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  • Björklund, Glenn
    et al.
    Swedish Winter Sports Research Centre, Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Östersund.
    Swarén, Mikael
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Sport and Health Science.
    Johansson, Fredrik
    Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm; Scandinavian College of Manual Medicine, Stockholm.
    Rally and recover: Physiological demands between tennis drills2026In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 21, no 1, article id e0340767Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study examined physiological recovery between repeated tennis drills in elite adolescent tennis players. Ten tennis players (5 males, 5 females; age 17 ± 2 years) underwent treadmill testing to establish maximal physiological characteristics. Several days later participants completed three standardized on-court tennis drills with fixed rest intervals, during which physiological parameters were monitored. A one-way repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare physiological responses across the three drills. [Formula: see text] utilization stayed above 75% in all drills, peaking during the first drill (p = 0.003). During recovery, [Formula: see text] utilization decreased from 58 ± 8% in the first recovery to 50 ± 9% (p = 0.018) and 47 ± 12% (p = 0.022) in the second and third recovery, respectively. The respiratory exchange ratio (RER) stayed below 1.0 during drills, while increasing during recovery periods, (1.07 ± 0.08, 1.00 ± 0.01, 1.04 ± 0.05; p = 0.014). Ventilatory equivalents for oxygen ([Formula: see text]) were stable (p = 0.054), while those for carbon dioxide ([Formula: see text]) increased progressively for each recovery period (29.5 ± 3.6, 31.5 ± 3.8, 32.3 ± 4.3; p < 0.001). Blood lactate concentration differed significantly across recovery periods (p = 0.035) with the lowest value in recovery period two (5.9 ± 2.0, 4.9 ± 1.9 and 5.6 ± 2.0 mmol·l-1). These findings highlight a sustained metabolic demand extending into the recovery phase during standardized tennis drills, characterized by substantial [Formula: see text] utilization and elevated respiratory compensation. This suggests a significant anaerobic contribution and underscores the intensity of the physiological load imposed even after exercise cessation.

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  • Qviström, Mattias
    et al.
    Swedish Univ Agr Sci, Dept Urban & Rural Dev, Uppsala, Sweden.;Swedish Univ Agr Sci, Dept Urban & Rural Dev, POB 7012, S-75007 Uppsala, Sweden..
    Normark, Daniel
    Uppsala universitet, Ekonomisk-historiska institutionen.
    Luka, Nik
    McGill Univ, Sch Planning, Peter Guo Hua Fu Sch Architecture, Montreal, PQ, Canada..
    Introduction to the Special Section: Recreational mobilities in (and beyond) the compact city2023In: Mobilities, ISSN 1745-0101, E-ISSN 1745-011X, Vol. 18, no 5, p. 691-699Article in journal (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    What happens if one takes recreational mobilities as a point of departure for making sense of the compact city? This special issue offers interdisciplinary explorations of how one might approach studies of cities and metropolitan regions in new ways, using recreational mobilities as both lens and focal point. In so doing, the contributions aim to advance recreational mobilities as a critical theme for scholarship and practice. We specifically hope to demonstrate how such an approach is fruitful for grappling with the legacies of rationalism and modernism in spatial planning, with a focus on the contemporary ideal of the 'compact city' as both phenomenon and normative impulse that has come to dominate discourses of urban design and urban planning in recent decades.(1)

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  • Normark, Daniel
    Uppsala universitet, Centrum för teknik- och vetenskapstudier.
    Ontologies on collision course: Collaborative mobility v. managerial transport in the contemporary history of intelligent transport systems2022In: Journal of Transport History, ISSN 0022-5266, E-ISSN 1759-3999, Vol. 43, no 2, p. 277-295Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Is mobility ontologically different than transport? This essay contributes to this contentious question by looking at the frictions and failures of merging intelligent transport systems (ITS) with mobile information and communication technologies (mobile-ICT). Adopting a methodological approach from science and technology studies (STS), which focus on (political) ontologies, enables us to follow the ordering practices and constituent elements participating in the enactment of multiple ontologies. The dissonance between ITS and mobile-ICT can thus be regarded as the enactment of two ontologies, one managerial and one collaborative. The tensions between these traditions enable us to articulate the differing institutions and sensibilities that characterise a managerial and a collaborative ontology. Thus, how we approach transport can be understood either as under the spell of managerial functionality or as collaboratively achieved pending on "what is" transport. By looking at frictions when defining ITS, we can identify two ontologies that have existed within the history of transport, traffic and mobility.

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  • Normark, Daniel
    Uppsala universitet, Centrum för teknik- och vetenskapstudier.
    Recreational mobility on a busy street: visual studies of alterity by doing jogging and doing dog-walking2023In: Mobilities, ISSN 1745-0101, E-ISSN 1745-011X, Vol. 18, no 5, p. 756-772Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This paper studies recreational mobility as it unfolds as an integral part of the heterogeneity of practices staged in front of a camera on a busy street in Stockholm, Sweden. By analyzing the production- and recognition-work of 'doing-jogging/dog-walking-in-the-city' we argue that recreational mobility accomplishes something more than walking in these settings. In the modern layout of a condensed city, mobility is prioritized due to its utility. In this context, recreational mobility, in all its forms, becomes what anthropologists and sociologists describe as an 'othered' - and as such it exists as an odd curiosity. While this puts recreational mobility at a marginal position it also enables us to better understand mobility in general - though the alterity of recreational mobility. Based on the empirical observations the paper highlights three findings in relation to recreational mobility: (1) its nestedness within everyday mobility; (2) its work of being different than ordinary use of the space - as alterity; and (3) its role as a methodological challenge, especially for studies of on-street level mobility, where different teleologies of mobility and different modalities coexist. Here the materiality of the street and the assemblages play a crucial role as observable materialities within the production- and recognition-work of doing more than walking.

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  • Normark, Daniel
    et al.
    Uppsala universitet, Ekonomisk-historiska institutionen.
    Cochoy, Franck
    Univ Toulouse Jean Jaures, Sociol, Toulouse, France; CNRS, CERTOP, Paris, France.
    Hagberg, Johan
    Univ Gothenburg, Sch Business Econ & Law, Mkt, Gothenburg, Sweden.
    Funny bikes: a symmetrical study of urban space, vehicular units and mobility through the voyeuristic spokesperson of a video lens2019In: Visual Studies, ISSN 1472-586X, E-ISSN 1472-5878, Vol. 34, no 1, p. 13-27Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This paper presents methodological considerations from a comparative, symmetrical video analysis of cyclist practices in Gothenburg and Toulouse. Video recording pays as much attention to the properties of bicycles as to the characteristics of people; it takes into account the pragmatic and situated dimension and, thus, allows a generalised symmetry. From there, visual methods enable us to submit the collected material to a double treatment of a quantitative analysis of observed bicycles and a qualitative ethnomethodological analysis of bike rental sequences. To better understand the logic and challenges of ourmethod, we present it alongside an analogy with a famous film equivalent-the strategy used by the film-maker Michael Haneke in his heuristic film(s), Funny Games. Despite objectives and content that are obviously completely at odds to one another, the Funny Games film(s) and our own videos share at least five interesting features: twin films, static shots, photomontage, silent films, and rewinding.

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  • Hiller, Carolina
    et al.
    Björner Brauer, Hanna
    Kania Lundholm, Magdalena
    Dalarna University, School of Culture and Society, Sociology.
    Lundberg, Erik
    Dalarna University, School of Culture and Society, Political Science.
    Olsson, Therese
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Construction.
    Don't charge while you heat! The social potential for flexibility and coordination of energy-intensive technologies in single-family houses2026In: Energy Policy, ISSN 0301-4215, E-ISSN 1873-6777, Vol. 210, article id 115069Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study explores the social potential for flexibility and coordination of energy-intensive technologies, specifically electric vehicles and heat pumps – an increasingly common combination in Swedish single-family homes with diverse needs and motivations. As electrification rises and power peaks grow more concerning, the research examines flexibility in everyday EV charging and heating practices, focusing on enabling and hindering conditions. Drawing on 21 household interviews and social practice theory, the study found that flexibility potential was influenced by temporal, geographical, and material conditions, along with values, expectations, and experiences. Alternative charging strategies and frugal heating practices demonstrated flexibility, especially among households valuing environmental care. Foreseeability supported flexibility, while rigid schedules and high comfort expectations posed challenges. Practices centred around care were important but could reduce flexibility, and unfavourable combinations of geographical and material conditions further constrained it, but instead shaped fragility and awareness. Coordinating EV charging with heat pump use and adapting to new power tariffs proved complex. The study highlights the importance of understanding the social dimensions of energy flexibility and offers insights for policymakers and energy providers to support households in managing and coordinating practices related to multiple energy-intensive technologies in response to price signals and power demands.

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  • Thimell, Helena
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Ghulam Hazrat, Khalida
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors upplevelser av utmaningar med att möta patienter med självskadebeteende på somatisk akutmottagning: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Self-harm behavior is often the result of mental illness and a serious public health issue globally. Patients combined with self-harming behavior often seek medical care in the Somatic Emergency Department, due to injuries related to the mental illness. Registered Nurses (RNs) are often the first healthcare professionals that the patient comes in contact with. RNs experience difficulties in the care of this specific and vulnerable patient group.

    Aim

    The aim of this study is to summarize knowledge about RNs experiences and challenges when caring for patients with self-harm behavior in the Somatic Emergency Department.

