Gender-related Influences Research Articles

Just and inclusive end-of-life decision-making for long-term care home residents with dementia: a qualitative study protocol

BackgroundMany people living with dementia eventually require care services and spend the remainder of their lives in long-term care (LTC) homes. Yet, many residents with dementia do not receive coordinated, quality palliative care. The stigma associated with dementia leads to an assumption that people living in the advanced stages of dementia are unable to express their end-of-life needs. As a result, people with dementia have fewer choices and limited access to palliative care. The purpose of this paper is to describe the protocol for a qualitative study that explores end-of-life decision-making processes for LTC home residents with dementia.Methods/designThis study is informed by two theoretical concepts. First, it draws on a relational model of citizenship. The model recognizes the pre-reflective dimensions of agency as fundamental to being human (irrespective of cognitive impairment) and thereby necessitates that we cultivate an environment that supports these dimensions. This study also draws from Smith’s critical feminist lens to foreground the influence of gender relations in decision-making processes towards palliative care goals for people with dementia and reveal the discursive mediums of power that legitimize and sanction social relations.This study employs a critical ethnographic methodology. Through data collection strategies of interview, observation, and document review, this study examines decision-making for LTC home residents with dementia and their paid (LTC home workers) and unpaid (family members) care partners.DiscussionThis research will expose the embedded structures and organizational factors that shape relationships and interactions in decision-making. This study may reveal new ways to promote equitable decision-making towards palliative care goals for LTC home residents with dementia and their care partners and help to improve their access to palliative care.

Where Sex Meets Gender: How Sex and Gender Come Together to Cause Sex Differences in Mental Illness.

Sex differences are prevalent in multiple mental disorders. Internalizing disorders are more commonly diagnosed in women, whereas externalizing and neurodevelopmental disorders are more often diagnosed in men. Significant sex/gender differences are reported in prevalence, symptom profile, age of onset, comorbidities, functional impairment, prognosis, as well as in responses to various treatments. In this conceptual article, we discuss theories and empirical studies of sex- and gender-related influences in mental health, by focusing on three examples: autism spectrum disorder (ASD), acknowledged as a disorder whose roots are mainly biological; eating disorders, whose origins are considered to be mainly psychosocial, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an environmentally caused disorder with both psychosocial and biological underpinnings. We examine the ways in which sex differences emerge, from conception through adulthood. We also examine how gender dichotomies in exposures, expectations, role assumptions, and cultural traditions impact the expression of our three selected mental illnesses. We are especially interested in how sex-based influences and gender-based influences interact with one another to affect mental illness. We suggest that sex and gender are multi-faceted and complex phenomena that result in variations, not only between men and women, but also within each sex and gender through alterations in genes, hormone levels, self-perceptions, trauma experiences, and interpersonal relationships. Finally, we propose a conceptual diatheses-stress model, depicting how sex and gender come together to result in multiple sex/gender differences across mental disorders. In our model, we categorize diatheses into several categories: biological, intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental. These diatheses interact with exposure to stressors, ranging from relatively minor to traumatic, which allows for the sometimes bidirectional influences of acute and long-term stress responses. Sex and gender are discussed at every level of the model, thereby providing a framework for understanding and predicting sex/gender differences in expression, prevalence and treatment response of mental disorders. We encourage more research into this important field of study.

A journey into understanding gendered experiences of outdoor adventure education

ABSTRACT Outdoor Adventure Education (OAE) is traditionally depicted as a hegemonic masculine domain. Thus, fundamental to any dialogue on gender in OAE is whether the outdoor experience reifies or disputes stereotypical gender roles. This study explores the influence of gender on the psychosocial outcomes and descriptions of gender-related influences on the experiences of Journey, a South African school-based OAE programme. Employing a mixed methods quasi-experimental design, a purposive sample of 74 male and 70 female Grade 10 learners was recruited for this study. Gender comparisons reveal a significant difference for post-Journey scores of Resilience but not for Life Effectiveness and Emotional Literacy. The qualitative findings suggest that individual differences, rather than gender, account for much of the variation in outcomes and meaning for the learners. It is imperative that we recognise that gender identities are inextricably intertwined with our understanding of sexual orientation, sex and issues of privilege and oppression.

