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This paper explores inferences for a competing risk model with dependent causes of failure. When the lifetimes of competing risks are modelled by a Marshall–Olikin bivariate Kies distribution, classical and Bayesian estimations are studied under generalized progressive hybrid censoring. The existence and uniqueness results for maximum likelihood estimators of unknown parameters are established, whereas approximate confidence intervals are constructed using the observed Fisher information matrix. In addition, Bayes estimates are explored based on a flexible Gamma-Dirichlet prior information. Furthermore, when there is a priori order information on competing risk parameters being available, traditional classical likelihood and Bayesian estimates are also established under restricted parameter case. The behavior of the proposed estimators is evaluated through extensive simulation studies, and a real data study is presented for illustrative purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aims were to translate the Evaluation of Daily Activity Questionnaire (EDAQ) into Turkish, then test validity and reliability in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Turkey. Material and Methods: Phase 1: The EDAQ was forward and backward translated, culturally adapted following cognitive debriefing interviews with participants with RA (n = 10) and finalized by an expert committee. Phase 2: Participants (n = 215) completed a questionnaire including the EDAQ, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and Short-Form 36 v1 (SF-36v1). Two weeks later, the EDAQ was again completed for test–retest reliability (n = 82:38%). Internal construct validity was assessed using Rasch analysis. Internal consistency, concurrent validity, and test–retest reliability were assessed. Results: Following cultural adaptation, one item was removed, and examples increased or changed. Cronbach's α values were 0.71 − 0.93 for all EDAQ domains, that is, acceptable to good. The EDAQ met Rasch model requirements for fit (excellent construct validity: p > 0.05). Concurrent validity was moderate to strong for most EDAQ domains with HAQ (rs 0.49–0.81) and SF-36-v1 Physical Function (rs 0.42–0.70). There was excellent test–retest reliability for all domains (ICC (2,1): 0.95–1.00). Conclusion: The Turkish EDAQ is a valid, reliable measure of daily activity ability for use in practice and research with Turkish speakers with RA. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: The Evaluation of Daily Activity Questionnaire provides a comprehensive evaluation of daily activity ability for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. The Turkish Evaluation of Daily Activity Questionnaire is a valid, reliable patient-reported outcome measure in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, who considered it easy to complete. The Turkish Evaluation of Daily Activity Questionnaire is suitable for use in clinical practice and research to evaluate daily activity ability in people with rheumatoid arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) in adults with major congenital upper limb differences (CoULD) compared to able-bodied controls, and to examine associations of MSCs and disability with various biopsychosocial factors. Materials and methods: Questionnaire-based cross-sectional study assessing MSCs, disability (using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH)), general and mental health status, physical work demands, and upper extremity range of motion. Results: Seventy-one individuals with CoULD (participation rate: 41%) and 71 controls matched on age, gender, and education were included (49% female, mean age 28.9 years). Year prevalence of MSCs was significantly higher in the CoULD group (35%) than in the control group (18%). The CoULD group was less often employed and had lower scores on all measures of upper limb range of motion and hand grip. MSCs were associated with higher DASH scores and higher reported work demands. Disability was associated with female gender, more joints with limited range of motion, unemployment, and lower general and mental health. Factors associated with disability did not differ between groups. Conclusions: MSCs are a frequent problem in young adults with major CoULD. To prevent or reduce MSC and disability, clinicians and researchers should be aware of the associated factors. Implications for rehabilitation: The year prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) in those with major congenital upper limb differences (CoULD) was approximately double to that of the control group, implying a potential relationship between CoULD and MSCs. Rehabilitation professionals should develop personalized strategies to manage work demands in those with CoULD, considering the association between MSCs and higher reported work demands. Recognizing the impact of a negatively perceived body image on mental health, clinicians should integrate psychological counseling into rehabilitation treatments to support mental well-being and improve overall quality of life in those with CoULD. Rehabilitation professionals should educate individuals with CoULD about the potential associations between upper limb work demands, MSCs, and disability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study evaluated whether anthropometric measurements and the five times sit-to-stand test could be used to identify dynapenia. The cut-off values of accurate screening tools for identifying dynapenia were also established. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on individuals ≥ 60 years old (N = 529). All participants underwent handgrip strength measurement, anthropometric measurements and the five times sit-to-stand test. The participants whose handgrip strength was < 28 kg for men and < 18 kg for women were considered to have dynapenia. The association between the recorded variables and dynapenia was determined using logistic regression, and cut-off values were established by performing the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analysis. Results: The prevalence of dynapenia was 35.42% in men and 25.61% in women. For males, both calf circumference (≤ 35.2 cm) and the five times sit-to-stand test (≥ 14.6 s) could be used as accurate tools for dynapenia. For females, only the five times sit-to-stand test (≥ 11.8 s) had sufficient accuracy to be used as a screening tool for dynapenia. Conclusions: The five times sit-to-stand test was an accurate screening tool for identifying dynapenia. The calf circumference could be only used as a screening tool in males. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Calf circumference and the five times a sit-to-stand test can be used as accurate screening tools in males with dynapenia. Only the five times sit-to-stand test had sufficient accuracy in females with dynapenia. The optimal cut-off values established for older males and females are only applicable to the Asian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between physical activity (PA) levels and short-term changes in skeletal muscle characteristics in patients with subacute hemiparetic stroke. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study included 76 patients with stroke who received inpatient care in a convalescent rehabilitation ward. The PA level was measured as the duration of daily total PA (≥ 1.5 metabolic equivalents) using a triaxial accelerometer for 7 days after admission. The outcomes were changes in the quadriceps muscle quality and quantity on the affected and unaffected sides, as assessed by ultrasonography at admission and 1 month after admission. Results: Multiple regression analysis indicated that the duration of total PA was significantly associated with a percentage change in quadriceps muscle quality (p = 0.011) and quantity (p = 0.012) on the affected side. However, no significant relationship was observed between the muscle quality and quantity on the unaffected side. Conclusions: The results revealed that PA was associated with changes in the quadriceps muscle quality and quantity on the affected side in patients with subacute hemiparetic stroke. These findings highlight the importance of promoting PA in stroke rehabilitation to improve muscle properties and functional outcomes. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: Improving skeletal muscle quality and quantity is an important goal in post-stroke rehabilitation. We investigated physical activity and post-stroke changes in muscle properties. Physical activity is related to changes in muscle quantity and quality on the affected side. Promoting physical activity is essential for improving muscle quantity and quality on the affected side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problems of finding confidence intervals (CIs) and prediction intervals (PIs) for two-parameter negative binomial distributions are considered. Simple CIs for the mean of a two-parameter negative binomial distribution based on some large sample methods are proposed and compared with the likelihood CIs. Proposed CIs are not only simple to compute, but also better than the likelihood CIs for moderate sample sizes. Prediction intervals for the mean of a future sample from a two-parameter negative binomial distribution are also proposed and evaluated for their accuracy. The methods are illustrated using two examples with real life data sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To obtain a profile empirical likelihood ratio statistic is essentially to address a constrained maximization problem. However, when sample size is small, the optimal function may have no numerical solution, as the convex hull of the sample points may not contain the zero vector 0 as its interior point. The adjusted empirical likelihood (AEL) method introduced by Chen, Variyath, and Abraham (2008) is very useful to solve this problem. The innovation of this article is that we extend the AEL method to probability density functions (p.d.f.) under dependent samples, as there are few literatures using this method under dependent samples. It is shown that the AEL ratio statistic for a p.d.f. is asymptotically χ 2 -type distributed under a mixing sample, which is used to obtain an AEL-based confidence interval for the p.d.f. Our simulations show that the AEL is faster to compute than unadjusted empirical likelihood and the coverage probability based on the AEL method is superior to the other two usual methods, namely the unadjusted empirical likelihood and the normal approximation methods, particularly under small sample sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCausal discovery and causal effect estimation are two fundamental tasks in causal inference. While many methods have been developed for each task individually, statistical challenges arise when applying these methods jointly: estimating causal effects after running causal discovery algorithms on the same data leads to “double dipping,” invalidating the coverage guarantees of classical confidence intervals. To this end, we develop tools for valid post-causal-discovery inference. Across empirical studies, we show that a naive combination of causal discovery and subsequent inference algorithms leads to highly inflated miscoverage rates; on the other hand, applying our method provides reliable coverage while achieving more accurate causal discovery than data splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractFor planned clinical trials with a binary endpoint, standard statistical tests can be very inaccurate in their error control, especially when the trial is unbalanced. Specifically, type 1 error can greatly exceed a nominal target like 5%, even for quite large sample sizes, and power can be much less than a nominal target such as 80%. Confidence limits may not have the correct coverage. The purpose of this article is firstly to give clinical trialists an appreciation of this fact. We then describe well-studied alternatives to the standard methods, which are simple in conception but can be quite challenging to implement. These contemporary methods in frequentist statistical theory, known as quasi-exact methods, have been neglected in medical applications. We provide an R-package that can be used to provide accurate inference results based on our recommended quasi-exact test. The package will also calculate the exact size and power of the test, once the control and treatment samples sizes are finalised. All proposals are illustrated with a real-world example on the treatment of prostate cancer. We would recommend practitioners to use quasi-exact methods in the analysis of randomized clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectiveMethodsResultsConclusionsDissatisfaction with an inividual’s sex life is underlying factor that can lead to pornography addiction. The current research aims to understand the relationship between pornography use and sexual satisfaction.The pooled correlation coefficient with 95% confidence interval was calculated using random effects. The meta-regression method was used to examine factors affecting heterogeneity between studies and Egger’s test was used to evaluate of publication bias.41 studies with a total sample size of 70541 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate for the correlation coefficient in total, in male and in female −0.06 (95% CI: −0.09 to −0.02), −0.07 (95% CI: −0.16 to 0.02) and −0.04 (95% CI: −0.08 to −0.01). The pooled estimate of correlation coefficient was −0.04 (95% CI: −0.07 to −0.02) in cross-sectional, −0.12 (95% CI: −0.19 to −0.05) in cohort, 0.00 (95% CI: −0.15 to 0.15) in studies that used self-report questionnaire and −0.06 (95% CI: −0.08 to −0.03) in studies that used online survey. Based on the results of the meta-regression, the publication year was found to have a significant effect on heterogeneity among studies (B = 0.013, p = 0.018). However, study design, age, data collection method, quality score and sample size did not have a significant effect.There was a significant negative correlation between pornography and sexual satisfaction and the disaggregation of results by gender also indicated this negative correlation among women. However, the relationship between pornography and sexual satisfaction was not significant in men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundObjectivesMaterial and methodsResultsConclusionSignificanceScopolamine has been demonstrated to relieve motion sickness. However, repeated significance testing may increase false-positive results.Review the efficacy and safety of scopolamine in the prevention of motion sickness by performing a meta-analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis (TSA).Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared scopolamine with other medications or placebo were included. Primary outcomes were nausea reported and head movement time.Twenty studies with 753 participants were included. Scopolamine had a greater reported reduction in nausea than placebo (relative risk [RR] 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.24 to 0.52; p<0.00001; I2 = 45%), while TSA showed the included sample size exceeded the required information size (RIS). There is no difference in head movement time between scopolamine and placebo (mean difference [MD] 2.02; 95% CI −1.2 to 5.25; p = 0.6; I2 = 0%), while the included sample size did not reach RIS.Scopolamine is effective for motion sickness nausea compared to placebo. The TSA recommends conducting more head movement trials to validate the objective efficacy of scopolamine.Clarifying the efficacy of scopolamine for motion sickness, the TSA highlights the need for more prospective studies using head movement as an outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis cross-sectional study investigated ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and its association with overweight among Brazilian vegetarian adults (n = 925). Data were collected using a self-administered structured online questionnaire. The prevalence of overweight was 26.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 23.3–29.1). The median UPF consumption was 1.8 times/day (1.0–3.1 interquartile range [IQR]). The multivariable generalised linear model identified an increase in overweight probability as the UPF intake – categorised into quintiles – increases (prevalence ratio [PR] 1.08 [95%CI 1.01–1.17]). Additionally, age (PR 1.03 [95%CI 1.02–1.04]), eating more than three meals/day away from home (PR 1.56 [95%CI 1.08–2.23]), duration of vegetarianism (PR 0.98 [95%CI 0.97–0.99]) and living in the wealthiest regions in the country (PR 1.35 [95%CI 1.06–1.71]) were associated with overweight. Although vegetarians have a lower average UPF intake and overweight prevalence than the general population, UPF exposure can still lead to excessive weight gain or maintenance. This study endorses generalising the Brazilian Dietary Guidelines for the vegetarian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: U.S. military veterans may be reluctant to disclose suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Suicide-specific cognitions, which generally avoid direct mention of suicide, may be reliable indicators of risk among those reluctant to disclose such thoughts and behaviors. Methods: Data from a population-based, cross-sectional study of 2,430 U.S. military veterans were analyzed to examine the associations between the Brief Suicide Cognitions Scale (B-SCS), suicidal ideation, and suicide planning. Results: After adjusting for age, sex, number of