    Method

    A structured literature review with elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews which constitutes the design of the literature review. The literature review is based on twelve scientic articles identified through searches in PubMed, CINAHL and PsycInfo. The articles where reviewed using appraisal templates for qualitative and quantitative studies and analysis was carried out according to Friberg’s five-step model.

    Results

    The results of the literature review were compiled into two main categories: Uncertainty when encountering patients with self-harming behavior and Lack of organizational resources, with associated subcategories. The results showed that nurses lack sufficient competence in meeting patients with self-harming behaviour and wish for clearer collaboration with psychiatric services and targeted education.

    Conclusions

    The result shows that RNs at Somatic Emergency Departments often feel uncertainty when caring for patients seeking care for self-harming injuries. This is often due to a lack of experience, knowledge and education as well as the limited collaboration with the psychiatric services, which affects the ability to provide safe and personalized care.

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  • Kocher, Rejin
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Abdulkader, Safaa
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors erfarenheter av trycksårsprevention inom slutenvården: Sjuksköterskor upplevelse: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Pressure ulcers remain a common healthcare-associated injury in inpatient care and contribute to patient suffering and increased healthcare costs. Despite established guidelines, pressure ulcers continue to occur, highlighting the need to understand how preventive measures are applied in clinical practice. Nurses play a key role in prevention through risk assessment, skin inspection and the implementation of nursing interventions.

    Aim

    The aim was to describe nurses’ experiences of nursing interventions to prevent the development of pressure ulcers in inpatient care.

    Method

    A qualitative literature review was conducted. Systematic searches were performed in CINAHL and PubMed. Thirteen peer-reviewed qualitative studies published between 2020 and 2025 were included. All articles were quality-assessed and analysed using content analysis inspired by Friberg.

    Results

    Three main categories were identified: the importance of knowledge, preventive nursing measures and organisational challenges. Nurses reported insufficient education and noted that much knowledge was acquired through practical experience. Key preventive actions, such as skin assessments, repositioning and the use of pressure-relieving devices, were hindered by time constraints, workload, patient instability and limited access to equipment. Organisational barriers, including documentation demands and inadequate team collaboration, further affected preventive practice.

    Conclusions

    Pressure ulcer prevention is influenced by factors related to knowledge, resources and organisational support. Continuous education, clear routines and strengthened organisational structures are essential to improve preventive nursing care.

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  • Barkadle, Mahbuba
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Welderufael, Haile
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Omvårdnadsåtgärder mot förstoppning hos äldre personer: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Constipation is characterized by difficulty in emptying the bowels, which leads to hard stools and a reduced frequency of bowel movements. This condition negatively affects health, but it is rarely recognized as a serious problem by healthcare professionals. This results in older people not always receiving the support and care measures they need.

    Aim

    The purpose of the literature review is to describe nursing interventions and their effects on constipation in older adults.

    Method

    The literature review was conducted as a structured literature study with elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews. The articles consist of eleven articles with a quantitative design and one qualitative design obtained from the database CINAHL and PubMed.

    Results

    The results identified two main categories and nine subcategories. The main categories are body-based measures and lifestyle- and diet-related measures, which highlight the needs of older adults with constipation, as well as the nursing interventions that can be applied in practice.

    Conclusions

    The evidence shows that various nursing interventions can reduce constipation in the elderly. The results emphasize the importance of combining several measures and adapting them to the individual's needs and circumstances.

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  • Balkén, Linda
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Ingvarsson, Erika
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors upplevelser av vilka faktorer som bidrar till etisk stress: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    The nurse's area of responsibility is care based on a humanistic view of people and a person-centered approach. The mission involves promoting health, alleviating suffering, and ensuring safe care. Continuous reflection on norms and values is required to ensure that care is safe and ethically defensible.

    Aim

    To compile nurses' experiences of the factors that contribute to ethical stress.

    Method

    A structured literature review incorporating elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews. Fifteen scientific articles published between 2020 and 2025 in the PubMed and CINAHL databases were analyzed thematically.

    Results

    Three main categories with a total of seven subcategories were identified. “Not having right conditions” – insufficient resources, organizational barriers and lack of team collaboration. “Feeling inadequate” – missed nursing care and conflicts between expectations and professional responsibility, “Going against one's values” – providing care that does not benefit the patient and compromises between ethics and practical requirements.

    Conclusions

    Nurses are often prevented from providing the care they believe is the best for the patient due to lack of resources, hierarchy, and lack of teamwork. To enable ethically defensible and person-centered care, organizational investments in leadership, work environment, and ethical support are required.

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  • Savage, Fatou
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Att vårda under hot och våld - sjuksköterskors upplevelser inom psykiatrisk vård: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Violence and threats are common in psychiatric care and affects nurses' mental health, sense of safety and the quality of nursing care. According to the Swedish Work Environment Act (1977:1160), employer are responsible for preventing workplace risks and creating a safe environment free from ill health and accidents. Despite this, research shows that many nurses experience lack of support and unclear routine, leading to violence often being perceived as a natural part of work.

    Aim

    The aim of this literature review is to describe nurses’ experiences of patient-related threats and violence in psychiatric care

    Method

    A structured qualitative literature review was conducted with elements of systematic review methodology. The results were based on 13 qualitative empirical articles, that were analysed using qualitative content analysis according to Graneheim and Lundman (2004).

    Results

    Three main categories were identified: Forms and normalization of threats and violence, psychological, emotional and professional consequences as well as conflict management and organizational support. Threats and violence were experienced as both mentally and emotionally exhausting and tended to be normalized in the workplace. Lack of support and unclear routines increased the nurses' vulnerability.

    Conclusions

    Threats and violence affect nurses on several levels, leading to emotional strain and reduced professional confidence. To promote a safe care environment requires, increased knowledge, more organizational responsibility, clear routines/guidelines and supportive interventions that counteract the normalization and acceptance of threats and violence in psychiatric care.

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  • Görlin Heloaho, Magdalena
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Ekman, Sandra
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Våld i nära relationer: Kvinnor utsatta för våld i nära relationers upplevelse av bemötande av hälso- och sjukvårdspersonal – en litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Intimate partner violence is a global public health issue in which women are predominantly affected, often experiencing physical, psychological and social harm. Healthcare professionals have an important role in identifying violence, but limited knowledge and understanding can hinder this. Women rarely disclose their experiences. A professional and person-centered approach is crucial to ensuring these women receive the support and protection they need.

    Aim

    The aim of the literature review was to shed light on the experiences of women exposed to intimate partner violence of being treated by healthcare professionals.

    Method

    The literature study was conducted as a structured literature study with elements

    of the methodology used in systematic reviews. The literature search was conducted in the databases CINAHL and APA PsycInfo. A systematic analysis was conducted

    according to Friberg´s model. The selection resulted in twelve articles that met the purpose.

    Results

    The literature review resulted in two categories, Conditions for talking about violence and The importance of the care relationship, and six subcategories were identified, questions about intimate partner violence, time and continuity, privacy and confidentiality, respectful treatment, autonomy and participation, and need for support.

    Conclusions

    It is important that healthcare professionals ask questions about intimate partner violence and build a good relationship with women who have experienced intimate partner violence. Through a calm, empathetic and respectful approach, healthcare professionals can create the safety and trust needed to rebuild women´s lives, health and well-being.

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  • Ismail, Fadumo
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Hashim, Fatima
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Hinder och utmaningar sjuksköterskor möter i omvårdnaden av patienter med självskadebeteende: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Self-harm behavior means that the individual consciously or unconsciously harms themselves. Self-harm can often be a way to avoid difficult and unpleasant feelings. It can also be a way to escape difficult memories or experiences. Self-harm is a growing health problem and a leading factor in serious injuries and a sign of psychological distress.

    Aim

    The purpose of this study is to highlight the obstacles and challenges professional nurses face in caring for patients with self-harm behavior

    Method

    The design of this work consists of a structured literature review with elements of methodology used in systematic review. The databases used were CINAHL and PubMed, and 10 scientific articles were included in the results.

    Results

    The study´s result identified three main categories: Nurse´s perspective, organizational factors and communication. The identified main categories emerged as central challenges in the care of patients with self-harm.

    Conclusions

    The literature study shows that nurses often experience uncertainty in the care of patients with self-harm, which is mainly linked to nurse´s perspective, organizational factors and communication. Organizational factors, resource availability, and work environment play a crucial role in nurses' ability to provide respectful and professional treatment to patients with self-harm.

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  • Granstedt, Monica
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Karlsson, Sofia-Magdalena
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors attityder till patienter med substansbrukssyndrom: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Substance use disorder is a growing social problem that affects both individuals and the healthcare system. People with substance use disorder risk being stigmatised and labelled, which can create barriers to seeking care and receiving adequate healthcare. Lack of knowledge and negative perceptions can reinforce stigma and limit patients' access to care.

    Aim

    The aim of this literature review was to highlight factors that affect nurses' attitudes towards caring for people with substance use disorder in somatic care.

    Method

    This literature review was conducted using a qualitative approach, in which 14 articles were included and analysed according to Friberg's five-step model.

    Results

    The results generated three themes: Organisational and professional conditions, Resistance in healthcare encounters, and Clinical and ethical challenges, with associated sub-themes. These themes describe factors that influence nurses' attitudes towards caring for patients with substance use disorders.

