Training Program Research Articles

Maximizing STEM resources for diplomats: A framework for speed, depth, and accuracy

AbstractIn the evolving landscape of science diplomacy, frontline diplomats increasingly rely on effective access to STEM knowledge to advance national interests and address global challenges. This paper presents a framework organizations can use for evaluating the approaches and tools available to their frontline diplomats, focusing on three key metrics: response time (speed), content depth and applicability, and consistency in accuracy. By evaluating tools via these metrics, the framework highlights the need for mechanisms that offer quick access to in‐depth and reliable STEM information, thus optimizing diplomatic effectiveness. The study provides examples from the US foreign affairs perspective within categories such as web searches, training programs, and consulting services, identifying opportunities for innovation and improvement. Identifying tools that maximize speed, depth, and accuracy, this framework aims to guide organizations in refining their resources, thereby equipping diplomats with the tools necessary to navigate complex, science‐driven global issues.

Reducing ACL injury risk: A meta-analysis of prevention programme effectiveness.

The aim of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of the literature regarding anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury prevention programmes (IPPs) in order to assess the effectiveness of ACL prevention programmes based on current high-quality studies. The hypothesis was that the implementation of ACL IPPs significantly reduces the incidence of ACL ruptures compared to standard practice. A meta-analysis of the literature was conducted using the databases PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINHAL and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The search terms utilized were ACL, injury, knee, control and prevention. The collected data and reported clinical outcomes were independently gathered by three different individuals. After evaluating the heterogeneity of the studies, the DerSimonian-Laird random effects models were employed to determine the pooled risk ratios (RRs) and the risk differences (RDs) regarding ACL Injuries. The RD was utilized to ascertain the number needed to treat. The search strategy identified 743 studies, of which 11 met all inclusion and quality criteria for pooled analysis. The total number of study participants was 16,316. The overall RR of sustaining an ACL injury in the intervention group was 0.36 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23 to 0.57) of the control group, showing a significant reduction in the ACL injury risk of the intervention group (p < 0.001). We identified an RD of -1.4% (95% CI: -2.4% to -0.4%) in favour of the intervention group. The number needed to treat in preventing one ACL rupture was 71. In conclusion, the study clearly demonstrates a significant positive preventive effect of training programmes concerning ACL injuries (p < 0.001). The pooled estimates indicate that such programmes result in a significant reduction of ACL injury risks (p < 0.001). Despite the moderate quality of the included literature, the results exhibit robustness. However, based on the literature examined, no definitive superior training programme could be identified. II.

ChatGPT-Supported Education in Primary Schools: The Potential of ChatGPT for Sustainable Practices

This study aims to evaluate the potential of using ChatGPT at the primary school level from the teachers’ perspective within a sustainability framework. The research was conducted as a qualitative case study involving 40 primary school teachers in Turkey during the 2023–2024 academic year, all of whom had no prior experience with ChatGPT. Data collection tools included semi-structured interview forms and researcher diaries developed by the researchers. The data obtained were analysed using content analysis. The findings indicate that most primary school teachers believe ChatGPT is suitable for primary education and can contribute to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4. Additionally, teachers noted that ChatGPT enriches the teaching process and is user-friendly. These findings suggest potential contributions to SDG 4.1 and SDG 4.2. However, concerns were raised regarding ChatGPT’s potential to provide false information, which may negatively impact SDG 4.7. The study also identified that ChatGPT is particularly suitable for mathematics, Turkish, and English courses. This study’s main contribution is that it shows how ChatGPT can help sustainable practices in primary education by getting teachers more involved and meeting specific curriculum needs. This gives us useful information for incorporating AI tools into education that is in line with SDG 4. It is recommended that training programs about ChatGPT and similar AI-supported tools be organised for teachers and parents.

