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Background: Prevalence and risk of poor psychological outcomes following rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) are not well‐established. Methods: Participants in this cross‐sectional, case‐control study (n = 713 survivors, 42.5% female; mean [SD] age, 30.5 [6.6] years; n = 706 siblings, 57.2% female; mean age, 32.8,[7.9] years) completed measures of neurocognition, emotional distress, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL). Multivariable logistic regression models identified treatments, health behaviors, and chronic conditions associated with impairment. Results: Relative to siblings, more survivors reported neurocognitive impairment (task efficiency: 21.1% vs. 13.7%, emotional regulation: 16.7% vs. 11.0%, memory: 19.3% vs. 15.1%), elevated emotional distress (somatic distress: 12.9% vs. 4.7%, anxiety: 11.7% vs. 5.9%, depression: 22.8% vs. 16.9%) and poorer HRQOL (physical functioning: 11.1% vs. 2.8%, role functioning due to physical problems: 16.8% vs. 8.2%, pain: 17.5% vs. 10.0%, vitality: 22.3% vs. 13.8%, social functioning: 14.4% vs. 6.8%, emotional functioning: 17.1% vs. 10.6%). Cranial radiation increased risk for impaired task efficiency (odds ratio [OR], 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–4.63), whereas chest and pelvic radiation predicted increased risk of physical functioning (OR, 2.68; 95% CI, 1.16–6.21 and OR, 3.44; 95% CI, 1.70–6.95, respectively). Smoking was associated with impaired task efficiency (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.14–3.70), memory (OR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.26–3.95), anxiety (OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.36–5.41) and depression (OR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.01–3.11). Neurologic conditions increased risk of anxiety (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.04–5.10), and hearing conditions increased risk of depression (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.05–3.03). Neurologic and hearing conditions, respectively, were associated with impaired memory (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.20–4.95 and OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.05–3.35) and poor health perception (OR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.62–1.28 and OR, 2.33; 95% CI, 1.34–4.06). Conclusions: RMS survivors are at significant risk for poor psychological outcomes. Advancing therapies for local control, smoking cessation, and managing chronic medical conditions may mitigate poor outcomes following RMS. Research on psychological outcomes following pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma is scarce, limiting the understanding of the prevalence of and risk factors for neurocognitive impairment, emotional distress, and quality of life among survivors. This study showed that rhabdomyosarcoma survivors are at significant risk for poor psychological outcomes, and advancing therapies for local tumor control, smoking cessation, and managing chronic medical conditions may be important for mitigating risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical gait analysis (CGA) is a systematic approach to comprehensively evaluate gait patterns, quantify impairments, plan targeted interventions, and evaluate the impact of interventions. However, international standards for CGA are currently lacking, resulting in various national initiatives. Standards are important to ensure safe and effective healthcare practices and to enable evidence-based clinical decision-making, facilitating interoperability, and reimbursement under national healthcare policies. Collaborative clinical and research work between European countries would benefit from common standards. This study aimed to review the current laboratory practices for CGA in Europe. A comprehensive survey was conducted by the European Society for Movement Analysis in Adults and Children (ESMAC), in close collaboration with the European national societies. The survey involved 97 gait laboratories across 16 countries. The survey assessed several aspects related to CGA, including equipment used, data collection, processing, and reporting methods. There was a consensus between laboratories concerning the data collected during CGA. The Conventional Gait Model (CGM) was the most used biomechanical model for calculating kinematics and kinetics. Respondents also reported the use of video recording, 3D motion capture systems, force plates, and surface electromyography. While there was a consensus on the reporting of CGA data, variations were reported in training, documentation, data preprocessing and equipment maintenance practices. The findings of this study will serve as a foundation for the development of standardized guidelines for CGA in Europe. • Survey report on current Clinical Gait Analysis (CGA) practices across Europe. • Good agreement on data included in CGA with video, kinematics, kinetics and EMG. • Training, documentation, maintenance, reliability evaluations vary between laboratories. • New gait analysis tools have limited adoption in CGA. • Results set foundation for a Delphi process to define European CGA standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study assesses musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) knowledge, attitudes, and practices among young rheumatologists in Mexico, aiming to identify barriers and facilitators to its clinical use. Methods: An online survey distributed to a network of young rheumatologists captured demographics, institutional, and personal MSUS information. Multivariable analysis identified factors associated with positive MSUS attitudes. Results: Ninety-six rheumatologists (39.18% national response rate) completed the survey. Of respondents (54.2% females, median age 35.1 years), 81.2% deemed MSUS necessary in clinical rheumatology. The main barriers included limited training access (56.2%) and required training time (54.1%). Lack of scientific evidence was not a major barrier (60.4%). Positive MSUS attitudes were associated with learning from conferences (p = 0.029) and colleagues (p = 0.005), formal (p = 0.043), and in-person training (p = 0.020), MSUS use in practice (p = 0.027), and use by radiologists in their institute (p < 0.001). Interest in learning MSUS (88.5%) was significantly higher in those with positive attitudes (94.4%, p < 0.001). Elastic net analysis identified key drivers, including learning MSUS from conferences, colleagues, and in residency; using MSUS in practice; respondent-performed MSUS; and MSUS use by radiologists. Statistically significant associations were found with using MSUS for synovitis/inflammatory joint disease (OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.00–2.05) and MSUS use by radiologists in respondent's institutes (OR = 1.70, 95% CI 1.20–2.90). Conclusion: Most young rheumatologists in Mexico recognize the necessity of MSUS in clinical practice. By addressing identified barriers, encouraging rheumatologist-radiologist collaboration, and establishing a regulatory body to certify rheumatologist's MSUS experience, there is an opportunity to empower them with the necessary skills for effective MSUS use, ultimately benefiting patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) benefit from regular home-based exercise (HbE). In spite of recommendations, a relevant proportion of German axSpA patients does not adhere to recommended HbE practices. To enhance HbE care, we developed the novel digital therapeutic (DTx) "Axia" compliant with the European medical device regulation (MDR). Axia offers a modern app-based HbE solution with patient educative content and further integrated features. Objective: We aimed to assess Axia's efficacy, attractiveness, and functionality through a survey among axSpA-patients involved in the first user tests. Methods: A mixed-method online questionnaire with 38 items was administered to 37 axSpA volunteers after using Axia. Numeric rating scales (NRS) and likelihood scales were primarily used. Results: HbE frequency significantly increased from a median of 1 day/week to 6 days/week (p < 0.001) by using Axia. Existing HbE practitioners also increased their frequency (median of 4 days/week before, 6 days/week with Axia, p < 0.05). Axia received a median rating of 5 out of 5 stars. On NRS scales, Axia scored a median of 9 for intuitiveness and design, and a median of 8 for entertainment. 64.9% reported improved range of motion, 43.2% reported reduced pain, and 93.6% enhanced disease-specific knowledge. All users recommended Axia to other patients. Conclusion: Axia increases axSpA patients HbE frequency, possibly due to its good intuitiveness and design, leading to reduction in pain and subjective improvement of range of motion. This warrants further investigation in large randomized controlled interventional trials to establish its efficacy conclusively and patients adherence to HbE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) require close monitoring to achieve the goal of sustained disease remission. Telehealth can facilitate continuous care while relieving scarce healthcare resources. In a mixed-methods proof-of-concept study, we investigated a hybrid telehealth care axSpA pathway in patients with stable disease over 6 months. Patients used a medical app to document disease activity (BASDAI and PtGA bi-weekly, flare questionnaire weekly). To enable a remote ASDAS-CRP (TELE-ASDAS-CRP), patients used a capillary self-sampling device at home. Monitoring results were discussed and a decision was reached via shared decision-making whether a pre-planned 3-month on-site appointment (T3) was necessary. Ten patients completed the study, and eight patients also completed additional telephone interviews. Questionnaire adherence was high; BASDAI (82.3%), flares (74.8%) and all patients successfully completed the TELE-ASDAS-CRP for the T3 evaluation. At T3, 9/10 patients were in remission or low disease activity and all patients declined the offer of an optional T3 on-site appointment. Patient acceptance of all study components was high with a net promoter score (NPS) of +50% (mean NPS 8.8 ± 1.5) for self-sampling, +70% (mean NPS 9.0 ± 1.6) for the electronic questionnaires and +90% for the T3 teleconsultation (mean NPS 9.7 ± 0.6). In interviews, patients reported benefits such as a better overview of their condition, ease of use of telehealth tools, greater autonomy, and, most importantly, travel time savings. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate a hybrid approach to follow-up axSpA patients including self-sampling. The positive results observed in this scalable proof-of-concept study warrant a larger confirmatory study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When newly diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis (IA), acquiring self-management skills is beneficial, to enhance quality of life. The personal beliefs and mental representations patients hold about their illness, known as illness perception, significantly influence the development of these skills. Recognizing characteristics that affect illness perception is key to identifying patients requiring additional support for the development of self-management skills. This study aimed at identifying the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with a negative illness perception. This cross-sectional study was based on survey data from patients diagnosed for ≤ 2 years. The Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (B-IPQ) was used to measure illness perception. After psychometric testing, we divided the B-IPQ into two domains: (1) a control domain and (2) a consequence domain. We performed logistic regression analyses with multiple imputations. A total of 1,360 patients (61% females) were included. Among them, 64%, 20%, and 16% were diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), respectively. Younger patients with lower socioeconomic status, a diagnosis of PsA or axSpA, high disease activity (OR 3.026, CI 2.208;4.147), severe physical disability (OR 4.147. CI 2.883;6.007), severe pain (OR 3.034, CI 1.991;4.622), and severe fatigue (OR 2.612, CI 1.942;3.513) were significantly more likely to report having a negative illness perception. Younger patients with a higher symptom burden, increased disease activity, lower socioeconomic status, and a diagnosis of PsA or axSpA may require additional attention and support in rheumatology clinical practice to aid in the development of their self-management skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The management of type 1 diabetes, a non-preventable chronic disease, leads to a high physical and psychological burden on the individual. Digital health technology can improve a person's psychosocial self-efficacy and thereby contribute to improved diabetes self-care. The aim of this study was to explore associations between psychosocial self-efficacy and demographic-, disease specific-, well-being as well as digital health technology (DHT) related factors among adults with type 1 diabetes. Methods: A primarily web-based cross sectional survey was conducted among adults with type 1 diabetes in Sweden (n = 301). Psychosocial self-efficacy was assessed using the Swedish version of the Diabetes Empowerment Scale, Swe-DES-23. The survey also contained questions related to demographic-, disease specific-, well-being as well as digital health technology related variables. Results: Higher well-being scores and lower HbA1c levels were associated with higher psychosocial self-efficacy in multiple linear regression analysis. In multivariate analysis, gender, body mass index, well-being scores, and HbA1c levels showed association with psychosocial self-efficacy. None of the DHT factors were found associated with psychosocial self-efficacy. Conclusions: In this study, higher well-being score and lower self-reported HbA1c levels were associated with higher psychosocial self-efficacy in both univariate- and multivariate analysis and accounted for 30% of the variation in psychosocial self-efficacy in the regression model. Thus, measures to improve psychosocial self-efficacy in adults with type 1 diabetes may help maintain their psychological well-being and blood glucose control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The 1st study on QoL between CCSs and patients with benign gynecologic diseases. • The overall QoL CCSs did not differ from that of controls. • The environment and social relationships were much better for asymptomatic controls. The impact of cervical cancer treatment on the quality of life of long-term survivors compared with the general female population is controversial, and no studies have been conducted comparing patients with benign gynecological diseases. The aim of this study was to compare the quality of life of cervical cancer survivors with that of healthy controls. A case-control study was conducted to compare the quality of life of 106 cervical cancer survivors from a tertiary hospital and 185 women admitted to a gynecological outpatient clinic from the same health area for a healthy woman check-up (n 46) or for a benign gynecological disorder (symptomatic, n 113; asymptomatic, n 26). To measure quality of life, self-administered questionnaires, such as the Functional Assessment Cancer Therapy-cervix and World Health Organization quality of life-brief version, were employed. Baseline scores were collected when patients first reported, and further evaluations were completed at 0–6, 7–12, 13–24, 25–60, and more than 60 months. For the contrastive analysis hypothesis, we employed R statistical software. Except for the environment domain at 0–6, 7–12, and 13–24 months (51.52 vs. 60.73, p < 0.0001; 52 vs. 60.73, p < 0.0001; 49.81 vs. 60.73, p < 0.0001, respectively), we found no statistically significant differences in the quality of life between cervical cancer survivors and controls. We did find differences in the physical health domain scores at 0–6 months (60.22 vs. 72.42, p = 0.039) and the social relationships domain scores at 13–24 months (54 vs. 71.42, p = 0.017) between cases and asymptomatic controls. Except for physical well-being, environment and social relationships, which were substantially better for controls, especially in the asymptomatic, long-term cervical cancer survivorśquality of life did not vary from that of controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Prevention complements the curative management of oral diseases. Effective preventive interventions involve the adoption of oral health promoting behaviours. Little is known about the awareness of oral disease and its prevention among Singaporean adults as well as their prevailing oral health attitudes and behaviours. The aim of the study was to describe the oral health knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of adults in Singapore. Methods: A random sample of adults (≥21 years old) in Singapore was selected to complete an interviewer‐administered questionnaire. The questionnaire gathered information about their knowledge of the aetiology, signs and symptoms as well as prevention of dental caries and periodontal disease; attitudes about the value of teeth, locus of control in maintaining oral health and oral health behaviours including toothbrushing, flossing and dental attendance. Results: A total of 1196 adults of weighted mean age 48 years old with almost equal proportions of males and females responded to the questionnaire. Participants were more unaware about the causes of periodontal disease (25.7%) than dental caries (4%). While more than 90% of participants felt that healthy teeth were important and could affect their overall health, many (67.0%) felt it was natural to lose their teeth with old age. Among the participants, 83.5% brushed their teeth twice a day; 41.9% flossed their teeth and 53.9% visited the dentist at least once a year. Conclusions: The study findings showed good knowledge around dental caries but some gaps around periodontal disease. It also found that participants perceived having limited control over preventing tooth loss. Irregular dental attendance and poor denture wearing habits were also noted. The findings shed light on key areas to focus on through oral health promotion to improve overall oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The intensive care unit (ICU) Liberation "ABCDEF" Bundle improves outcomes in critically ill adults. We aimed to identify common barriers to Pediatric ICU Liberation Bundle element implementation, to describe differences in barrier perception by ICU staff role, and to describe changes in reported barriers over time. Study Design: A 91-item survey was developed based on existing literature, iteratively revised, and tested by the PICU Liberation Committee at Seattle Children's Hospital, a tertiary free-standing academic children's hospital. Voluntary surveys were administered electronically to all ICU staff twice over 4-week periods in 2017 and 2020. Survey Respondents: 119 (2017) and 163 (2020) pediatric and cardiac ICU staff, including nurses (n = 142, 50%), respiratory therapists (RTs) (n = 46, 16%), attending and fellow physicians, hospitalists, and advanced practice providers (APPs) (n = 62, 22%), physical, occupational, and speech-language pathology therapists (n = 25, 9%), and pharmacists (n = 7, 2%). Measurements and Main Results: Respondents widely agreed that increased workload (78%-100% across roles), communication (53%-84%), and lack of RT-directed ventilator weaning (68%-88%) are barriers to implementation. Other barriers differed by role. In 2020, nurses reported liability (59%) and personal injury (68%) concerns, patient severity of illness (24%), and family discomfort with ICU liberation practices (41%) more frequently than physicians and APPs (16%, 6%, 8%, and 19%, respectively; P <.01 for all). Between 2017 and 2020, some barriers changed: RTs endorsed discomfort with early mobilization less frequently (50% vs 11%, P =.028) and nurses reported concern for patient harm less frequently (51% vs 24%, P =.004). Conclusions: Implementation efforts aimed at addressing known barriers, including educating staff on the safety of early mobility, considering respiratory therapist-directed ventilator weaning, and standardizing interdisciplinary discussion of Pediatric ICU Liberation Bundle elements, will be needed to overcome barriers and improve ICU Liberation Bundle implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPurposeMethodsResultsConclusionsTo validate the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ), which measures learner motivations; and the Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (IMMS), which measures the motivational properties of educational activities.Participants (333 pharmacists, physicians, and advanced practice providers) completed the MSLQ, IMMS, Congruence-Personalization Questionnaire (CPQ), and a knowledge test immediately following an online learning module (April 2021). We randomly divided data for split-sample analysis using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and the multitrait-multimethod matrix.Cronbach alpha was ≥0.70 for most domains. CFA using sample 1 demonstrated suboptimal fit for both instruments, including 3 negatively-worded IMMS items with particularly low loadings. Revised IMMS (RIMMS) scores (which omit negatively-worded items) demonstrated better fit. Guided by EFA, we identified a novel 3-domain, 11-item ‘MSLQ-Short Form-Revised’ (MSLQ-SFR, with domains: Interest, Self-efficacy, and Attribution) and the 4-domain, 12-item RIMMS as the best models. CFA using sample 2 confirmed good fit. Correlations among MSLQ-SFR, RIMMS, and CPQ scores aligned with predictions; correlations with knowledge scores were small.Original MSLQ and IMMS scores show poor model fit, with negatively-worded items notably divergent. Revised, shorter models—the MSLQ-SFR and RIMMS—show satisfactory model fit (internal structure) and relations with other variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have evaluated the perceptions of healthcare providers in China regarding pediatric palliative care, particularly in critical care units (PICUs), where many children receive palliative care. To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices of PICU personnel in China regarding pediatric palliative care. