Cross-sectional Online Survey Research Articles

Israeli dentists’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding smoking cessation care

Abstract Background The 5A’s model for brief smoking cessation care (SCC) is recommended for dentists to reduce the negative impacts of smoking on oral health. This study investigates Israeli dentists' adherence to the 5A’s guidelines and explores factors influencing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Methods An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among Israeli dentists during June–August 2020. The questionnaire included sociodemographic, smoking, and professional characteristics; knowledge (10 true/false statements); attitudes regarding SCC [based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF)] using 13 statements (1–5 Likert scale), for a composite mean attitude score; and 5A’s performance (1–5 Likert scale, never to always). Two primary outcomes were analysed: (1) performing all of the 5A’s ‘often or always’; and (2) performing ‘always’ the first two steps (“Ask” and “Advise”). Multivariable logistic regression explored the association between the various characteristics and the primary outcomes. Results Overall, n = 410 responded. Mean knowledge score was 2.58 (SD = 1.51). Mean attitude score was 2.65 (SD = 0.60). Performance of all 5A’s was low with 14.1% (n = 57) reporting completing all 5A’s ‘often or always’, while 34.1% (n = 139) reported ‘always’ performing ‘Ask’ and ‘Advise’. Specialists had better odds of ‘often or always’ performing the 5A’s (adjusted OR = 2.01, p = .022) and ‘always’ performing ‘Ask and Advise’ (adjusted OR = 1.71, p = .022). Conclusions This study highlights the insufficient performance of SCC among Israeli dentists, revealing gaps in knowledge and attitudes related to SCC. Various measures, such as training, automatic referral systems, and integrating SCC as quality measures, may improve SCC provision among Israeli dentists.

Perceived Causes of Sleep Problems in Higher Education Students: An Exploratory Study

The major purpose of the present study was to explore higher education students’ perceptions of the causes of their sleep problems. The data were drawn from a previous cross-sectional online survey, from which only the questions relevant to this study were selected, including items on sleep disturbances and their causes. The participants included 1519 full-time students (76% women), aged 18–30 years ( M = 20.9, SD = 2.3); 95.3% were single and studying for a Bachelor’s degree (75.2%) across diverse fields of study. Overall, 30% of the students reported suffering from insomnia, 17.8% met the criteria for clinical insomnia (according to the Insomnia Severity Index), and 12.5% reported being dissatisfied with their sleep. The most significant perceived causes of sleep difficulties were stress (85%), academic problems (67%), and general worries (56.5%). Other causes included affective/love problems (28.4%), family issues (27.5%), changes in sleeping habits (25.9%), financial problems (13.7%), transition to higher education (10.4%), pain (7.1%), and general illness (5.5%). These findings may have important implications for interventions aimed at improving sleep health among higher education students.

Anxiety among Ukrainian academic staff during wartime

The ongoing war in Ukraine has significantly impacted the mental health of academic staff, with anxiety emerging as a predominant issue. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among Ukrainian academic staff and determine the influence of sociodemographic factors, such as gender, age, migration status, scientific degree, and job title, on anxiety levels. The research was conducted using a cross-sectional online survey between December 2023 and February 2024. The sample included 429 participants from various Ukrainian universities, representing both male and female academic staff, holding job positions such as assistants, senior lecturers, associate professors, and full professors. The findings revealed that 44.3% of participants experienced moderately severe to severe anxiety, with migration due to the full-scale war being a significant predictor of higher anxiety levels. Notably, male academic staff exhibited higher anxiety levels than their female counterparts, contrary to typical peacetime trends, suggesting that wartime responsibilities and societal expectations may play a crucial role. The data underscore the need for targeted mental health support, particularly for displaced academic staff, and highlight the importance of developing gender-specific interventions. These insights are vital for informing policies and support programs to enhance academic staff’s mental health and productivity in conflict zones, ensuring the continuity and quality of scientific research during and after the war.