The Role of Self-efficacy and Locus of Control on Work Readiness Among Gen Z

As a generation who start entering the work force. Gen Z faces unique challenges and opportunities as they transition from education to employment. One issues that come up from this transition was readiness to work. The study explored how self-efficacy and locus of control influence work readiness in Generation Z. The research method use was quantitative research with multiple regression statistic to analyse the data. Respondents of the research were 70 students higher education in the last year ((M= 17; F= 53) and mean of age = 20.9 (20 years 10 months). The data were collect with questionnaire of general self-efficacy, locus of control and work readiness. The result show that self-efficacy significantly influence to work readiness, and locus of control did not influence to work readiness among generation Z. Based on this finding it can see that to improve the students’ readiness to work, the intervention of self-efficacy was more useful than locus of control. This model suggests that training programs or interventions aimed at enhancing self-efficacy may be more effective in increasing work readiness than those that concentrate solely on the internal locus of control, especially among generation Z with all the uniqueness.

Enhancing healthcare professionals' biopsychosocial perspective to chronic pain: assessing the impact of implementing an interdisciplinary training program.

Advancements in clinical science have shown the necessity for a paradigm shift away from a biomedical toward a biopsychosocial approach. Yet, the translation from clinical science into clinical practice is challenging. The aim of this study was to assess the short-term and mid-term changes in pain knowledge and attitudes and guideline-adherent recommendations of healthcare professionals (HCP) by means of an interdisciplinary training program (ITP) about chronic pain. Belgian HCPs, with a priority for medical doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses, psychologists, and pharmacists in primary care, participated in the ITP, which contained 2 e-learning modules and two 7-hour workshops provided in small interdisciplinary groups in 5 cities. The objective of ITP was to improve HCP's competencies for integrating biopsychosocial chronic pain management with a cognitive behavioral approach into clinical practice. Primary outcomes were changes in knowledge and attitudes about pain and guideline-adherent recommendations for continuation of physical activity, sports, and work; avoiding bed rest; and not supporting opioid usage measured through 2 clinical vignettes. They were measured before, immediately after, and 6 months after the ITP. Changes were analyzed using (generalized) linear mixed models. A total of 405 HCPs participated. The knowledge and attitudes about pain scores improved at post-training (Δ = 9.04, 95% confidence interval 7.72-10.36) and at 6-month follow-up (Δ = 7.16, 95% confidence interval 5.73-8.59). After the training program, HCPs provided significantly more recommendations in accordance with clinical guidelines. Thus, an ITP can improve the biopsychosocial perspective of chronic pain management among HCPs in the short-term and mid-term.

Abstract 4144566: Building CPR/AED Confidence through Community Volunteer Prevention Screening Sessions: The Impact of the Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation

Introduction: Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) remains a leading cause of death among young individuals, often occurring without prior symptoms. Public confidence in recognizing SCA warning signs, understanding risk factors, and using cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) is generally low. The Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation addresses this gap by offering free cardiac screenings and educational sessions. This abstract evaluates the foundation's impact on participants' confidence in these critical areas. Goals: The primary objectives were to enhance participants' confidence in identifying SCA warning signs and risk factors, performing CPR, using AEDs during cardiac emergencies, and communicating youth heart health concerns to healthcare providers. Methods: Volunteer-led prevention screening sessions were conducted, incorporating educational components on SCA warning signs, risk factors, and hands-only CPR and AED training. Post-session surveys were administered to 1,123 participants to assess their confidence levels in these areas. Results: The screening sessions significantly increased participants' confidence. Specifically, 96% of participants reported heightened confidence in recognizing SCA warning signs and understanding risk factors. Additionally, 94% felt more assured in discussing youth heart health with providers. Confidence in performing CPR during a cardiac emergency rose to 92%, while confidence in using an AED reached 89%. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the sessions in empowering individuals with essential life-saving skills. Conclusions: The Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation's prevention screening sessions are highly effective in improving participants' confidence in recognizing SCA warning signs, understanding risk factors, and using CPR and AEDs. The substantial increase in confidence levels underscores the importance of community-based education and training programs in reducing SCA-related fatalities among youth. These findings support the need for ongoing and expanded initiatives to further enhance public health outcomes and preparedness for cardiac emergencies.

