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Feasibility and reliability of the Adapted Kagan Scales for rating conversations for people with acquired brain injury: A multi-phase iterative mixed methods design
PURPOSE: Rating the quality of conversations can assess communication skills in both people with acquired brain injury (ABI) and their communication partners. This study explored the clinical feasibility and reliability of two conversation rating scales: The Adapted Measure of Participation in Conversation (MPC) and Adapted Measure of Support in Conversation (MSC)
METHOD: Raters were final-year speech and language therapy students (n = 14) and qualified clinicians (n = 2). Raters attended training on the Adapted MPC and MSC, watched 5 or 10 minutes of videotaped conversations (n = 23) and then scored them on the MPC and MSC scales. Data was collected over four phases which varied according to the length of the training, sample length, number of samples rated and level of clinical expertise. Feasibility data (time taken to score conversations and ease of use) was collected. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using intra-class correlations (ICCs: absolute agreement, single measures).
RESULTS: Raters took 30 - 45 minutes to score a 10-minute sample; and 20 - 30 minutes to score a 5-minute sample. Ease of use was rated highly across all phases. Overall reliability for rating 5-minutes of conversation (ICC = 0.52-0.73) was better than for 10-minutes of conversation (ICC = 0.33 - 0.68). Reliability for the MPC was moderate for both students (ICC = 0.69) and clinicians (ICC = 0.55); and for the MSC, moderate for both students (ICC = 0.73) and clinicians (ICC= 0.58). Reliability was better for students compared with clinicians.
CONCLUSION: Rating a 5-minute conversation in under 30 minutes was feasible, with more reliable results for 5-minute compared with 10-minute conversations. Implications for assessing conversation in the future are discusse
Going beyond simple sample size calculations: a practitioner's guide
Basic methods to compute required sample sizes are well understood and supported by widely available software. However, researchers often oversimplify their sample size calculations, overlooking relevant features of their experimental design. This paper compiles and systematises existing methods for sample size calculations for continuous and binary outcomes, both with and without covariates, and for both clustered and non‐clustered randomised controlled trials. We present formulae accommodating panel data structures and uneven designs, and provide guidance on optimally allocating sample size between the number of clusters and the number of units per cluster. In addition, we discuss how to adjust calculations for multiple hypothesis testing and how to estimate power in more complex designs using simulation methods
Between two minds: the influence of numerical labels on survey responses in a cross-national study
Previous research highlights the impact of nonverbal cues and visual layouts on respondents’ interpretations and answers to survey questions (Schwarz et al. in Pub Opin Q 55(4):570–582, 1991; Tourangeau et al. in Pub Opin Q 71(1):91–112, 2007; Toepoel and Dillman in Soc Sci Comput Rev 29(2):193–207, 2011). In this study, we investigate the effect of numerical values on responses to five questions measured using 11-point bipolar scales. These questions asked for evaluations of the general impact of climate change and its effects on different groups. Respondents were randomly assigned to scales ranging from 0 to 10, or from − 5 to + 5. The scales were presented horizontally and had identical verbal endpoints anchored as “extremely negative” and “extremely positive”. The experiment was embedded in a cross-national face-to-face survey conducted in Hungary, Portugal, and Great Britain. Contrary to prior research (Schwarz et al. in Pub Opin Q 55(4):570–582, 1991; O’Muircheartaigh et al. J Off Stat 11:295–308, 1995; Tourangeau et al. in Pub Opin Q 71(1):91–112, 2007), our analyses show an opposite trend: the means tend to be consistently and significantly lower for the − 5/+5 scale. The discrepancy between our findings and previous studies suggests that the interpretations of the 0/10 and − 5/+5 scales could be item specific. The implications of these findings and how they fit with previous work are discussed
Emotional Interdependence: Reconceptualizing Mutual Dependence from Global North to Global South