German language adaptation of the Cluster Headache Quality of Life Scale (CH-QoL)

BackgroundCluster headache (CH) can lead to high disability and reduced quality of life (QoL). QoL should be assessed as an important outcome both in research and in clinical care. The 28-item Cluster Headache Quality of Life Scale (CH-QoL) is a valid self-report questionnaire to assess disease-specific QoL. A German version is lacking. This study aims to develop a German-language version and to determine its psychometric properties.MethodsThe CH-QoL was translated into German by two headache experts and blindly back-translated by two professional translators. Additionally, the CH-QoL was tested for comprehensibility by nine persons with CH. In this multi-stage process, linguistic discrepancies were repeatedly discussed in an expert panel and appropriate modifications were conducted to optimize the translation. A cross-sectional online survey, comprising the CH-QoL and further self-report questionnaires such as the Cluster Headache Scales (CHS), yielded a sample of N = 106 persons with CH (53.8% female, M = 45.5 [SD = 11.8] years, 48.1% episodic CH, 51.9% chronic CH, 79.2% currently having recurring CH attacks).ResultsExploratory factor analysis revealed two clearly interpretable factors (“restriction of activities of daily living”, and “impact on mood and interpersonal relationships”), which is in discrepancy to the four factors of the original English version. The model fit was good, with χ2(323) = 590.74, p < .001, RMSEA = 0.088, SRMR = 0.053, TLI = 0.857. Reliability was very good (McDonald’s omega ω = 0.97, Subscale/Factor 1: ω = 0.96, Subscale/Factor 2: ω = 0.92). Correlational analyses (correlations with related questionnaires as well as with clinical parameters) confirmed convergent validity.ConclusionsSince the German version of the CH-QoL has very good psychometric properties, it is suitable for the assessment of disease-specific QoL in people with CH in German-speaking countries.Trial registrationThis study is registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00028475, registration date 03 March 2022).

Green performance appraisal impact on organizational sustainability: exploring the role of green knowledge and behavior in Lebanese firms

Purpose This research aims to reveal the impact of Green Performance Appraisal (GPA) on Organizational Sustainability (OS) and to explore the effect of GPA on Employee Green Behavior (EGB). Moreover, it investigates the factors underlying the relationship between GPA, EGB and OS. Further, it intends to examine the role of Green Knowledge Usage (GKU) in the relationship between EGB and OS. Design/methodology/approach Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling technique, SPSS and the Smart PLS 4 Software were used to test the hypotheses and the data collected via a cross sectional online survey conducted among Lebanese firms registered in the local chamber of commerce. Findings The results show that GPA plays a significant role in enhancing EGB and in promoting OS. It proves also that EGB partially mediates the relationship between GPA and OS. Further, it reveals the moderating role of GKU in reinforcing the relationship between EGB and OS. Research limitations/implications Although the study has some limitations related to the limited sample targeted and the cross-sectional data used, the findings provide various managerial implications and help in enhancing OS. It also advances green human resources management practices theoretically and practically. Originality/value This research aims to fill the gaps observed in the literature and explores the impact of GPA on OS examining the mediating role of EGB and the moderating effect of GKU.

Factors Influencing Professional Help-Seeking Intentions for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Among Female University Students in Eswatini.

To investigate the prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) among female college students, identify factors influencing intention to seek professional help among SGBV survivors, and compare help-seeking determinants among survivors based on their prior utilization of healthcare services. A cross-sectional online survey was employed among female students aged 18-24 years from two universities in Eswatini. A total of 271 female college students were recruited to assess SGBV experience, attitudes, social norms, perceived control, help-seeking intention, and other factors not originally included in the theory of planned behavior. Data analyses utilized descriptive statistics, comparative analyses, and multiple regression methods. Among the participants, 73.1% reported experiencing one or more forms of SGBV, while only 43.4% sought professional help through health services. Help-seeking intentions of survivors were significantly associated with positive attitudes, subjective norms, and marital status, collectively explaining 66% of the variance. In subgroup analyses, the subjective norm and attitude emerged as the most robust predictors of help-seeking intentions. The results revealed a high prevalence of SGBV and a concerning trend of low help-seeking behavior, with attitudes and subjective norms emerging as the most influential factors shaping intention. These results provide valuable insights for designing theory-driven and culturally sensitive public health nursing interventions and educational programs aimed at effectively supporting SGBV survivors.

