Search Results (130)

Collaborative digital games and interfaces are increasingly used in both research and commercial contexts, yet little is known about how the spatial arrangement and interface sharing affect the user experience in dyadic settings. Using a two-player iPad pong game, this study compared user experiences across three collaborative gaming scenarios: face-to-face single-screen (F2F-OneS), face-to-face dual-screen (F2F-DualS), and remote dual-screen (Rmt-DualS) scenarios. Eleven dyads participated in all conditions using a within-subject design. After each session, the participants completed a 21-item user experience questionnaire and took part in brief interviews. The results from a repeated-measure ANOVA and post hoc paired t-tests showed significant scenario effects for several experience items, with F2F-OneS yielding higher engagement, novelty, and accomplishment than remote play, and qualitative interviews supported the quantitative findings, revealing themes of social presence and interaction. These results highlight the importance of spatial and interface design in collaborative settings, suggesting that both technical and social factors should be considered in multi-user interface development. Full article

Background/Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (Mets) risk is influenced by both parents’ preconception lifestyle, yet most interventions target individuals rather than couples. True couples-based interventions that engage both partners equally remain rare. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and adherence of a 10-week lifestyle intervention delivered to heterosexual couples in the preconception period. Methods: This was a pre-post mixed-methods study involving eight nulliparous, cohabiting couples (N = 16 participants) planning a pregnancy within three years. Couples received tailored dietary and physical activity advice via remote sessions. Qualitative data were collected through post-intervention dyadic interviews and thematically analysed to explore participants’ experiences and perspectives on feasibility and adherence. Quantitative data on anthropometry, dietary intake (serves from five food groups), and sedentary behaviour were descriptively analysed. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to assess changes in paired outcomes. Results: qualitative findings highlighted shared motivation, mutual accountability, cultural barriers, and the practicality of the intervention structure. All couples completed the intervention (100% retention). Among participants who required change, improvements were observed in all eight individuals for body mass index and in five out of seven individuals for waist-to-hip ratio. Statistically significant improvements were found in BMI (p = 0.027) and grain intake (p = 0.002), while other dietary and anthropometric changes were not significant. Dietary improvements were noted in 43 out of 80 observations across vegetables, fruits, grains, protein, and dairy intake. Sedentary hours were reduced in 12 of 16 participants, though increases in physical activity intensity were limited. Conclusions: A true-couples-based lifestyle intervention is feasible and acceptable in the preconception period. The approach shows potential for improving diet and reducing sedentary behaviour. Future research with a larger sample and longer duration is recommended to assess long-term effectiveness and broader applicability. Full article

This research investigated the use of I think as different types of markers by Thai learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) to determine whether the use of I think by Thai intermediate- and advanced-level EFL participants showed any significant differences. The types of markers and the functions of I think used by the Thai EFL participants were identified, as were their inappropriate uses of I think. In total, 72 Thai EFL participants were involved in this research, and dyadic English conversations were conducted for data collection. The statistical results illustrated that the Thai intermediate-level EFL participants used I think significantly more often than the Thai advanced-level EFL participants, particularly as a stance marker (SM). By contrast, the Thai advanced-level EFL participants used I think significantly more often as a pragmatic marker (PM) and as a politeness marker (PoM) than the Thai intermediate-level EFL participants. The Thai intermediate-level EFL participants mainly used the SM I think to express a subjective evaluative stance, while the Thai advanced-level EFL participants used I think across a broader range of markers and functions. Their inappropriate uses of I think are also discussed. Full article