Turning from Global North perspectives to those from the Global South, this article introduces contrasting approaches to emotional interdependence in international relations, considering how it may operate in a world order beyond Western dominance. After critiquing the artificial tension between reason and emotion in dominant “rationalist” approaches to interdependence, the article unpacks two sets of previously overlooked perspectives on emotional interdependence. First, it turns to paths not taken forward in the history of international thought in the Global North to indicate their elaboration of conceptualizations of emotional interdependence that extend beyond singular expressions of sympathy and empathy given the role of reciprocity, continuity, and extension to humanity. With reference to their application to contemporary experience, the analysis highlights the limitations of approaches rooted in Western constructions of humanity and universality, and subsequently turns to perspectives from the Global South to delineate the contours of pluriversal approaches to emotional interdependence. Rooted in concepts including Buen Vivir and Ubuntu, pluriversal emotional interdependence involves horizontal reciprocity, coexistence of multiple emotional worlds, and inseparability of humans from nature. The case of South Africa’s “diplomacy of Ubuntu” is used to illustrate pluriversal emotional interdependence in diplomatic practice and its roles in mediating between worlds
Psychosocial Interventions for Edge of Care Families in the Early Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Despite the recognised need for early interventions to prevent maltreatment and family separation in families involved with child protection services (CPS), evidence for children aged 0–5 years remains scarce and inconclusive. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions delivered to these families, in reducing risk of harm, improving parenting quality, and supporting parental functioning. The review included families with children aged 0–5 years engaged with CPS and deemed at risk of entering the care system. A systematic search of databases (e.g., PubMed, CINAHL, PsychINFO) was conducted for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from 1990–2024. Eligible studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Revised Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool. Meta-analyses used random effects models to estimate standardized mean differences (SMD) or odds ratios (OR). Narrative synthesis was provided for outcomes not appropriate to include in meta-analyses. Fifteen RCTs (n = 2232 families) were included. Interventions did not demonstrate consistent effects on reducing subsequent maltreatment, as measured by official records (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.75–1.02) or parent-reported risk of harm (SMD = -0.07, CI: -0.25–0.11). However, significant improvements were observed in parental sensitivity (SMD = 0.53, CI: 0.30–0.76), attachment organisation (OR = 2.17, CI: 1.64–2.87), and parental functioning (SMD = -0.21, CI: -0.36– -0.06). In conclusion, psychosocial interventions show promise in improving parenting among edge-of-care families but lack consistent evidence for reducing maltreatment risk. Future research should prioritise larger trials with standardised outcome measures to strengthen this evidence base
Strange Fruit. La chanson d’Abel (2025). An Interview with Vincent Hazard
This interview with Vincent Hazard explores the creative genesis and collaborative process behind Strange Fruit. La chanson d’Abel (Dupuis, Aire Libre, 2025), a French language graphic novel illustrated by A. Dan that reimagines the story of Abel Meeropol, who wrote the anti-lynching song "Strange Fruit” (1939), and his connection to jazz icon Billie Holiday. Hazard recounts his journey from sound engineer to screenwriter, radio dramatist, and eventually graphic novel writer, highlighting how his earlier audio drama on Meeropol evolved into a comic. The conversation delves into key challenges of narrative balance, visual representation, emotional authenticity, and political resonance. Hazard reflects on the unique responsibilities of portraying racially and politically sensitive histories, the aesthetics of musicality in comics, and the necessity of research-driven storytelling grounded in archival truth. The interview also addresses the importance of artistic collaboration, transatlantic reception, and the socio-political relevance of such stories today, emphasising the value of complexity, nuance, and transnational solidarity in reclaiming marginalised histories through graphic storytelling
R-AI-diographers: investigating the perceived impact of artificial intelligence on radiographers' careers, roles, and professional identity in the UK
Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being increasingly integrated into radiography, affecting daily responsibilities and workflows. Most studies focus on AI’s influence on clinical performance or workflows; fewer explore radiographers' perspectives on how AI affects their roles and the profession. This study aims to investigate the perceived impact of AI on radiographers' careers, roles and professional identity in the UK.
