Global Survey Research Articles

From the Classroom to the Screen: The Power of Artistic Expression and Emotional Intelligence in Effective Online Teaching and Communication

In the context of the increasing prevalence of online education, it is crucial to explore productive approaches that enhance student engagement and foster meaningful interactions. The article examines the role of emotional intelligence and artistic expression in online teaching and communication, drawing from original global survey research with over 200 teacher and educator respondents. The study emphasizes the effectiveness of artistic expression in capturing students' attention, facilitating comprehension, and promoting creativity. The research explores strategies for incorporating emotional intelligence and artistic expression in online teaching, offering practical tips specifically suited for online English instruction. These strategies guide educators in creating dynamic online learning environments that optimize the learning experience and promote academic success. Acknowledging challenges, the paper sheds light on the hesitations and fears experienced by participants in being recorded or teaching in front of a camera. It highlights the need for training, resources, and guidelines to support educators in acquiring and developing artistic expression skills. By addressing challenges and integrating artistic expression, teachers can create impactful and supportive online learning environments that promote student engagement and provide an enriched learning experience in the digital era of education. Finally, the article provides valuable insights and practical recommendations to enhance online teaching practices.

Priority setting: women's health topics in multiple sclerosis.

A scoping review found that most studies on women's health in multiple sclerosis (MS) focused on pregnancy, fetal/neonatal outcomes and sexual dysfunction. Few studies addressed menopause, contraception, gynecologic cancers/cancer screening. However, the perceived relative importance of these knowledge gaps to people living with MS and other partners is unknown. We engaged a range of partners, including people living with MS, health care providers, researchers, and patient advocacy groups, to set priorities for future research in women's health in MS. We employed a three-step global engagement process. First, we identified which broad research topics relevant to women's health in MS were of highest priority using two surveys. Second, we developed specific research questions within these topics using focus groups. Finally, we prioritized the research questions with a third survey. Overall, 5,266 individuals responded to the initial surveys [n = 1,430 global survey, mean (SD) age 50.0 (12.6), all continents; n = 3,836 North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis survey, mean (SD) age 64.8 (9.6), United States]. Menopause, sexual dysfunction, pregnancy, gynecologic cancer/cancer screening, hormones and parenthood were identified as the most important topics. Focus groups generated 80 potential research questions related to these topics. In the final survey 712 individuals prioritized these questions. The highest priority questions in each research topic were: (i) How do perimenopause and menopause affect disease activity, course, response to disease-modifying treatment and quality of life in MS; (ii) What are the most effective strategies for managing issues around sexual intimacy, including related to low sexual desire, changes in physical function, and MS symptoms; (iii) Are there long-term effects of disease-modifying therapies on the children of persons with MS; (iv) What are the short and long-term effects of disease-modifying drugs on gynecologic cancer risk, particularly for high efficacy disease-modifying drugs and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; (v) Are there hormone related treatments that can stabilize fluctuations in MS symptoms; and (vi) How does MS fatigue impact parenting strategies. Priorities for research relating to women's health issues for persons with MS have been delineated using a collaborative process with key partners. Alignment of future research with these priorities should be monitored.

Pay Transparency Causing Major Impacts in Reward Strategies: New Research from Reward Leaders

This paper examines the results of a global Korn Ferry survey that assessed pay transparency-related market practices. Despite increased attention and pressure from internal and external stakeholders, organizations are still in the early stages of implementing pay transparency strategies. Organizations plan to overhaul their reward communication strategies, with manager training and employee education as the primary focus areas. Managers play a critical role as the first line of communication with employees on their team, and organizations recognize that a significant upskilling effort will be needed to enable them to communicate effectively about pay decisions and avoid unintended consequences. The authors provide considerations for organizations moving toward more transparent pay practices, including clarifying a pay transparency strategy, assessing their current practices, improving compensation programs, aligning their leaders and developing effective rewards communications strategies.

Pyrolysis kinetics and potential utilization analysis of cereal biomass by-products; an experimental analysis for cleaner energy productions in India

The optimal utilization of biomass relies heavily on the specific material and individual needs. Cereal biomass by-products can potentially be employed in thermochemical processes such as pyrolysis and gasification. To compare biomass sources, ultimate analysis, biochar potential, proximate analysis, thermal gravimetric analysis, price per megajoule generated heat, surface texture, and availability are used. A global survey of biomass wastes and opportunities for heat generation is presented in the current article. Here, nine different cereal-based agricultural waste products (barley, wheat, millet, oats, rice, rye straw, sorghum straw/stalk, and maize cob) are studied. Cereal wastes are compared based on calorific value, water content, volatile matter, ash content and ash chemical composition, bulk density, charring properties, availability, and transportation. According to the estimate, 156 million metric tonnes per year, or 6% of India's total emissions, could be eliminated by rice husk alone. Wheat straws, on the other hand, can cut emissions by 2%. Additionally, processing these nine feedstocks might result in the production of 40 GW of electrical energy, which would increase the installed capacity of India's national electric grid by 9%.