With the increasing complexity of supply chain structures, effective coordination among stakeholders remains essential to maximize performance. This paper presents a systematic literature review of coordination contracts. Fourteen types were explored, ranging from traditional to smart contracts. This study includes a bibliometric analysis addressing technological, environmental, and risk management challenges. Despite significant progress in the field, most studies focus on dyadic supply chains, failing to cover the multi-echelon complexity. The study concludes by identifying research perspectives, particularly the combined adoption of artificial intelligence and game theory to enhance the analysis and execution of these contracts, thereby fostering resilient logistical systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: Although psychoeducation for relatives of individuals with a first episode psychosis is important for increasing understanding of psychosis, reducing relapse rates, decreasing hospitalization duration, and improving patient functionality, there is limited research on the specific experiences and needs of relatives of patients with a first episode psychosis. This study aims to explore the experiences and needs of relatives of young adults with first-episode psychosis regarding psychoeducation, with the goal of developing tailored psychoeducation (PE) that can be delivered by nurses. Methods: This qualitative study employed a descriptive, interpretative approach with a total sample of 23 participants, including semi-structured interviews (N = 16), two dyadic interviews (N = 4) and one triadic interview (N = 3). The dyadic interviews included two relatives and two patients, while the triadic interview involved two relatives and one patient. A topic list was utilized to guide the interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data, supported by the use of ATLAS.ti. Results: During data analysis, five key themes were identified as relevant for the development of a psychoeducational program: experiences with first-episode psychosis and psychoeducation, the content of PE (what), timing (when), exchanging experiences (how) and joint PE versus separate groups (which format). Conclusions: This study highlights valuable insights and key components for an integrated psychoeducation program, focussing on the needs and experiences of relatives, for the development of the PE program. To optimize the benefits for both parties, future research should explore the potential of offering PE sessions that accommodate both individual and combined participant formats, allowing for a design tailored to the specific needs of the participants. Full article

This research analyses the temporal flow of motion energy (ME) in dyadic dialogues using alternating lagged correlation tests on consecutive windows and also Granger causality (GC) tests. This research considers both alternatives of lagged values, those of the more dominant party preceding those of the less and vice versa (with relative dominance independently determined) and labels the resulting lagged windows according to the category of correlation (CC) that holds (positive, negative or none, if the correlation is not significant). Similarly, windows are labeled in relation to the significance of GC (one party causing the other, mutual causation, or no causation). Additionally, occurrences of gestures or speech within windows by an interlocutor whose ME precedes are identified. Then, the ME GC labels are compared with labels derived from simple lagged correlation of ME values to identify whether GC or CC is more efficacious in highlighting which participant independent observers classify as the more dominant party, potentially the “leader” for the conversation. In addition, the association between speech, gestures, dominance, and leadership is explored. This work aims to understand how the distributions of these labels interact with independent perceptions of dominance, to what extent dominant interlocutors lead, and the extent to which these labels “explain” variation in ME within any dialogue. Here, the focus is on between speakers dynamics. It shows dominant speakers have measurable influence on their conversation partners through bodily ME, as they are more likely to lead motion dynamics, though moments of mutual influence also occur. While GC and lagged correlation both capture aspects of leadership, GC reveals directional influence, whereas correlation highlights behavioural alignment. Furthermore, ME contrast during speaking and interaction of ME and gestures indicate that bodily movement synchronisation is shaped not only by dominance but also by gesture types and speaking states: speech affects leadership more than gestures. The interactions highlight the multimodal nature of conversational leadership, where verbal and nonverbal modalities interact to shape dialogue dynamics. Full article

Background/Objectives: Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the standard approach for treating obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), but patient adherence is often low due to various influencing factors. Recently, researchers have increasingly begun to explore the influence of partner support on adherence to CPAP therapy. This systematic review seeks to consolidate current evidence regarding the impact of partner support on CPAP adherence in individuals with OSAS. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was carried out across PubMed, Scopus, Medline, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases under PRISMA guidelines. Stringent inclusion criteria were used, and at least two independent reviewers screened all studies. The mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) was used to assess selected articles for quality. Data relevant to the review’s objectives were extracted and presented through narrative synthesis. The review protocol was preregistered (Prospero CRD420251016574). Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings highlighted the significant influence of adherence to CPAP. Partner support, relationship quality, and collaborative efforts emerged as facilitators of adherence, with partnered individuals exhibiting higher adherence to CPAP use. However, barriers such as anxiety, interruption in intimacy, and conflict in relationships were also identified. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review to synthesize evidence on the partner’s role in CPAP adherence and inform clinicians on the importance of providing personalized care based on biopsychosocial characteristics of patients; for example, assessing the partner support in the management of the illness. Furthermore, the findings emphasize the need for further research—particularly randomized controlled trials and dyadic designs—to deepen understanding of how partner dynamics influence effects of CPAP treatment. Full article