    Conclusions

    Nurses' attitudes towards patients with substance use disorders are shaped by a number of factors, such as organisational structures, ethical positions and clinical complexity. This emphasises that attitudes are not static but can be influenced by both individual and structural interventions. Nurses' attitudes towards caring for patients with substance use disorders can be positively influenced by factors such as increased knowledge, clear guidelines and good organisational conditions.

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  • Golami, Mahnaz
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Isse, Deeqa
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors erfarenheter av att använda språktolk: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Communication is an important component of nursing care and is important in creating an understanding between patients and nurses. Nurses have a responsibility to adapt to communication based on the patient's circumstances and needs. When the patient has limited knowledge of the common language, the use of various types of language interpreters becomes a resource to ensure that information is conveyed and that the patient has the opportunity to participate in their care.

    Aim

    The purpose of the literature review was to highlight nurse's experiences of using language interpreters in healthcare.

    Method

    This is a literature review with 14 articles that are analyzed using Friberg's model for literature reviews.

    Results

    The main categories of the results are nurse’s experience of different types of language interpreters and their importance and nurses experience of factors that affect the quality of interpretation, with associated categories. The categories describe nurses experience of using language interpreters in healthcare.

    Conclusions

    The nurse's experience was that language interpreters enable effective communication between nurses and patients, but at the same time, challenges such as building a relationship between nurse and patient, time delays and the risk of mistranslations can occur. The interpreter's competence and professionalism are of great importance for ensuring that information is conveyed correctly and for maintaining patient participation.

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  • Bengtsson, Elin
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Karlsson Winroth, Emma
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Patienters upplevelse av att leva med hjärtsvikt: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Heart failure is a global public health disease that constitutes a long-term condition with sigificant consequences for patient´s physical, psychological and social quality of life. The disease is often associated with extensive symptoms and a substantial responsibility for self-care, which may be preceived as demanding and negatively affect quality of life. Despite extensive research, there remains a need for deeper knowledge regarding how patients themselves experience living with heart failure.

    Aim

    To describe patients´experience of living with heart failure.

    Method

    The work was carried out as a structured literature review incorporating elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews. Data collection was carried out systematically in the PubMed and CINAHL databases. The study is based on fifteen articles of which twelve were qualitative, and three used a mixed-methods approach.

    Results

    The analysis generated three main categories. The first main category is Challenges with Physical Activity, with the subcategories; Experiencing Physical Limitations in Daily Life and Experiencing Anxiety and Uncertainty During Physical Activity. The second main category is Self-Care Strategies to Manage Symptoms, with the subcategories; Symptoms-Regulating Actions and Actions to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle. The third main category is Experiences of How Quality of Life is Affected, with the subcategories; Factors That Hinder Quality of Life and Factors That Promote Quality of Life.

    Conclusions

    People with heart failure experience limitations in their daily lives which gives rise to feelings of worry or low mood. Self-care is a central component but is often experienced as demanding. Social support, clear information and good communication with healthcare providers are crucial for feeling secure and managing the condition.

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  • Andrei, Alexandra
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Olsson, Isabelle
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Omvårdnadsinterventioner som lindrar preoperativ ångest hos vuxna patienter: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Preoperative anxiety is common among adult surgical patients and may lead to physiological stress reactions, increased risk of complications and prolonged recovery. Pharmacological treatment is often the primary approach in clinical practice, highlighting the need to explore effective non-pharmacological nursing interventions.

    Aim

    To describe nursing interventions that relieves preoperative anxiety in adult patients.

    Method

    A structured literature review with systematic elements was conducted. Searches in CINAHL and PubMed identified 216 articles, of which 16 quantitative studies met the inclusion criteria after PRISMA-guided screening and quality appraisal. Data were analysed inductively using a step-by-step process inspired by Popenoe et al. (2021), resulting in main categories and subcategories.

    Results

    Two main categories emerged: sensory-based interventions and communication and support- based interventions. Music therapy, aromatherapy and audiovisual media (VR and films) consistently reduced anxiety. Telenursing and preoperative informational visits also significantly lowered anxiety and increased patient satisfaction and preparedness.

    Conclusions

    Non-pharmacological nursing interventions are effective and easily implemented tools to reduce preoperative anxiety.

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  • Weldemicael, Arsema Biniam
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Pettersson, Isabell
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors upplevelser av arbetsrelaterad stress i arbetet på akutmottagningar: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Work-related stress represents a central challenge for nurses in emergency departments (ED), where high workload and organizational deficiencies affect both staff health and the quality of care. Many factors in the work environment in ED contribute to work-related stress. This stress can then lead to physical and mental health problems and affect the work ability of nurses. Many consequences of stress also affect patient safety.

    Aim

    The aim of this literature review was to describe nurse´s experiences of work-related stress and the factors that influence these experiences working in emergency departments.

    Method

    The literature review was conducted with a literature search and with methodology used in systematic reviews. The search focused on ED and included original articles. The data was analysed according to Graneheim & Lundman’s (2004) analysis method.

    Results

    The analysis resulted in four main categories, experience of insufficiency in the profession due to high workload, psychological strain, living with stress as both motivation and burden at work and experiences of stress management. Nurses in ED experience insufficiency due to high workload because of heavy patient flow, complex care needs and organizational shortcomings. This leads to exhaustion and affects them psychologically, emotionally and behaviorally. The stress is managed through social support, selfcare, emotional coping or avoidance strategies.

    Conclusions

    Nurses in ED experience complex stress characterized by high and emotional strain. Stress can be both motivating and burdensome and is managed through various forms of stress management. However, a lack of support and demanding working conditions aggravate the negative consequences.

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  • Andersson, Elin
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Mattiasson Oskarsson, Hanne
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Att beskriva ensamhet hos äldre patienter inom hemsjukvård: Litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Loneliness is a subjective experience of lacking meaningful relationships it is influenced by health and life circumstances and often affects older adults. Because many older people today receive care in their own homes, understanding of the different expressions of loneliness is central in home healthcare.

    Aim

    The aim is to describe loneliness among older patients receiving home healthcare.

    Method

    A structured literature review incorporating elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews. Twelve scientific articles were included through searches in the PubMed and CINAHL databases. The articles were analyzed using Friberg’s five-step model for content.

    Results

    The synthesis of the articles resulted in two main categories: Prerequisites for identifying the presence of loneliness, and A person-centerd approach to providing appropriate support. These main categories comprised two and three subcategories respectively: Knowledge about loneliness, Organizational conditions, The relationship with the patient, Opportunities for social interaction, and Conversations about existential issues.

    Conclusions

    A responsive and person-centered approach enables to identify early signs of loneliness among older adults, thereby promoting psychological and existential well-being. To achieve this, organizational conditions that support a systematic preventive approach are required. Through continuous contact, trustful relationships, and social activities, can help prevent loneliness and identify, and alleviate suffering among older people in home healthcare.

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  • Paloniemi Lindström, Mari
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Mathematics Education. University of Gothenburg.
    Exploring the role of school climate, teacher workload, and job satisfaction in student achievement: insights from PIRLS and TIMSS2026In: Educational Assessment, Evaluation and Accountability, ISSN 1874-8597, E-ISSN 1874-8600Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The study investigates how teachers’ working conditions - specifically workload and perceptions of a safe and orderly school climate - relate to teachers’ job satisfaction and student achievement in Swedish Grade 4 classrooms. Drawing on data from two international large-scale assessments, PIRLS (2016 and 2021) and TIMSS (2019 and 2023), the study applies parallel mediation structural equation modelling to investigate whether changes in working conditions mediate changes in teacher job satisfaction and student performance over time. Results show that perceptions of school climate are consistently associated with teachers’ job satisfaction and student achievement, while workload is related to job satisfaction but not achievement. Notably, the introduction of a socioeconomic proxy (number of books at home) reversed the initial decline in reading achievement in PIRLS, highlighting SES as a key confounding factor. In contrast, mathematics achievement in TIMSS improved over time regardless of SES adjustment, suggesting greater SES stability. The findings underscore the importance of school climate as a job resource and the need to account for demographic shifts when interpreting achievement trends.

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  • Hintze, Arend
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Computing. BEACON Center for the Study of Evolution in Action, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
    Proschinger Åström, Frida
    Student at Dalarna University.
    Schossau, Jory
    Autonomous language-image generation loops converge to generic visual motifs2026In: Patterns, E-ISSN 2666-3899, Vol. 7, no 1, article id 101451Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Autonomous AI-to-AI creative systems promise new frontiers in machine creativity, yet we show that they systematically converge toward generic outputs. We built iterative feedback loops between Stable Diffusion XL (SDXL; image generation) and Large Language and Vision Assistant (LLaVA; image description), forming autonomous text → image → text → image cycles. Across 700 trajectories with diverse prompts and 7 temperature settings over 100 iterations, all runs converged to nearly identical visuals—what we term ‘‘visual elevator music.’’ Quantitative analysis revealed just 12 dominant motifs with commercially safe aesthetics, such as stormy lighthouses and palatial interiors. This convergence persisted across model pairs, indicating structural limits in cross-modal AI creativity. The effect mirrors human cultural transmission, where iterated learning amplifies cognitive biases, but here, diversity collapses entirely as AI loops gravitate to high-probability attractors in training data. Our findings expose hidden homogenizing tendencies in current architectures and underscore the need for anti-convergence mechanisms and sustained human-AI interplay to preserve creative diversity.

