A comparison between randomly alternating imaging, normal laparoscopic imaging, and virtual reality training in laparoscopic psychomotor skill acquisition

Objectives: To evaluate virtual reality as a laparoscopic training device in helping surgeons to automate to the “fulcrum effect” by comparing it to time-matched training programs using randomly alternating images (ie, y-axis inverted and normal laparoscopic) and normal laparoscopic viewing conditions.

Methods: Twenty-four participants (16 females and 8 males), were randomly assigned to minimally invasive surgery virtual reality (MIST VR), randomly alternating (between y-axis inverted and normal laparoscopic images), and normal laparoscopic imaging condition. Participants were requested to perform a 2-minute laparoscopic cutting task before and after training.

Results: In the test trial participants who trained on the MIST VR performed significantly better than those in the normal laparoscopic and randomly alternating imaging conditions.

Conclusion: The results show that virtual reality training may provide faster skill acquisition with particular reference to automation of the fulcrum effect. MIST VR provides a new way of training laparoscopic psychomotor surgical skills.

Identification of an unknown b-agonist in feed by liquid chromatography/bioassay/quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry with accurate mass measurement.

A new approach to the search for residues of unknown growth promoting agents such as anabolic steroids and -agonists in feed is presented. Following primary extraction and clean-up, samples are separated using gradient liquid chromatography (LC). The effluent is split towards two identical 96-well fraction collectors and an optional electrospray quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOFMS) system for accurate mass measurement. One 96-well plate is used for a bioassay (enzyme-immuno assay, receptor assay) and will detect the bioactivity and position of the relevant peak in the chromatogram. The positive well in the second 96-well plate is used for identification by LC/QTOFMS/MS. The value of this LC/bioassay/QTOFMS/MS methodology is highlighted by the finding and structure elucidation of a new -agonist in a feed extract.

Approved Social Work Training in Northern Ireland: Using Research to Examine Competence-Based Learning and Influence Policy Change

This article reports on how research activity helped describe and analyse ASW (Approved Social Worker) learning experience as well as acting as a catalyst for change and development in policy and practice in Northern Ireland. The paper contextualizes the study by outlining the legislation, the main features of the ASW role and the approach to ASW training in Northern Ireland, and by reviewing the literature on the efficacy and value of competence-based learning. While the findings do not provide conclusive evidence that a competence-based approach is inherently more effective than previous courses, they do indicate that candidates who were trained in this way were moderately more satisfied than those who had participated in non-competence based programmes. The research also highlights the importance of the interrelationship between training, practice experience and support in developing and sustaining competence. The paper concludes with a review of the recommendations arising from the study and an analysis of the developments in training and regulations relating to practice experience and re-approval of ASWs since publication of the research. The study is of contemporary interest given the proposed changes to the role of ASWs/Mental Health Officers in the context of the reviews of UK mental health law.