A child’s cancer diagnosis profoundly impacts the psychological well-being of parents. To alleviate parental distress, researchers developed Taking Back Control Together (TBCT), a manualized six-session program targeting individual problem-solving skills and dyadic coping. The current study aimed to refine TBCT for future uptake across different sites. We invited potential interventionists and local stakeholders from three pediatric oncology centers (CHU Sainte-Justine, CHU de Sherbrooke, and CHU de Québec) to join the refinement team. The final working team comprised 26 professionals, including social workers, psychologists, researchers, coordinators, and parent-partners. The study included eight 50- to 90-min discussion sessions designed to stimulate conversation and facilitate the exchange of ideas and perspectives. We used framework analysis to identify and describe patterns within the qualitative data. The data were organized into three categories: (1) intervention description, which addresses changes in personnel, modes of delivery, and tailoring to accommodate different family structures; (2) content modifications, which include language simplification and visual enhancements; and (3) factors influencing TBCT’s future uptake, such as accessibility, participant satisfaction, clinician compensation, and flexibility in program delivery. The direct output of this research is a refined program with an updated manual, tools, and format adapted for use in different sites. Full article

Among the models of romantic relationships, consensual non-monogamy (CNM) is one in which several affective and/or sexual relationships are allowed simultaneously. This type of relationship, still considered non-normative, has experienced a considerable increase in recent years. However, research is still limited, and studies on the subject in Spain are scarce. To better understand the differences and similarities between monogamous and CNM relationships, this study investigated both relational models, divided by sex, for four factors concerning romantic relationships: relationship satisfaction, sexual desire, jealousy, and conflict resolution styles. In a sample of 210 persons, the results showed that CNM females reported significantly higher levels of consensus and dyadic sexual desire than monogamous females. Jealousy levels were similar in both types of relationships. People in CNM relationships displayed greater conflict resolution skills through negotiation and compromise, whereas monogamous females reported using the non-constructive style of conflict engagement more than CNM females and monogamous males. CNM males indicated a greater use of withdrawal compared to CNM females. Overall, females showed more passionate jealousy than males. This investigation highlights the importance of studying romantic relationships and their different models. Full article

Realistically modeling interactions between road users—like those between drivers or between drivers and pedestrians—within experimental settings come with pragmatic challenges. Due to practical constraints, research typically focuses on a limited subset of potential scenarios, raising questions about the scalability and generalizability of findings about interactions to untested scenarios. Here, we aim to tackle this by laying the methodological groundwork for defining representative scenarios for dyadic (two-actor) interactions that can be analyzed individually. This paper introduces a conceptual guide for operationalizing controlled dyadic traffic interaction studies, developed through extensive interdisciplinary brainstorming to bridge theoretical models and practical experimental design. It elucidates critical trade-offs in scenario selection, interaction approaches, measurement strategies, and timing coordination, thereby enhancing reproducibility and clarity for future traffic interaction research and streamlining the design process. The methodologies and insights we provide aim to enhance the accessibility and quality of traffic interaction research, offering a guide that aids researchers in setting up studies and ensures clarity and reproducibility in reporting, bridging the gap between theoretical traffic interaction models and practical applications in controlled experiments, thereby contributing to advancements in human factors research on traffic management and safety. Full article

Background: Parent–child interactions during mealtime significantly influence social, emotional, and cognitive development in early childhood. Increasing parental use of digital technology has been linked to disruptions in these interactions, a phenomenon termed “technoference,” which is associated with relational conflicts and psychosocial difficulties in children. Feeding interactions are particularly important for fostering attachment and emotional regulation, making them a vital area for studying technology’s effects on parent–child dynamics. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of parental digital technology use during mealtime on the quality of feeding interactions and child dysregulation symptoms. Two groups were compared: mothers who used devices during mealtime (Technology Group, TG) and mothers who did not (Non-Technology Group, NTG). Methods: Participants included mother–child dyads (TG) and a matched control group (NTG) (Ntot = 174), selected from a broader research project. Mother–child pairs were observed during a 20 min midday meal using the validated Italian Scala di Valutazione dell’Interazione Alimentare (SVIA). The emotional and behavioral functioning of children was assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Statistical analyses included ANOVAs and post hoc tests. Results: The TG group demonstrated significantly higher scores on all SVIA subscales, indicating greater parental affective challenges, conflict, food refusal behaviors, and dyadic distress. Additionally, children in the TG group exhibited more internalizing and externalizing problems, including dysregulation symptoms on the CBCL, compared to the NTG group. Conclusions: Parental technology use during mealtime negatively affects parent–child feeding interactions and increases dysregulation in children. These findings highlight the need for mindful parenting strategies to limit digital distractions and foster healthier family dynamics. Full article