Sex and Gender-Related Differences in COVID-19 Diagnoses and SARS-CoV-2 Testing Practices During the First Wave of the Pandemic: The Dutch Lifelines COVID-19 Cohort Study.

Background: Although sex differences are described in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnoses and testing, many studies neglect possible gender-related influences. Additionally, research is often performed in clinical populations, while most COVID-19 patients are not hospitalized. Therefore, we investigated associations between sex and gender-related variables, and COVID-19 diagnoses and testing practices in a large general population cohort during the first wave of the pandemic when testing capacity was limited.Methods: We used data from the Lifelines COVID-19 Cohort (N = 74,722; 60.8% female). We applied bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses. The outcomes were a COVID-19 diagnosis (confirmed by SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing or physician's clinical diagnosis) and PCR testing. Independent variables included among others participants' sex, age, somatic comorbidities, occupation, and smoking status. Sex-by-comorbidity and sex-by-occupation interaction terms were included to investigate sex differences in associations between the presence of comorbidities or an occupation with COVID-19 diagnoses or testing practices.Results: In bivariate analyses female sex was significantly associated with COVID-19 diagnoses and testing, but significance did not persist in multiple logistic regression analyses. However, a gender-related variable, being a health care worker, was significantly associated with COVID-19 diagnoses (OR = 1.68; 95%CI = 1.30–2.17) and testing (OR = 12.5; 95%CI = 8.55–18.3). Female health care workers were less often diagnosed and tested than male health care workers (ORinteraction = 0.54; 95%CI = 0.32–0.92, ORinteraction = 0.53; 95%CI = 0.29–0.97, respectively).Conclusions: We found no sex differences in COVID-19 diagnoses and testing in the general population. Among health care workers, a male preponderance in COVID-19 diagnoses and testing was observed. This could be explained by more pronounced COVID-19 symptoms in males or by gender inequities.

Targeted Chemometrics Investigations of Source-, Age- and Gender-Dependencies of Oral Cavity Malodorous Volatile Sulphur Compounds

Halitosis is a highly distressing, socially unaesthetic condition, with a very high incidence amongst the adult population. It predominantly arises from excessive oral cavity volatile sulphur compound (VSC) concentrations, which have either oral or extra-oral etiologies (90–95% and 5–10% of cases, respectively). However, reports concerning age- and gender-related influences on the patterns and concentrations of these malodorous agents remain sparse; therefore, this study’s first objective was to explore the significance and impact of these potential predictor variables on the oral cavity levels of these malodorants. Moreover, because non-oral etiologies for halitosis may represent avatars of serious extra-oral diseases, the second objective was to distinguish between etiology- (source-) dependent patterns of oral cavity VSCs. Oral cavity VSC determinations were performed on 116 healthy human participants using a non-stationary gas chromatographic facility, and following a 4 h period of abstention from all non-respiratory oral activities. Participants were grouped according to ages or age bands, and gender. Statistical analyses of VSC level data acquired featured both univariate/correlation and multivariate (MV) approaches. Factorial analysis-of-variance and MV analyses revealed that the levels of all VSCs monitored were independent of both age and gender. Principal component analysis (PCA) and a range of further MV analysis techniques, together with an agglomerative hierarchal clustering strategy, demonstrated that VSC predictor variables were partitioned into two components, the first arising from orally-sourced H2S and CH3SH, the second from extra-orally-sourced (CH3)2S alone (about 55% and 30% of total variance respectively). In conclusion, oral cavity VSC concentrations appear not to be significantly influenced by age and gender. Furthermore, (CH3)2S may serve as a valuable biomarker for selected extra-oral conditions.