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in five cities in China (Shanghai, Suzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu and Yunnan) between November 2022 and December 2022. Results: The analysis included 204 participants (122 females), with 158 nurses and 46 physicians. The average knowledge, attitude and practice scores were 9.75 ± 2.90 points (possible range, 0–13 points), 38.30 ± 3.80 points (possible range, 12–60 points) and 35.48 ± 5.72 points (possible range, 9–45 points), respectively. Knowledge score was higher for physicians than for nurses (P < 0.001) and for personnel with previous training in pediatric palliative care (P = 0.005). According to structural equation modelling knowledge had a direct positive effect on attitude (β = 0.69 [0.28–1.10], p = 0.001), and indirect on practice (β = 0.82 [0.36–1.28], p < 0.001); attitude had significant effect on practice as well (β = 1.18 [0.81–1.56], p < 0.001). Conclusions: There is room for improvement in the knowledge, attitudes and practices of PICU personnel in China regarding pediatric palliative care. The findings of this study may facilitate the design and implementation of targeted education/training programs to better inform physicians and nurses in China about pediatric palliative care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjectivesMethodsResultsConclusion\nPLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARYFunctional surgery (FS) is often used to correct congenital or acquired deformities in neurological patients. Along with functional results, short- and medium-term patient satisfaction should always be considered a key goal of surgery and rehabilitation. The aim of this study is to assess the short to medium-term satisfaction of patients who underwent FS and its correlation with perceived improvements.Invitation to an anonymous online survey was sent via e-mail to all neurological adult patients or caregivers of children who underwent lower or upper limb FS over the 2018–2020 period. The survey investigated patients’ satisfaction with the surgery and the variation in pain, ADLs, level of independence, body image, self-esteem, social interaction skills, participation in social events, leisure activities and sports, and use of orthoses or walking aids. Descriptive data analysis was performed. Correlations were assessed using Kendall’s tau.122 out of 324 adults and 53 out of 163 children’s caregivers filled out the questionnaire, with a response rate approaching 40%. Eighty-three percent of adult respondents and 87% of the children’s caregivers were satisfied or very satisfied in the short and medium terms and reported their expectations had been met. Satisfaction was significantly correlated (p < 0.01) with improvements in functional abilities, social participation, self-esteem, and pain reduction. Half of the adults and 40% of children stopped using their orthoses or replaced them with lighter ones. Dissatisfaction and worsened conditions were reported by <10% of the respondents.According to patients and caregivers, FS was satisfactory in the short and medium terms, following improvements in all the ICF domains for most patients.In this study, we studied the satisfaction of patients with neurological diseases and their caregivers about two years after having undergone surgery to correct lower and/or upper limb deformities. We mailed a specifically designed survey to adult patients and caregivers of children who had surgery at our hospital. The questionnaire asked about how satisfied they were with the surgery and if they felt any improvements in different domains: meeting previous expectations, pain level, daily activities, being autonomous, body image, self-esteem, social interaction, participation in social events, leisure activities, and the use of orthoses or walking aids. About 40% of the patients we contacted filled out the questionnaire. Most of them said they were happy with the results obtained and felt their pre-surgical expectations had been met. Satisfaction was associated with improvements in functional abilities, social participation, self-esteem, and lessening of pain. Many patients also stopped using orthoses or switched to lighter ones. Only a few people said they were not happy or felt worse after the surgery. These findings highlight the positive impact of surgery on patient well-being and motor abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Depression is a growing public health concern associated with disability, decreased quality of life, increased multimorbidity, and premature mortality. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms (DS) in the general population of Serbia and to analyze its association with sociodemographic factors. Methods. Data from the 2019 Serbian National Health Survey was analyzed (a sample of 12,406 respondents). The questionnaires used in this study were in accordance with the methodology of the European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) Wave 3. Patient Health Questionnaire eight-item depression (PHQ-8) scale was used to determine the prevalence of DS among the population aged ≥ 15 years. Multivariate logistic regression analyses (MLRA) were implemented to assess the association of the prevalence of DS with the sociodemographic characteristics of the population. Results. The prevalence of both mild (7.5% vs. 4.4%) and moderate/severe DS (2.6% vs. 1.5%) was higher among women than men and increased continuously with age (13.6% of adults aged ≥ 65 years had mild and 5.0% moderate/severe symptoms). The highest rates of moderate/severe DS were present in respondents from Vojvodina (2.7%), among those who lived without a partner (2.7%), the lower educated (4.4%), the poor (3.4%), those with inactive employment status (3.7%), and those with poor social support (6.6%). MLRA showed that the highest odds of DS were present among the respondents aged ≥ 65 years [odds ratio (OR) = 6.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.37–6.69] in the Vojvodina region, particularly males (OR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.89–2.04), respondents who lived without a partner (OR = 1.49; 95% CI: 1.47–1.51), the lower educated (OR = 2.27; 95% CI: 2.22–2.33), the poor (OR = 2.54; 95% CI: 2.49–2.58), as well as those with poor social support (OR = 3.71; 95% CI: 3.64–3.77). Conclusion. The prevalence of DS in the general population of Serbia was relatively low and requires further monitoring. Female gender, older age, living in the region of Vojvodina, life without a partner, socioeconomic disadvantages, as well as the lack of social support were identified as the main factors associated with the occurrence of DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the context of nationwide law reform, New South Wales (NSW) became the last state in Australia to legalise voluntary assisted dying (VAD) – commencing 28 November 2023. Clinicians have divergent views regarding VAD, with varying levels of understanding, support, and willingness to be involved, and these may have a significant impact on the successful implementation. Aims: To understand levels of support, understanding and willingness to be involved in VAD among clinical staff across NSW during implementation of VAD. Methods: A multisite, cross‐sectional online survey of clinicians across four local health districts, assessing relevant demographics, awareness of and support for VAD legislation and willingness to be involved in different levels of VAD‐related clinical activities. Results: A total of 3010 clinical staff completed the survey. A majority of participants were aware of VAD legislation in NSW (86.35%) and supportive of it (76%), with nursing and allied health clinicians significantly more likely than medical specialists to express support. Among medical specialists, support was statistically more likely in those who did not care for patients at the end of life and those with limited knowledge of the legislation. Willingness of medical specialists to perform key roles was significantly lower, with 41.49% willing to act in coordinating or consulting roles, and only 23.21% as administering practitioners. Conclusions: The majority of clinical staff surveyed across NSW supported VAD legislation. While many eligible clinicians were reluctant to be actively involved, sufficient numbers appear willing to provide VAD services, indicating that successful implementation should be possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze data from the Chronic Migraine Epidemiology and Outcomes‐International (CaMEO‐I) Study in order to characterize preventive medication use and identify preventive usage gaps among people with migraine across multiple countries. Background: Guidelines for the preventive treatment of migraine are available from scientific organizations in various countries. Although these guidelines differ among countries, eligibility for preventive treatment is generally based on monthly headache day (MHD) frequency and associated disability. The overwhelming majority of people with migraine who are eligible for preventive treatment do not receive it. Methods: The CaMEO‐I Study was a cross‐sectional, observational, web‐based panel survey study performed in six countries: Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. People were invited to complete an online survey in their national language(s) to identify those with migraine according to modified International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition, criteria. People classified with migraine answered questions about current and ever use of both acute and preventive treatments for migraine. Available preventive medications for migraine differed by country. MHD frequency and associated disability data were collected. The American Headache Society (AHS) 2021 Consensus Statement algorithm was used to determine candidacy for preventive treatment (i.e., ≥3 monthly MHDs with severe disability, ≥4 MHDs with some disability, or ≥6 MHDs regardless of level of disability). Results: Among 90,613 valid completers of the screening survey, 14,492 met criteria for migraine and completed the full survey, with approximately 2400 respondents from each country. Based on the AHS consensus statement preventive treatment candidacy algorithm, averaging across countries, 36.2% (5246/14,492) of respondents with migraine qualified for preventive treatment. Most respondents (84.5% [4431/5246]) who met criteria for preventive treatment according to the AHS consensus statement were not using a preventive medication at the time of the survey. Moreover, 19.3% (2799/14,492) of respondents had ever used preventive medication (ever users); 58.1% (1625/2799) of respondents who reported ever using a preventive medication for migraine were still taking it. Of the respondents who were currently using a preventive medication, 50.2% (815/1625) still met the criteria for needing preventive treatment based on the AHS consensus statement. Conclusions: Most people with migraine who qualify for preventive treatment are not currently taking it. Additionally, many people currently taking preventive pharmacologic treatment still meet the algorithm criteria for needing preventive treatment, suggesting inadequate benefit from their current regimen. Plain Language Summary: People with migraine who experience frequent headaches or some level of disability may benefit from using a preventive medication for migraine. We collected data on the use of preventive medication for migraine in Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. These data demonstrated that many people who qualified for the use of a preventive treatment in the six participating countries were not currently taking a preventive medication for migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Recently, there has been a renewed interest in traditional medicine for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Curcumin has been reported as an agent with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective attributes. This study is one of the first investigations to assess the effect of curcumin gel on CTS. Methods This study is a prospective, 8-week, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial. A total of 70 patients with CTS were analyzed. The intervention group (n  = 35) received a topical curcumin gel and a night wrist splint and the control group (n  = 35) received a placebo gel and a night wrist splint for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was the assessment of the symptom severity scale (SSS) and functional status scale (FSS) of the participants using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) after 8 weeks. In addition, all participants were evaluated by electrodiagnostic (EDX) test at baseline and after 8 weeks. Results The mean scores of SSS demonstrated a significant decrease in the curcumin group compared to the placebo group; P-value = 0.021. The mean change score of SSS after the intervention was 12.45 ± 8.18 in curcumin and 3.28 ± 7.06 in the placebo group; P-value  =   0.0001 and the mean change score of FSS were 6.24 ± 4.91 and 2.31 ± 4.95 in curcumin and placebo groups, respectively; P-value  =   0.002. However, the EDX study showed no significant changes in both groups. Conclusions It seems that curcumin gel could be effective in the improvement of the symptom severity and daily activity of patients with CTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to examine the contribution of pain catastrophising to Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) patient's