correlations, and development of new universal correlation

The absence of a comprehensive and reliable nucleate pool boiling database for heat transfer coefficient (HTC) of cryogenic fluids is the driving force behind this study. Such a database is essential to evaluating the predictive accuracy of existing tools, including both models and correlations, and to pioneering the development of a new, more accurate predictive method. To address this need, a new Consolidated Cryogenic Nucleate Pool Boiling Database (comprised of 2908 data points) was compiled, with emphasis on HTC from flat horizontal and vertical surfaces, drawing from the broad literature resources available from across the globe. The database enabled a comprehensive assessment of prior models and correlations, and careful examination showed most of these tools yield unacceptably large errors in predicting the HTC data, especially for elevated pressures and large heat fluxes. Consequently, a new correlation is proposed for all cryogenic fluids combined, which is fine-tuned to outperform prior predictive tools, particularly for elevated pressures and large heat fluxes. The new correlation has a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 25.36 %, with 64.5 % of the predictions falling within ±30 % of the data and 87.2 % within ±50 %. This exceptional predictive capability positions the new correlation as a robust tool for both thermal design and performance assessment of a broad variety of devices and systems.

Seismic fragility assessment of an in-service piled bridge abutment subjected to a liquefaction-induced lateral spreading and mitigation strategy

This study assesses the seismic fragility curves of in-service piled bridge abutments on liquefaction-prone soils and evaluates an optimal countermeasure within the vulnerability framework. Seismic fragility curves, accounting for varying ground motion intensities, assess the seismic risk and describe abutment damage through settlement measurements. The ageing abutment performance is estimated by integrating a corrosion model into fragility curves. The impact of different sheet pile positions on the seismic performance of in-service piled bridge abutments is analysed, and the optimal pile position is discussed. The developed fragility curves provide a rapid and effective risk assessment tool for the seismic performance of in-service abutments and guide liquefaction remedial measures.

Assessing Team Performance: A Mixed-Methods Analysis Using Interprofessional in situ Simulation.

Optimizing the performance of emergency department (ED) teams impacts patient care, but the utility of current, team-based performance assessment tools to comprehensively measure this impact is underexplored. In this study we aimed to 1) evaluate ED team performance using current team-based assessment tools during an interprofessional in situ simulation and 2) identify characteristics of effective ED teams. This mixed-methods study employed case study methodology based on a constructivist paradigm. Sixty-three eligible nurses, technicians, pharmacists, and postgraduate year 2-4 emergency medicine residents at a tertiary academic ED participated in a 10-minute in situ simulation of a critically ill patient. Participants self-rated performance using the Team Performance Observation Tool (TPOT) 2.0 and completed a brief demographic form. Two raters independently reviewed simulation videos and rated performance using the TPOT 2.0, Team Emergency Assessment Measure (TEAM), and Ottawa Crisis Resource Management Global Rating Scale (Ottawa GRS). Following simulations, we conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups with in situ participants. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Eighteen team-based simulations took place between January-April 2021. Raters' scores were on the upper end of the tools for the TPOT 2.0 (R1 4.90, SD 0.17; R2 4.53, SD 0.27, IRR [inter-rater reliability] 0.47), TEAM (R1 3.89, SD 0.19; R2 3.58, SD 0.39, IRR 0.73), and Ottawa GRS (R1 6.6, SD 0.56; R2 6.2, SD 0.54, IRR 0.68). We identified six themes from our interview data: team member entrustment; interdependent energy; leadership tone; optimal communication; strategic staffing; and simulation empowering team performance. Current team performance assessment tools insufficiently discriminate among high performing teams in the ED. Emergency department-specific assessments that capture features of entrustability, interdependent energy, and leadership tone may offer a more comprehensive way to assess an individual's contribution to a team's performance.