Kidnapping-Induced Trauma and secondary stress in armed conflicts: a comparative study among women in hostage families, volunteers, and the General Population

BackgroundExposure to armed conflict negatively impacts health. However, there is limited data on secondary stress from ambiguous loss contexts, such as kidnapping. In this study we aimed to quantify changes in modifiable health behaviors and well-being among women in hostage families and hostage crisis volunteers versus the general female population within the first two months of the 2023 Israel-Hamas war.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey was conducted on 318 Hebrew-speaking women aged 18–75 in Israel comparing: (1) a general population sample (n = 245); (2) hostage crisis volunteers (n = 40); and (3) hostage family members (n = 33). Participants provided demographic information, details on chronic illnesses, and responded to Likert-scale questions covering self-rated health, mental health, and lifestyle habits before the conflict and in current state.ResultsHostage family members reported the most severe health impacts, followed by volunteers. Fair/poor physical health status increased significantly in all groups during the war, with hostages’ families reporting the highest rate (61.6%). Mental health deterioration was more pronounced among hostages’ families, with 84% expressing a need for mental health support. Hostages’ families also reported the highest rates of sleep problems, reduced adherence to a healthy lifestyle, and weight loss. Mental and physical health declined significantly across the exposed groups, as measured by multiple assessments, with hostage families experienced the most pronounced impairments across various domains of well-being.ConclusionsThis period of conflict severely harmed the well-being of all women in the study population. Women from all three groups - hostage families, volunteers, and those from the general population - experienced health deterioration due to varying levels of stress and exposure to conflict-related factors. Hostage families faced the greatest impact with nearly all members of this group showing significant health damage. Long-term support is needed to help restore post-conflict health for all affected women. Further research may be needed to determine the most effective interventions for addressing these impacts across the different groups.

A cross-sectional survey exploring knowledge, beliefs and barriers to whole food plant-based diets amongst registered dietitians in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Plant-based diets (PBDs) have gained popularity in recent years due to their co-benefits for human and planetary health. Although clinical guidelines now recommend well-balanced PBDs, it remains unclear how dietitians in the United Kingdom (UK) and Republic of Ireland (ROI) view such diets and their implementation in practice. This study aimed to evaluate the perspectives of registered dietitians (RDs) on the role of a whole food plant-based diet (WFPBD) in clinical practice. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted amongst RDs in the UK and ROI between September and November 2023. A total of 335 RDs participated in the survey. Most RDs (76%) agree that a well-planned WFPBD is suitable for all stages of life, with some (48%) expressing concerns over the risk of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Three-quarters of RDs (75%) incorrectly thought that plant protein is incomplete, necessitating protein combining. A WFPBD was on average ranked fourth out of 14 dietary strategies for managing some of the leading non-communicable diseases. Excluding dairy and eggs was the primary reason preventing RDs from personally adopting a WFPBD, whereas meal preparation and cost were the main barriers for their clients. The majority of RDs (79%) feel they did not receive sufficient education on WFPBDs, with 58% agreeing there are insufficient evidence-based resources available in their field. Only 33% feel supported when advocating for a WFPBD in their workplace. Although many RDs view WFPBDs as viable and clinically relevant, significant barriers to their implementation exist, underscoring the need for enhanced education and support.

Exploring the effects of social media on body dysmorphic disorder among citizens of Bahrain: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThis study assessed the relationship between social media use and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). We calculated the prevalence of BDD in our sample and explored factors that may be associated with BDD. Various factors that we explored include sociodemographic characteristics, body image perceptions, and specific social media platforms used. The key focus of our study is understanding the impact of social media on mental health, specifically in the context of BDD.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional online survey that included the standardized Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ). Data on social media use were collected through self-reported usage patterns. Statistical analysis was conducted to identify associations.ResultsIncreased overall social media use was associated with BDD (p = 0.030). The prevalence of BDD in our sample was 1.8%. Age, being single and being a student were associated with BDD, with p values of 0.004, 0.023, and < 0.001, respectively. BDD was associated with comparing one’s body image with that of people on social media (p = 0.001). BDD was associated with judging other people based on their appearance (p < 0.001). Using social media in the fields of celebrities (p = 0.020), fashion (p = 0.025), music and songs (p < 0.001) were associated with BDD.ConclusionsIncreased social media use is associated with BDD, but different patterns of social media use may affect this relationship, indicating the need for further research in this field.