Hiding in plain sight: the absence of consideration of the gendered dimensions in \u2018source\u2019 country perspectives on health worker migration

BackgroundGender roles and relations affect both the drivers and experiences of health worker migration, yet policy responses rarely consider these gender dimensions. This lack of explicit attention from source country perspectives can lead to inadequate policy responses.MethodsA Canadian-led research team partnered with co-investigators in the Philippines, South Africa, and India to examine the causes, consequences and policy responses to the international migration of health workers from these ‘source’ countries. Multiple-methods combined an initial documentary analysis, interviews and surveys with health workers and country-based stakeholders. We undertook an explicit gender-based analysis highlighting the gender-related influences and implications that emerged from the published literature and policy documents from the decade 2005 to 2015; in-depth interviews with 117 stakeholders; and surveys conducted with 3580 health workers.ResultsThe documentary analysis of health worker emigration from South Africa, India and the Philippines reveal that gender can mediate access to and participation in health worker training, employment, and ultimately migration. Our analysis of survey data from nurses, physicians and other health workers in South Africa, India and the Philippines and interviews with policy stakeholders, however, reveals a curious absence of how gender might mediate health worker migration. Stereotypical views were evident amongst stakeholders; for example, in South Africa female health workers were described as “preferred” for “innate” personal characteristics and cultural reasons, and in India men are directed away from nursing roles particularly because they are considered only for women. The finding that inadequate remuneration was as a key migration driver amongst survey respondents in India and the Philippines, where nurses predominated in our sample, was not necessarily linked to underlying gender-based pay inequity. The documentary data suggest that migration may improve social status of female nurses, but it may also expose them to deskilling, as a result of the intersecting racism and sexism experienced in destination countries. Regardless of these underlying influences in migration decision-making, gender is rarely considered either as an important contextual influence or analytic category in the policy responses.ConclusionAn explicit gender-based analysis of health worker emigration, which may help to emphasize important equity considerations, could offer useful insights for the health and social policy responses adopted by source countries.

Gender-related influences on adherence to advice and treatment-seeking guidance for infants and young children post-hospital discharge in Bangladesh

BackgroundPost-hospital discharge mortality risk is high among young children in many low and middle-income countries (LMICs). The available literature suggests that child, caregiver and health care provider gender all play important roles in post-discharge adherence to medical advice, treatment-seeking and recovery for ill children in LMICs, including those with undernutrition.MethodsA qualitative study was embedded within a larger multi-country multi-disciplinary observational cohort study involving children aged less than 2 years conducted by the Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition (CHAIN) Network. Primary data were collected from family members of 22 purposively selected cohort children. Family members were interviewed several times in their homes over the 6 months following hospital discharge (total n = 78 visits to homes). These in-depth interviews were complemented by semi-structured individual interviews with 6 community representatives, 11 community health workers and 12 facility-based health workers, and three group discussions with a total of 24 community representatives. Data were analysed using NVivo11 software, using both narrative and thematic approaches.ResultsWe identified gender-related influences at health service/system and household/community levels. These influences interplayed to family members’ adherence to medical advice and treatment-seeking after hospital discharge, with potentially important implications for children’s recovery. Health service/system level influences included: fewer female medical practitioners in healthcare facilities, which influenced mothers’ interest and ability to consult them promptly for their child’s illnesses; gender-related challenges for community health workers in supporting mothers with counselling and advice; and male caregivers’ being largely absent from the paediatric wards where information sessions to support post-discharge care are offered. Gendered household/community level influences included: women’s role as primary caretakers for children and available levels of support; male family members having a dominant role in decision-making related to food and treatment-seeking behaviour; and greater reluctance among parents to invest money and time in the treatment of female children, as compared to male children.ConclusionsA complex web of gender related influences at health systems/services and household/community levels have important implications for young children’s recovery post-discharge. Immediate interventions with potential for positive impact include awareness-raising among all stakeholders – including male family members - on how gender influences child health and recovery, and how to reduce adverse consequences of gender-based discrimination. Specific interventions could include communication interventions in facilities and homes, and changes in routine practices such as who is present in facility interactions. To maximise and sustain the impact of immediate actions and interventions, the structural drivers of women’s position in society and gender inequity must also be tackled. This requires interventions to ensure equal equitable opportunities for men and women in all aspects of life, including access to education and income generation activities. Given patriarchal norms locally and globally, men will likely need special targeting and support in achieving these objectives.