physical function and to test the mediating role of fear of movement, and uniquely, the contribution of competence frustration to the fear-avoidance model. Participants (N = 98, 70% female, M age = 45.62, SD 12.16) completed an online survey (December 2020–May 2021) distributed in the United Kingdom via the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (n ≈ 3500; NASS, 2019). The PROCESS SPSS macro was used to test three mediation models using percentile bootstrap 95% confidence intervals (PBCI). A significant indirect effect on the relationship between pain and physical function via fear of movement (β = 0.10, 95% PBCI = 0.030–0.183) was observed (Model 1). Model 2 showed the relationship between pain catastrophising and physical function to be significantly mediated by fear of movement (β = 0.16, 95% PBCI = 0.005–0.322). Finally, Model 3 showed a significant indirect effect on the relationship between pain catastrophising and physical function via competence frustration (β = 0.15, 95% PBCI = 0.014–0.309) but not through fear of movement (β = 0.062, 95% PBCI = − 0.134 to 0.248). To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine and demonstrate the unique contribution of competence need frustration to the Fear-avoidance model in people that live with axSpA. Identifying modifiable factors that contribute to disease outcomes such as physical function can improve the care and quality of life for people living with a disease currently without a cure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatological conditions are complex and impact many facets of daily life. Management of people with rheumatological conditions can be optimised through multidisciplinary care. However, the current access to nursing and allied health professionals in Australia is unknown. A cross-sectional study of nursing and allied health professionals in Australian public rheumatology departments for adult and paediatric services was conducted. The heads of Australian public rheumatology departments were invited to report the health professionals working within their departments, referral pathways, and barriers to greater multidisciplinary care. A total of 27/39 (69.2%) of the hospitals responded. The most common health professionals within departments were nurses (n = 23; 85.2%) and physiotherapists (n = 10; 37.0%), followed by pharmacists (n = 5; 18.5%), psychologists (n = 4; 14.8%), and occupational therapists (n = 4; 14.8%). No podiatrists were employed within departments. Referral pathways were most common for physiotherapy (n = 20; 74.1%), followed by occupational therapy (n = 15; 55.5%), podiatry (n = 13; 48.1%), and psychology (n = 6; 22%). The mean full-time equivalent of nursing and allied health professionals per 100,000 population in Australia was 0.29. Funding was identified as the most common barrier. In Australia, publicly funded multidisciplinary care from nurses and allied health professionals in rheumatology departments is approximately 1.5 days per week on average. This level of multidisciplinary care is unlikely to meet the needs of rheumatology patients. Research is needed to determine the minimum staffing requirements of nursing and allied health professionals to provide optimal care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractCritical test results in clinical laboratories are crucial for timely patient care, serving as indicators of potentially life-threatening conditions. Despite their importance, a notable heterogeneity in management practices exists globally. This study investigates the current practices of managing critical results at Danish clinical biochemistry laboratories and identifies areas prone for improvement. A comprehensive online survey was distributed to all 21 Danish clinical biochemistry laboratories regarding their critical result management, including documentation practices, critical limit selection, and quality assurance measures. A total of 17 laboratories (81%) responded. The answers revealed a generally uniform approach to managing critical results, with all laboratories having 24-h reporting, local instructions and using the telephone as communication channel. However, variations were noted in documentation practices and critical limit selection. Notably, 23.5% of the laboratories reported that one out of every ten critical results was not reported, indicating a significant risk of delayed critical results. This is further complicated by the limited use of predefined timeframes for reporting and also, only few laboratories actively monitored response times. The findings emphasize the need for more standardized documentation and evaluation practices to align with international standards and to enhance patient safety. While the laboratories showed a commitment to standardized procedures, the study emphasizes the necessity of a National or Nordic guideline to supplement the ISO 15189:2022. This study is a step towards optimizing critical result management, not only in Danish clinical biochemistry laboratories but also across various laboratory specialties, thereby improving overall laboratory quality, efficiency, and patient safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide a critical assessment, summarize, and synthesize the evidence from studies using psychometrically validated questionnaires to assess the effects and benefits/barriers of physical exercise in hemodialysis patients. The search was performed on six electronic databases. It was conducted following the PRISMA statement and the PICO framework. The methodological quality was assessed using the MMAT. Were used the quality criteria for psychometric properties developed by Terwee et al. Overall, 70 studies were included, and 39 questionnaires identified, evaluating 13 outcomes. The quality of the psychometric properties of the questionnaires was not always described; only 13 presented positive ratings on > =6/9 properties. The most assessed measure was criterion validity, and the least assessed criteria was responsiveness. The most outcome measured by these questionnaires was quality of life using SF-36, followed by psychological health using the BDI. The DPEBBS was the only instrument identified that assessed the benefits and barriers of exercise. Quality of life and depression were the most frequent outcomes. Other measures contemplating physical, mental, cognitive performance, and especially of the perceptions benefits and barriers to exercise should be further investigated. We have clearly identified the need for more studies evaluating psychometric measures that have not been tested satisfactorily or hardly been tested at all. Reliable instruments, valid and structurally adequate were identified to support clinicians and researchers in measuring important outcomes in hemodialysis patients. Quality of life and depression were the most frequent outcomes with good research instruments. A gap was identified related to instruments that assess physical, mental, cognitive performance, and perceptions of benefits and barriers to exercise in hemodialysis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The usefulness of repetitious transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and its protocols in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of rTMS in treating a sample of patients with MDD who did not respond to conventional treatment. Results: The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores for the active rTMS group were 19.66 ± 6.70 at baseline, 12.50 ± 6.69 at 2 weeks, and 11.23 ± 6.59 at 4 weeks. The average HDRS scores for the sham rTMS group were 20.03 ± 7.40 at baseline, 19.36 ± 6.86 at 2 weeks, and 18.53 ± 7.10 at 4 weeks (F = 5.98; p < 0.01). The Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale (CGI-S) scores were significantly lower in the second and fourth weeks than the baseline due to the significant interaction between time effects and the groups (F = 9.95, p = 0.002). This condition was also similar to the CGI-Improvement Scale and Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (Brief IPQ), and the intervention group showed a significantly lower score than the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study showed that rTMS using the employed protocol was promising for patients with MDD resistant to first-line drug therapy. Further studies are required to ensure our observation. Trial registration: Trial registration number: IRCT20190612043877N1 Trial registry Record URL: https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/63919 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence and cost of musculoskeletal diseases increased dramatically over the past few decades. Therefore, several institutions have begun to re-evaluate the quality of their musculoskeletal educational paths. However, current standardized questionnaires inadequately assess musculoskeletal knowledge, and other musculoskeletal-specific exams have limitations in implementation. The musculoskeletal 30-question multiple choice questionnaire (MSK-30) was proposed as a new tool for assessing basic musculoskeletal knowledge. Aim: To analyse basic musculoskeletal knowledge in a sample of Italian physiotherapists by administering the MSK-30 questionnaire. Methods: After a transcultural adaptation process, the MSK-30 was developed and administered to Italian physiotherapists to assess their musculoskeletal knowledge. Participants were invited to participate in the survey via the SurveyMonkey link. Mann-Whitney test and the Kruskal-Wallis test with Bonferroni correction were used to observe the differences between groups in the MSK-30 scores. Results: Four hundred-fourteen (n=414) physiotherapists participated in the survey. The median MSK-30 value was higher in physiotherapists who attended the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists postgraduate certification than in those who attended unstructured postgraduate training in musculoskeletal condition or in those who had not completed any postgraduate training in this field (p<0.001). Conclusions: This work demonstrates significant differences in the management of musculoskeletal disorders between those with specific postgraduate university education and those without. The findings can contribute to the advancement of the physiotherapy profession in Italy. Authors recommend further research with more robust methodologies to deeper understand this topic. Musculoskeletal conditions will continue to represent a significant portion of primary care visits, and future generations of physiotherapists must be prepared to address this challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Perspectives of radiation oncologists on oligometastatic disease was investigated using multi-layered survey. Materials and Methods Online survey on the oligometastatic disease was distributed to the board-certified regular members of the Korean Society for Radiation Oncology. The questionnaire consisted of four domains: five questions on demographics; five on the definition of oligometastatic disease; four on the role of local therapy; and three on the oligometastatic disease classification, respectively. Results A total of 135 radiation oncologists participated in the survey. The median length of practice after board certification was 22.5 years (range, 1 to 44 years), and the vast majority (94.1%) answered affirmatively to the clinical experience in oligometastatic disease management. Nearly two-thirds of the respondents considered the number of involved organs as an independent factor in defining oligometastasis. Most frequently perceived upper limit on the numerical definition of oligometastasis was 5 (64.2%), followed by 3 (26.0%), respectively. Peritoneal and brain metastasis were nominated as the sites to be excluded from oligometastastic disease by 56.3% and 12.6% of the participants, respectively. Vast majority (82.1%) agreed on the role of local treatment in the management of oligometastatic disease. Majority (72%) of