Effectiveness of the Eco-Score Food Label: An Information Experiment Combined with Nutri-Score Label in Belgium

Consumers’ food choices significantly impact the environment, with food production contributing substantially to global greenhouse gas emissions and water use. In response, policy interventions such as front-of-pack eco-labels aim to guide consumers towards more environmentally friendly food choices. The recently introduced Eco-score aims to guide consumers toward environmentally friendlier food choices. However, evidence regarding its effectiveness, particularly when used alongside the Nutri-score, remains limited.A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 607 Belgian respondents. Respondents assessed their perceived environmental impact of food products with various Eco-score and Nutri-score combinations. They were randomly assigned to one of two conditions, where one group saw both labels, while the other saw none when assessing the food products. Generalized linear models were used to determine if the Eco-score improved accuracy in assessing the environmental impact of food products, and a structural equation model analysed factors influencing the intention to use the Eco-score.Results show that the Eco-score enhances accuracy in environmental impact assessment, particularly when respondents are knowledgeable about the Eco-score and indicate environmental concerns. However, effects were less pronounced for products with conflicting Eco- and Nutri-scores, potentially due to cognitive dissonance. Furthermore, factors such as knowledge about and positive perceptions towards the Eco-score significantly influenced the intention to use it.The Eco-scores’ potential as a tool to guide consumers towards more environmentally friendlier food choices is validated by their positive perception and enhanced evaluative capacity among a representative sample of the Belgian population. Further research and a broader implementation are necessary to assess the long-term impact and utility of the Eco-score in promoting sustainable food consumption.

Childhood Adversity and Engagement in Adulthood: The Role of Attachment as a Mediator.

A key assumption of occupational therapy is that engagement in meaningful activities is fundamental to one's health and well-being. Preliminary findings suggest a link between childhood adversity and engagement in meaningful activity. Childhood adversity is also linked to attachment insecurity in adulthood, and both represent barriers to health and well-being. It is unknown whether attachment insecurity is associated with meaningful activity engagement or how attachment insecurity influences the relationship between childhood adversity and meaningful activity engagement. To investigate the association between attachment insecurity and meaningful activity engagement and the role of attachment insecurity in the relationship between childhood adversity and engagement in meaningful activities in adulthood. Cross-sectional online survey. Community. Community-dwelling adults ages 18 yr or older, healthy, and able to understand standard English to complete the questionnaires. Participants were recruited through snowball sampling. Participants answered demographic questions and completed three questionnaires: the Engagement in Meaningful Activities Survey, Risky Families Questionnaire, and Experiences in Close Relationships-Short Form. Participants (N = 329) completed at least two of the three surveys, with most (n = 312) completing all three. More insecurely attached participants reported less engagement in meaningful activities. Both attachment avoidance and attachment anxiety mediated the relationship between childhood adversity and meaningful activity engagement. The findings offer support for interrelations among childhood adversity, attachment insecurity, and engagement in meaningful activity. Further research is required to support the application of these findings in clinical settings. Plain-Language Summary: To our knowledge, this is the first study to establish a connection between attachment insecurity in adults and lower levels of engagement in meaningful activities during adulthood. The findings highlight the heightened vulnerability of adults who have a history of childhood adversity. The findings also emphasize the significance of (1) considering clients' childhood adversity and attachment patterns when assessing for and providing occupational therapy services and (2) advocating for the inclusion of trauma-informed practices for those with lower levels of meaningful occupational engagement.

Factors influencing COVID-19 vaccination intentions and mediating effects among older adults in Southwest China