adverse childhood experiences, cumulative trauma burden, depressive symptom severity, and lifetime history of suicide attempt, total scores on the B-SCS (excluding the item mentioning suicide) were uniquely associated with suicidal ideation (odds ratio [OR] = 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.15–1.32) and suicide planning (OR = 1.27, 95%CI = 1.18–1.37). Exploratory post-hoc analyses revealed that difficulties with solving and coping with one's problems were uniquely linked to these outcomes. Conclusions: Assessment of suicide-specific cognitions may help to enhance suicide detection and prevention in veterans, especially in those who may not directly disclose thoughts of suicide. Intervention efforts to bolster perceived deficits in coping and problem-solving may help mitigate suicide risk in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pairwise likelihood methods are commonly used for inference in parametric statistical models in cases where the full likelihood is too complex to be used, such as multivariate count data. Although pairwise likelihood methods represent a useful solution to perform inference for intractable likelihoods, several computational challenges remain. The pairwise likelihood function still requires the computation of a sum over all pairs of variables and all observations, which may be prohibitive in high dimensions. Moreover, it may be difficult to calculate confidence intervals of the resulting estimators, as they involve summing all pairs of pairs and all of the four-dimensional marginals. To alleviate these issues, we consider a randomized pairwise likelihood approach, where only summands randomly sampled across observations and pairs are used for the estimation. In addition to the usual tradeoff between statistical and computational efficiency, it is shown that, under a condition on the sampling parameter, this two-way random sampling mechanism makes the individual bivariate likelihood scores become asymptotically independent, allowing more computationally efficient confidence intervals to be constructed. The proposed approach is illustrated in tandem with copula-based models for multivariate count data in simulations, and in real data from a transcriptome study. for this article are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The method of difference-in-differences (DID) is widely used to study the causal effect of policy interventions in observational studies. DID employs a before and after comparison of the treated and control units to remove bias due to time-invariant unmeasured confounders under the parallel trends assumption. Estimates from DID, however, will be biased if the outcomes for the treated and control units evolve differently in the absence of treatment, namely if the parallel trends assumption is violated. We propose a general identification strategy that leverages two groups of control units whose outcomes relative to the treated units exhibit a negative correlation, and achieves partial identification of the average treatment effect for the treated. The identified set is of a union bounds form that involves the minimum and maximum operators, which makes the canonical bootstrap generally inconsistent and naive methods overly conservative. By using the directional inconsistency of the bootstrap distribution, we develop a novel bootstrap method to construct confidence intervals for the identified set and parameter of interest when the identified set is of a union bounds form, and we theoretically establish the asymptotic validity of the proposed method. We develop a simple falsification test and sensitivity analysis. We apply the proposed strategy for bracketing to study whether minimum wage laws affect employment levels. for this article are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article studies the inference of the regression coefficient matrix under multivariate response linear regressions in the presence of hidden variables. A novel procedure for constructing confidence intervals of entries of the coefficient matrix is proposed. Our method first uses the multivariate nature of the responses by estimating and adjusting the hidden effect to construct an initial estimator of the coefficient matrix. By further deploying a low-dimensional projection procedure to reduce the bias introduced by the regularization in the previous step, a refined estimator is proposed and shown to be asymptotically normal. The asymptotic variance of the resulting estimator is derived with closed-form expression and can be consistently estimated. In addition, we propose a testing procedure for the existence of hidden effects and provide its theoretical justification. Both our procedures and their analyses are valid even when the feature dimension and the number of responses exceed the sample size. Our results are further backed up via extensive simulations and a real data analysis. for this article are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrative analysis of data from multiple sources is critical to making generalizable discoveries. Associations consistently observed across multiple source populations are more likely to be generalized to target populations with possible distributional shifts. In this article, we model the heterogeneous multi-source data with multiple high-dimensional regressions and make inferences for the maximin effect (Meinshausen and Bühlmann, AoS, 43(4), 1801–1830). The maximin effect provides a measure of stable associations across multi-source data. A significant maximin effect indicates that a variable has commonly shared effects across multiple source populations, and these shared effects may be generalized to a broader set of target populations. There are challenges associated with inferring maximin effects because its point estimator can have a nonstandard limiting distribution. We devise a novel sampling method to construct valid confidence intervals for maximin effects. The proposed confidence interval attains a parametric length. This sampling procedure and the related theoretical analysis are of independent interest for solving other nonstandard inference problems. Using genetic data on yeast growth in multiple environments, we demonstrate that the genetic variants with significant maximin effects have generalizable effects under new environments. The proposed method is implemented in the R package MaximinInfer available from CRAN. for this article are available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite frequent reports of mental health needs among older women with cancer, depressive symptoms often go unrecognized and untreated, particularly in socially vulnerable survivors. Here, we examined associations of sociodemographic factors and social limitations with depressive symptoms from pre-diagnosis to post-diagnosis in older women diagnosed with breast or gynecological cancer. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results-Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (SEER-MHOS) linked dataset, we used logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between sociodemographic factors (race, ethnicity, marital status, rurality) and social limitations (i.e., health interfering with social activities) on depressive symptoms in women aged ≥65 years with breast or gynecologic cancer (n = 1,353). Most participants had breast cancer (82.0%), stage I-II cancer (85.8%), received surgery for their cancer (94.8%), and radiation treatment (50.6%). Prior to diagnosis, 11.8% reported depressive symptoms, which nearly doubled to 22.4% at follow-up. Participants were 2.7 times more likely of reporting depressive symptoms after cancer diagnosis compared with pre-cancer diagnosis (95%CI: 2.10–3.48). Race, ethnicity, rurality, marital status, and social interference were significantly associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms after cancer diagnosis than before their cancer diagnosis (p < 0.05). In summary, depressive symptoms increased following a cancer diagnosis. Our results suggest potential avenues for intervention that could lead to reduced depressive symptoms among older female cancer survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Studies analyzing postures and mobility of the thoracic spine in the context of cervicogenic headache are missing. Insight in these parameters is needed since the cervical and thoracic spine are biomechanically related. Objective: To compare self-perceived optimal and habitual postures, active-assisted maximal range of motion, and repositioning error of the upper-thoracic and lower-thoracic spine between a cervicogenic headache-group and matched healthy control-group before and after a 30 min-laptop-task. Methods: A non-randomized longitudinal design was used to compare thoracic postures and mobility between 18 participants with cervicogenic headache (29–51 years) and 18 matched healthy controls (26–52 years). Outcomes were: self-perceived optimal and habitual postures, active-assisted maximal range of motion, and repositioning error of the upper-thoracic and lower-thoracic spine evaluated in sitting with a 3D-Vicon motion analysis system. Results: Habitual upper-thoracic postures in the cervicogenic headache-group were significantly (p =.04) less located toward the maximal range of motion for flexion compared to the control-group, self-perceived optimal upper-thoracic posture was significantly (p =.004) more extended in the cervicogenic headache-group compared to the control-group, and self-perceived optimal lower-thoracic posture could not be reestablished in the cervicogenic headache-group after the laptop-task (p =.009). Conclusion: Thoracic postures differ between a cervicogenic headache-group and control-group. These differences were detected by expressing the habitual thoracic posture relative to its maximal range of motion, and by analyzing the possibility of repositioning the thoracic spine after a headache provoking activity. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine the contribution of these musculoskeletal dysfunctions to the pathophysiology of cervicogenic headache. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Identifying the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) contributes to the ability to determine the efficacy of physiotherapy interventions and make good clinical decisions. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to estimate the MCID for 6-minute walking distance (6MWD) among inpatients with subacute cardiac disease using multiple anchor-based methods. Methods: This study was a secondary data analysis using only data from a multicenter longitudinal observational study in which 6MWD was measured at two time points. Based on the changes in 6MWD between baseline measurement and follow-up approximately 1 week after baseline measurement, the global rating of change scales (GRCs) of patients and physiotherapists, anchor method receiver operator operating characteristic curves, predictive models, and adjusted models were used to calculate the MCID. Results: Participants comprised 35 patients. Mean (standard deviation) 6MWD was 228.9 m (121.1 m) at baseline and 270.1 m (125.0 m) at follow-up. MCID for each GRC was 27.5–35.6 m for patients and 32.5–38.6 m for physiotherapists. Conclusion: The MCID in 6MWD in patients with subacute cardiovascular disease is 27.5–38.6 m. This value may be useful in determining the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions and for decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The evidence supporting the application of pain neuroscience education (PNE) in patients with chronic low back pain (LBP) remains some arguments. Objective: This review aims to investigate the effect of PNE alone and combined with physical therapy or exercise for chronic LBP. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane databases were searched from establishment to June 3, 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating the effect of PNE in patients with chronic LBP were considered eligible. Data were analyzed using a random-effects model (I2 >50%) or a fixed-effects model (I2 <50%) and trials were appraised using the Cochrane ROB tool. Meta-regression was conducted to assess the moderator factors. Results: Seventeen studies (1078 participants) were included in this review. PNE plus exercise and PNE plus physiotherapy both showed a reduction of short-term pain (mean differences [MD] −1.14 [−1.55, −0.72]; MD −1.15 [−1.67, −0.64]) and disability (standardized mean difference [SMD] −0.80 [−1.13, −0.47]; SMD −0.85 [−1.29, −0.40]) than physiotherapy or exercise alone. Meta-regression showed that only single PNE session duration was associated with a greater reduction in pain (P <.05). Subgroup results showed that a single PNE session exceeding 60 minutes (MD −2.04), 4 to 8 sessions (MD −1.34), intervention for 7 to 12 weeks (MD −1.32), and a group-based approach (MD −1.76) may be more beneficial. Conclusion: This review indicates that adding PNE to treatment programs would lead to more efficacious effects for chronic LBP. Additionally, we preliminarily extracted dose-effect relationships for PNE intervention, providing guidance for clinicians to design effective PNE sessions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of exercise therapy on neuropathic symptoms, signs, psychosocial aspects, and physical function in people with diabetic neuropathy (DN). Methods: A search in PubMed, Web of Science, Physiotherapy Evidence (PEDro), and Cochrane databases was performed from inception to Invalid Date NaN,. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were selected in patients with DN comparing exercise therapy with a control group. The studies' methodological quality was assessed with the PEDro scale. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to assess the overall quality. Results: Eleven RCTs (n = 517 participants) were included. Nine studies showed high methodological quality. Mean (MD) and standardized mean differences (SMD) were observed in favor of exercise therapy for symptoms (MD = −1.05; confidence interval 95% = −1.90 to −0.20), signs (SMD = −0.66; confidence interval 95%= −1 to −0.32), and physical function (SMD = −0.45; confidence interval 95% = −0.66 to −0.24). No changes were found in psychosocial aspects (SMD = −0.37; confidence interval 95% = −0.92 to 0.18). The overall quality of evidence was very low. Conclusion: The quality of evidence suggesting that exercise therapy provides short-term benefits in neuropathic symptoms, signs, and physical function in patients with DN is very low. Furthermore, there were no effects found on psychosocial aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Concurrent Exercise Training (CET) is defined as an exercise training mode in which aerobic and resistance exercises are performed in the same session. Objectives: The effects of CET in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are inconclusive. Therefore, the objective of the present systematic review with a meta-analysis is to evaluate the effects of CET on metabolic markers, body composition, lipid profile, inflammation, and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in people with T2DM. Methods: Five electronic databases were searched from inception up to January 2023. The eligibility criteria included prospective studies that had T2DM participants aged between 35 and 65 years who performed CET at least 2 times/week for a minimum duration of 8 weeks with a control group. Results: Seven studies were identified for qualitative review. Sufficient data were not available for one study, therefore, meta-analysis was performed in six studies. A significant effect was observed in glucose level (p <.01); glycated hemoglobin (p =.02); Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (p =.02); body mass index (p =.02); %body fat (p <.01); %fat-free mass (p <.01); waist circumference (p =.03); triglyceride (p <.01); peak oxygen uptake (p <.01); and tumor necrotic factor -α (p <.01). Conclusions: The CET is effective in improving metabolic markers, body composition, lipid profile, inflammation, and CRF in people with T2DM and can be included in the management of T2DM. The overall evidence for this conclusion may be influenced by bias in included studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the factors influencing the willingness of older cancer patients to receive palliative care, considering the 'person-centered' approach to advance care planning in Taiwan. Autonomy challenges are prevalent among these patients. The retrospective study, conducted at a tertiary teaching hospital in southern Taiwan from June 2020 to December 2022, included 195 eligible older cancer patients. Logistic regression was utilized to analyze factors influencing their willingness for palliative care. The optimal logistic regression analysis identified five key factors associated with receiving palliative care: age (OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.20–0.92), educational level (OR, 2.82; 95% CI, 1.27–6.25), metastatic disease (OR, 4.62; 95% CI, 2.08–10.27), hospice and palliative care knowledge (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.11–1.57), and attitude (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.12–1.33). The findings suggest that younger, more educated patients with metastatic disease, higher knowledge of hospice and palliative care, and positive attitudes toward these services were more likely to receive palliative care. Patients' awareness of hospice and palliative care, attitudes shaped by such awareness, and