Preface

This WSBE24 Conference Proceedings comprise the selected papers presented at the 2024 World Sustainable Built Environment Conference (WSBE24). The world conference, held on a triennial basis, is the premier event of the Sustainable Built Environment (SBE) Conference Series managed by the SBE Partners and Permanent Co-hosts – consisting of the International Initiative for a Sustainable Built Environment (iiSBE), the International Council of Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB), the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). WSBE24 was conducted online from 12-14 June 2024, under the overarching theme of “Innovation Pathways &amp; Partnerships for Sustainable Built and Urban Environments”. This conference not only facilitated a diverse array of talks and discussions but also ensured wide accessibility by publishing its proceedings as an open access document, with both the whole proceedings and the individual papers available online. The video recordings of the presentations are also available online in another platform. This Proceedings include the articles that underpin the conference’s scientific program. Each submission underwent a double-blind peer-review process. A globally represented Scientific Committee and the Editors carefully reviewed initial abstracts and full paper submissions, ensuring that only those meeting the necessary scientific standards were presented at the conference and included in these proceedings. The breadth of topics covered in these papers is vast, spanning current trends and innovations, challenges and solutions, and empirical findings across the fields of science, industry, policy, and governance. A major focus was placed on reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the construction, building and real estate sector, reflecting discussions in line with those at the Buildings and Climate Global Forum held in Paris in March 2024, organized by UNEP and the French Government, amongst others. This collection reflects the field’s most pressing challenges and emerging solutions. Papers examine greenhouse gas reduction strategies, the integration of climate action and resource conservation, and the transition toward a circular economy. Tools for environmental performance assessment – including the expanding role of lifecycle assessment (LCA) in design and management workflows, especially in a digital environment (e.g., BIM) – feature prominently. Questions and innovative research and solutions range from specific materials and building physics in individual buildings to broad urban development strategies, always guided by the principles of sustainable development. The continuing needs for enhanced educational and capability development – which is also an emerging subject within the Global Alliance for Building and Construction (GlobalABC) – and expanded scope of SBE issues and impacts on people and communities and economics, and vice versa, in future editions are highlighted. The first principles concept of sustainability continues to be a suitable umbrella for topics such as circularity, resilience and regenerative design. List of Reviewers is available in this Pdf.

Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Cases During Pandemic: Experiences of Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) Officers in Cebu City

This study aimed to explore the life experiences of the Women and Children Desk (WCPD) handling Violence against Women and their Children (VAWC) cases during the pandemic in Cebu City. Specifically, sought to address the following specific problems: the experiences of the informants in handling VAWC cases during the Covid-19 pandemic, addressing the problems encountered by the informants, and aspirations of the informants to improve the quality of service to the victims of VAWC. The phenomenological and qualitative approach in this study was utilized through interviews as the key process in the gathering of data. There were ten (10) selected police officers handling Violence against Women and their Children (VAWC) during the Covid-19 pandemic in Cebu City. Five (5) of them were individually interviewed, while the other five (5) were included in the Focused Group Discussion (FGD). They were selected randomly but met the qualifications and have broad experience in the subject matter. The research locations are the top five (5) police stations in Cebu City with a high number of VAWC cases is Cebu City namely: Police Station (PS) 4- Mabolo; PS5- Carbon; PS7- Pardo; PS9- Guadalupe and PS10- Punta. A validated interview guide was aided by the voice recorder for the basis of transcribing the responses of the informants. Utilization of Colaizzi's method, a phenomenological analysis procedure, was used to analyze the responses of the informants during the interview. For the experiences of the informants in handling VAWC cases in Cebu City during a pandemic, themes created were Satisfaction with Desired Result, Attained Productivity, and Embracing Limitations of Official Functions in addressing the problems encountered in handling (VAWC) cases during pandemic, the following themes created were: Intensified Implementation of Restrictions, Established Online Presence, and Maintaining Effective Collaboration and for the aspirations of the informants to improve the quality of service to the victims of VAWC, the following theme were created: New Normal Retooling and Equipment for Stabilization. The Philippine National Police (PNP)- Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) officers, as a specialized unit in enforcing laws related to the protection of women and children and regarded as the “quick-response-unit,” must maintain dynamic and standardized public service. It is suggested that the Performance Standards and Assessment Tool for police service addressing cases of violence against women be amended where the assessment tool should not be done as “Self-administered” to identify committed officers who are working diligently to end violence against women and children. The retooling of PNP-WCPD should not only cover policy-related attitudes, habits, and work ethics but should also investigate an array of services that can be extended during a crisis. The provision of additional facilities and personnel to attend VAWC cases will expedite the acquisition of relevant documents for filing legal actions and will be timely in the recent health crisis. This will enable the Department of Health to provide prompt intervention on the outbreak of mental health problems aggravated by the pandemic. PNP-WCPD and other linkages should develop process-based alternatives and act on the research of shared resources from the Covid-19 experiences because health protocols altered policing strategies and are not conducive to problem-oriented crime prevention and innovation.