the participants acknowledged the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO)-European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) classification of oligometastatic disease, however, only 43.3% answered that they applied this classification in their clinical practice. Underlying reasons against the clinical use were 'too complicated' (66.0%), followed by 'insufficient supporting evidence' (30.0%), respectively. Conclusion While most radiation oncologists supported the role of local therapy in oligometastatic disease, there were several inconsistencies in defining and categorizing oligometastatic disease. Continued education and training on oligometastatic disease would be also required to build consensus among participating caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Medication non-adherence in dialysis patients is associated with increased mortality and higher healthcare costs. We assessed whether medication adherence is influenced by specific psychometric constructs measuring beliefs about the necessity for medication and concerns about them. We also tested whether medication knowledge, health literacy, and illness perceptions influenced this relationship. Patients and Methods: This study is based on data from a cross-sectional in-person questionnaire, administered to a random sample of all adult dialysis patients at a teaching hospital. The main outcome was self-assessed medication adherence (8-Item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale). The predictors were: concerns about medications and necessity for medication (Beliefs About Medication Questionnaire); health literacy; medication knowledge (Medication Knowledge Evaluation Tool); cognitive, emotional, and comprehensibility Illness perceptions (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire). Path analysis was performed using structural equations in both covariance and variance-based models. Results: Necessity for medication increased (standardized path coefficient [β] 0.30 [95% CI 0.05, 0.54]) and concerns about medication decreased (standardized β − 0.33 [− 0.57, − 0.09]) medication adherence, explaining most of the variance in outcome (r2=0.95). Medication knowledge and cognitive illness perceptions had no effects on medication adherence, either directly or indirectly. Higher health literacy, greater illness comprehension, and a more positive emotional view of their illness had medium-to-large sized effects in increasing medication adherence. These were indirect rather and direct effects mediated by decreases in concerns about medications (standardized β respectively − 0.40 [− 0.63,-0.16], − 0.60 [− 0.85, − 0.34], − 0.33 [− 0.52, − 0.13]). Conclusion: Interventions that reduce patients' concerns about their medications are likely to improve adherence, rather than interventions that increase patients' perceived necessity for medication. Improving patients' general health literacy and facilitating a better understanding and more positive perception of the illness can probably achieve this. Our study is potentially limited by a lack of generalizability outside of the population and setting in which it was conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim. Transculturally adapt the Pieper-Zulkowski Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Test V2 to the healthcare context of pressure injuries in Galicia and determine the psychometric properties of the questionnaire adapted to Galician. Methods. Cross-cultural adaptation of the questionnaire following the steps of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research, estimating face and content validity and crosssectional observational study with descriptive, bivariate and psychometric analysis: Rasch, reliability, stability of the self-administered questionnaire PZ-PUKT 72 adapted to Galician. Results. The Galician PZ-PKUT has good conceptual-semantic equivalence to the original questionnaire, as well as very good face validity and content validity (x̄ : 0.96; R: 0.87-1). A total of 121 health professionals participated, with a mean age of 44.6 years and 104 were women (86%). The total average score was 72.7%, with statistically significant differences between the score and sociodemographic variables. The items have a good fit of the Rasch model and a wide range of difficulty (R: -37.32-2.55). Cronbach's alpha 0.809. Intraclass Correlation Coefficient was 0.906 and the stability represented by the Bland-Altman diagram was acceptable. Discussion. The Galician PZ-PUKT 72 has good face and content validity relate the original version, showing appropriate psychometric characteristics: good reliability if administered completely, temporal stability and construct validity. It requires studies that evaluate its properties in other samples and the possibility of dividing the instrument into 3 subscales. Although its feasibility is limited by being a long questionnaire, it is a valid and reliable instrument to measure knowledge about Pressure Injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Resuscitation and surgical medical aid are the most important medical procedures in disaster relief operations. The limited time frame available for lifesaving activities in such circumstances demands that resuscitation and surgical medical teams be established and trained for timely reaction and disaster medical support prior to disaster occurrence. The aim of the study was to analyze the awareness among the hospital medical staff in the Plovdiv Region of the hospital response plan in case of disaster, which concerns surgical and resuscitation team composition and tasks for disaster medical support. Methods. An anonymous survey, consisting of 55 questions about hospital staff awareness of the medical activities described in the hospital disaster medical support plan, was conducted between July and September 2019 among 295 hospital medical professionals in the Plovdiv Region, Bulgaria. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's χ2 test were used in the statistical analysis of results. Results. The survey showed that the majority of medical staff demonstrated complete ignorance regarding the presence, number, and tasks of the specialized medical teams planned for hospital disaster response. Employees of multidisciplinary hospitals for active treatment were more familiar with the aforementioned plans than their colleagues from the university multidisciplinary hospitals. Conclusion. Insufficient awareness about human resources foreseen for disaster medical support negatively impacts the hospital surge capacity, leading to inadequate medical assistance in such cases. Hospital tactical disaster preparedness must be ameliorated by conducting a more rigorous training program among medical staff related to the planned hospital activities in case of disastrous events, especially for those working in emergency departments, intensive care units, and surgical departments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Post-endodontic pain (PEP) is associated with the presence of any uncomfortable feeling or sensitivity that occurs within a few hours or a few days after the endodontic t reatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between psychological factors and the frequency and perception of PEP. Methods. The study sample consisted of 140 patients with incisors, canines, or premolars indicated for root canal treatment (RCT) without periapical pathology. A single experienced endodontist was involved in the procedure, and the same clinical protocol was used for all the patients. Participants psychometric evaluation was done using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21). PEP levels were assessed using a Visual Analog Scale at different intervals (24, 48, and 72-hour intervals and after a week). Results. The presence of postoperative pain was reported in 63.6% of the respondents. The vast majority rated the pain intensity as mild, and the pain significantly decreased over evaluated time intervals. Participants who exhibited higher scores for depression, anxiety, and stress reported significantly higher pain intensity. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that tooth type (p = 0.001) and high anxiety score (p = 0.035) were directly associated with the occurrence of pain after therapy. Conclusion. Psychological factors, such as depression, stress, and anxiety, influenced pain perception after RCT treatment, and a high anxiety score was directly associated with the frequency of post-obturation pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. Obesity is a chronic and relapsing condition, and since recently, it has been considered a global epidemic. Current guidelines for tripartite treatment of obesity emphasize a program of lifestyle modifications such as medical nutrition therapy, aerobic exercise, and behavioral intervention. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether specific psychological factors (general attitudes and beliefs and frustration tolerance) could be predictors of successful weight loss, i.e., factors that can be further addressed as part of the integrated therapy approach. Methods. A total of 84 consecutive overweight and obese female participants who were apparently healthy and homogeneous in age, level of education, and marital or employment status were prescribed the same medical nutrition therapy protocol as a single six-month therapeutic intervention. Prior to starting the therapy, the General Attitude and Belief Scale (GABS) and the Frustration Discomfort Scale (FDS) were administered. The participants were divided into two groups: successful (group A) and unsuccessful (group B). Group A, or the successful group [with the mean body mass index (BMI) ± standard deviation (SD) of 24.1 ± 5.81 kg/m2], consisted of 40 participants who have reached the corresponding loss, i.e., they lost = 10% of the starting body weight (BW). Group B, or the unsuccessful group (with the mean BMI ± SD of 28.51 ± 2.74 kg/m2), consisted of 44 participants who have not reached the corresponding loss, i.e., they lost < 10% of the starting BW. Results. Participants in group B had significantly higher scores (p < 0.05) on the GABS subscales for the Need for Approval, Need for Comfort, and Other Downing. A statistically significant difference between groups (p < 0.05) was shown for FDS subscales of Emotional Intolerance, Entitlement, and Achievement Frustration. Conclusion. Results of our study showed that participants who were unsuccessful in medical nutrition therapy had a higher degree of dysfunctional attitudes and beliefs and higher scores of frustration intolerance when compared to successful participants. The recommendation, based on our results, would be to include psychotherapeutic techniques in the integrative obesity treatment, aimed at cognitive changes and increasing frustration tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issue Addressed: This cross‐sectional analysis of the Australian 3D study aimed to determine the prevalence of psychological distress and describe its associated characteristics in adults recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Methods: Adults (aged 18 years and over) who were recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (<6 months prior) were recruited through the Australian National Diabetes Services Scheme in 2018–2019. Demographic and health data were collected via interview‐administered telephone surveys. Hierarchical regression was used to analyse whether demographic, self‐care and clinical characteristics were associated with psychological distress, as measured by the K10 questionnaire. Results: Of the participants (n = 223), 26.3% presented with psychological distress, with 8.4% reporting mild, 8.4% reporting moderate and 9.5% reporting severe psychological distress. Neither age, sex, body mass index or taking anti‐depressant medications were associated with the presence of psychological distress (p >.05). Being a smoker, living situation, less physical activity and poorer healthy eating beliefs and intentions were significantly associated with psychological distress in those not taking anti‐depressant medications (p <.05). Being female was significantly associated with psychological distress in those taking anti‐depressant medications (p <.05). Conclusion: The study found that psychological distress is highly prevalent in adults recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Behavioural factors such as smoking and low physical activity, as well as psycho‐social factors such as living situation, poor healthy eating beliefs and intentions were significantly associated with psychological distress. This has implications for the management of people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. So What?: Psychological distress is highly prevalent in Australian adults newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, emphasising the urgent need for enhanced psychological care to support this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale questionnaire (ARMS) was designed to measure adherence to treatment. It was translated and adapted into Spanish, but its psychometric properties have not been evaluated. The aim was to evaluate these properties in a population with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Method: The study was carried out in community pharmacies in Granada (Spain) by interview. A principal component factor analysis (PCA) with Varimax rotation (construct validity), a concordance analysis (concurrent criterion validity and reliability by temporal stability) and Cronbach’s alpha and item-total correlation (reliability by homogeneity) were performed. Results: 107 patients entered the study. 