disease status significantly influenced their willingness to undergo palliative care. This highlights the increasing vulnerability of older cancer patients to decision-making challenges as their illness progresses, emphasizing the importance of initiating conversations about advance care planning early on. Healthcare practitioners are urged to actively advocate for these discussions, particularly considering the decline in decision-making capacity as the disease advances. Future research should focus on empowering individuals in making end-of-life care choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Clinical reasoning skills are essential for decision-making. Current assessment methods are limited when testing clinical reasoning and management of uncertainty. This study evaluates the reliability, validity and acceptability of Practicum Script, an online simulation-based programme, for developing medical students' clinical reasoning skills using real-life cases. Methods: In 2020, we conducted an international, multicentre pilot study using 20 clinical cases with 2457 final-year medical students from 21 schools worldwide. Psychometric analysis was performed (n = 1502 students completing at least 80% of cases). Classical estimates of reliability for three test domains (hypothesis generation, hypothesis argumentation and knowledge application) were calculated using Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega coefficients. Validity evidence was obtained by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and measurement alignment (MA). Items from the knowledge application domain were analysed using cognitive diagnostic modelling (CDM). Acceptability was evaluated by an anonymous student survey. Results: Reliability estimates were high with narrow confidence intervals. CFA revealed acceptable goodness-of-fit indices for the proposed three-factor model. CDM analysis demonstrated good absolute test fit and high classification accuracy estimates. Student survey responses showed high levels of acceptability. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that Practicum Script is a useful resource for strengthening students' clinical reasoning skills and ability to manage uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the Consultation And Relational Empathy (CARE) measure as a tool for examiners to assess medical students' empathy during Objective and Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), as the best tool for assessing empathy during OSCEs remains unknown. Methods: We first assessed the psychometric properties of the CARE measure, completed simultaneously by examiners and standardized patients (SP, either teachers - SPteacher - or civil society members - SPcivil society), for each student, at the end of an OSCE station. We then assessed the qualitative/quantitative agreement between examiners and SP. Results: We included 129 students, distributed in eight groups, four groups for each SP type. The CARE measure showed satisfactory psychometric properties in the context of the study but moderate, and even poor inter-rater reliability for some items. Considering paired observations, examiners scored lower than SPs (p < 0.001) regardless of the SP type. However, the difference in score was greater when the SP was a SPteacher rather than a SPcivil society (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Despite acceptable psychometric properties, inter-rater reliability of the CARE measure between examiners and SP was unsatisfactory. The choice of examiner as well as the type of SP seems critical to ensure a fair measure of empathy during OSCEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical relevance: New digital systems are being developed for evaluating different aspects of the visual function, such as binocularity, and it is important to know their real performance in clinical practice in order to use them appropriately. Background: The aim was to compare binocular vision measures obtained with an online digital platform with conventional measures using prisms and printed tests. Methods: Prospective study enrolling 49 healthy patients (mean age: 35.5 ± 13.6 years). A complete visual examination was performed including measurement of near phoria (cover test), negative fusional vergence (NFV) and positive fusional vergence (PFV) ranges (prism bar), and stereopsis (24 patients Randot Stereo Test and 25 patients TNO Random Dot Test 19th edition). These same parameters were also measured with the Bynocs system (Kanohi Eye Pvt Ltd). Bland – Altman plots were used to analyse the agreement between methods. Results: Digital measurement of near phoria was significantly lower than that obtained with the cover test, with a median difference (MD) of 4.71 (−0.07–20.07) prism dioptres (pd) (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between Bynocs and prism bar methods in NFV break (MD 2.00, range −21–26 pd, p = 0.584) and recovery points (MD 0.00, range −16–24 pd, p =.571). Near PFV were significantly lower with Bynocs (break: MD −9.00, range −38–12 pd; recovery: MD −14.00, range −43–20 pd; p < 0.001). Bynocs stereoacuity threshold was significantly lower than that obtained with TNO (p = 0.004), but significantly higher compared to Randot (p < 0.001). Large and clinically relevant confidence intervals for the comparison between digital and conventional measures were detected in Passing-Bablok analysis. Conclusions: Digital measures of near phoria, NFV, PFV, and stereopsis with the Bynocs platform cannot be used interchangeably with conventional measures. The normal ranges of normality for this new tool are defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical relevance: Currently eye examinations are usually based on autorefraction followed by subjective refraction (SR) with a phoropter. An automated phoropter that can also perform autorefraction may facilitate the optometric workflow. Background: The efficiency and feasibility of an objective autorefraction and correction system are assessed by comparing objective refractive measurements with SR on the same subjects and evaluating the visual acuity (VA) values obtained after the objective refractive measurement and correction. Methods: Objective autorefraction and correction was performed on 41 subjects using an automated binocular phoropter system. The auto-phoropter performs autorefraction by wavefront measurement and corrects the spherical and cylindrical errors with tunable fluidic lenses while the patient looks at a visual display inside the instrument. The instrument outputs are optometric constants of spherical and cylindrical aberrations. After measurement and automated correction of the refractive errors, the VA values were assessed by having the subjects look at an integrated Snellen chart. The objective measurement results were statistically compared with their SR. Results: The correlations between SR and objective autorefraction and correction spherical equivalents (M) were 0.98 (0.97–0.99) and 0.96 (0.93–0.98), the vertical Jackson cross cylinder (J0) were 0.96 (0.92–0.98) and 0.95 (0.91–0.97), and the oblique Jackson cross cylinder (J45) were 0.73 (0.55–0.85) and 0.82 (0.69–0.90), for the right and left eyes, respectively, with the 95% confidence interval (CI) values in parentheses. 89.0% of the 82 eyes had at least 6/7.5 VA. Conclusions: A significant agreement between the SR and objective autorefraction and correction was observed. An all-objective refractive assessment with instantaneous verification may improve the precision of eye prescriptions and possibly reduce the procedure time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of resistance training (RT), Tai Chi (TC) and combination intervention (RT & TC) on the oxidative stress, blood glucose and lipid metabolism and quality of life of elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Ninety-four elderly patients with T2DM were randomly divided into an RT group (RTG, n = 23), TC group (TCG, n = 24), combination intervention group (CIG, n = 24) and control group (CG, n = 23). All participants were given nutrition and medication. On this basis, RTG, TCG and CIG were administered for 24 weeks (3 times/week, 40 minutes/time). Observation indicators were malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), 8-hydroxy-2 deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and diabetes specific quality of life (DSQL). RT, TC and joint intervention can reduce the oxidative stress damage on elderly patients with T2DM to different degrees, control the levels of blood sugar and blood lipid and improve the quality of life. Compared with single intervention, combination intervention can further reduce the level of oxidative stress but has no additional benefits on blood glucose and lipid control