This study examines the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccination intentions among Chinese residents over the age of 60, with a focus on the mediating roles of Health Beliefs and Cues to Vaccination Action in the relationship between vaccine knowledge and vaccination intentions. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey involving 1,305 participants from Southwest China. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified potential determinants of vaccination intention, including socioeconomic characteristics, knowledge, health beliefs, and cues to vaccination action. Furthermore, mediation analysis using the causal mediation analysis method explored the mediating effects within the knowledge-to-intention pathway. Vaccination intention and its related factors: among the 1212 elderly people included in the study, 92.9% expressed willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Main factors influencing their vaccination willingness included Residency (urban vs. rural, OR = 0.47, p < 0.01), Age (75 + vs. others, OR = 0.41, p < 0.05), Marital status (OR = 0.36, p < 0.01), Occupation ( business/service vs. others, OR = 0.33, p < 0.05), Awareness of vaccine effectiveness (OR = 1.23, p < 0.01), Cues to vaccination action (OR = 1.31, p < 0.01) and COVID-19 related knowledge (OR = 1.06, p < 0.01). The analysis revealed two significant mediators—Health Beliefs and Cues to Vaccination Action. These mediators (p<0.05 for both natural indirect effect and natural direct effect) acted along two key pathways: (1) From Knowledge of COVID-19 to Health Beliefs to Vaccination Intention: Natural Direct Effects (NDE) ranged from 0.012 to 0.016, with Natural Indirect Effects (NIE) from 0.001 to 0.003, indicating that mediators accounted for 4% to 18% of the total effect. (2) From Knowledge of COVID-19 to Cues of Vaccination Action to Vaccination Intention: NDE ranged from 0.012 to 0.016 and NIE from 0.002 to 0.003, with mediators accounting for 9% to 20% of the effect. The intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 among older adults varies significantly based on socioeconomic and health belief factors. The study identifies health beliefs and cues to action not only as direct contributors but also as crucial mediators in the pathway from knowledge to vaccination intention among older individuals. These findings can extend our understanding of the impact of sociodemographic factors and health beliefs on the COVID-19 vaccination willingness among older adults.

Cross-sectional assessment of perception and attitude of pharmacy students towards pharmaceutical promotion: a study from developing country, Pakistan

BackgroundThe pharmaceutical promotion is “all informational and persuasive activities by manufacturers and distributors, the effect of which is to induce the prescription, supply, purchase and/or use of medicinal drugs. These promotional activities affect the dispensing behavior of physicians and pharmacists and influence begins from educational institutes.ObjectiveOur study’s main aim was to evaluate opinion and attitude of pharmacy students towards pharmaceutical promotion.Materials and methodsA cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 3rd, 4th and final year pharmacy students of 3 public and 3 private sector universities in Punjab Pakistan. A modified version of pre available questionnaire was used to collect data from students between June 2020 and December 2020. The tool was made available through a Google Form, assessable to students via provided link. We utilized the snowball sampling technique. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the demographics, while Chi-square and t-test were used to analyze associations between demographics and items. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0.ResultsA total of 1,195 students participated in the survey with an average age of 22.2 ± 1.2 years. Nearly 2/3rd of the students were males (62.2%) and a significant proportion (87.3%) of pharmacy students had never taken part in any training provided by pharmaceutical company. Among all, 51.9% confirmed that pharmacists who frequently interact with medical representatives tend to dispense more antibiotics. Additionally, 42.1% indicated they may dispense antibiotics under the influence of promotion. Pharmacy students in senior college years and those with lower parental exhibited significantly more perception and attitude scores (p &amp;lt; 0.001).ConclusionA significant number of students concurred with the notion that promotional activities could impact dispensing practices and they also believed that such activities contribute to the growing issue of irrational antibiotic use. This study underscores the necessity for a heightened emphasis on the educational needs of pharmacy students.

Open science practices among authors published in complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine journals: An international, cross-sectional survey.

Open science practices aim to increase transparency in research and increase research availability through open data, open access platforms, and public access. Due to the increasing popularity of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine (CAIM) research, our study aims to explore current open science practices and perceived barriers among CAIM researchers in their own respective research articles. We conducted an international cross-sectional online survey that was sent to authors that published articles in MEDLINE-indexed journals categorized under the broad subject of "Complementary Therapies" or articles indexed under the MeSH term "Complementary Therapies." Articles were extracted to obtain the names and emails of all corresponding authors. Eight thousand seven hundred eighty-six researchers were emailed our survey, which included questions regarding participants' familiarity with open science practices, their open science practices, and perceived barriers to open science in CAIM with respect to participants' most recently published article. Basic descriptive statistics was generated based on the quantitative data. The survey was completed by 292 participants (3.32% response rate). Results indicate that the majority of participants were "very familiar" (n = 83, 31.68%) or "moderately familiar" (n = 83, 31.68%) with the concept of open science practices while creating their study. Open access publishing was the most familiar to participants, with 51.96% (n = 136) of survey respondents publishing with open access. Despite participants being familiar with other open science practices, the actual implementation of these practices was low. Common barriers participants experienced in implementing open science practices include not knowing where to share the study materials, where to share the data, or not knowing how to make a preprint. Although participants responded that they were familiar with the concept of open science practices, the actual implementation and uses of these practices were low. Barriers included a lack of overall knowledge about open science, and an overall lack of funding or institutional support. Future efforts should aim to explore how to implement methods to improve open science training for CAIM researchers.