This study explores the association between engaging leadership and the strength of an ethical organizational culture (EOC) in leader–follower mentoring dyads. In particular, we use an Actor Partner Interdependence Mediation model to test in a sample of 20 dyads the mediating role of relational variables (psychological safety, distrust, organizational identification and knowledge sharing) as reported by the mentees in the relation between engaging leadership and EOC. Our research shows that mentor–mentee perceptions of engaging leadership are positively correlated. Engaging leadership as reported by mentees was negatively related to distrust and positively to psychological safety, knowledge-sharing and organizational identification. Furthermore, engaging leadership as reported by mentors significantly reduced distrust and increased the strength of EOC, as reported by mentees and mentors. Although knowledge sharing strengthened the EOC, none of the indirect effects of empowering leadership on EOC were significant. The results underscore the importance of engaging leadership in strengthening trust, psychological safety and organizational identification, while highlighting the role of dyadic relationships in promoting a strong EOC. Full article

Traveling to locations featured in anime has become a significant tourism behavior as the number and popularity of Japanese anime works have increased. The widespread phenomenon of anime-induced tourism has called for destination marketing that welcomes anime fans. This study focuses on the dyadic relationship between destination marketers and anime production teams, who hold definitive discretion over copyrights in anime-induced tourism. Using the concept of joint dependence derived from the theoretical assumptions of resource dependency theory, this research investigates how organizations with imbalanced power relations choose to collaborate. By comparing three qualitative cases that distinctly demonstrate temporal structural changes in anime tourism, this study reveals that joint dependence facilitates interorganizational cooperation through domain consensus between destination marketers and anime production teams. The current study makes a significant theoretical contribution to the fields of interorganizational relations, destination marketing studies, and anime-induced tourism research. Additionally, it provides highly practical insights into tourism development strategies for destination marketers and anime production companies. Full article

This narrative review aims to explore the mental and physical well-being of partners of individuals living with chronic pain. Chronic pain not only affects those who suffer from it, but also significantly impacts the lives of their partners; however, the impacts on partners are not well recognised, despite extensive evidence indicating that their quality of life can be equally affected. This review synthesises current literature to identify the psychological and physical challenges faced by these partners, including increased stress, anxiety, depression, and the potential for developing chronic health conditions themselves. A search of Medline for “chronic pain” and “partner/spouse” from January 1990 to the present was performed, and relevant articles were selected for review. The main findings were that while partners often experience a range of negative physical and psychosocial impacts on their quality of life, dyadic coping strategies can mitigate these effects. This review underscores the importance of future research to develop targeted interventions that address the unique needs of this population, promoting better health outcomes and fostering resilience in the face of chronic pain. Full article

Background/objective: Greater parent–infant synchrony is associated with improved child outcomes. Behavioral measures of synchrony are still developing in young infants; thus, researchers need tools to quantify synchrony between parents and their young infants. We examined parent–infant neural synchrony measured using dual EEG hyperscanning and associations between neural synchrony, infant behavioral measures of synchrony, and maternal bondedness and depression. Methods: Our prospective cohort study included mother–infant dyads at 2–4 months of age. We collected time-locked dual EEG recordings of mother and infant and simultaneous video-recordings during a scaffolded interaction where the mother sequentially layered sensory modalities to the interaction. Neural synchrony measured using EEG hyperscanning was analyzed using the circular correlation coefficient (CCorr), infant behavioral synchrony was measured using the validated Welch Emotional Connection Screen (WECS) scores, and maternal bondedness and depression were measured using standardized questionnaires. Results: Our study included n = 47 dyads. Dyadic CCorr increased across the interaction as the mother added tactile stimulation to visual stimulation. We also found associations between behavioral and neural measures of dyadic synchrony such that infants with higher scores on behavioral measures of emotional connection on the WECS showed greater increases in CCorr indicative of dyadic synchrony with their mother across this interaction. We found no associations between neural synchrony and maternal bondedness or depression. Conclusion: These findings support the construct validity of mother–infant dyadic neural synchrony measured using EEG hyperscanning and analyzed using CCorr. Opportunities for future research on quantification of neural synchrony between parents and young infants abound. Full article