54.2 % (58) were male and the mean age was 70.5 (SD: 9.7). The PCA extracted 4 factors that explained 57.49 % of the total variance. Cronbach’s alpha= 0.428, and in the test-retest κ= 0.627 (p > 0.001). Conclusions: The ARMS-e cannot be considered a useful tool to measure adherence to oral antidiabetic treatment in this sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Multidisciplinary teams (MDT) are commonly involved in the care of patients with cancer. How frequently dissent occurs within MDT has not been studied. This study aimed to determine how frequently dissent was documented in cancer MDT meetings at our institution, the reasons for this, and the opinions of MDT members on how dissent should be documented and communicated. Methods: A retrospective review of records from cancer MDT meetings at our institution from 2016 to 2020 was performed to identify cases where dissent was documented and the reasons for this. MDT members were invited to complete an online survey assessing their perceptions of how frequently dissent occurred, how comfortable they felt voicing dissenting opinions, and their opinions on how dissent should be documented and communicated. Results: Dissent was recorded in 30 of 7737 MDT case discussions (0.39%). The incidence of dissent varied from 0 to 1.2% between cancer streams. The most common reason for dissent involved the role of surgery. 27% of survey respondents felt either very or somewhat uncomfortable voicing dissenting opinions. Only 3% felt that dissent should not be documented, and none that it should not be communicated in some way, although there were wide ranging of views on how this should occur. Conclusion: Dissent was rarely documented within cancer MDT meetings at our institution, likely due to underreporting. Measuring the incidence of dissent within an MDT may be a useful performance metric. MDT should develop policies for how dissent should be managed, documented, and communicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There are no published examples of a global online research collaborative in andrology. We describe the development, profile and member characteristics of the first consortium of this type, the Global Andrology Forum (GAF). Materials and Methods: An online survey sent to all GAF members collected demographic information (sex, age, experience, academic title, degrees, country, specialty, profession). It also tapped data on members’ characteristics e.g., skills in research, software and statistics; preferred activities; time commitments; expected roles; and interest in participating in research, in GAF’s scientific activities and collaborative online research. The findings were analyzed and tabulated. We outline members’ demographic and professional characteristics and scientific achievements to date. A narrative approach outlined GAF’s structure and functioning. Results: A total of 418 out of 540 members completed the survey and were included in the analysis (77.4% response rate). The sample comprised mainly urologists (34.2%) and a third of the respondents had practiced for >15 years (33.3%). Up to 86.1% of the members expressed interest in being actively engaged in writing scientific articles. A third of the sample (37.1%) could dedicate 4 to 6 hours/week. Few respondents reported skills in statistics and artwork (2.6% and 1.9% respectively). Members were assigned to specific roles based on their expertise and experiences. Collaborative working ensured the timely completion of projects while maintaining quality. For outcomes, GAF published 29 original articles within one year of its creation, with authors from 48 countries spanning topics that included varicocele, sperm DNA damage, oxidative stress, semen analysis and male infertility, oocyte/embryo, and laboratory issues of assisted reproductive technique (ART) and male infertility evaluation. Conclusions: GAF is a successful global online andrology research model. A healthy number of scientific articles have been published. Given such effectiveness, adopting the GAF model could be useful for other disciplines that wish to create and coordinate successful international online research groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This is the first study to design and assess a research capacity building (RCB) specifically tailored for clinical and nonclinical andrology practitioners worldwide. We appraised: 1) the barriers and enablers to research among these practitioners; 2) attendees’ satisfaction with the webinar; and 3) research knowledge acquisition as a result of the webinar (before/after quiz). Materials and Methods: A online RCB webinar was designed, comprising two presentations in research design and systematic review/meta-analysis (SR/MA). An online survey using validated published questionnaires assessed the three above-stated objectives. Paired t-test compared the means of the pre- and post-webinar scores. Subgroup analysis was performed on the participants’ professional background, sex, and number of years in practice. Results: A total of 237 participants attended the webinar, of which 184 completed the survey and are included in the current analysis. Male participants were about double the females and 60.9% were from Asian countries. The most common research enablers were to publish scientific papers (14.8%) and to develop research (14.7%) or new skills (12.7%). The most common barriers were the lack of training in research (12.4%), training in research software (11.8%), and time for research (11.8%). Satisfaction with the webinar was considerably high (86.3%–88.4%) for the different features of the webinar. Compared to the pre-webinar knowledge level, there were significant improvements in participants’ research knowledge acquisition after the webinar in terms of the total score for the quiz (13.7±4.31 vs. 21.5±4.7), as well as the scores for the study design (7.12±2.37 vs. 11.5±2.69) and SR/MA sessions (6.63±2.63 vs. 9.93±2.49) (p<0.001 for each). Conclusions: Clinical and non-clinical andrology webinar attendees recognized the importance of research and exhibited a range of research skills, knowledge and experience. There were significant improvements in the participants’ knowledge and understanding of the components of scientific research. We propose an RCB model that can be implemented and further modeled by organizations with similar academic research goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: The level of knowledge about traumatic dental injuries (TDI) of lay people from a national point of view has never been studied and there is currently a lack of validated research instruments on this issue. The present study aims to develop and validate a questionnaire (TDI‐Q) to assess the knowledge of lay people about TDI, including participants from the five regions of Brazil. Material and Methods: TDI‐Q was drafted, in Brazilian Portuguese, based on the recommendations of the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT). Before its application, TDI‐Q was evaluated by dentists, lay people, linguists, and psychometrists. The questionnaire was applied to measure temporal stability at two distinct times, with an interval of 15–20 days between the two applications: test (n = 110) and retest (n = 50). The presence of floor and ceiling effects were investigated by analyzing the frequency of responses of the questionnaire; convergent construct validity was tested through Spearman's correlation; the Mann–Whitney test was applied to discriminant construct validity. Temporal stability and internal consistency were evaluated through intraclass correlation coefficient and Cronbach's alpha, respectively. Results: The floor and ceiling effects were not observed (0.9% and 2.7%, respectively); convergent validity analysis indicated a positive and strong correlation (r = 0.50; p <.001). Significant discriminant construct validity (p <.05) was observed. Satisfactory internal consistency (α = 0.7) and temporal stability (ICC = 0.82, p <.001) were also achieved. Conclusion: TDI‐Q proved to have good psychometric properties and to be a reliable tool for evaluating the knowledge of lay people regarding TDI in the Brazilian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The General Medical Council (GMC) issues annual surveys to all doctors within the United Kingdom (UK) in a formal postgraduate training scheme. This facilitates the monitoring of experiences for quality assurance purposes. Low job satisfaction has been associated with heightened levels of burnout and staff turnover, alongside deteriorating clinical care and productivity levels. We gathered and extracted data from the publicly available online GMC reporting tool. Data ranged from 2013 to 2023 and spanned 12 postgraduate surgical training programmes across all 18 indicators available. In total, 198 individual metrics were recorded, in addition to burnout. We conducted trend analysis and yearly average mean scores for individual metrics, burnout and geographical differences for 141 individual training programmes within the 16 training regions. Of the 198 metrics analysed, 83 (42 ​%) were found to have statistically significant negative trends (P ​< ​0.05), in comparison to 24 (12 ​%) with positive trends. 