and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple exercises included in strength training involve greater activation of the quadriceps compared to hamstring muscles, which may lead to knee joint imbalances. The aim of this study was to examine the ratio of surface electromyography (sEMG) activity hamstring and quadriceps muscle groups (hamstring-to-quadriceps activation ratio; H:Q EMG), as well as lateral to medial hamstring activation ratio (LH:MH) in parallel squat, Romanian deadlift, hip thrust, lying leg curl and seated knee extension. The H:Q EMG was greater during lying leg curl compared to other exercises during both the concentric and eccentric phase, however the Romanian deadlift and hip thrust also resulted in relatively high H:Q EMG. Pairwise comparisons revealed that LH:MH was greater in the parallel squat compared to the Romanian deadlift and hip thrust in the concentric phase, and compared to the Romanian deadlift and hip thrust during the eccentric phase. Our data suggests that the lying leg curl promotes the greatest hamstring activation and H:Q EMG, amongst the exercises investigated, while also providing relatively homogenous LH:MH. The lying leg curl should be considered as a primary exercise in rehabilitation and training programmes, aiming to proportionally activate LH:MH and increase H:Q EMG, which may improve knee muscle balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of the study were to build models using logistic regression analysis of flexibility and strength tests to prospectively predict risk factors for anterior cruciate ligament tear (ACL-tear) in female soccer (FS) players, and to determine training cut-off for risk factors of the predictive model built. A prospective cohort study of 95 female players (aged 14–33 years) was conducted. Age, anthropometric data, soccer history, lower limb range of motion (ROM) and hip maximal isometric strength (MIS) were measured. At the prospective follow-up after 12 months, 7.4% of the players had developed an ACL-tear. The model showed a significant relationship (χ2(93) = 30.531, p < 0.001) between the ACL-tear and the predictor variables (leg length, HAD-NH [hip adduction] MIS, asymmetric ROM [ankle dorsiflexion with knee extended (AD-KE) and with knee flexed (AD-KF), and HE (hip extension)], hip ROM [HIR (internal rotation) and HAB (abduction)]). The Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criteria (BIC) for model fit were 30.24 and 51.79, respectively. The value R2 showed good model fit, 76.5% for Nagelkerke´s R2, 71.4% for McFadden´s R2 and 67.5% for Tjur´s R2. For the screening test, cut-off for leg length of ≥0.40 m, for HIR ROM of ≤44º and for asymmetry of HE ROM of ≥5° were set, which have an acceptable (AUC ≥ 0.755) discriminatory ability for the development of ACL-tear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess the awareness and knowledge of professional team sport athletes about ACL injuries, injury prevention programs, and the return to sports after ACL injuries. A total of 419 athletes representing soccer, basketball, volleyball and handball sports were included in the study. We utilized a 15-item self-report survey to assess the awareness of athletes about ACL injury, ACL injury prevention program, and return to sport after ACL injuries. Male and soccer players participated in prevention programs more than female athletes (p = 0.001). Participation in prevention programs was significantly higher in the ≥ 18 years old group than in the < 18 years old group (p = 0.040). Participants who were informed about ACL injuries were 8.4 times more likely to participate in the ACL injuries prevention program than others (OR: 8.38, 95% CI: 3.823–18.376, p < 0.001). The majority of participants believed that return to sport after ACL injury takes 6 months and 81.4% of them thought that it is not possible to do sport without an ACL. This study revealed that the awareness and performance of ACL prevention training programs among professional team sport athletes were insufficient. The athletes' knowledge regarding return to sports after ACL injuries was also inadequate. Improving athletes' knowledge of ACL injuries may lead to increased participation in ACL injury prevention programs. Thus, the provision of tailored educational interventions to athletes could potentially enhance their awareness and understanding of ACL injuries, consequently contributing towards the prevention of such injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the association between athletic performance and periodontal disease (PD). Observational studies published up to April 2022 were searched in online databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, LILACS, OpenGrey, and Google Scholar). PECO statement focused on studies with professional athletes (Participants) with PD (Exposition) compared to those with healthy periodontium (Comparison) and its effects on sports performance (outcome). Searches were conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines (registration protocol: 10.17605/OSF.IO/7ADH6) and risk of bias evaluation according to the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. A total of 793 references were retrieved, of which eight were considered eligible. Two studies did not show an association between clinical PD parameters and performance. A meta-analysis with 396 participants suggested a relationship between PD and self-reported reduction in sports performance (odds ratio [OR] = 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–2.31; p = 0.03; I2 = 0%) with moderate quality of evidence accordingly GRADE analysis. Despite the differences in performance evaluations between studies, PD was associated with reduced self-reported sports performance. Additional studies assessing confounding factors and objective assessment of PD and performance are needed to clarify the real effect of both conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to evaluate the influence of supervision, athlete age and sex and programme duration and adherence on exercise-based injury prevention programme effectiveness in sport. Databases were searched for randomized controlled trials evaluating exercise-based injury prevention programme effectiveness compared to "train-as-normal". A random effects meta-analysis for overall effect and pooled effects by sex and supervision and meta-regression for age, intervention duration and adherence were performed. Programmes were effective overall (risk ratio (RR) 0.71) and equally beneficial for female-only (0.73) and male-only (0.65) cohorts. Supervised programmes were effective (0.67), unlike unsupervised programmes (1.04). No significant association was identified between programme effectiveness and age or intervention duration. The inverse association between injury rate and adherence was significant (β=-0.014, p = 0.004). Supervised programmes reduce injury by 33%, but there is no evidence for the effectiveness of non-supervised programmes. Females and males benefit equally, and age (to early middle age) does not affect programme effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine risky leisure noise exposure from listening to music via headphones and to identify potential determinants with special focus on portable listening devices (PLDs) among adolescents over a period of 7.5-years. Design: Data were collected by questionnaires at four equidistant time points (O1-O4). Music exposure via headphones was calculated based on self-reported volume setting and listening duration. Exceeding 85 dB(A) equivalent for a 40-hour working week was defined as risky noise exposure. Determinants of risky headphone and PLD exposure were investigated using generalised estimating equations and accounting for missing data by multiple imputation. Study sample: Closed cohort of 2148 students attending 9th grade of any secondary school type in Regensburg (Germany), during 2009 to 2011. Results: Risky noise exposure from headphone usage was almost twice as high in wave O1 and O2 (at age 15 or 18) compared with 20–23-year-olds in O3 and O4. Risky exposure to headphones and PLDs were associated with younger age, low and medium education, single-parent household and smoking, whereas good self-rated hearing showed a protective effect. Additionally, not being born in Germany was associated with risky PLD exposure. Conclusion: Before harmful behaviours become entrenched, starting preventive efforts at a young age is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work-related violence exposure has been identified as one of the risk factors for social workers' turnover intention, but little is known about its underlying mechanisms. This study aims to distinguish compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue from a dual perspective and investigate the mediating