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  • Dillner, Pernilla
    et al.
    Göransson, Katarina
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Caring Science/Nursing.
    Norman, Mikael
    Unbeck, Maria
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Caring Science/Nursing. Karolinska Institutet.
    Förberg, Ulrika
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Caring Science/Nursing. Karolinska Institutet.
    Nurse staffing skill mix and acuity-adjusted provision ratios in Swedish neonatal care: A cohort benchmark study2026In: International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances, E-ISSN 2666-142X, Vol. 10, article id 100471Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    The development of neonatal intensive care has substantially reduced infant mortality, still, infants remain at high risk for adverse outcomes. Safe care relies on adequate nurse staffing and an appropriate skill mix, which is especially important in neonatal intensive care as infants are extremely vulnerable to harm when quality lapses occur. Although international guidelines recommend optimal nurse-to-patient ratios for neonatal care, these standards have not been fully implemented, leaving it unclear whether current staffing levels align with recommendations for safe staffing.

    Objective

    To benchmark the acuity-adjusted registered nurse staffing provision ratio in neonatal intensive care and determine the skill mix distribution and variation of nursing staff across shifts.

    Method

    This retrospective cohort study included infant data from a 16-week period in 2022 in three neonatal intensive care units with a common administration at a university hospital. Data were obtained from the hospital’s data repository and the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register, including 609 neonatal admissions and 345 nursing staff members working 1008 shifts. Infants’ daily acuity levels were assessed using an adapted version of the British Association of Perinatal Medicine’s guideline, classifying infants into three levels: intensive care, high dependency care, and special care. Staffing provision was measured as the number of worked hours per shift, staff category, and unit. The registered nurse provision ratio was defined as the number of registered nurse hours provided divided by the recommended hours. A ratio below 1.0 indicates understaffing.

    Results

    The population’s total in-hospital days were 4674, and the mean birth weight was 2843 g (SD 1029), with 57.0 % being boys. The proportion of registered nurses relative to nursing assistants ranged from 22.2 % to 85.7 %, with a median of 46.5 %. Registered nurses with specialist education accounted for a median of 73.0 % of total registered nurse hours. Within each unit, the mean acuity-adjusted number of registered nurses recommended by the British Association of Perinatal Medicine’s standard was relatively consistent across shift types and between weekdays and weekends. However, the required number of registered nurses between individual shifts showed considerable variation, ranging from 2.5 to 10.3. During the inclusion period, 81.2 % of the shifts had a registered nurse provision ratio below 1.0, suggesting that most shifts did not meet the recommendations for staffing levels.

    Conclusions

    This study highlights a shortfall in registered nurse staffing relative to recommended levels. Ensuring adequate registered nurse staffing levels is crucial for maintaining high-quality neonatal care and improving infant outcomes.

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  • Stub Nybelius, Marit
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Sport and Health Science. Örebro University.
    Alsarve, Daniel
    Even eagles struggle to fly: Matti Nykänen, Eddie the Eagle, and Jan Boklöv in the era of commercialisation, professionalisation, and mediatisation2026In: Sport in Society: Cultures, Media, Politics, Commerce, ISSN 1743-0437, E-ISSN 1743-0445, Vol. 29, no 1, p. 191-209Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This paper examines the professionalisation, mediatisation, and commodification of ski jumping, focusing on the careers of Matti Nykänen, Jan Boklöv, and Michael ‘Eddie the Eagle’ Edwards. We explore how the underdog who transformed the sport and the outsider who captivated the media competed against one of history’s most accomplished ski jumpers. Furthermore, we analyse why figures like Boklöv and Edwards have not reemerged, concentrating on their significance in the Winter Olympics. Through qualitative interviews with former ski jumpers and coaches, we examine the negotiation between the logic of sport, driven by competition and winning, commodification, driven by economic maximisation, and mediatisation, driven by narrative dramatization. Findings suggest that while performance sets professional standards, media narratives can elevate unconventional figures like Eddie the Eagle, who gained fame despite his limited success. In contrast, successful athletes like Nykänen experienced negative media commodification. Boklöv’s innovative V-style, meanwhile, exemplifies how such innovations can reshape the sport. Finally, we highlight the paradoxes of professionalisation and thus reveal that commercialisation and mediatisation are not necessarily tied to sporting success but remain crucial in defining public narratives.

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  • Elf, Marie
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Caring Science/Nursing.
    de Vries, Laila
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Smith, Frida
    Pessah-Rasmussen, Helene
    Ytterberg, Charlotte
    Kylén, Maya
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Caring Science/Nursing. Kristianstad University; Lund university.
    Stakeholder perspectives on needs and priorities in home-based stroke rehabilitation: A concept mapping study2026In: Wellbeing, Space and Society, E-ISSN 2666-5581, Vol. 10, article id 100335Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Despite growing emphasis on home-based rehabilitation following stroke, there remains limited understanding of how to effectively tailor services to individual needs. This study employed concept mapping to explore diverse stakeholder perspectives on adapting home-based rehabilitation to better support the recovery process after stroke. Through this mixed-methods participatory approach, we engaged 89 stakeholders, including stroke survivors, significant others, healthcare professionals, managers, and architects. Participants generated, sorted, and rated statements about what matters most in home-based stroke rehabilitation. A hierarchical cluster analysis was conducted to organize the data into concepts. Five clusters were identified: 1) social support at home and beyond; 2) professional competence; 3) supportive home environment; 4) teamwork and resources; and 5) patient involvement. Patient involvement was rated highest for importance and feasibility, followed by professional competence. Specifically, stakeholders emphasized that rehabilitation should feel meaningful and be tailored to the patient's needs. No generated ideas from the cluster “supportive home environment” were found in the go-zone, and adapting rehabilitation to diverse home environments was recognized as crucial but hard to implement. The findings underscore the need for individualized, context-sensitive approaches and suggest that strengthening professional competence, particularly in navigating diverse environments and engaging support networks, will be essential to translating person-centered principles into everyday rehabilitation practice.

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  • Andersson, Mikael
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Construction.
    Mikrourbanism i den samtida japanska arkitekturen2026Report (Other (popular science, discussion, etc.))
    Abstract [sv]

    Från att Japan har haft en stark tillväxt och snabb urban utveckling sedan 1900-talets andra hälft står landet nu inför en minskande befolkningsutveckling med en allt större andel äldre. Detta är en trend som pekar mot minskad ekonomisk tillväxt och sämre förutsättningar för investeringar i urbana strukturer (Mostafavi, 2024; Sorensen, 2002; Sorensen & Funck, 2007). Denna nya verklighet har sakta börjat öppnat upp för nya arkitektur- och stadsbyggnadspraktiker som i mindre grad styrs av globala och nationella vinstintressen och i stället betonar långsiktiga investeringar i lokalsamhället. Dessa praktiker utgår från befintliga resurser och strukturer med syftet att på ett resurseffektivt sätt stärka människors livsmiljöer (Almazán, 2023; Koh et al., 2010; Mostafavi & Ota, 2023; Satoh, 2019, 2020). De kan förstås som en mikrourbanism där småskaliga initiativ, i relation till sin omgivning, genererar stadsliv med betydande effekter på lokalsamhället (Almazán, 2023; Madanipour, 1996). Inom transitionslitteraturen betraktas den typ av disruptiv samhällsförändring som Japan i dag står inför som en möjlig grund för mer experimenterande och varierade praktiker i likhet med de mikrourbana arkitektur- och stadsbyggnadspraktiker som vi ser växa fram i japanska städer. Dessa praktiker kan i sin tur bidra till transformativa förändringar på systemnivå som kan möjliggöra en mer hållbar utveckling (Grin et al., 2010; Rotmans & Loorbach, 2009).

    Studiens syfte är att genom en arkitektonisk etnografi (Tsukamoto et al., 2017) ge en inblick i dessa framväxande mikrourbana arkitektur- och stadsbyggnadspraktiker i Japan. Fokus ligger på samtida arkitekter som genom platsbaserade ingrepp gör tillägg i staden som har en positiv påverkan på lokalsamhället, där utformningen anpassas till lokalt tillgängliga resurser. Detta används som utgångspunkt för att reflektera över praktikernas transformativa kapacitet för hållbar utveckling. En sammantagen slutsats är att det är praktiker som på ett experimentellt och undersökande sätt arbetar med insatser i den redan byggda miljön för att hantera större samhällsutmaningar och bidra till en positiv utveckling på områdesnivå. Denna del av den japanska samtidsarkitekturen utgör därmed en viktig inspirationskälla och ett kunskapsunderlag för hur komplexa rumsligheter och samhälleliga utmaningar kan hanteras genom ett kreativt arbete utifrån kontextuella förutsättningar och befintliga urbana system.