Impact of High-Fidelity Simulation on the Confidence Level of Pediatric Residents to Manage Pediatric Emergencies

Background: Children having seriously ill health conditions pose new challenges to healthcare professionals in pediatric emergencies. The training based on simulation is a promising procedure for equipping junior professionals with the required potential. Objectives: Studying the impact of High-Fidelity Simulation (HFS) on the confidence levels of pediatric residents for taking care of patients having complications that are critical and also considering emergency procedures. Methodology: A quasi-experimental design utilized having surveys done before and after training to evaluate confidence levels. The research was executed in October 2023. The evaluation model of Kirkpatrick was supposed to evaluate the training program impact. After that, data was collected and entered into MS Excel and then analyzed on SPSS. Results: The research executed two sorts of surveys, including a pre-course survey and a post-course survey. Out of 40 residents, only 30 gave responses with a 75% rate. Descriptive analysis revealed varying levels of confidence across different domains of pediatric care. However, statistical analysis revealed no significant changes in confidence levels post-training in certain areas. These findings suggest that while the training program may have positively influenced confidence in some domains, further investigation is needed to determine its comprehensive impact on the confidence of residents. Conclusion: Our study emphasizes the effectiveness of HFS in enhancing the confidence of pediatric residents in managing critically ill patients and emergency procedures. While statistical significance was not achieved across all domains, the overall trend indicates a positive impact on residents' perceptions of their abilities in pediatric emergency care. Research in the future should revolve around more strategies augmenting the confidence of the residents in the care of pediatric emergencies.

Applying experiential learning theory in non-school-based technical and vocational education and training for unemployed youths in South Africa

Youth unemployment is one of the major challenges facing Sub-Saharan African countries today. Although young people may hold general certificates of education (equivalent to Grade 12), they lack employable or marketable skills enabling them to be integrated into the labour market. In this paper, I examine the application of experiential learning theory (ELT) in non-school-based technical and vocational training for unemployed youths as a learning approach to develop job-related skills and competencies for the real world of the workplace. I used a qualitative research design to meet the research objectives and conducted one-on-one semi-structured interviews with 10 trainees out of 512 to get their views on training delivery and learning approaches for skills acquisition. To complement the interview data, I also conducted field observations at the training centres, in the workshops, and at companies hosting trainees for workplace training. My findings revealed that the facilitators used classroom-based and field-based experiential learning approaches to help the trainees gain job-related skills and competencies required in the labour market. I conclude that applying ELT in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes helped young trainees gain the job-related skills and competencies required in the labour market. As practical implications for society, I provide new insights into applying ELT to improve the effectiveness of non-school-based TVET programmes for disadvantaged and unemployed youths. My findings will motivate other trainers and training managers to apply ELT in designing and implementing non-school-based TVET programmes.

Moral sensitivity, spiritual care perception, and compassion fatigue of nurses caring for earthquake victims.

Two major earthquakes occurred within 10hours in Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023, which resulted in thousands of deaths and injured people within Turkey. To determine the relationship between moral sensitivity, spiritual care perception, and compassion fatigue among nurses caring for earthquake victims. The study population consisted of 483 nurses working in public, private, and university hospitals in earthquake-affected areas in Turkey. The sociodemographic characteristics form, moral sensitivity questionnaire, spirituality and spiritual care rating scale, and compassion fatigue short scale were used for data collection. There was a statistically significant negative relationship between nurses' moral sensitivity and compassion fatigue; in other words, as compassion fatigue increases, nurses' moral sensitivity decreases. A statistically significant negative relationship was found between nurses' perception of spiritual care and their compassion fatigue; in other words, as compassion fatigue increases, nurses' perception of spirituality and spiritual care decreases. This study provides valuable insights into moral sensitivity, perceptions of spiritual care, and compassion fatigue among nurses caring for earthquake victims. Minimizing nurses' compassion fatigue improves quality patient care, increases patient and employee satisfaction, and maintains commitment to the profession. To achieve this goal, it is essential to offer in-service training, conferences, or seminar programs to nurses focused on fostering a sense of compassion. Nurses should be provided with environments that will improve their self-care, and institutional policies and strategies should be developed to cope effectively with this situation.