5 specialities had over 50 ​% of metrics showing a significant negative trend. Overall satisfaction was negative in all 12 programmes, with eight reaching significance (P ​< ​0.05). Of 141 individual training programmes, 29 ​% showed a significantly negative trend in overall satisfaction, with 1 ​% demonstrating a significant positive trend (P ​< ​0.05). Our study is the first to explore long-term trends in trainee reported surgical training experiences within the UK. Our data have revealed widespread worsening trainee reported experiences and dissatisfaction across multiple specialities and geographical regions, especially in key areas of overall satisfaction, self-development, and clinical supervision. • UK surgical trainees have reported worsening experiences over the last decade. • 75 ​% of surgical specialities had significant negative overall satisfaction trends. • 42 ​% of all metrics analysed showed significant negative trends. • Burnout is increasing within UK surgical trainees. • 85 ​% of all individual training programmes showed negative trends with 29 ​% being significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To translate and to validate the Postmenopause Sexuality Questionnaire (PMSQ) for Turkish women in the climacteric. Methods: The study included 356 menopausal women with a mean age of 60.2 ± 7.6 years. First, the demographic characteristics and obstetric information of the women were recorded. Then, the PMSQ was adapted into Turkish. In order to determine the sexual activity and menopause‐specific quality of life, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), The Menopause Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL), and the PMSQ were administered. The reliability and validity of the PMSQ were assessed with internal consistency, test–retest, and criterion validity analyses. Results: According to the results of the study, the internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.97) and test–retest reliability (r = 0.95) of the PMSQ were found to be high (P < 0.001). Criterion validity was established based on the relationship of PMSQ scores with FSFI (r = 0.76; P < 0.001) and MENQOL (r = −0.47, P < 0.001) scores. Conclusion: According to this study, it was determined that the Turkish version of the PMSQ can be a valid and reliable scale to evaluate sexual activity in Turkish menopausal women. Synopsis: This Turkish version of the Postmenopause Sexuality Questionnaire can be a reliable and valid measurement tool for assessing sexual function for Turkish postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supported self-management is an important component of management for persistent pain according to current recommendations and guidelines. However, it is unclear whether staff from differing disciplines who may be in early contact with people with established or developing persistent pain are confident to introduce and support self-management for this patient group. Aim: To determine the confidence of staff across professional disciplines to introduce and support self-management. Design and Setting: Cross-sectional online survey. Methods: Charts were constructed to represent information on professional grouping, prior training in self-management and confidence in supporting key components of self-management for persistent pain. Analysis of variance was used to test for differences between groups. Results: Overall, 165 practitioners reported confidence to support self-management below the midpoint of a ten-point scale and 93 above. There were few differences between different professions apart from in explaining pain (f = 6.879 p <.001), managing activity levels (f = 6.340 p <.001) and supporting healthy habits (f = 4.700, p =.001) in which physiotherapists expressed higher confidence than other professional groups. There was no difference in confidence expressed between staff who had or had not received previous training in self-management (f = 1.357, p =.233). Conclusions: Many front-line staff who might be expected to introduce and deliver self-management support for persistent pain lack the confidence and skills to do so. This is consistent with a known lack of education about pain across disciplinary boundaries in primary and community-based care. In order to meet treatment priorities for persistent pain there is an urgent need to upskill the workforce by providing access to good quality training and resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Choices about which dental treatments to provide in a publicly funded system should be guided by the value that the general population place on those treatments. The aim of this study was to estimate United Kingdom (UK) general population willingness to pay (WTP) for dental check‐ups, and to investigate what factors influence WTP. Methods: WTP was elicited using a hypothetical question in an online survey. The sample consisted of 594 participants, nationally representative of the UK general population in terms of age and gender. Regression analysis was used to examine what factors are associated with WTP. Analyses were conducted including and excluding protest answers. Results: The mean WTP for a dental check‐up is £31.32 for the full sample and £33.17 excluding protest answers. Respondents on higher incomes and those with higher university education had higher WTP. Respondents in Scotland were WTP less than respondents living in the rest of the UK which may be the result of NHS dental check‐ups being free to patients in Scotland. Conclusion: The general UK population value dental check‐ups. This study provides estimates of WTP for dental check‐ups which can be used in Cost–Benefit Analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the drug persistence in patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) during the current economic crisis in Lebanon and to estimate predictors of persistence. A nationwide multicentric cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire was conducted in Lebanon with patients with chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases (CIRDs) and non-inflammatory RMDs controls between July and October 2022. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) were categorized as conventional synthetic (cs), biological (b), subcutaneous (SC) or intravenous (IV), and targeted synthetic (ts). Persistence was defined as "number of tablets or injections taken during the past month versus prescribed". The percentage of patients who discontinued or changed treatment due to cost or non-availability was reported. Factors associated with persistence were identified using multivariable linear regression. The study included 317 patients with RMDs (286 CIRDs); mean age 49.5 years, 68% females, 58% reporting currently low economic level. Persistence at one month was low for tsDMARDs (36%) and bDMARDs (SC55%, IV63%), and acceptable for csDMARDs (88%). A persistence ≥80% was found in 23.3% of patients on tsDMARDs, 42.9% on SC bDMARDs, 45.0% on IV bDMARDs, and 74.7% on csDMARDs. During the past 6 months, 55.8% of CIRD patients discontinued or changed treatment due to non-availability (45.3%) or cost (21.2%). Persistence was positively associated with finding alternative sources such as buying abroad (36%), depending on friends or families abroad (20%), charities (10%), and negatively associated with unemployment and low financial status. Persistence was significantly compromised for essential antirheumatic drugs and was mostly driven by treatment unavailability and cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suboptimal fibromyalgia management with over-the-counter analgesics leads to deteriorated outcomes for pain and mental health symptoms especially in low-income countries hosting refugees. To examine the association between the over-the-counter analgesics and the severity of fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety and PTSD symptoms in a cohort of Syrian refugees. This is a cross-sectional study. Fibromyalgia was assessed using the patient self-report survey for the assessment of fibromyalgia. Depression was measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, insomnia severity was measured using the insomnia severity index (ISI-A), and PTSD was assessed using the Davidson trauma scale (DTS)-DSM-IV. Data were analyzed from 291. Among them, 221 (75.9%) reported using acetaminophen, 79 (27.1%) reported using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and 56 (19.2%) reported receiving a prescription for centrally acting medications (CAMs). Fibromyalgia screening was significantly associated with using NSAIDs (OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.58–5.80, p = 0.001). Severe depression was significantly associated with using NSAIDs (OR 2.07, 95% CI 2.18–3.81, p = 0.02) and CAMs (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.30–5.76, p = 0.008). Severe insomnia was significantly associated with the use of CAMs (OR 3.90, 95% CI 2.04–5.61, p < 0.001). PTSD symptoms were associated with the use of CAMs (β = 8.99, p = 0.001) and NSAIDs (β = 10.39, p < 0.001). Improper analgesics are associated with poor fibromyalgia and mental health outcomes, prompt awareness efforts are required to address this challenge for the refugees and health care providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context : Injury surveillance and training load monitoring are both essential for the development of preventative strategies for gradual-onset musculoskeletal injuries in elite sport. Our aim was to survey health professionals working with elite tennis players on whether and how they monitor injuries and training load. Design.· A cross-sectional multinational online open-survey. Methods.· The survey was developed and advertised in English, Spanish, and Portuguese languages on social media channels, a tennis academic journal, professional tennis associations, and clinical networks of the research team, from December 2020 to April 2021 . Results : 71 health professionals from 27 different countries working with elite tennis players responded to the survey. Injury surveillance is performed by 94% (68/72) of the survey respondents, with only 10% (7/68) using the consensus- recommended Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center questionnaire. Most common barriers identified by health professionals to injury surveillance are time constraints (66%), lack of knowledge (43%), and technology (31%). Training load monitoring is performed by 50% (36/72) of the health professionals working with elite tennis players. Main metrics monitored are weekly differences in training load (72%) and acute:chronic workload ratio (58%). Most common reasons for training load monitoring are injury prevention (94%), training planning (81 %), and player feedback (53%). Conclusions: Despite a high percentage of health professionals implementing injury surveillance metrics, most of them do not use any validated method. Only half of health professionals working with elite tennis players monitor training load. Lack of knowledge and technology were the main barriers reported for adequately monitoring injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundMaterials and methodsResultsConclusionsThe National Neurosurgical Audit Programme (NNAP) publishes mortality outcomes of consultants and neurosurgical units across the United Kingdom. It is unclear how useful outcomes data is for patients and whether it influences their decision-making process. Our aim was to identify patients’ perceptions and understanding of the NNAP data and its influences.This single-centre study was conducted in the outpatient neurosurgery clinics at a regional neurosurgical centre. All adult (age ≥ 18) neurosurgical patients, with capacity, were invited to take part. Native and non-native English speakers were eligible. Statistical analyses were performed on SPSS v28 (IBM). Ethical approval was obtained.A total of 84 responses were received (54.7% females). Over half (51.0%) of respondents felt that they understood a consultant’s mortality outcomes. Educational level determines respondents’ understanding (χ2(8) = 16.870; p = .031). Most respondents were unaware of the NNAP (89.0%). Only a third of respondents (35.1%) understood the funnel plot used to illustrate mortality.Most patients were unaware of the NNAP and most did not understand the data on the website. Understanding of mortality data seemed to be related to respondents’ educational level which would be important to keep in mind when planning how to depict mortality data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several instruments have been designed to assess the childbirth experience. The Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) is one of the most widely used tools. There is an improved version of this instrument, the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ 2.0), which has not been adapted or validated for use in Spain. The aim of present study is to adapt the CEQ 2.0 to the Spanish context