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  • Subramanian, Shangavi
    et al.
    Praveenkumar, K.
    Rameshbabu, Nagumothu
    Lokeshraj, Kuppusamy
    Raheem, Ansheed A.
    Jayamani, Jayaraj
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering. Karlstad University.
    Prashanth, K. G.
    Biofunctionalization of SLM Ti-40Nb alloy through hydroxyapatite-modified plasma electrolytic oxidation coating2026In: Applied Surface Science Advances, E-ISSN 2666-5239, Vol. 31, article id 100917Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study reports the successful development of bioactive coatings on in-situ alloyed Ti-40Nb substrates fabricated via selective laser melting (SLM) using plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). Two electrolytes were employed for PEO processing: phosphate–silicate (PS) and phosphate–silicate–hydroxyapatite (PSHA). A comparative evaluation was performed to investigate the influence of electrolyte composition on surface morphology, corrosion resistance, and biological performance. The incorporation of hydroxyapatite (HAp) in the PSHA electrolyte significantly modified the coating structure, resulting in reduced porosity, increased surface roughness, and enhanced wettability. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of TiO₂ (anatase and rutile) and Nb₂O₅ phases, with a higher rutile fraction observed in the HAp-incorporated coatings due to intensified plasma discharges. Electrochemical testing in simulated body fluid (SBF) demonstrated improved corrosion resistance for the HAp-containing samples, as evidenced by lower corrosion current density and passivation current values. In vitro assays with MC3T3 pre-osteoblast cells further revealed superior cell viability and proliferation on the HAp-incorporated coatings, attributed to the synergistic effects of roughened topography and the sustained release of bioactive ions. Overall, the PEO-modified Ti40Nb samples exhibited enhanced corrosion protection and cytocompatibility, underscoring their strong potential as next-generation Ti-based orthopedic implant materials.

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  • Westblom, Emma
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Hoseia Wretman, Rebecca
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Att drabbas av postpartumdepression: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Postpartum depression affects an average of 13 percent of all newly delivered women worldwide. It is a complex diagnosis that impacts both the individual and her surroundings, and its experience is further shaped by external factors such as society, healthcare services, and social networks. In relation to this the present literature review was conducted to establish the conditions necessary for providing optimal care to patients with postpartum depression.

    Aim

    The aim was to describe women’s experiences of being affected by postpartum depression.

    Method

    The study was conducted as a structured literature review, using qualitative thematic content analysis as the analytical method.

    Results

    The results revealed a wide range of symptoms and considerable variation in their presentation, with a surprising finding being that only a minority of the women in the studies reported experiencing difficulties with mother–infant bonding. Furthermore, inadequate screening emerged as a major contributing factor to undertreatment. The findings also indicated that societal ideals of motherhood place significant pressure on new mothers, leading to an intensified experience of symptoms and postpartum depression itself. A lack of knowledge about the diagnosis among individuals, relatives, healthcare providers, and society at large was identified as a major factor contributing to insufficient care and a lack of understanding.

    Conclusions

    Being able to recognize symptoms early, to be met with understanding and acceptance, and to be informed about the available support and how to access it are, in light of this literature review, crucial factors influencing how individuals experience, manage, and ultimately recover from their postpartum depression.

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  • Cakmak, Pelin
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Flink, Tanya
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Språkbarriärer i vården: En litteraturstudie om känslor, konsekvenser och risker2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Communication is a key concept in healthcare. Language barriers arise between patients and caregivers when they don’t speak the same language, which in turn can affect the quality of care, patient safety, and patient participation.

    Aim

    The purpose of this study is to compile and highlight research-based knowledge on how language barriers affect the experiences of patients and nurses during the care encounter.

    Method

    The study was conducted as a structured literature review. The work followed a structured procedure for selecting the studies, and the analysis was inspired by the methodology used in a systematic review.

    Results

    The results fall into three main categories, showing that language barriers complicate healthcare encounters, that the use of interpreters present both opportunities and challenges and other strategies for dealing with language barriers in healthcare.

    Conclusions

    Language barriers in healthcare contexts present several challenges that affect both patients and nurses experiences of the healthcare encounter. The results show that lack of communication can lead to feelings of frustration and anxiety in both the nurse and the patient. Lack of communication can jeopardize patient safety and have a negative impact on the quality of care.

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  • Hoffmann Cardenas, Isabel
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Åkesson, Jennifer
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Djurterapins effekt på äldre personer i vården: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Older people in healthcare constitute a vulnerable group with an increased risk of both physical and psychological health problems, including depression, anxiety, loneliness, and reduced activity. At the same time, there is a need for non-pharmacological intervention that can support both health and quality of life. Animal-assisted interventions have shown positive effects of animal therapy on the older population´s physical and psychological health in healthcare.

    Aim

    The aim of this literature review was to summarize research on the effects of animal-assisted therapy on the older patient in healthcare

    Method

    This thesis was carried out as a structured literature study with elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews. Literature searches were conducted in CINAHL and PubMed according to the PICO model. A total of 553 articles were identified, and after the final step of the selection process, a total of 13 articles remained. All articles were reviewed using the appraisal templates from Dalarna University, and the data were analyzed with Popenoe´s three-step process.

    Results

    Animal therapy showed positive effects on depression, anxiety, apathy, mood, affectivity, loneliness, quality of life, sleep quality, cognitive functions, physical activity, and certain behavior symptoms. The effects on quality of life were studied to the greatest extend and consistently showed positive results. No significant effect was identified on medication och health as a unified concept. 12 of 13 studies carried out the intervention with a dog that showed effect in some aspects, and one study carried out the intervention with a cat that did not show any effect.

    Conclusions

    The aim was to conclude science based knowledge about the effects of animal therapy on older people in healthcare. The results overall shows that animal therapy have a significant positive effect on older peoples health in healthcare, since 12 out of 13 studies showed significant improvements of animal therapy within one or several researched effects. This find shows that animal therapy could be used as a compliment to traditional health care on older patient to improve health within areas like for example quality of life and physical inactivity. Despite of the fact that the literature review displayed positive improvements within several categories, the number of studies are to low (n=13) for the results to be considered fully reliable.

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  • Klangvall, Adam
    Dalarna University, School of Culture and Society.
    När kreativitet möter struktur: Hur projektledningsmetoden Scrum kan anpassas för musikskapandeprocesser2025Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Denna studie undersöker hur den agila projektledningsmetoden Scrum kan tillämpas och anpassas inom musikskapandeprocesser i en solokontext. Genom designforskning bestående av förstudie, designarbete och värdering analyseras det hur Scrum kan fungera som stöd i ett kreativt och oförutsägbart arbetsflöde. Intervjuer med professionella musikskapare visar att musikproduktion präglas av flexibilitet, iterativa arbetscykler och behov av struktur, men att strukturen inte får vara så strikt att den hämmar kreativt flow.

    I designfasen implementerades en anpassad version av Scrum i skapandet av en Drum and Bass-produktion, där sprintar, målformulering och Definition of Done modifierades för att passa en individuell musikskapandeprocess. Processvisualisering genom Trello visade sig vara ett effektivt verktyg för att skapa överblick och minska kognitiv belastning. Värderingen genom ett lyssningstest indikerar att den låt som producerades med Scrum uppskattades i högre grad av deltagarna jämfört med en låt producerad utan någon formell projektledningsmetod, därmed indikerar resultatet att metoden kan förbättra det klingande resultatet. Studien visar att Scrum kan fungera som metod i solobaserad musikproduktion, förutsatt att ramverket reduceras och anpassas till musikskapandeprocessens kreativa natur.

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  • Tereschatov, Susanne
    Dalarna University, School of Language, Literatures and Learning.
    Mündliche Interaktion im Fremdsprachenunterricht: Ein didaktischer Vergleich von Deutsch und Schwedisch als Zweitsprache (SVA) in der schwedischen Grundschule2026Independent thesis Advanced level (professional degree), 20 credits / 30 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [sv]

    Detta examensarbete undersöker hur muntlig interaktion behandlas inom språkdidaktiken för tyska som modernt språk och svenska som andraspråk (SVA), med utgångspunkt i de olika målstyrningarna i Lgr22 (Skolverket 2025a). Genom en jämförande analys av styrdokument och didaktiska teorier identifieras metoder som kan bidra till en mer stöttande undervisning i båda ämnena. Studien kompletteras med kvalitativa intervjuer med verksamma lärare, vars erfarenheter, undervisningsmetoder samt exempel på framgångar och utmaningar ger inblick i hur muntlig interaktion hanteras i den praktiska skolvardagen. Resultaten visar att även om ämnena har olika målformuleringar, finns gemensamma didaktiska behov och möjligheter till kollegialt lärande, särskilt vad gäller stöttning av muntlig produktion, interaktion och motivation.

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  • J. Bixo, Olliwer
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Culture and Society.
    Ståbi, Samuel
    “Det här är musikstreamingtjänsten för mig”: Val av musikstreamingtjänster och dess användares upplevelser2025Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    This research paper investigates the habits and experiences with music-streaming services of music students within Högskolan Dalarna. The study was conducted using digital surveys to find the willing participants; their responses went through a filtering process which later was contacted for semi-structured interviews. The conclusion from the interviews was that Spotify was the most used streaming service, and the most common reason people choose a streaming service is based on how easy it is to use, flexibility, technical aspects, and social norms.

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  • Abdul Hamid, Rahaf
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Ashur, Lana
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors upplevelser av språkliga barriärer i patientmöten: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Communication is central in healthcare and is important for creating understanding, trust, and participation between nurses and patients. Migration and increased diversity have led to patients having different language and cultural backgrounds, which can create language barriers and communication challenges. These barriers affect nurses’ ability to provide person-centered care and can lead to frustration, misunderstandings, and reduced patient involvement. Adapted communication strategies, interpreters, and cultural understanding are therefore important to ensure a safe and inclusive care environment.

    Aim

    The aim is to describe nurses’ experiences and perceptions of language barriers in patient encounters.

    Method

    A structured literature review was conducted in the CINAHL and PubMed databases. Articles published between 2020 and 2025, in English and peer-reviewed, were included. After screening, 15 articles were selected for analysis using Friberg’s four-step model, which identified recurring themes regarding nurses’ experiences.