Multiple recommended health behaviors among medical students in Western Canada: a descriptive study of self-reported knowledge, adherence, barriers, and time use

BackgroundGeneral medical practitioners are responsible for promoting and prescribing lifestyle modification and serve as role models for healthy behaviors. We aimed to assess self-reported knowledge, adherence, barriers and time spent on all recommended health behaviors among medical students.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey of eight behavioral domains among undergraduate medical students in The University of British Columbia, Canada, was analysed using descriptive statistics and visual display.ResultsBetween March and April 2023, 137 medical students participated in the survey (74% female). Over 80% had knowledge of five health behavior recommendations, but lacked knowledge of specific dietary recommendations in particular. Over 60% reported meeting guideline-recommended levels for tobacco, weekly alcohol, daily alcohol (females only), and physical activity (males only). Large gaps existed between knowledge and adherence for physical activity, sleep, sedentariness, screen time, and dietary recommendations. Sex differences in knowledge and adherence to recommended health behaviors were identified. Time spent on wellness focused on sleep (47–49 h/week), diet (9.6 h/week), exercise (5.8 h/week), and hobbies (6.1 h/week). Forgetting recommendations (69% of females, 71% of males), and lack of time (72% of females, 52% of males) were principal barriers to knowledge and adherence.ConclusionMost medical students in Western Canada reported not meeting multiple recommended health behaviors. Time was the largest barrier to adherence and free time was spent on sleep. Medical education may require protected time and dedicated content for health behaviors to ensure future physicians can be role models of health promotion for patients.

Food Insecurity Among University Students at a German University: Impact on Health, Academic Performance, and Lifestyle During COVID-19

ABSTRACT Studies show that university students, especially food insecure students, were often negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. For Germany, no data covers this time period, differentiating between food security statuses. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey (n = 562) between November and December 2021 at the Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany, using the validated Food Insecurity Experience Scale to assess food (in)security. Our results affirm changes in academic performance, health and eating habits during the pandemic, with food insecure participants being more negatively affected. Preventive measures are needed to mitigate the adverse effects of crises, targeting all, but especially food insecure university students.

Exercise and physical activity for people with chronic kidney disease: A national survey of nephrologist practice patterns in Saudi Arabia.

A variety of health benefits are associated with physical activity (PA) in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The aim of this study was to examine nephrologist practice patterns concerning exercise and PA in CKD patients. This is an online cross-sectional survey study that was conducted between June 2023 and May 2024 in Saudi Arabia. Nephrology fellow, specialists, and consultants in Saudi Arabia formed the study population. A total of 96 physicians participated in this study. Only 9.4% of renal units have exercise programs available to patients. These programs are available mainly for advanced CKD (pre-dialysis) and in-center hemodialysis patients. The major barriers for initiating or expanding exercise programs at their centers are a lack of motivation/interest from front-line staff (55.2%), lack of interest from management (48.3%), and no funding (47.1). Around 56.2% of respondents ask patients about their level of PA. Additionally, 64.6% give patients specific advice on how to increase their level of PA. For the types of exercise most beneficial for people with CKD, 90.6% recommend walking. Around 34.4% of respondents believe that physiotherapists should take ownership in providing exercise counseling and resources to people with CKD. The majority agreed or strongly agreed to recommend exercise in patients with CKD (76.0%). The mean attitude score for the study participants was 32.1 (standard deviation: 3.9) out of 40 (equal to 80.3%); which demonstrates positive attitude towards recommending exercise for CKD patients. Binary logistic regression analysis identified that there is no statistically significant difference between physicians in term of their attitude towards recommending exercise for CKD patients (P > .05). This study highlights a critical gap in the availability of exercise programs for CKD patients. Key barriers include lack of interest by staff and management and funding issues. In spite of these barriers, a majority of physicians acknowledge the role of exercise in CKD patients and advice regarding PA on a frequent basis. It suggests recommendations in order to expand the programs, including increasing staff motivation, securing management support, and getting funding for exercise programs and identifying the role of physiotherapists in exercise counseling for CKD patients.