Gender-related differences in the modulation of anthropometric, biochemical, and immune markers by physical activity in hypertensive and diabetic individuals.

Systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) compose the two major noncommunicable chronic inflammatory diseases. Physical activity has been shown as a promising complementary approach to control the systemic inflammation. However, it is still unclear whether this modulation is gender-dependent. The objective of this study was evaluate the gender-related influence of physical activity on the inflammatory response and biochemical profile of individuals with SAH and T2DM. An international physical activity questionnaire was applied to 376 individuals diagnosed with SAH and T2DM in order to access their exercises routine and was evaluated the influence of physical activity in biochemical, anthropometrical, and immunological markers involved in these disorders in men and women. Even though active individuals have exhibited lower serum levels of IL-1β, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17A, the ratios between IL-10 and all inflammatory cytokines were higher in men than in women. Physically active individuals also demonstrated increased HDL/LDL and HDL/VLDL ratios. Moreover, multiple correlations revealed that in active women both IL-10 and TNF-α serum levels positively correlate with fasting glucose levels, and were negatively associated with HDL levels. Our findings suggest that gender-related differences dictate a distinct crosstalk between inflammatory and biochemical markers in physically active individuals.

Men’s needs and women’s fears: gender-related power dynamics in contraceptive use and coping with consequences in a rural setting in Kenya

This paper examines gender-related power influences on contraceptive use and coping with consequences in a rural setting in Kenya. Data come from in-depth interviews conducted in 2018 with 42 women who participated in a longitudinal study implemented in Homa Bay County. Data were analysed using an exploratory inductive content analytic approach. The findings show that the key drivers of gender-related power influence on contraceptive use and coping with consequences included: 1) the extent to which the women managed to provide sex and sexual pleasure to their partners when they were using contraception; 2) men’s readiness to provide permission and resources that women needed and the latter’s ability to overcome challenges in obtaining the same from their partners; and 3) women’s fears concerning infidelity and partner violence, which influenced the actions they took to reduce instances that could make their partners suspect them of engaging in extra-marital affairs, drive their partners into such affairs, or encourage their partners to direct emotional or physical violence on them. Findings suggest the need for gender-transformative actions combining empowerment programmes for women with information, education and communications activities targeting both men and women.

2019-P: Gender Influence on Body Habitus for an Underserved Population with Type 2 Diabetes and Food Insecurity

In the United States, type 2 diabetes (T2D) has a disproportionate impact on underserved populations, and this appears to be related to excess weight. Although reasons are likely multifactorial, it is unclear if there are gender-related influences on obesity risk for these populations. We compared body habitus by gender for 218 adults [84% Mexican-American, 152 females, mean (SD) age 56.2 (10.7) years, HbA1c 8.1 (2.0) %, BMI 31.2 (6.7) kg/m2, 45% uninsured, 42% food insecure (U.S. Household Food Security Survey)] with T2D participating in 2 clinical trials (NCT03830840 and NCT03940300). Comparisons were made for BMI, waist circumference (WC), relative fat mass (RFM), systolic blood pressure (SBP), HbA1c, and food security by gender (Table). Results expressed as mean (SD), unless specified. Significant associations (Spearman’s Rho) were found between WC and BMI (rs= 0.82) and WC and RFM (rs=0.66, both p<0.001) for all participants and when stratified by gender (p<0.001). There were no significant associations between HbA1c and RFM or BMI, except for BMI and HbA1c in males (rs=-0.31, p=0.02). Food insecure adults had higher HbA1c (%) levels than those who were food secure (median [IQR] 7.65 [6.98-9.35] versus 7.30 [6.40-8.63], p=0.02). In conclusion, gender may be an important influence on body habitus for underserved populations with T2D. Food insecurity is also common and can impact glycemic control. Disclosure W.C. Bevier: None. N.M. Glantz: Research Support; Self; Abbott, Eli Lilly and Company. A.J. Larez: Research Support; Self; Eli Lilly and Company. M.A. Kujan: None. C. Conneely: None. K.N. Castorino: Research Support; Self; Abbott, Dexcom, Inc., Medtronic, Mylan, Novo Nordisk Inc. D. Kerr: Advisory Panel; Self; Novo Nordisk A/S, Sanofi-Aventis. Research Support; Self; Eli Lilly and Company. Stock/Shareholder; Self; Glooko, Inc. Funding Eli Lilly and Company; U.S. Department of Agriculture (2018-01793)