    Results

    The results of the literature review highlight nurses’ experiences of language barriers in patient encounters. The findings are divided into two main categories: (1) The consequences of language barriers for the care relationship and communication, and (2) Strategies for managing language barriers. Subcategories include the impact on patient encounters, relational and communicative challenges, the use of interpreters in practice and alternative communication strategies.

    Conclusions

    Language barriers affect nurses’ emotional and professional work in patient encounters, potentially leading to insecurity and frustration. Access to interpreters, cultural understanding, and adapted communication strategies increase confidence and control. The study shows that language barriers influence empathy, patient participation, and equitable care, highlighting the need for training and organizational support to strengthen person-centered and safe care.

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  • McCloat, Davina Jane
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Att leva med hjärtsvikt: Patienters upplevelser av egenvård2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Heart failure is a chronic and global disease that affects individuals’ physical and psychological well-being as well as their daily lives. Self-care is a central part of treatment and includes monitoring symptoms, adjusting diet and fluid intake, maintaining physical activity and following medical prescriptions. Patients’ experiences of self-care vary depending on their resources, knowledge, and support. To promote person-cantered care, it is important for nurses to highlight how patients experience self-care in heart failure and to identify factors that facilitate or hinder it.

    Aim

    The aim of the study is to describe patients’ experiences of self-care in heart failure.

    Method

    This study is a systematic literature review based on 15 scientific articles retrieved from PubMed and CINAHL. The articles were quality-assessed using review templates for qualitative and quantitative studies by Nilsson (2017) and analysed according to the method described by Popenoe et. al. (2021).

    Results

    Four main categories emerged: Difficulties understanding the meaning of the diagnosis, everyday challenges of self-care, Mental aspects, and the importance of receiving support, along with nine associated subcategories.

    Conclusions

    Patients’ experiences of self-care in heart failure are unique and influenced by individual factors such as resources, knowledge, support, culture, faith, and physical and psychological conditions. Effective self-care behaviours occur when support from both healthcare professionals and relatives is sufficient. This support increases patients’ motivation to perform self-care activities and fosters hope and confidence for the future.

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  • Njoku, Ogechi Melina
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Ghulam, Shireen
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskans arbete med att främja egenvård hos vuxna personer med typ 2-diabetes: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body has insulin resistance or reduced insulin production that develops slowly and requires comprehensive self-care interventions. The nurse has a central role in supporting patients to develop knowledge, motivation and ability for self-care.

    Aim

    To highlight the nurses work in promoting self-care in adults with type 2 diabetes.

    Method

    This study is a literature review using the databases Cinahl and PubMed. The articles were limited to 2020-2025, English-language and peer-reviewed. Analysis resulted in 13 articles with qualitative, quantitative and quasi-experimental approaches which were analyzed with inspiration from Henricsson and Billhult (2017).

    Results

    Results were presented in two main categories with three subcategories describing the nurses’ efforts to promote self-care. It emerged that continuous support and follow-up as well as individually adapted support were of central importance in increasing people’s adherence and ability to self-care.

    Conclusions

    The nurse’s work is crucial for people with type 2 diabetes to achieve good self-care and prevent complications. Through education, motivation and individually tailored support, the nurse contributes to increasing the person’s knowledge and responsibility in self-care process.

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  • Gunnarsson, Johan
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Gustavson, Lina
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Bemöta och lindra oro och ångest hos patienter inom palliativ vård: Sjuksköterskans perspektiv, en litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    A palliative patient can’t be cured, caregivers aim to maintain the highest possible quality of life during the patient’s remaining time. The clinical profile of the patients can be complex and often include severe emotional distress. Anxiety and worry will have a negative impact on the patient’s wellbeing. The situation creates a challenging situation for the nurses, responsible for caring and supporting a patient when death is imminent.

    Aim

    To describe nurses experiences of caring for adult palliative patients, suffering from worry and anxiety.

    Method

    A structured literature review, conducted through searching databases for articles, using specific search terms. The analysis was completed in four steps, and the results were presented as main- and subcategories.

    Results

    The review resulted in four main and eleven subcategories. Interaction and communication were central aspects of palliative care, as well as trust and the ability to initiate and participate in conversations regarding difficult topics. Strategies for meeting patients that suffered from emotional distress included medication, being present and available, responsive to the patient’s needs and offering conversations about existential and spiritual subjects. Challenges for caregivers included lack of time and resources, and varying opinions among caregivers regarding how palliative care should and could be conducted. Nurses were often emotionally affected by working with palliative patients, and experienced worry, stress, frustration and sadness.

    Conclusions

    The anxiety and worry of palliative patients represent a complex symptom picture. Nurses are faced with a task that can feel difficult to manage, specifically regarding alleviating emotional suffering. The ability to establish good relationships with patients is crucial for care in instances of psychological distress. Nurses are expected to fulfill a wide area of responsibility, which may not necessarily correspond to their education, experience or competence.

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  • Peldan, Annica
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Hejdengård, Olivia
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Transitionschock hos nyexaminerade sjuksköterskor: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    The transition from nursing education to professional life implies a major change and can be experienced as a shock to many newly graduated nurses. This transition is called transitions shock, which describes the psychological, emotional and professional adjustment that takes place when newly graduated nurses meet the demands and responsibilities of working life.

    Aim

    The aim of the study is to describe the experiences of transition shock among newly graduated nurses.

    Method

    Structured literature review with elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews. The material is based on eleven scientific articles from the PubMed and CINAHL databases that were published between 2015-2025. The data analysis is carried out according to Popenoe's analysis process.

    Results

    The results are presented in three main categories; Knowledge and experiences; Emotional reactions and strategies and resources with ten associated subcategories. The compilation of the results shows that transition shock is a nuanced phenomenon where external factors play a role besides the nurse's ability to handle challenges and which resources are needed to reduce the risk of transition shock.

    Conclusions

    Transition shock occurs when newly qualified nurses encounter complex clinical reality and experience uncertainty, stress and exhaustion. The main causes are the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, as well as a lack of support in the workplace. To reduce transition shock, strengthened clinical training during education and better mentoring with support structures at the start of the profession are needed.

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  • Johansson, Moa
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Backlund, Jonas
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Att bli sedd i kris: Patienters upplevelser av bemötandet i ambulanssjukvård - En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    The ambulance is intended to give emergency care to patients who are unable to reach the hospital on their own or who require medical care during transportation to the appropriate health care facility. Patients who are in this type of situation have different emotional experiences and can be in different stages of, for example crisis or shock due to their sudden change of health and life circumstances. The ambulance staff who work together may have different work experience and education as well as differences in emotional maturity and self-confidence when it comes to handling different situations as well as the treatment and interactions with patients might differ.

    Aim

    The aim of this study is to describe patients experiences of being treated by ambulance staff in different care situations.

    Method

    This thesis is carried out as a structured literature study, applying aspects of the methodology used in systematic reviews.

    Results

    The results were organized into two main categories and seven subcategories. The results showed that patients’ experiences of ambulance personnel’s behavior and interactions were both positive and negative.

    Conclusions

    Patients within the ambulance care are experiencing the treatment from ambulance personnel as varying, reporting both positive and negative experiences. Important factors are the competence of the ambulance staff, a friendly and empathetic approach, patient participation, autonomy, and validation of the patients' needs and symptoms. These are all important for the patient to feel well cared for and for a good encounter.

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  • Lund, Diana
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjöström, Matilda
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskans upplevelse av att kommunicera med barn inom slutenvården: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background 

    Communication is a central aspect of the nursing profession and plays a vital role in creating trust, participation, and understanding among children in inpatient care. For communication to be meaningful, it must be adapted to the child’s age, maturity, and individual needs. Previous research shows that nurses often experience challenges related to time constraints, limited experience, and language barriers.

    Aim 

    The aim of this literature review was to describe nurses’ experiences of communicating with children in inpatient care.

    Method 

    This study was conducted as a systematic literature review with a qualitative approach. Articles were searched in the databases CINAHL and PubMed, and quality was assessed using a checklist for qualitative studies. Twelve scientific articles were analyzed using Friberg’s (2022) model for qualitative content analysis.

    Results 

    The analysis resulted in four main categories: The ability to be adaptable, The negative impact of time constraints, A sense of satisfaction, and A sense of inadequacy. The results show that nurses experience communication with children as both meaningful and challenging. The ability to adapt communication to the child’s needs was identified as essential, while time pressure, language barriers, and organizational limitations negatively affected the communication.

    Conclusions 

    Communication with children in inpatient care is a complex and important part of nursing practice. To strengthen the child’s participation and sense of security, nurses need improved conditions in terms of time, education, and organizational support. The results highlight the importance of person-centred and child-rights-based communication in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the ethical values of nursing.

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  • Ghazarian, Vera
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Hammar, Eleni
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Smärtbedömning hos personer med demenssjukdom: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Dementia causes a reduced ability to express one's needs and feelings, which makes pain difficult to detect and assess. Pain is common in this group, and untreated pain can lead to increased suffering, behavioral changes, and a reduced quality of life. This poses a particular challenge for nurses, as the various pain assessment instruments are based on being able to assess pain based on one's own ability to express oneself. The nurse's clinical perspective and experiences as well as the use of various assessment instruments are central to being able to identify and relieve pain in people with dementia.

    Aim

    To describe nurses' experiences of assessing pain in people with dementia.