Learning in the workplace: Development of a simple language statement assessment tool that supports second-level nurse practice

AimTo focus learning through clarity of the enrolled nurse (EN) role (a second tier nurse position) through development of a user-friendly workplace performance assessment tool commensurate with EN standards for practice. BackgroundInternationally, the nursing workforce comprises regulated and unregulated staff. In Australia, similar to other western countries, there are two tiers of regulated workforce, namely Registered Nurses (RNs) and Enrolled Nurses (ENs). Differences in RN and EN standards based on the education preparation are not always clearly differentiated in workplace practice. Roles are often seen as interchangeable: Improved clarity of both regulated and unregulated roles, when numbers of healthcare workers are burgeoning, assists performance assessment that guides further learning and safe practice. DesignTwo phase sequential, non-experimental design. MethodsPhase one used focus groups (n=48), expert reference panel (n=8) and end-users (n=16) to develop simple language statements. Phase two involved field testing of the statements. FindingsA 30-item, criterion-based workplace performance tool was developed. Principal component analysis of completed tools indicated work could be organised around three key areas of practice, namely, higher order thinking and problem solving, routine daily activities of care and personal and social attributes. DiscussionParticipants reported the statement items assisted in determining suitable activities and accompanying cues in discussing learning needs. Analysis assisted with discriminating broader elements of EN workplace performance. ConclusionsWorkplace learning is important for nurses to continue to build their capacity to deliver optimum care. Assessment tools that describe professional capability in plain language statements and provide examples of supportive behavioural cues help guide on-going learning through improving the validity and thereby consistency of assessment processes. Furthermore, comprehensible and meaningful statements and cues can readily be adopted by students and educators to target learning and feedback thereby enhancing clarity of the EN role, to distinguish from other nursing roles.

Reproducibility and Validity of the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic Shoulder and Elbow Score (Japanese Version).

The Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic (KJOC) questionnaire is a self-reported performance and functional assessment tool with good reliability and validity for overhead athletes with shoulder and elbow injuries. This study aimed to develop a Japanese version of the KJOC (J-KJOC) to clarify its reproducibility and validity for use by Japanese university baseball players. The J-KJOC was translated according to the guidelines for cross-cultural adaptation. A total of 88 university baseball players completed the J-KJOC and the Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Q-DASH) questionnaires. Thirty players completed the J-KJOC two times after a median interval of two weeks. We assessed the absolute reliability, construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranged from 0.88 and the intraclass correlation coefficient for the total score was 0.91. A fixed bias was absent in the J-KJOC scores (mean difference: -2.2, 95% CI: -4.8 to 0.5). Furthermore, the J-KJOC score was correlated with the Q-DASH-disability/symptom (r = -0.60, p<0.01) and Q-DASH-sports/music (r = -0.63, p<0.01) scores but not correlated with the Q-DASH-work score (r = -0.11, p = 0.316). The J-KJOC questionnaire demonstrated good reproducibility and validity for assessing upper arm performance in Japanese university baseball players. The results of this study support the use of the J-KJOC for Japanese-speaking baseball players. Further research using this instrument on other types of overhead athletes is needed to determine its wider utility in sports medicine applications.

“Internet Utilization among College Students in China: The Role of Ideological and Political Education in Fostering Academic Performance"

This study investigates internet addiction among third year college students in Yantai City, China, using a Sequential Explanatory Mixed Methods Design. The research locale includes four purposefully selected universities (A, B, C, and D) in Y district. A sample of 380 3rd year college students completed the researcher-made Internet Behavior and Academic Performance Assessment Tool (IBAPAT). Furthermore, 12 students participated in a semi-structured interview. Statistical analysis using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, ANOVA, and MANOVA were used to generate findings based on the collected quantitative data. Meanwhile, thematic analysis of interviews with ideological and political education students was conducted to generate themes and patterns within qualitative data. Objectives include assessing internet addiction prevalence, patterns of utilization, and correlations with academic performance. The study aims to contribute to theoretical research on network ideological and political education, guide social forces, and enhance college students' all-round development. Ethical considerations ensure participant consent, confidentiality, and data protection. The findings will inform interventions to mitigate internet addiction among college students.

Establishment of a prognostic model for gastric cancer patients who underwent radical gastrectomy using machine learning: a two-center study.