Gender-related Influences on Superficial Papillary Microcirculation Measured with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Patients with Glaucoma

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the optic nerve head (ONH), macular vessel density, and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness differences between the genders. Material and methods: In this prospective case-control cross-sectional study 111 healthy subjects and 130 primary open-angle glaucoma (OAG) patients were examined with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A (RS-3000 Advance (Nidek, Gamagori, Japan))). The vessel density in the peripapillary and macular area as well as the RNFL thickness was evaluated. Results: Men appeared to have less RNFL thickness compared with women in early glaucomatous group, being significant at the whole circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (cpRNFL) thickness and inferior and nasal quadrants: (cpRNFL) (71.01 ± 9.32 vs 77.64 ± 9.95 μm; P = .001), superior quadrant (89.10 ± 16.63 vs 92.97 ± 17.53 μm; P = .284), inferior quadrant (83.03 ± 19.17 vs 95.07 ± 21.70 μm; P = .006), temporal quadrant (57.11 ± 10.36 vs 61.78 ± 11.37 μm; P = .043), nasal quadrant (54.81 ± 11.42 vs 60.73 ± 11.62 μm; P = .016). Circumpapillary (wcpVD) and macular (wmVD) vessel density values were lower in men than women in the early stage OAG group, being wmVD significantly lower: wcpVD (15.53 ± 2.45% vs 16.81 ± 3.17%, P = .032) and wmVD values (12.51 ± 2.21 vs 13.63 ± 2.28%, P = .019), but not in the moderate OAG group (wcpVD 14.46 ± 2.20% vs 16.61 ± 3.10%, P = .056 and wmVD 12.61 ± 2.40% vs 12.74 ± 2.54%, P = .870). There were no significant differences between men and women for RNFL thickness and the vessel density parameters in normal group. Conclusion: Both, the thickness of the nerve fiber layer and peripapillary and macular vessel density are lower in men than in women with glaucoma, more markedly in early stage glaucomatous patients.

Skills building seminar: How to do (and not to do) gender in health research: methods developments and lessons from the field

Abstract There is a growing awareness of the role of gender in the production of health inequalities. Gender, as a social construct, is built on culturally constructed roles, behaviours, expectations, opportunities and responsibilities that individuals experience throughout their lives in societies. It is also a reflection of relations to others, and of the power -or disadvantages- that fall upon individuals. The main channels through which gender influences health status, independently and in relation to a person’s biological sex or sexual orientation, include differences in exposure to behavioural and environmental risk factors, differences in use of health services and access to treatment, in relationships that form between care providers and patients, and structural determinants such as the design and implementation of public policies and laws. Despite efforts to adopt a gender-sensitive approach in public health research, gender remains too often an afterthought in the research process, or gender differences an accidental finding. Investigating the complexity of gender-related influences on health status comes with methodological challenges, considering the multiple dimensions of gender and gender identities and their interactions with the social environment. Grasping the realities of gender-related inequalities in health calls for interdisciplinary approaches and multi-level analyses. In this workshop, we present methodological developments and lessons from the field that highlight the role of gender as a social determinant of health, and suggest ways to operationalise it in health research. Drawing from intersectionality theory, which examines how multiple social identities (e.g. sex/gender, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic position, sexuality, age, (dis)ability) intersect at the level of the individual and the structural factors that underpin them, Mena & Bolte develop a conceptual framework for intersectionality-based gender sensitivity in multivariable analysis. Focussing on the intersection between gender and migration, Wandschneider et al. identify best practice for the conceptualisation and operationalisation of gender in migration-related epidemiological research. Batram-Zantvoort et al. aim to demonstrate the value of identifying discrimination and imbalance of power in obstetric care at different levels of analysis, looking at structural, organisational and individual level factors. Jähn et al. critically examine the theoretical foundations and measurement methods of gender roles. Finally, Böckmann et al. reflect back on a smoking cessation intervention in South Asia and on discovering discrepancies between researchers’ assumptions and realities of gender roles and behaviours. Between them, presenters will cover several stages of the research process (conceptualisation, measurement, data collection) and cover a range of disciplines, providing a unique opportunity for dialogue and a platform for the development of best practice. Key messages This workshop will highlight the role of gender as a social determinant of health, and suggest ways to operationalise gender in health research. It will also provide a unique opportunity for interdisciplinary dialogue and a platform for the development of gender-sensitive research best practice.