Methods: A UK-wide, cross-sectional, online survey including 32 questions was conducted using snowball sampling to gather responses from qualified radiographers and radiography students. The survey gathered data on: (a) demographics, (b) perceived short-term impacts of AI on roles and responsibilities, (c) potential medium-to-long-term impacts, (d) opportunities and threats from AI, and (e) preparedness to work with AI. Overall perceptions (optimism, neutrality, or pessimism) were derived from cumulative answers to a subset of 6 questions.
Results: A total of 322 valid responses were received, showing general optimism about medium-to-long-term impact of AI on careers, roles and professional identity (60.7% optimistic). Most respondents (70.8%) reported no formal AI education or training, with AI education emerging as the top priority for improving preparedness in clinical practice. Concerns centered around the potential deskilling of radiographers and AI inefficiencies. However, 81.2% agreed AI would not replace radiographers in the long term.
Conclusion: Radiographers are broadly optimistic about AI's impact but express concerns about deskilling due to reliance on AI. While their optimism is encouraging for recruitment and retention, there is a clear need for AI-specific education to enhance preparedness to work with AI
Associations between intelligence, everyday executive functions, and symptoms of mental health problems in children and adolescents with mild intellectual disability
Background: Children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities have been found to have a higher prevalence of symptoms of mental health problems than the general population, but it is unclear whether these challenges are related to intelligence. The aim of this study was to explore the associations among symptoms of mental health problems, everyday executive functions and intelligence in this group.
Methods: Forty children and adolescents, pre-diagnosed with mild intellectual disability, were assessed for symptoms of mental health problems, intelligence, and everyday executive functions. The associations were explored using linear regression analyses.
Results: Symptoms of mental health problems were associated with everyday executive functions but not with intelligence. The prevalence of mental health problems within the group was three to four times higher than what is typically observed in the general population.
Conclusion: Although a remarkably high prevalence of symptoms of mental health problems was found among children and adolescents with pre-diagnosed mild intellectual disability, no relationship to intelligence was discovered in this population. Instead, a relationship between everyday executive functions and symptoms of mental health problems was found. Assessing everyday executive functions in children and adolescents with mild intellectual disability can provide valuable information about what support should be provided to prevent mental health problems in this population
Belonging beyond the binary: the positive experiences of visible non-binary and genderqueer individuals in the workplace
Purpose: The number of people identifying as non-binary and genderqueer (NBGQ) is rapidly increasing but the literature offers scant guidance for organisations aiming to offer these workers an inclusive environment in which they feel that they belong. This study explores how the positive experiences of NBGQ individuals contribute to their sense of belonging in the workplace.
Methodology: In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participants, exploring their positive experiences of belonging at work and the data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).
Findings: Three higher-order themes were created: Allowing Authenticity; Social Support; and Creating Inclusive Culture. Findings from this study suggest that NBGQ authenticity, perceived colleague social support and the proactive creation of inclusive organisational cultures interact to develop a sense of belonging for NBGQ individuals in the workplace.
Originality: Empirical studies on the experiences of non-binary people at work are almost non-existent. Existing research predominantly explores the negative experiences of NBGQ individuals as a subset of a transgender demographic. This article focuses specifically on the experiences of NBGQ workers and thus contributes to filling this gap in the literature
Ideology shapes evaluation of history within the general population
The way history is interpreted varies across ideologies as articulated by political thinkers and by leading politicians. Is history also assessed differently by laypeople reporting different ideological orientations? To address this, the article describes a study from six countries where, in addition to reporting their ideology on a left–right spectrum, participants evaluated the recent past, the present, and the near future. The data show that, in all countries, right- compared to left-wing supporters evaluated the past as more positive. To elucidate this effect, a second study manipulated the appraisal of the past between groups but found that this did not influence participants' ideology. A third study manipulated the salience of ideological representations between groups. Here, the high-salience group displayed a stronger link between ideology and evaluation of the past, indicating that embracing a certain ideology encourages a specific interpretation of the past. Exploring the factors mediating this effect, one last study found that nostalgia for tradition partially explains why right-wing supporters cherish the past more. Altogether, these observations show that how history is interpreted is central not only to intellectuals' writings and politicians' speeches but also to laypeople's political beliefs