Gastric cancer is a prevalent gastrointestinal malignancy worldwide. In this study, a prognostic model was developed for gastric cancer patients who underwent radical gastrectomy using machine learning, employing advanced computational techniques to investigate postoperative mortality risk factors in such patients. Data of 295 patients with gastric cancer who underwent radical gastrectomy at the Department of General Surgery of Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University (Xuzhou, China) between March 2016 and November 2019 were retrospectively analyzed as the training group. Additionally, 109 patients who underwent radical gastrectomy at the Department of General Surgery Affiliated to Jining First People's Hospital (Jining, China) were included for external validation. Four machine learning models, including logistic regression (LR), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and gradient boosting machine (GBM), were utilized. Model performance was assessed by comparing the area under the curve (AUC) for each model. An LR-based nomogram model was constructed to assess patients' clinical prognosis. Lasso regression identified eight associated factors: age, sex, maximum tumor diameter, nerve or vascular invasion, TNM stage, gastrectomy type, lymphocyte count, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level. The performance of these models was evaluated using the AUC. In the training group, the AUC values were 0.795, 0.759, 0.873, and 0.853 for LR, DT, RF, and GBM, respectively. In the validation group, the AUC values were 0.734, 0.708, 0.746, and 0.707 for LR, DT, RF, and GBM, respectively. The nomogram model, constructed based on LR, demonstrated excellent clinical prognostic evaluation capabilities. Machine learning algorithms are robust performance assessment tools for evaluating the prognosis of gastric cancer patients who have undergone radical gastrectomy. The LR-based nomogram model can aid clinicians in making more reliable clinical decisions.

Ethnomus Performative Analytical Tool: A Conceptual Thought in Performance Analysis of School Music in Ghanaian Cultural Context

One of the areas of school music that have drawn attention to researchers is how music performances can be analysed by way of assessment to obtain objectivity in awarding specific grades to students involved in the performance. This paper highlights Ethnomus assessment tool, a culturally contextualised analytical tool for analysing and assessing school musical performances objectively. Additionally, it sheds light on prevalent notions of discussing music using Western musical discourse theories. Simultaneously, it establishes specific analytical frameworks that are adapted to the cultural context for the evaluation of music performances in Ghanaian educational institutions. The paper was approached topically and deductively in order to unravel situations of subjectivity and narrowness of the Westernised analysis and projects a thought that comprehensively situates itself within an African context for music performance assessment. The core of the Ethnomus assessment is in how the cultural elements have been used in the performance as well as the thoughts of audience about the performance. Three people are involved in the assessment procedure: the teacher, the student (performer) and the audience. The paper establishes the Ethnomus assessment tool for school music performance, aiming to contribute to the ongoing discourse in this field and promote objectivity within the specific context of Ghanaian culture. The recommendation is made for educators and musical analysts to adopt a holistic approach, drawing upon the Ethnomus assessment presented in the paper as a foundation for their assessments and analyses. This approach is envisioned to enhance the depth and objectivity of evaluation of musical performances in schools within the Ghanaian cultural milieu.

Cranial ultrasound performance assessment tool: development and validation.

A standard assessment tool for direct evaluation of procedural skills to ensure proficiency of trainees is necessary forcranial ultrasound (US) in clinical practice. This study created and validated an assessment tool for cranial US performanceby radiologists. An initial evaluation tool for cranial US using criteria was developed based on existing literature. The assessment form was modified using a three-round Delphi process by an expert panel, conducted betweenJanuary 2021 and April 2021. Rubric scales for grading were added once consensus regarding generated items was reached.Experts confirmed the final assessment tool using a rubric scale. Two raters evaluated cranial US performance of 27 residentsin video clips using the tool. Reliability and percent agreement were assessed. Seventeen pediatric radiologists working in different settings participated in the expert panel. The content validation of the proposed evaluation tool was enabledby expert pediatric radiologists. Following three rounds of the Delphi process, the initial 14-item assessment form became a final 15-item form. A three-part rubric scale was used in the final form (preparation, US machine operation, and cranial USperformance). Interrater reliability was evaluated with Cohen's Kappa. The Kappa value and percent interrater agreement for most items was moderate to almost perfect (0.42-0.93 and 77.8-100%, respectively). The Cronbach's alpha values for bothraters were 0.856 and 0.891. This study produced the first validated cranial US assessment tool using a modifiedDelphi method. The final assessment form is a simple and reliable tool.