    Method

    A qualitative literature review based on 15 peer-reviewed articles. Data collection was conducted in the CINAHL and PubMed databases. The articles were quality-reviewed using Nilsson's (2017a, 2017b) review templates and analyzed through content analysis according to Graneheim and Lundman (2004).

    Results

    Three main categories were identified: (1) Challenges in pain assessment in people with dementia, (2) Nurses' experiences, knowledge and attitudes, and (3) Strategies and areas for improvement in pain management. The results showed that poor communication, limited training and lack of time make pain assessment difficult, while experience, empathy and the use of structured assessment instruments facilitate the work.

    Conclusions

    Nurses' clinical experience and person-centered approach are crucial for good pain assessment. Continuous education, shared routines, and interprofessional collaboration are needed to improve the quality of care.

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  • Lögdal, Yvonne
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Gustafsson, Loise
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    När vårdande blir vånda: En litteraturöversikt om sjuksköterskors upplevelse av arbetsrelaterad stress i slutenvård2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Work-related stress is a growing concern in inpatient care, where nurses face high demands, ethical dilemmas, and limited resources in their daily work. Prolonged stress negatively affects nurses’ health, professional performance, and the quality of care.

    Aim

    The aim was to describe nurses’ experiences of work-related stress in inpatient care.

    Method

    A structured literature review with elements of systematic methodology was conducted. Systematic searches were performed in the databases CINAHL and PubMed. 15 scientific articles published between 2020 and 2025 were included after quality appraisal.

    Results

    The experience of work-related stress emerged in three main categories: moral stress, emotional stress and relational stress.

    Conclusions

    Work-related stress in inpatient care affects both nurses’ health and the quality of nursing care. Sustainable professional practice requires a better balance between demands and resources and structured opportunities for ethical reflection and recovery, as nurses describe how available support, time and scope of action shape the stress experience.

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  • Abbas, Nour
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare.
    Sjuksköterskors upplevelser av att utsättas för hot och våld inom psykiatrisk vård: En litteraturöversikt2026Independent thesis Basic level (professional degree), 10 credits / 15 HE creditsStudent thesis
    Abstract [en]

    Background

    Threats and violence are common threat in psychiatric care and affect nurses' emotional health, safety sand profession. Earlier research has highlighted how healthcare staff has been exposed to threatening situations that leads to both physical and psychological consequences. To understand the whole image, a deeper understanding of nurses ‘own experiences of being exposed to threats and violence in their work is needed.

    Aim

    The aim of this study is to describe nurses' experiences of being exposed to threats and violence within psychiatric care.

    Method

    This literature reviews were conducted as a structured qualitative approach. Data was collected from CINAHL and Pubmed databases. A total of 13 quantitative articles were included and underwent analysis.

    Results

    Main categories were identified, normalization of threats and violence, personal consequences, consequences on the work environment and health care.

    Conclusions

    Violence in psychiatric care affects nurses' well-being and the care relationship. In conclusion, violence can be interpreted as a kind of disruption in the care relationship that requires careful reflection and organizational support to reconstruct balance.

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  • Johansson, Hanna
    et al.
    Löfgren, Niklas
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Physiotherapy.
    Porciuncula, Franchino
    Leavy, Breiffni
    Impact of dual-tasking and balance confidence on turns and transitions: a cross-sectional study in Parkinson’s disease2026In: Scientific Reports, E-ISSN 2045-2322, Vol. 16, no 1, article id 1953Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background Mobility, cognitive processing, and balance confidence impairments can negatively affect functional mobility in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). This study aimed to examine the effects of a cognitive dual-task on functional mobility during Timed Up and Go (TUG) sub-phases involving transitions and turns. A secondary aim was to explore whether balance confidence was associated with dual-task interference (DTI) on TUG total duration and sub-phases. Methods A cross-sectional design was employed. Participants completed TUG and TUG-COG (serial three subtractions) and inertial sensors recorded spatiotemporal data on transitions and turns. Paired samples t-tests and corresponding effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were used to compare TUG conditions. Multivariate linear regression assessed the association between balance confidence and DTI on total duration and sub-phases, controlling for gait speed and executive function. Results People with mild-to-moderate PD (N=94, mean age: 68.7 years) completed TUG-COG 2.7 s slower than TUG (p<0.001, d=0.5, DTI=22.9%). The cognitive task led to reduced performance across TUG sub-phases, with generally stronger effects observed in turning outcomes (d=0.25–0.45) and comparatively smaller effects observed in postural transitions (d=0.02–0.38). Balance confidence explained variance in DTI for sit-to-stand duration (B=-−3.560, 95% CI [−5.499, −1.622], p<0.001), whereas no effect was observed for other sub-phases. Conclusion Dual-tasking impaired nearly all components of the TUG, prolonging total duration and altering spatiotemporal characteristics of transitions and turns. Turning was more strongly impacted by dual-tasking than postural transitions, which has relevance for fall-prevention strategies. Together, the results of this study indicate that clinicians should prioritize turning during dual-task gait training and incorporate assessment of balance confidence to better capture functional capacity in transitional movements such as sit-to-stand.

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  • Nordin, Susanna
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Caring Science/Nursing.
    Davis, Aaron
    UniSA Creative, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia, AU..
    Légaré, France
    Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada, CA..
    Jones, Allyson
    Department of Physical Therapy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, CA..
    Meijering, Louise
    Faculty of Spatial Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands, NL..
    Elf, Marie
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Caring Science/Nursing.
    Designing Meaningful Engagement for Older Adults: An Evaluation of Participation in a Five-Day Co-Design Sprint2026In: Health Expectations, ISSN 1369-6513, E-ISSN 1369-7625, Vol. 29, no 1, article id e70555Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: Co-design is increasingly used to involve older adults in the development of digital tools, yet less attention has been given to how to engage them effectively in these processes. Older adults represent a highly diverse population, but co-design practices often overlook this heterogeneity and rely on limited representation. Similarly, co-design approaches vary widely in structure and degree of user involvement. While evaluations often focus on outcomes such as usability and technical performance, fewer studies explore the value of participation itself.

    AIM: This study evaluates the process of a 5-day online design sprint where participants, including older adults, healthcare and technology professionals, researchers, facilitators and business representatives, collaborated to develop housing-related digital support tools.

    METHODS: A hybrid thematic analysis process links process documentation and participant reflections with value-based frameworks to examine how different elements of the process created or inhibited value for participants.

    RESULTS: The findings highlight how the structure of the design sprint, together with specific facilitation practices, fostered respectful dialogue, trust, autonomy and a sense of ownership among participants. The evaluation describes how the process satisfied participants' collectively prioritised values, and their individual needs.

    CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights that co-design is not a neutral method, but a practice with social, ethical and emotional consequences. Effective facilitation is essential to support agency, ensure psychological safety and promote authentic collaboration. Recognising the heterogeneity of older adults and aligning facilitation strategies with participants' values and needs can enhance both the relevance of digital innovations and the meaningfulness of the co-design experience itself.

    PATIENT AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: The project was supported by a reference group that was actively involved throughout. The group included, for instance, representatives from the municipality, regional authorities and a pensioners' organisation.

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  • Löfgren, Niklas
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Physiotherapy. Uppsala University.
    Giedraitis, Vilmantas
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare. Uppsala University.
    Halvorsen, Kjartan
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Medical Science.
    Rosendahl, Erik
    Åberg, Anna Cristina
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Physiotherapy. Uppsala University.
    The Timed Up and Go dual-task test’s cognitive and motor outcomes show promising test-retest reliability in older adults with perceived memory impairment2026In: Frontiers in Aging, E-ISSN 2673-6217, Vol. 6, article id 1715756Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: It is of utmost importance to identify older adults at risk of cognitive impairment at the earliest possible stage. Previous research supports the potential of investigating step parameters and turn duration during Timed Up and Go (TUG) during single and dual-task (TUGdt) conditions to detect subtle impairment. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the test-retest reliability and measurement error of novel outcomes related to TUG and two TUGdt tests, TUGdt-NA (naming animals) and TUGdt-MB (reciting months in reverse order), in older adults with perceived memory impairment.

    Methods: Thirty-four participants (18 women, mean age 76) were included and assessed with TUG, TUGdt-NA and TUGdt-MB on two different occasions, 5–10 days apart. Tests were video recorded for data extraction of spatiotemporal step parameters and turn duration. Reliability of motor and cognitive outcomes were analyzed with intraclass correlations (ICC2.1), standard errors of measurement and minimal detectable change (MDC). The proportional measurement error was presented with MDC%.

    Results: The results showed very good reliability (ICC2.1 ≥ 0.85) regarding total completion times, although the measurement error and proportional measurement error (MDC%) was higher during TUGdt conditions than TUG. The reliability of cognitive outcomes during TUGdt favored TUGdt-MB (ICC2.1 ≥ 0.77, MDC% ≤39.8). Step length was the step parameter with highest reliability (ICC2.1 ≥ 0.86) and lowest proportional measurement error (MDC% ≤21.4) across conditions, whereas turn duration showed good reliability during TUG and TUGdt-MB (ICC2.1 ≥ 0.74, MDC%≤38.9).

    Conclusion: The results support the potential of including TUG and TUGdt outcomes in cognitive risk evaluations among older adults.

    Trial Registration Number: Uppsala-Dalarna Dementia and Gait Project | ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05893524.