Strength Training Among Male Master Cyclists—Practices, Challenges, and Rationales

Background: Cycling performance declines with age due to reduced aerobic capacity, along with reductions in muscle mass and bone density. Strength training can help counter these effects. This study aims to explore the strength training practices, challenges, and decision-making rationale of male master cyclists to optimize performance and health as they age. Methods: A total of 555 male master cyclists aged 35 and above completed an online questionnaire, distributed via social media platforms, that included Likert-type, single- and multiple-selection, and open-ended questions. Participants were then divided into two age groups: 35–49 years (n = 359) and ≥50 years (n = 196). Analyses involved descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, Mann–Whitney U-tests, and chi-square tests, with qualitative data analyzed using content analysis. Results: More cyclists engaged in strength training during the off-/pre-season, with a significant reduction in both frequency and the number of cyclists engaging in strength training during the race season. The strength training practice was focused mainly on core and lower body, employing hypertrophy and maximal strength training methods. Key challenges included fatigue induced by strength training and limited time to perform strength training. The main rationale for the strength training revolved around improving cycling performance, reducing injury risk, and the health benefits of strength training. Both age categories, but the older group in particular, reported bone health as a primary rationale for strength training. Conclusions: While strength training offers performance and health benefits, issues of fatigue and time constraints remain substantial, suggesting the need for tailored training programs to improve adherence and effectiveness.

Changes in Race Performance During the Underwater Phases of a 200 m Bi-Fin Race Simulation After Application of Respiratory Muscle Training—A Case Study in the Current World Record Holder

Maximal athletic performance can be limited by various factors, including restricted respiratory function. These limitations can be mitigated through targeted respiratory muscle training, as supported by numerous studies. However, the full potential of respiratory training in competitive finswimming has not been fully investigated. This case study aims to evaluate the effects of eight-week respiratory muscle training (RMT) on performance variability during the underwater phases of a 200 m bi-fin race simulation in an elite finswimmer (current world record holder and multiple world championship medalist). Performance variability was assessed based on pre-test, inter-test, and post-test data. Each measurement included pulmonary function and swim performance evaluations. In this study, underwater performance parameters, such as distance, time, velocity, and number of kicks, were assessed using video analysis synchronized with race timing and evaluated using the Dartfish software. The swimmer followed a 28-day training program with an Airofit PRO™ respiratory trainer between tests, with daily sessions targeting both inspiratory and expiratory muscles. The training involved 6–10 min of targeted exercises per day. Significant improvements were observed in Wilcoxon’s paired-sample test between the pre-test and post-test results in terms of underwater distance (p = 0.012; d = 1.26), underwater time (p = 0.012; d = 1.26), and number of underwater kicks (p = 0.043; d = 1.01), resulting in a 14.23% longer underwater distance, 14.08% longer underwater time, and 14.94% increase in underwater kicks. Despite the increased distance and time, underwater velocity remained stable, indicating improved underwater performance efficiency. Despite some improvements, it is not possible to conclude that respiratory muscle training (RMT) can contribute to improved finswimming performance during the underwater phases of a 200 m bi-fin race simulation in this particular athlete’s case. Further research with a larger sample size is necessary to fully understand the impact of RMT on finswimming performance.

Does psychology fail in the face of genocide? Insights about Gaza before and after October 7, 2023