Pharmacy students’ perception and knowledge of chat-based artificial intelligence tools at a Nigerian University

BackgroundChat-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, such as ChatGPT®, are becoming integral to various aspects of pharmacy education. However, their integration into the curriculum faces challenges due to students’ varying levels of knowledge and perceptions. This study aimed to evaluate pharmacy students’ knowledge and perception of chat-based AI tools at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria (ABUAD). It also assessed their familiarity with these tools and their usage patterns.MethodA cross-sectional online survey was conducted from March to April 2024 among undergraduate pharmacy students, selected through random sampling. Student knowledge was categorised as good or poor while perception was grouped into positive or negative. Data analysis was conducted using Statistical Product and Service Solutions version 27.ResultsA total of 252 students participated in this study with the majority being female (72.2%). Most students (88%, n = 222) were familiar with chat-based AI tools, with ChatGPT® being the most commonly used (82.8%) for assignments and studying. Students generally showed a positive perception of the tools, with 85.3% believing it enhances academic performance. Concerns were raised about potential distractions (65.7%) and the risk of academic dishonesty (65.1%). Students with prior AI education (p < 0.001), higher levels of study (p = 0.011), and prior awareness (p < 0.001) demonstrated significantly higher knowledge scores.ConclusionPharmacy students at ABUAD demonstrated good knowledge of chat-based AI tools and generally positive perceptions towards its use. The study underscores the need to integrate AI education into the pharmacy curriculum to address knowledge gaps and better prepare students for future technological advancements.

UK Government COVID-19 response employees' perceptions on working from home: Content analysis of open-ended survey questions.

This study investigates perceptions of homeworking in UK Government response-focused employees that contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic response. A cross-sectional online survey with open-ended questions was conducted. Free-text responses detailing participants perceptions of barriers, facilitators, advantages, and disadvantages were analysed using content analysis. A total of 1,943 free-text responses (from 150 participants) were analysed. There were many conflicting advantages and disadvantages provided by participants, but crudely more positive statements were provided than negative. Flexibility associated with working from home was the most common positive factor, and the isolation and impact on working relationships was the most reported negative factor of working from home. We suggest a 'one size fits all' approach to supporting staff working from home is not fit for purpose due to individual circumstances and contextual factors.

Psychometric evaluation of the persian version of Existential Concern Questionnaire (ECQ) in Iranian general population: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundExistential anxiety is the anxiety that goes beyond objective threats and is related to a person’s existence. Due to the lack of appropriate instrument to measure all five domains of existential anxiety in the Iranian population, this study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Existential Concern Questionnaire (ECQ) in the Iranian general population.MethodsThis online cross-sectional survey was conducted from October 9 to December 11, 2023 in Tehran, Iran. We used an Internet-based data collection method. A total of 549 participants completed the questionnaires. The research instruments included the Existential Concern Questionnaire, Existential Anxiety Questionnaire, Meaning in Life Questionnaire, Short version of the Beck Depression Inventory, Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale-12, and Death Attitude Profile Revised. Confirmatory factor analysis, convergent validity, and concurrent validity were used to measure the validity of ECQ. Cronbach’s alpha and split-half methods were employed to assess the reliability of the ECQ.ResultsConfirmatory factor analysis showed a good fit of the unidimensional model (CMIN/DF: 2.802, RMR: 0.066, GFI: 0.914, NFI: 0.911, CFI: 0.941, PNFI: 0.769, PCFI: 0.794, RMSEA: 0.057). Also, the correlation of ECQ with other variables was as expected except for the search for meaning in life (r: 0.010, P = 0.808), which indicates the validity of this questionnaire. The reliability of the questionnaire was also acceptable (Cronbach’s Alpha: 0.935).ConclusionsThe results supported the validity and reliability of the ECQ. The mentioned questionnaire can be used in Iranian general population. Considering the importance of existential anxiety in etiology of some disorders, it is suggested that the future studies focus on validation of the ECQ in different clinical samples and cultures.