Characterization and thermoelectric performance of mechanochemically synthesized Cu-Ag-Se sample series.

Nursing research plays a critical role in providing the scientific foundation for nursing practice and contributing to the development of healthcare policies []. The value of scientific research depends on the credibility and reproducibility of its findings, which begin with transparent and complete reporting of research methods and results []. In particular, observational studies are subject to less control than experimental studies and are therefore more vulnerable to bias, making clear and detailed reporting of study design, conduct, and analysis especially important []. However, many studies fail to report essential methodological information adequately or completely [,], which may limit the interpretation and application of research findings. To address these challenges, international reporting guidelines have been developed to improve the quality of research reporting. The EQUATOR (Enhancing the QUAlity and Transparency Of health Research) Network provides a comprehensive collection of reporting guidelines tailored to various study designs []. The adoption of reporting guidelines enhances transparency, completeness, and reproducibility of research, improves the quality of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and ultimately strengthens the foundation of evidence-based practice [,]. Indeed, several studies have demonstrated a positive association between adherence to reporting guidelines and the overall quality of published articles [,]. Therefore, evaluating the extent to which reporting guidelines are followed is essential. One of the most frequently employed research designs in nursing is the descriptive survey study, among which cross-sectional studies are particularly useful for examining participants’ characteristics, health status, attitudes, and behaviors at a specific point in time and for exploring relationships among variables [,]. Cross-sectional studies can be conducted within a relatively short time frame and at lower cost, and they are effective in identifying risk factors for diseases or health-related problems []. In addition, cross-sectional studies play an important role in nursing research by facilitating the exploration of emerging phenomena, generating hypotheses, and providing foundational data for subsequent longitudinal or interventional studies []. Despite these advantages, cross-sectional studies have inherent methodological limitations, including difficulty in inferring causal relationships, inability to establish temporal sequences, and increased susceptibility to bias []. Therefore, it is particularly important to clearly recognize these limitations and to report the design, conduct, analysis, and interpretation of cross-sectional studies accurately and transparently.