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of psychologists working with a community mental health center in the Gaza Strip, using Freirean pedagogical and Fanonian post-colonial theories as a framework. The study aims to highlight how political injustice contributes significantly to psychological distress in the region. It emphasizes the importance of collective well-being, liberatory practices and agency in therapeutic work. This research seeks to demonstrate that psychology and science cannot remain politically neutral, as they are inherently imbued with values that can either uphold oppressive systems or promote resistance and advocacy for change. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a theoretical and qualitative approach, drawing from Freirean pedagogical and Fanonian post-colonial frameworks. It involves reflective analysis of the authors’ experiences as psychologists from Italy and South Africa working with a community mental health center in Gaza. The research includes a critical examination of political and social contexts that affect mental health in the region. Through the roles of trainers, clinical supervisors and researchers, the authors integrate liberatory psychological practices and emphasize solidarity with the people of Gaza, providing insights into the interplay between political contexts and psychological well-being. Findings The findings indicate that political injustice is a primary cause of psychological distress in Gaza. The research underscores the dual role of mental health professionals: while they might inadvertently promote adjustment to oppressive systems, they also have the potential to enhance resistance, advocacy and activism. The study reveals that liberatory psychological practices can empower individuals and communities, fostering agency and collective well-being. Furthermore, the mental health needs of the population, alongside humanitarian aid and physical safety, are critical for the current crisis and future rebuilding efforts in Gaza. Research limitations/implications This paper is limited by its qualitative nature and the specific context of the Gaza Strip, which may not be generalizable to other settings. However, it provides valuable insights into the role of psychology in politically charged environments. The implications for further research include the need to explore liberatory practices in other conflict-affected areas and to examine the impact of psychologists’ roles as advocates for change. The study highlights the importance of integrating political awareness into psychological practice and research, encouraging professionals to engage actively in addressing systemic injustices. Practical implications The practical implications of this work emphasize the need for mental health professionals to incorporate political awareness and advocacy into their practice. By doing so, they can support communities in resisting oppressive systems and promote collective well-being. The research suggests training programs for psychologists that focus on liberatory practices and agency, equipping them to work effectively in conflict zones. Additionally, the study advocates for strengthening psychological services in Gaza, both during and after crises, to address the population’s mental health needs and support rebuilding efforts. Social implications The social implications of this paper highlight the critical role of psychology in addressing the political and social determinants of mental health. By aligning psychological practice with liberatory principles, mental health professionals can contribute to social justice and empower communities to resist oppression. The study advocates for a shift in the perception of psychology as a politically neutral discipline, urging professionals to engage actively in social change. It underscores the importance of solidarity with marginalized populations and the need for mental health support that is responsive to the broader socio-political context. Originality/value This essay offers original insights into the application of Freirean and Fanonian theories in the context of mental health work in Gaza. It provides a unique perspective on the role of psychologists as agents of change and solidarity in politically oppressive environments. The research contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of psychology and social justice, highlighting the potential of liberatory practices to empower communities. By challenging the notion of political neutrality in psychology, this study adds value to the discourse on the ethical responsibilities of mental health professionals.

Examining Working Memory Training for Healthy Adults—A Second-Order Meta-Analysis

Background: Enhancing working memory performance in cognitively and physically healthy individuals is a popular area of research. The results from a large number of studies have now been summarized in multiple meta-analyses. In these reviews, various training methods have been examined, including mindfulness training, adaptive working memory training, physical activity training, and video game training, to examine whether working memory capacity can be improved. This report aggregated the results of these meta-analyses using second-order meta-analytic approaches to ascertain the extent to which working memory functioning can be enhanced in healthy adults. Methods: A total of six meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials that compared working memory interventions to a control group were included in the analyses. These studies were identified after systematically searching three electronic databases: APA PsycInfo, ERIC and Medline. Collectively, the meta-analyses investigated the effects of cognitive programs, mindfulness, video games and physical activity on working memory. Only meta-analyses undertaken with healthy adults aged between 18 and 55 years were included in the report. Results: The results revealed an average improvement in working memory across the included studies compared to the control groups. The findings indicated a small yet significant enhancement in working memory, with a standardized mean difference of 0.335 (95% CI [0.223; 0.447], p &lt; .001). Further analysis tests for superiority effects between the different working memory training programs revealed no significant differences between intervention effect sizes. Conclusion: Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the working memory capacity of healthy adults can be improved through training. However, the effect size is small, so the utility of this type of training in real-life improvements in cognition may be minimal. The evidence does not indicate that one type of working memory training is superior to another.

Advanced practice nursing in surgery: A scoping review of roles, responsibilities, and educational programs.

The increasing complexity of the healthcare sector requires an evolution in nursing education to effectively manage care in complex and interdisciplinary contexts. This review aims to analyze the role of advanced practice nurse (APN) in the surgical context within hospital settings, detailing their functions and responsibilities. It also provides an overview of the main degrees and postgraduate training programs for specialization in perioperative management in major Western countries. This scoping review followed the Arksey-O'Malley framework and Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used to ensure rigorous and transparent reporting. Among the 3663 records analyzed, 20 were included in this review. The role of the APN spans across the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases, encompassing follow-up care as leaders, mentors, and contributors to research. APNs play a pivotal role by offering direct and indirect patient care at each stage of the surgical journey. Acting as liaisons between the healthcare team and patients, APNs enhance healthcare delivery through personalized, coordinated care, while also fostering ongoing education and research in the field. APNs enhance surgical care by providing in-depth clinical assessments, education, and support throughout the treatment process. However, the lack of standardized regulatory frameworks in some countries limits the autonomy of APNs within the healthcare system, compromising their ability to address unmet health needs and engage in international collaboration. The findings underscore the need for standardized educational pathways, roles, responsibilities, and autonomy for APNs, facilitating better international collaboration and contributing to scientific research.