effects of these two co-existing constructs in the relationship between work-related violence exposure and turnover intention. A sample of 1023 Chinese social workers in H city, China (mean age = 36.24 years, SD = 7.11) is obtained by multistage cluster random sampling. Findings demonstrate that the relationship between work-related violence exposure and turnover intention is partially mediated by compassion satisfaction (b = 0.023, 95% CI [0.007, 0.045]) and compassion fatigue (b = 0.139, 95% CI [0.093, 0.187]). The present study clarifies two influencing paths between work-related violence exposure and turnover intention, adding knowledge to the social work profession. Practical implications for reducing turnover intention are suggested in the social work setting. Practice Points: Organizations and managers are encouraged to create a safe working environment and establish a monitoring system that can respond sensitively and rapidly to violence. On the organizational level, fostering a compassionate organizational culture is especially encouraged. On the individual level, self-care programs can be introduced and implemented in China to benefit social workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited research exists on the relationship between aesthetic saut de chat performance and muscle-tendon unit (MTU) characteristics of dancers. We developed a weighted parameter ranking (WPR) tool to incorporate aesthetic leaping aspects (i.e., height, peak split angle, average trunk angle and trunk angle range) for correlation with MTU properties. The purpose was to identify the relationship of saut de chat WPR and leap height with maximal plantarflexion strength, medial gastrocnemius (MG) stiffness, Achilles tendon (AT) stiffness and relative peak power (PP). Dancers (n = 18) performed maximal plantarflexion, short-range stretches and isometric ramping contractions on a dynamometer equipped with ultrasound to determine strength, MG stiffness and AT stiffness, respectively. Subjects then performed saut de chat leaps atop force platforms surrounded by motion capture cameras. A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to compare WPR variable weightings with PCA results and rankings. Moderate–strong relationships were identified among WPR, maximal plantarflexion strength, MG stiffness and PP. Strong–very strong relationships were also identified between leap height and maximal plantarflexion strength, MG stiffness, AT stiffness, peak split angle and PP. A very strong correlation existed between PCA rankings and WPRs. Practitioners may consider developing strength and power capabilities in dancers to improve leaping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted a cross-sectional survey measuring the extent and nature of neighborhood participation regarding serious illness, death and loss and the factors that are associated with it. We distributed the survey to 2324 adult citizens in two neighborhoods in Flanders, Belgium, to which 714 citizens responded (response rate 30.7%). Of the respondents, 42.4% participated in at least one action in their neighborhood around serious illness, death, or loss, for 30.8% of them this participation was sporadic. Most of the respondents participated by helping neighbors (32.4%) or by volunteering (10.3%). We found a positive association between perceived neighborhood social cohesion (β = 0.100; CI = 0.003-0.040), previous experiences with serious illness, death, and loss (β = 0.158; CI = 0.204-0.586) and neighborhood participation around serious illness, death and loss. Future research should investigate strategies on how to move from death literacy developed through illness, caregiving and bereavement experiences to neighborhood participation around these topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has placed a significant emotional and psychological burden on mothers. We explored the association between the severity of ASD symptoms in children and the mental health of their mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study included 1,924 mothers of children with ASD, enrolled in a web-based cross-sectional survey over 85 consecutive days to gather clinical and sociodemographic data. The severity of ASD symptoms was obtained according to the children's age. Using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS-21) scale, we found that 35.8 percent of mothers experienced both anxiety and depression. A high education level and a high family income reduced the chance of concurrent anxiety and depression. Conversely, unemployment, a child using psychiatric medication, and higher severity of ASD symptoms increased the chance. Notably, the severity of the ASD symptom was the sole predictor of maternal co-occurring anxiety and depression across all age groups (<3 years aOR = 2.04, 95%CI 1.07–3.89; 3–5 years aOR = 2.76, 95%CI 1.67–4.56; ≥ 6 years aOR = 1.61, 95%CI 1.04–2.50). Recognizing the challenges associated with ASD leads to greater acceptance and tailored interventions, ultimately improving the overall well-being of both individuals with ASD and their mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to synthesize the information on menstrual cup adoption among reproductive-age women in India. A comprehensive search was conducted in four databases following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A total of 18 articles were included in this review. The findings of the studies were described narratively, and meta-analysis and sensitivity analysis were also performed. The pooled prevalence of knowledge regarding menstrual cups among women in the included studies was 35 percent (CI: 0.23–.49). Just 5 percent (CI: 0.02–0.12) of women use menstrual cups. Only 24 percent (CI: 0.17–0.33) of the women who used menstrual cups reported leakage as one of the key barriers or issues to menstrual cup use. Nevertheless, 62 percent (CI: 0.42–0.78) of non-users have a pooled prevalence expressing willingness to use in the future. The price was found to be both a motivating and discouraging factor for using menstruation cups. Currently, menstrual cup use among Indian women and girls is very low. However, user reviews suggest that menstrual cups are an appealing and safer replacement for conventional period supplies. To fully realize the potential of menstruation cups, significant education, and awareness efforts are required to ensure proper usage. Furthermore, initiatives to lower the initial cost of menstruation cups are critical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider a general regression model, either without a scale parameter or with a known scale parameter. We construct a confidence interval for a scalar parameter of interest that utilizes the uncertain prior information that a distinct scalar parameter takes a specified value. This confidence interval has excellent coverage properties. It also has local scaled expected length, where the scaling is with respect to the usual confidence interval, that (a) is substantially less than 1 when the prior information is correct, (b) has a maximum value that is not too large, and (c) is close to 1 when the data and prior information are highly discordant. An important practical application of this confidence interval is to a quantal bioassay carried out to compare two similar compounds. In this context, the uncertain prior information is that the hypothesis of "parallelism" holds. We provide extensive numerical results that illustrate the attractive properties of this confidence interval in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Online vendors often deploy limited-time and limited-quantity cues on their e-commerce sites to influence consumers purchase decisions. Although these scarcity cues can reflect genuine restrictions in the availability of goods, they are increasingly considered as ill-intentioned nudges or 'dark patterns' due to their omnipresence and success in persuading consumers. In an online experiment (N = 202), we examined the effects of limited-time and limited-quantity cues on perceived task load, perceived benevolence, and user experience. Results suggest that participants associated scarcity cues with a lack of benevolence from online vendors. E-commerce site design without scarcity cues provided participants with a superior hedonic and pragmatic user experience. In the case of limited-time scarcity cues, participants reported frustration-related negative emotions. We discuss the implications of these findings from the perspectives of dark pattern researchers, designers, and online vendors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although researchers have devoted great effort to explore the antecedents of altruistic behaviours (a type of organisational citizenship behaviours), the important role of technical