Editor's Choice – Development and Testing of Step, Error, and Event Frameworks to Evaluate Technical Performance in Peripheral Endovascular Interventions

Tools for endovascular performance assessment are necessary in competency based education. This study aimed to develop and test a detailed analysis tool to assess steps, errors, and events in peripheral endovascular interventions (PVI). A modified Delphi consensus was used to identify steps, errors, and events in iliac-femoral-popliteal endovascular interventions. International experts in vascular surgery, interventional radiology, cardiology, and angiology were identified, based on their scientific track record. In an initial open ended survey round, experts volunteered a comprehensive list of steps, errors, and events. The items were then rated on a 5-point Likert scale until consensus was reached with a pre-defined threshold (Cronbach's alpha > 0.7) and > 70% expert agreement. An experienced endovascular surgeon applied the finalised frameworks on ten previously videorecorded elective PVI cases. The expert consensus panel was formed by 28 of 98 invited proceduralists, consisting of three angiologists, seven interventional radiologists, five cardiologists, and 13 vascular surgeons, with 29% from North America and 71% from Europe. The Delphi process was completed after three rounds (Cronbach's alpha; αsteps = 0.79; αerrors = 0.90; αevents = 0.90), with 15, 26, and 18 items included in the final step (73 - 100% agreement), error (73 - 100% agreement), and event (73 - 100% agreement) frameworks, respectively. The median rating time per case was 4.3 hours (IQR 3.2, 5 hours). A median of 55 steps (IQR 40, 67), 27 errors (IQR 21, 49), and two events (IQR 1, 6) were identified per case. An evaluation tool for the procedural steps, errors, and events in iliac-femoral-popliteal endovascular procedures was developed through a modified Delphi consensus and applied to recorded intra-operative data to identify hazardous steps, common errors, and events. Procedural mastery may be promoted by using the frameworks to provide endovascular proceduralists with detailed technical performance feedback.

Social investments: Performance assessment tools

Subject. This article analyzes the impact of social factors on the sustainable development of the region. Objectives. The article aims to analyze the relationship between social factors and economic indicators. Methods. For the study, we used the resource-based approach. Results. The article presents a regression economic and mathematical model based on the net present value as an efficiency criterion. The model helps determine the payback period of budget investments. Conclusions. The developed methodology can be used to design regional socio-economic development programmes, as well as to assess the feasibility of investment support for certain sectors of the economy.

Strategic Manufacturing Network Performance Assessment Tool

Abstract The long-term configuration of the production network includes the allocation of products and processes. Numerous, sometimes conflicting objectives are pursued, such as market access, economies of scale and risk mitigation. However, in order to systematically configure the network, it is necessary to strategically analyse the strengths and weaknesses of the sites. This article presents a fuzzy inference-based approach for the holistic evaluation of the production networks. The tool was applied in two practical case studies. The results and implications are also presented.

Competitive Season-Long Changes in Countermovement Vertical Jump Force-Time Metrics in Female Volleyball Players.

Cabarkapa, DV, Cabarkapa, D, Philipp, NM, and Fry, AC. Competitive season-long changes in countermovement vertical jump force-time metrics in female volleyball players. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e72-e77, 2024-Although force plates remain one of the most widely used tools for neuromuscular performance assessment in applied sports-specific settings, there is still a lack of scientific literature focused on studying changes in countermovement vertical jump (CVJ) performance in team sports such as volleyball, especially within the female athlete population. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine season-long neuromuscular performance changes in volleyball players. Eighteen National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Division-I collegiate female athletes performed 3 maximal-effort CVJs while standing on a uniaxial force plate system sampling at 1,000 Hz at 5 different testing timepoints throughout a competitive season span (∼11 weeks). The testing sessions were separated 2-3 weeks apart and performed at the approximately same time of the day (12:00 hours). Repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed that both concentric and eccentric force-time metrics remain relatively unchanged throughout a regular season span (e.g., concentric peak force and power, eccentric impulse and duration). However, the eccentric metrics such as peak and mean power and peak velocity displayed a slight improvement after a brief tapering period purposely implemented before the post-season competition to optimize the athlete's recovery (∼15, 18, and 14% increase, respectively). In addition, the outcome metrics such as vertical jump height and reactive strength index-modified did not display notable fluctuations across the competitive season span. These findings can help coaches, sports scientists, and strength and conditioning practitioners to obtain a deeper insight into collegiate female athletes' force-time characteristics that may aid with developing adequate training regimens targeted toward optimizing on-court performance.