Effectiveness of an intervention to improve pharmacovigilance among selected government hospitals in a district of Sri Lanka

Introduction: Issues related to doctors' pharmacovigilance exist due to their lack of knowledge and the challenges of a rapidly changing society. In addition, issues exist with the subject's existing systems. Proper intervention with a comprehensive system of pharmacovigilance can resolve these problems.Objective: This research is intended to assess the knowledge, perception, and practices of pharmacovigilance among medical officers in a district of Sri Lanka with surveillance systems through interventions.Methodology: A pre-and post-intervention design research study was conducted among 237 doctors in the curative sector in the Hambanthota district. All the doctors in these hospitals were considered the study population, and no sampling method was employed. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data using active and passive surveillance data systems and workshops.Results: The results indicated that most of the doctors were from the 31-40 age category (55.3%), females (53.59%), preliminary and grade 2 medical officers (67.1%, 37.6%) who are working in the base hospitals (64.1%) of the area with a basic medical degree (90.8%). A large proportion of them (67.5%) had training in this area as undergraduates (25%). The overall knowledge of pharmacovigilance was poor (69.7%). The overall perception was positive (53.2%). Overall, practices were poor. Knowledge and perception have improved with the intervention.Conclusion and recommendations: This research revealed poor general knowledge, practices, and a positive perception regarding pharmacovigilance, which improved through an intervention. Substantial consideration should be paid to including those topics in undergraduate and postgraduate curricula. Continuous professional development and in-service training programmes should be arranged for doctors with a comprehensive system of surveillance.

Domains of four-step technique training program for laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

Many surgeons have begun learning about colorectal surgery using laparoscopy rather than laparotomy. The domains of four-step technique training program (DOF) for laparoscopic colorectal surgery have been designed and implemented by our institute since 2011, and they are expected to provide a safe and effective program for trainees with limited experience in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The DOF were established with standard surgical procedures, a four-step technique, and learning passports using point credits after the procedure was completed. Patients who underwent minimally invasive colorectal resection at the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital between January 2013 and April 2019 were enrolled. Overall, 2604 and 478 patients were enrolled in the non-training and training groups, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the postoperative short-term outcomes were not significantly associated with the training or non-training groups. However, the training group had a significantly longer operative time than the non-training group in the linear regression model. Once the trainee passed the proficiency point (passed 100 points or 30 cases), no significant difference in postoperative short-term outcomes was found between the patients in the non-training and training groups that underwent the entire surgery performed by the trainee. When patients' safety was evaluated in the training cases under the DOF, no higher rates of postoperative morbidity and mortality were found compared to those in cases performed by experienced surgeons. Additionally, trainees who passed the proficiency point during DOF could safely perform the entire laparoscopic colorectal surgery under supervision without further adverse effects on the patients.

Examining the Financial Literacy of Healthcare Professionals: A Research on a Provincial Health Directorate.

This research aimed to assess the financial literacy levels of healthcare professionals working at a Provincial Health Directorate and examine their relationships with various financial domains. The study utilized a cross-sectional online survey. The financial literacy scale was employed to assess the financial knowledge and compentencies of healthcare professionals, providing a structured evaluation of their understandig across various financial domains. Statistical analyses, including correlation analysis, independent samples t-test, and one-way ANOVA, were performed using SPSS-25 and R programs. A total of 240 participants took part, comprising 52.1% males and 47.9% females, aged between 20 and 65 years. Younger healthcare professionals (p=.017) and males (p=.001) demonstrated higher financial literacy levels. Significant correlations were found between financial literacy and domains such as investment instruments, debt and risk management, and personal finance management. Weak but positive relationships were observed between financial literacy and digital assets, indicating emerging trends in digital finance awareness. For instance, males exhibited higher proficiency in investment instruments and debt management, while younger professionals displayed higher knowledge in investment areas. The findings underscore the importance of targeted financial education for healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for sector-specific training programs. Enhanced financial literacy is essential for improving financial decision-making, ultimately benefiting both personal financial well-being and professional performance in the healthcare sector.