factors (social media) remains unclear. Drawing on social comparison and organisational support theory, this study explored how social media affordances influence employees' altruistic behaviours from both positive and negative perspectives. In this study, 302 employees from organisations in China were surveyed. We found that social media affordances could facilitate employees' perceived organisational support and social comparison of ability. Perceived organisational support positively mediated the relationship between social media affordances and altruistic behaviours. Although the evidence did not support the notion that social comparison of ability could directly dampen altruistic behaviours, a post-hoc analysis found that it could dampen the positive impact of perceived organisational support on developing altruistic behaviours. This study expanded previous research focusing on only positive or negative effects of social media use in the workplace by investigating the dual effects and the interaction effect in between. Here, we discuss the results and provide practical guidance for managers and organisations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on the premise of dialectical tensions in the management of privacy and connectivity, this study proposes a model presenting a clue to the privacy paradox: how social media users negotiate information ownership while reacting to privacy concerns. The study further examines gender differences in the perception of privacy concerns and negotiation of information ownership. The findings show that others' sharing of information ownership influenced one's own sharing of information ownership. While privacy concerns increased privacy rule adaptation, positive norms of shared information ownership negatively influenced privacy rule adaptation. There were gender differences found: women were more likely than men to react positively to expand shared information ownership and to regulate the degree of shared information ownership by adapting their privacy rules. Men were less likely than women to be concerned about privacy in reflection of the positive norms of sharing information ownership on social media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People can present a systematic bias in sharing fake news on social media based on their political orientation: they tend to share fake news that support their political view more than they share fake news with different political leanings, even though both types of news are equally fake. Here, we explain this systematic bias (termed polarized sharing) by considering social identification theory aspects together with theories on gender differences in social conformity and response to threats. Findings based on a study of 250 Facebook users in the US revealed that partisan identification is a double edge-sword. It increased polarized sharing of fake news directly, but decreased it indirectly, by increasing social network heterophily, which in turn, demotivated polarized sharing of fake news. Importantly, these processes differed by gender. Men were more influenced directly by partisan identification, and women, were more influenced indirectly, through limited social network heterophily. Implications for research and practice are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of human-computer interaction, deformable user interfaces are gaining more attention. Gestures performed by bending the deformable device are commonly investigated in the literature. These bend gestures' inherent tactile and kinaesthetic feedback and their association with spatial directions benefit both blind and low vision (BLV) and sighted users. Bend gestures are naturally associated with two descriptors of bend, which are location and direction. One potential opportunity to extend this gesture space is to investigate additional descriptors of bend gestures without introducing new locations. In this context, size and angle are the two common additional descriptors of bend gestures. In this work, we conducted two (preliminary and main) studies to investigate BLV and sighted users' performance and preference for multiple magnitude levels of size and angle of bend on a smartphone-sized deformable prototype. Finally, we discuss the results and propose user group-specific design recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metaphorical language describing the COVID-19 pandemic as a war has been pervasive in public discourse (e.g. "the pandemic is a war," "the virus is an enemy," and "the vaccine is a weapon"). This study employs an online survey experiment (N = 551 U.S. adults) to examine the impact of war metaphors compared to non-metaphorical literal frames and fire metaphors (e.g. "the pandemic is a wildfire"). War metaphors exhibited little advantage over literal frames across a variety of desirable outcomes (i.e. the adoption of pro-health behaviors against COVID-19, perceived solidarity and collective responsibility to curb the pandemic, and intentions to discuss and share the health news with others). However, this study revealed some benefits of war metaphors over fire metaphors. Compared with fire metaphors, health news featuring war metaphors increased both positive emotions and perceived threats of COVID-19, which in turn promoted pro-health behaviors against COVID-19 and perceived solidarity to cope with the public health crisis. Moreover, positive emotions in response to war metaphors also indirectly encouraged the retransmission of science-based COVID-19 health news. This study thus showcased the benefits and limitations of war metaphors and revealed the mediating roles of perceived threats and positive emotions in explaining war metaphorical framing effects. Implications of using war and fire metaphors for communicating about public health crises are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship between media use and breast cancer screening intentions by integrating the celebrity identification model and the theory of reasoned action. It tests an integrative model with survey data from 315 U.S. adult women. The study found that media use for breast cancer information was positively associated with parasocial interaction (PSI) and identification with celebrities who have or have had breast cancer; PSI was positively associated with attitudes, descriptive and injunctive norms in breast cancer screening, while identification with celebrities was positively associated with descriptive norms; attitudes, injunctive norms and descriptive norms were positively associated with breast cancer screening intentions. The study supports the mediating effect of PSI, identification, attitudes, and descriptive and injunctive norms on the association between media use and breast cancer prevention intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terror management research has found that mortality salience increases self-esteem preservation, which tends to produce counter-persuasive effects in the health context. The present study examines the persuasive potentials of an alternative mortality prime, death reflection, in a between-subjects online experiment with current smokers (N = 92). We tested the effects of two death primes on their posttraumatic growth, identification with a story character, and quitting intentions after exposure to an anti-smoking PSA. The results showed that only death reflection significantly affected quitting intentions through two serial mediators. First, death reflection promoted a greater sense of posttraumatic growth than the control condition, whereas mortality salience did not. Second, the increased sense of growth enhanced identification with a testimonial character in the anti-smoking PSA, which, in turn, lowered quitting intentions. Implications for health communication are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engaging the public and community organizations in local health actions greatly assists disease prevention and control. However, it remains unclear how organization-public relationships (OPR) and communication networks within communities contribute to community health actions. To fill this gap, a survey was conducted among community members in Shanghai, China, who were challenged by the Omicron wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results revealed that integrated connectedness to a storytelling network (ICSN) was a significant predictor of residents' community engagement. Trust, control mutuality, commitment, and ICSN were positively associated with community engagement intentions through the sense of community and organizational efficacy. This study is a step toward understanding how organizations and members collectively respond to health crises at the community level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]