Promises and challenges of gender-sensitive epidemiology

Abstract Risk factor-oriented epidemiology was largely disconnected from sociological theory. Recently, efforts have been made to integrate more systematically gender as a social concept in epidemiology. An intersectional multi-level approach to gender-sensitive epidemiology could move beyond a male-female dichotomy, allowing to understand the interdependence between various sexual and social identities and mechanisms of discrimination, and explore the complexity of gender-related influences on health.

Flexible Gender Flexibility as a Social factor in Men’s Recovery from Schizophrenia in Northern Nigeria

Background Schizophrenia is a severe mental health condition that impacts more heavily on men. In Nigeria, studies on men and health have mainly focused on sexual health, in contrast, men’s experience of schizophrenia and the role of gender in influencing beliefs about their recovery has rarely been studied. This study explored men’s perceptions of developing schizophrenia in northern Nigeria and what emerged as facilitating factors in their recovery. Method This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews with 30 male outpatients with a previous diagnosis of schizophrenia and 10 mental health professionals. All were recruited through Nigerian psychiatric hospital clinics. A thematic approach informed analysis of the data collected. Results A commitment to flexibility in gender-relations emerged as a key finding. Within household members, the meeting of financial needs was talked about interchangeably. This flexible gender-relations was then associated with household poverty reduction, which was previously seen as influencing the men’s recovery from the mental illness. In particular, providing for family needs became a shared responsibility, with departure from traditional gender expectations imposing fewer family hardships. This was also reported as having a bearing on the men’s willingness to access services, which aided recovery. Conclusion The influence of flexible gender-relations demonstrated in this study has practice implications for understanding men’s management of recovery from schizophrenia. Community-focused gender transformative programs for the men and those involved in their care in Nigeria could help engage participants in discussions relevant to facilitate changes in gender expectations.

Relasi Gender, Ketahanan Keluarga dan Kualitas Pernikahan pada Keluarga Nelayan dan Buruh Tani “Brondol” Bawang Merah

Previous research show that the quality of marriage is determined by harmonious gender relations and high family resilience. This study aims to analyze the influence of gender relations and family resilience on the quality of marriage in the families of farmers and fishermen. This study used a cross-sectional study design and was conducted in Pantai Sederhana Village, Bekasi Regency for participants of fishermen and Losari Lor Village, Brebes Regency for participants of peasant farmers of ‘brondol’ onions. The research participants was chosen by purposive sampling with a total sample of 130 families. The results of the independent t-test showed that fishermen's families had better gender relations compared to the families of peasant farmers. Overall, family resilience of fishermen and peasant farmers had a very significant difference. The average index of family resilience of peasant farmer families (88,9) was higher than fishermen families (83,7). The average quality of marriages of fisherman families (84,7) was better than peasant farmers families (58,6). Regression results indicate that the factors that influence the quality of marriage are gender relations, per capita income, and family resilience. Hence, the fishermen families and peasant families of red onion are expected to be able to improve gender relations whether in public, domestic and social activities as well as improve family resilience so the quality of the marriage will increase.