and evaluate its psychometric properties. Methods: This research was carried out in 2 stages. In the first stage, a methodological study was carried out in which the instrument was translated and back-translated, content validity was assessed by 10 experts (by calculating Aiken's V coefficient) and face validity was assessed in a sample of 30 postpartum women. In the second stage, a cross-sectional study was carried out to evaluate construct validity by using confirmatory factor analysis, reliability evaluation (internal consistency and temporal stability) and validation by known groups. Results: In Stage 1, a Spanish version of the CEQ 2.0 (CEQ-E 2.0) was obtained with adequate face and content validity, with Aiken V scores greater than 0.70 for all items. A final sample of 500 women participated in Stage 2 of the study. The fit values for the obtained four-domain model were RMSEA = 0.038 [95% CI: 0.038–0.042], CFI = 0.989 [95% CI: 0.984–0.991], and GFI = 0.990 [95% CI: 0.982–0.991]. The overall Omega and Cronbach's Alpha coefficients were 0.872 [95% CI: 0.850–0.891] and 0.870 [95% CI: 0.849–0.890] respectively. A coefficient of intraclass correlation of 0.824 [95% CI: 0.314–0.936] (p ≤ 0.001) and a concordance coefficient of 0.694 [95% CI: 0.523–0.811] were obtained. Conclusions: The Spanish version of CEQ 2.0 (CEQ-E 2.0), has adequate psychometric properties and is a valid, useful, and reliable instrument for assessing the childbirth experience in Spanish women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Peer review is essential to the advancement of knowledge. However, training on how to conduct peer review is limited, unorganized, and not well studied. Thus, we sought to determine if a structured mentored peer-review program improved peer review training as measured by multiple quantitative and qualitative assessments. Methods: This pre-post intervention study enrolled 55 mentees across 5 cohorts from 2020 to 2023. Each cohort completed pre-program evaluations, participated in 2 mentored reviews, and completed post-program evaluations over 6 months. Mentors and mentees completed pre-program demographic and review experience questionnaires. Outcome measures included (1) total and sub-scores on the modified Review Quality Index (mRQI) applied to the same pre-selected research manuscript reviewed by mentees both pre and post intervention, (2) mentee self-perceived comfort with and understanding of the review process using a custom questionnaire, and (3) mentor satisfaction surveys. Pre- and post-program measures were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Post-program total modified RQI score (median (IQR) = 31 (26.3–35.8)) was higher than pre-program total score (26.6 (19.7–29.7)) for the 42 mentees who completed both pre- and post-program reviews. Mentees reported improved perception of review (median (IQR) pre = 4 (3–4), post = 5 (4–5)) and editorial processes (pre = 3 (2–4), post = 4 (4–5)) as well as self-perceived confidence in completing an independent review of both scientific (median (IQR) pre = 2 (2–3), post = 4 (4–4)) and non-scientific (pre = 3 (2–4), post = 4 (4–5)) manuscripts following program participation. p < 0.0001 for all scores noted. Mentors reported high scores for enjoyment (median (range) 5/5 (3–5)) and interest in repeat participation (5/5 (2–5)). Conclusions: A 6-month structured mentored-review program including 2 mentored reviews improves peer review training as measured by the modified RQI as well as participant self-perceived understanding of publication science with high mentor satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Methods Results Conclusion Occupational therapy in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) can enhance residents' occupational engagement and wellbeing. However, industry reports suggest that occupational therapists in Australian RACFs have mostly provided physical therapies such as pain management via massage and not addressed residents' occupations. There is limited literature on what constitutes occupational therapists' practice in RACFs to inform policy and practice. The aim of this cross‐sectional survey was to explore practice patterns of occupational therapists working in Australian RACFs and influences on their practice.Occupational therapists working in Australian RACFs were invited from July 2019 to March 2020 to complete a self‐report online questionnaire via email and advertisements on industry websites, newsletters, and social media. The questionnaire asked therapists about their caseload, referrals, assessments, and interventions. Data were analysed descriptively and presented as frequencies and percentages.A total of 214 occupational therapists completed the survey. Occupational therapists' daily practice largely focussed on pain management; other areas of practice included falls prevention, pressure care, and mobility. The Aged Care Funding Instrument in place at the time of the survey was identified as the leading factor influencing therapists' choice of assessments and interventions. Organisational policies and procedures were also perceived as key factors influencing occupational therapy practice.This paper highlights the influence of government funding and organisational policies in limiting occupational therapists' scope of practice and their ability to fully address the occupational needs of residents. Occupational therapists and the profession in general should be aware of factors in aged care funding models, and their application, that restrict occupational therapy practice and inhibit residents' function and advocate for change where needed. With the introduction of the Australian National Aged Care Classification funding model replacing Aged Care Funding Instrument, future research should explore potential changes to therapists practice following the implementation of the new funding model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The world is not on track to meet the World Health Assembly (WHA) global target on Low Birth Weight (LBW). To estimate the prevalence and to identify the associated determinants of LBW among the newborns. Material and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among the 364 mothers registered under the all government health facilities of Dadra & Nagar Haveli (DNH) during November 2021 to January 2022. Results: The prevalence of LBW was found to be 39%. On uni-variable logistic regression, live in relationship, caste, weight of mother, Body Mass Index (BMI), weight gain <5 kg in 2nd and 3rd trimester, high-risk pregnancy, complication present in previous pregnancy and preterm delivery, while on multi-variable logistic regression, weight gain <5 kg in 2nd and 3rd trimester (AOR 2, 95% CI 1.007-4.2) and having high-risk pregnancy (AOR 2, 95% CI 1.1-3.0) were found to be the significant predictors of LBW among the newborns. Conclusions: We conclude from the study that the prevalence of low birth weight among the newborn was high. There is a need to address maternal and child health issues like low birth weight, malnutrition and high-risk pregnancy under the RMNCAH+N program through various effective interventions. Future research should evaluate the feasibility of collaborative activities between RMNCAH+N program and the UNICEF in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor sleep quality is commonly observed among critically ill patients; however, the assessment of sleep perception in critically ill patients remains challenging. The Richards Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (RCSQ) is a simple, validated tool for sleep quality assessment that has been successfully translated into various languages. This study aimed to translate and assess the validity and reliability of the Malay language version of the RCSQ. The process of translation involved forward and reverse translation methods. The face validity of the translated RCSQ was tested during the pre-test on five non-participating subjects. The reliability of the translated questionnaire was tested with Cronbach's alpha coefficient. A total of 150 critically ill patients were included in the analysis using the translated RCSQ. The average total score of the Malay language version of the RCSQ was 78.59 ± 19.43. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling adequacy and Cronbach's alpha coefficient showed a score of 0.839 and 0.930 respectively, indicating that the sampling of the study was meritorious and good internal consistency of the Malay RCSQ. In conclusion, the Malay language version of the RCSQ demonstrated excellent reliability and may aid in the assessment of sleep quality in critically ill patients in a local setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The main objective of this study is to assess the relationship between the level of Health Literacy and the patient's decision to refuse the Gestational diabetes mellitus screening test. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a high-volume public hospital from March 2020 to September 2020 with women between 24-28 weeks of gestation. Demographic characteristics and gestational diabetes mellitus screening status were recorded for each woman. The European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire was used to assess health literacy. Results: A total of 364 women were included in the study. Two hundred and three (55.7%) women accepted the gestational diabetes mellitus screening test, and 44.2% did not. Health care, disease prevention, health promotion subscales, and the general scale scores were higher in the gestational diabetes mellitus screening group (P=0.001, P=0.024, P=0.01, and P=0.003, respectively). It was determined that a 1-point increase in the health care score decreased the probability of rejecting the gestational diabetes mellitus screening by 1.03 times (P=0.003). Conclusions: Lower health literacy levels were associated with higher rates of gestational diabetes mellitus screening test rejection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim. The University of Washington Quality of Life (UW-QoL) questionnaire is one of the most frequently applied instruments for the evaluation of the health-related quality of life of head and neck cancer patients worldwide. The aim of this study was to perform a formal translation of the original version into the Serbian language, assess its psychometric properties, and validate it for use in the Serbian-speaking population. Methods. The study was designed as pilot research and conducted between August and October 2023. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was established by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient (CA). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was a measure of temporal stability. The construct validity of the instrument was assessed by correlating its total scores with Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire results. Results. A total of 30 patients (23 males and 7 females) with a mean age of 58.07 ± 13.59 years were enrolled in the research. Mean values of the physical function and social-emotional function subscales were 59.50 ± 12.68 and 55.39 ± 15.26 (the researchers interviewed the participants) and 58.78 ± 12.57 and 57.72 ± 14.91 (the patients completed the questionnaire by themselves). CA value of the Serbian version of the UW-QoL questionnaire was 0.816 (the questionnaire was filled out by the researchers) and 0.802 (the subjects completed it on their own). ICC was 0.797. There was a statistically significant strong correlation between the UW-QoL questionnaire and OHIP-14 total scores. The obtained results showed a weak, non-significant correlation between the UWQoL questionnaire and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire. Conclusion. Our pilot research showed that the Serbian version of the UW-QoL questionnaire appears as psychometrically valid and reliable as the original English version. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]