The Use of Computer Technologies in Special Education Teacher Training Programs in East Jerusalem: Students' Perspectives and Its Impact on Practical Applications"

Abstract: This research aims to explore the degree of use of computerized technologies in the special education teacher qualification program in East Jerusalem, and the extent of its impact on their performance in practical applications from the students’ point of view, explore students’ opinions about the effectiveness of computerized technologies in improving their educational experience and teaching skills, and reveal the differences in the use of computerized technologies. In qualifying special education teachers and its impact on their performance according to the variables of gender, number of years of experience, and experience in using computerized technologies, the descriptive approach was used, and the questionnaire was used as a tool for collecting data after ensuring its validity and reliability. The study population consisted of all students in special education teacher training colleges, numbering (680) teachers, distributed among 3 main colleges. The study sample consisted of (245) students selected by the available method, and the results were based on the reality of using computerized techniques in rehabilitation programs as a whole (3.80) and to a large degree, and the absence of statistically significant differences ( = 0.05) due to the effect of variables (gender, age, or experience in The use of computerized techniques) for the impact of the use of computerized techniques in the special education teacher qualification program in East Jerusalem on performance in practical applications from the point of view of students in all fields and the overall grade. Based on the results of the study, the researcher recommends strengthening the training of special education teachers within education teacher qualification programs. Specialize in the use of computerized technologies to ensure their effectiveness.

One-Side Weight Sports and the Impact of Their Load on the Feet and the Occurrence of Posture Disorders in Professional Football and Handball Players

The aim of this study was to evaluate center of pressure (CoP) changes in unilateral sports and examine how these changes affect the athlete’s feet, ankles, knees or posture. The study sample consisted of 40 professional male players (age: 19.4 ± 2.08 years; height: 165.78 ± 4.92 cm; weight: 59.04 ± 4.02 kg; BMI: 21.57 ± 2.22; foot size: 40.9 ± 1.6), divided by type of sport into group H—handball (n: 20) and group F—football (n: 20). To evaluate the monitored parameters, we used the instrumental diagnostic techniques: 3D laser footscan, baropodometric platform FreeStep and 2D Videography. We found no significant differences between the groups in the loading of the right and left foot (F: 8.3 ± 4.22; H: 7.7 ± 6.1) (p = 0.410). We found a significant difference in the load on the front and back of the left (p = 0.0079) and right foot (p = 0.0210) depending on the type of sport performed. Maximum and mean values of CoP (g/cm2) showed statistically significant differences depending on the sport performed (p &lt; 0.0001). The shift in CoP (mm) from the norm depending on the sport performed was confirmed in the latero-lateral direction (p = 0.003), but not in the antero-posterior direction (p = 0.320). We found a difference in the angulation of the knees and heels depending on the sport played. Handball players showed higher knee varosity/valgosity (p = 0.015) and heel values than football players (p = 0.002). The handball players also confirmed a worse postural load and initial forward posture. The one-sided sports, handball and football, showed negative effects on the athlete’s movement system. These changes were more pronounced in handball players. Proper training programs should be applied in athletes’ daily routine to improve the negative effects of unilateral sports.

Standardized Patient Education Focused on Equity Deserving Groups

Introduction Health professions training programs must train future healthcare providers to meet the needs of equity-deserving patient populations. Standardized patient (SP) programs are one mechanism by which this training can occur. Our aim was to develop a set of recommendations for SP programs and educators around planning, organizing, and delivering SP-based education involving equity-deserving groups. Methods We undertook a qualitative analysis of interview transcripts of SPs, educators, and trainers involved in SP work with equity-deserving groups. Subsequently, we conducted a three-stage modified Delphi process to generate recommendations. Results We derived 10 tips to help stakeholders improve SP-based education involving equity-deserving groups. The underlying themes included collaborative involvement, including co-creation and co-delivery of content with members of equity-deserving groups, as well as consistent prioritization of the needs of SPs throughout the process. Conclusions Our findings suggest ways in which SP programs and educators can better train future healthcare providers to meet the needs of equity-deserving patient populations.