The Influence of Gender Relations on Women’s Involvement and Experience in Climate Change Adaptation Programs in Bangladesh

The nexus between poverty and climate change is a major concern, especially in a country like Bangladesh where lack of resources is a significant problem in both rural and urban areas. Climate change affects a wide demographic of the population in Bangladesh, and among those affected, women are more vulnerable to climate change impacts, as is evident from the history of climate-induced disasters in the country. Climate change increases women’s socio-economic vulnerabilities by directly impacting their family’s food security, water consumption, and livelihood. Hence, their roles and contributions are critical in responding through adaptation. Nonetheless, in Bangladesh, challenges remain to incorporate women as distinct actors and active agents in climate adaptation programs considering the gender power dynamics that exist. In this context, this study focuses on women’s contributions as individuals or as a group and reveals their significant influence in climate change adaptation practices.

The influence of gender on the adoption of technology among SMEs

This study explores the influence of gender on adoption of information technology (IT) among owners of small firms. In the small firm context, owner-managers are central to decision-making, including IT adoption. This potentially allows gender-related factors to influence the IT adoption decision. Accordingly, the research literature associated with female business owners is used to comment conceptually on gender-related factors subsumed among accepted antecedents of IT adoption decisions. Empirical findings are based on 21 key informant interviews. The study documents numerous perceived gender-related influences embedded within IT adoption among owners of small- and medium-sized enterprises, such that women are less likely than men to adopt IT. The implications for research, policy and practice are discussed.

The influence of gender on the adoption of technology among SMEs

This study explores the influence of gender on adoption of information technology (IT) among owners of small firms. In the small firm context, owner-managers are central to decision-making, including IT adoption. This potentially allows gender-related factors to influence the IT adoption decision. Accordingly, the research literature associated with female business owners is used to comment conceptually on gender-related factors subsumed among accepted antecedents of IT adoption decisions. Empirical findings are based on 21 key informant interviews. The study documents numerous perceived gender-related influences embedded within IT adoption among owners of small- and medium-sized enterprises, such that women are less likely than men to adopt IT. The implications for research, policy and practice are discussed.

Men's Mental Health Promotion Interventions: A Scoping Review.

There is an increasing need for mental health promotion strategies that effectively engage men. Although researchers have examined the effectiveness of diverse mental wellness interventions in male-dominated industries, and reviewed suicide prevention, early intervention, and health promotion interventions for boys and men, few have focused on sex-specific program effects. The purpose of this review was to (a) extend the previous reviews to examine the effectiveness of mental health promotion programs in males, and (b) evaluate the integration of gender-specific influences in the content and delivery of men’s mental health promotion programs. A search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and EMBASE databases for articles published between January 2006 and December 2016 was conducted. Findings from the 25 included studies indicated that a variety of strategies offered within (9 studies) and outside (16 studies) the workplace show promise for promoting men’s mental health. Although stress was a common area of focus (14 studies), the majority of studies targeted multiple outcomes, including some indicators of positive well-being such as self-efficacy, resilience, self-esteem, work performance, and happiness/quality of life. The majority of programs were offered to both men and women, and six studies explicitly integrated gender-related influences in male-specific programs in ways that recognized men’s interests and preferences.

Comparison of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels between physical education, school recess and after-school time in secondary school students:

Regular physical activity is an important factor of health in youth. Unfortunately, in Chile 85% of adolescents do not achieve the 60 min daily recommendation of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Physical education, school recess and after-school time are considered crucial environments for adolescents to meet the recommended moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels. This study compared the moderateto-vigorous physical activity levels between physical education, school recess and after-school time in Chilean secondary school students, and examined the influence of gender and weight status. A hundred and fifty-six Chilean secondary school students (finally 89 participants were included), aged 13-14 years, were monitored by objective measures of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity during physical education, school recess and after-school time. Results indicated statistically significant differences in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity between contexts (total minutes: After-school time>physical education>school recess; percentage: Physical education>after-school time=school recess, p<.001) as well as a gender-related influence (boys>girls, p<.05). Policy-makers are encouraged to increase the number of physical education classes and teachers to ensure that more physical education class time is spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, especially among girls. The increase in students’ moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels during school recess and after-school time should also be promoted.