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  • Zhou, W.
    et al.
    Chen, H.
    Huang, Pei
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Energy Technology. Mälardalen University.
    Ma, Z.
    Integrated Operation and Charging Controls for Ride-Sharing Electric Autonomous Mobility-on-Demand Systems2025In: Journal of Intelligent and Connected Vehicles, ISSN 2399-9802, Vol. 8, no 4, article id 9210071Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study proposes an integer linear program model for ride-sharing, electric, autonomous mobility on demand (RE-AMoD) system operations and develops a model predictive control (MPC) algorithm to optimize the decisions of ride matching, vehicle routing, rebalancing, and charging. The system ensures that electric autonomous vehicles provide transportation services for up to two customers to share a ride and that they can be charged automatically during the operating period. The RE-AMoD problem is formulated as a network flow optimization problem considering ride-sharing and charging control. The objective is to minimize the customers' waiting time while minimizing the system's energy consumption. An iterative MPC is developed to compute the optimal control policy for real-time control. The case study uses real-world data from San Francisco to validate the model performance by comparing benchmark models in an RE-AMoD simulation platform and investigating the impact of ride-sharing and smart charging strategies on system performance by comparing models with no ride-sharing and heuristic charging strategies. The results show that the smart charging policy is critical for realizing ride-sharing's full advantages in RE-AMoD systems. Allowing the sharing of trips significantly improves system performance in terms of reducing fleet sizes and energy consumption while improving the customer level of service.

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  • Zafar, Rehman
    et al.
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Energy Technology. Sustainable Energy Research Centre (SERC), Dalarna University.
    Huang, Pei
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Energy Technology. Sustainable Energy Research Centre (SERC), Dalarna University.
    Lane, Anna-Lena
    Indatissa, Asitha Sanjaya
    Björnsson, Lars-Henrik
    Techno-economic assessment of electric vehicle-based decentralized electricity delivery for enhanced power resilience during outages2026In: Energy Reports, E-ISSN 2352-4847, Energy Reports, Vol. 15, article id 108947Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into power systems offers a promising pathway to enhance energy resilience during grid outages. Most of the existing studies treat EV outage support as a short-term, technical problem, with limited attention to economics, business models (e.g., ownership and stakeholders), or long-term outages. To bridge the gap, this study presents a comprehensive framework to evaluate the techno-economic feasibility of using EV mobility as a decentralized electricity delivery solution during both short-term and long-term outages. A rule-based control strategy is developed to operate EVs under realistic operational constraints, with the primary objective of maximizing energy delivery and minimizing unmet demand during outages. The framework incorporates real-world data, including household and critical load profiles, EV battery capacities, ownership types, outage durations, travel distances, and seasonal variations. Scenario-based simulations are performed to compare various technical and economical key performance indicators. Results show that EVs with personal ownership type and large capacity (100 kWh) can effectively meet residential energy needs during short-term outages. In long-term outages, expanding the EV fleet effectively reduce unmet demand, and higher solar generation in summer and spring significantly improves energy availability compared to winter, where unmet load is more than twice as high under identical conditions. The findings offer practical insights for stakeholders and policymakers in developing EV-based resilience strategies for future energy systems. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of designing appropriate business models to support the integration of mobile energy services into resilience planning. © 2025 The Authors.

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  • Bryan-Kinns, Nick
    et al.
    Wszeborowska, Anna
    Sutskova, Olga
    Wilson, Elizabeth
    Perry, Phoenix
    Fiebrink, Rebecca
    Vigliensoni, Gabriel
    Lindell, Rikard
    Dalarna University, School of Culture and Society, Media Production.
    Coronel, Andrei D.
    Correia, Nuno N.
    Leveraging small datasets for ethical and responsible AI music making2025In: AM '25: Proceedings of the 20th International Audio Mostly Conference / [ed] Licínio Roque, Stefano Monache, Mariana Seiça, Jordan Wirfs-Brock, Association for Computing Machinery, Inc , 2025, p. 70-81Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The impact of Artificial Intelligence is felt on every stage of contemporary musicking and is shaping our interaction with sound. Deep learning Generative AI (GenAI) systems for high-quality music generation rely on extremely large musical datasets for training. As a result, AI models tend to be trained on dominant mainstream musical genres, such as Western classical music, where large datasets are more readily available. In addition, the reliance on extremely powerful computing resources for deep learning creates barriers to use and negatively impacts our environment. This paper reports on contemporary concerns and interests of musicians, researchers, and music industry stakeholders in the responsible use of GenAI models for music and audio. Through analysis of focus group discussions and exemplar case studies of the use of GenAI in music making at a hybrid workshop of 148 participants, we offer insights into current discourses about the use of GenAI beyond dominant musical styles and suggest ways forward to increase creative agency in music making beyond the mainstream. Our findings highlight the value of small datasets of music for GenAI, the suitability of AI models for working with small datasets of music, and pose questions around what constitutes a ’small’ dataset of music. © 2025 Copyright held by the owner/author(s).

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  • Svedin, Frida
    et al.
    Menander, Ida Österman
    Blomberg, Oscar
    Brantnell, Anders
    von Essen, Louise
    Farrand, Paul A.
    Lückner, Theresia
    Sundelin, Kristina
    Turney, Jonna
    Åberg, Anna Cristina
    Dalarna University, School of Health and Welfare, Physiotherapy. Uppsala University.
    Woodford, Joanne
    Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors2025In: Alzheimer's & Dementia: Journal of the Alzheimer's Association, ISSN 1552-5260, E-ISSN 1552-5279, Vol. 21, no S4, article id e096506Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: Public contribution in research during the intervention development phase can help inform the design of relevant, acceptable, and effective interventions. However, the experiences and impact of public contribution activities are seldom reported, particularly in the intervention development phase. We integrated public contribution activities throughout a series of studies to inform the development and adaptation of a psychological intervention for people with dementia and depression. Aims were to: (1) explore the experience, process, and perceived impact of involving informal caregivers as public contributors; (2) explore how to involve people with dementia and male caregivers in future public contribution activities. METHOD: A Public Advisory Group (PAG) consisting of wives and daughters (n = 4) of people with dementia was established to help: (1) make sense and interpret findings from the studies to inform the development and adaptation of the psychological intervention; and (2) co-design the intervention. Public contribution activities were recorded using impact logs (n = 9). Based on impact logs, recommendations were extracted and percentages of those implemented were calculated. Upon completion of the intervention development phase, semi-structured interviews were held with public contributors (n = 4) and researchers (n = 3) to explore their experiences and perceived impact of public contribution activities. Interviews were analyzed using manifest content analysis. RESULT: Public contributors made 158 recommendations across nine PAG meetings. In total, 76% of recommendations were implemented by the research team. Analysis of interviews generated three main categories: Perceived impacts; Interactions and processes; and Future challenges and opportunities. Interviews suggested that public contribution activities had a positive impact on the research e.g., by enhancing intervention acceptability and relevancy, and on researchers and public contributors themselves e.g., by gaining new knowledge and skills. Public contributors provided valuable suggestions to facilitate the involvement of people with dementia and male caregivers in future public contribution activities. CONCLUSION: We hope findings: (1) contribute to strengthening the evidence base on the impact of public contribution; and (2) offer insights in how to work effectively in partnership with public contributors. Future work should explore how to meaningfully involve people with dementia and male caregivers as public contributors. © 2025 The Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s & Dementia published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Alzheimer’s Association.

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  • Yadav, Mayank Kumar
    et al.
    Yarlapati, Akshay
    Aditya, Y. N.
    Kesavan, Praveenkumar
    Pandey, Vaibhav
    Perugu, Chandra Shekhar
    Nain, Amit
    Chatterjee, Kaushik
    Suwas, Satyam
    Jayamani, Jayaraj
    Dalarna University, School of Information and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering. Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Karlstad University.
    Prashanth, K. G.
    Processing and Development of Porous Titanium for Biomedical Applications: A Comprehensive Review2025In: Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing, ISSN 2504-4494, Vol. 9, no 12Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Titanium (Ti) and its alloys are widely used in orthopedic applications, including total hip and knee replacements, bone plates, and dental implants, because of their superior biocompatibility, bioactivity, corrosion resistance, and mechanical robustness. These alloys effectively overcome several limitations of conventional metallic implants, such as 316L stainless steel and Co-Cr alloys, particularly with respect to corrosion, fatigue performance, and biological response. However, dense Ti alloys possess a relatively high elastic modulus, which can cause stress shielding in load-bearing applications. This challenge has motivated significant research toward engineered porous Ti structures that exhibit a reduced and bone-matched modulus while preserving adequate mechanical integrity. This review provides a comprehensive examination of powder metallurgy and additive manufacturing approaches used to fabricate porous Ti and Ti-alloy scaffolds, including additive manufacturing and different powder metallurgy techniques. Processing routes are compared in terms of achievable porosity, pore size distribution, microstructural evolution, mechanical properties, and biological outcomes, with emphasis on the relationship between processing parameters, pore architecture, and functional performance. The reported findings indicate that optimized powder-metallurgy techniques can generate interconnected pores in the 100–500 ÎŒm range suitable for osseointegration while maintaining compressive strengths of 50–300 MPa, whereas additive manufacturing enables the precise control of hierarchical architectures but requires careful post-processing to remove adhered powder, stabilize microstructures, and ensure corrosion and wear resistance. In addition, this review integrates fundamental aspects of bone biology and bone implant interaction to contextualize the functional requirements of porous Ti scaffolds. © 2025 by the authors.

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