Decision-making styles and trust across farmers and bankers: Global survey results

Understanding in which contexts professionals come to trust their gut is critical both for human relations as well as for human–computer interaction. A prominent viewpoint promotes a deliberate trust development approach for professionals in all industries and at all levels of organizations (people use good thinking). The use of intuition has also been related to trust development. There is little empirical research that illuminates the circumstances under which intuitive decision making versus deliberative decision making influences trust. Lack of trust in technology and information systems has been suggested as a bottleneck in advancement. Through a survey we aimed to better understand the phenomenon of intuitive decision making of farmers and bankers. The main research purpose is to compare and contrast decision making styles of two environmentally different professions from a heterogeneous sample from different countries. Our results suggest that one’s sector plays a main role, when professionals determine if they can trust information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the workplace. We inform suggestions for practice and guide future research into this important area of managerial cognition and decision-making.

Spectra and anisotropy of cosmic rays during gle64

Ground-based observations of cosmic rays by the spectrographic global survey method were used to study the ground-level enhancement in cosmic ray intensity on August 24, 2002. Spectra of variations of primary cosmic rays and their anisotropy were obtained. Based on measurements from the GOES spacecraft and global network of cosmic ray stations, the differential rigidity spectra of accelerated particles in the vicinity of the Sun were calculated. The maximum rigidity to which solar particles were accelerated was estimated.

Turtle Economic Value: The non-use value of marine turtles in the Asia-Pacific region

Marine turtle species in the Asia-Pacific region face loss of habitat, population decline and serious risk of extinction. Understanding the associated loss in human welfare can motivate conservation finance, policy reforms and other actions to protect and restore marine turtle populations. This paper estimates non-use values for marine turtles in the Asia-Pacific region using a large-sample (n = 7765) global household survey. The survey focused on six countries in the region (China, Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam) but received responses from over 80 countries in total. A discrete choice experiment was used to elicit willingness-to-pay (WTP) for marine turtles, defined in terms of population trends (increasing, stable or declining) and species diversity (avoided extinctions). We find that a high proportion of households (82%) expressed a positive WTP for turtle conservation, and that the donation amounts are substantial. The median WTP for ensuring stable marine turtle populations, adjusted for demographic differences between the survey sample and the general population, is estimated at US $79 per household per year. A scenario analysis is used to estimate the economic welfare changes that would result from policy inaction (in which turtle populations continue to decline and two species become extinct) versus strong policy action (resulting in increasing turtle populations and no extinctions). The welfare loss that results from not acting is estimated to be US $40 billion per year, whereas the potential welfare gain from taking policy action to conserve, manage and protect marine turtles is estimated at US $55 billion per year. These results present a strong economic justification for governments across the region to align their environmental policies and budgets with Asia-Pacific peoples' stated WTP for turtle conservation.

Global survey on evaluative reporting on DNA evidence with regard to activity-level propositions.

For many criminal cases, the source of who deposited the DNA is not what the prosecutor and the defense are trying to dispute. In court, the question may be how the DNA was deposited at the crime scene rather than who the DNA came from. Although laboratories in many countries have begun to evaluate DNA evidence given formal activity-level propositions (ALPs), it is unknown how much other forensic practitioners know and what they think about activity-level evaluative reporting (ALR). To collect this information, a survey with 21 questions was submitted to international forensic science organizations across Europe, Australia, South America, Canada, Asia, and Africa. The survey combined open-ended and multiple-choice questions and received 162 responses. Responses revealed a wide range of knowledge on the topic. Overall, most respondents were somewhat knowledgeable about ALR, ALP, and current practices in court and expressed their support of the concept. A majority of participants identified gaps and obstacles regarding ALR they would like to see addressed. Examples include (1) need for more education/training at all stakeholder levels, (2) need for more DNA evidence-related data under realistic case scenarios, (3) need to internally implement and validate a formalized and objective approach for reporting, and (4) in some countries the need to achieve court admissibility. This global survey gathered the current concerns of forensic DNA practitioners and outlined several operational concerns. The information can be used to advance the implementation of ALR in laboratories and court testimony worldwide.

Global cross-sectional survey on neonatal pharmacologic sedation and analgesia practices and pain assessment tools: impact of the sociodemographic index (SDI).

There is variability in the use of sedatives and analgesics in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). We aimed to investigate the use of analgesics and sedatives and the management of neonatal pain and distress. This was a global, prospective, cross-sectional study. A survey was distributed May-November 2022. The primary outcome of this research was to compare results between countries depending on their socio-sanitary level using the sociodemographic index (SDI). We organized results based on geographical location. The survey collected 1304 responses, but we analyzed 924 responses after database cleaning. Responses from 98 different countries were analyzed. More than 60% of NICUs reported having an analgosedation guideline, and one-third of respondents used neonatal pain scales in more than 80% of neonates. We found differences in the management of sedation and analgesia between NICUs on different continents, but especially between countries with different SDIs. Countries with a higher SDI had greater availability of and adherence to analgosedation guidelines, as well as higher rates of analgosedation for painful or distressing procedures. Countries with different SDIs reported differences in analgosedation for neonatal intubation, invasive ventilation, and therapeutic hypothermia, among others. Socio-economic status of countries impacts on neonatal analgosedation management. There is significant variability in the pain management practices in neonates. There is a lack of knowledge related to how neonatal pain management practices differ between regions. Sociodemographic index is a key factor associated with differences in neonatal pain management practices across global regions.

Consequences of Artificial Intelligence on Teaching and Learning in Higher Education in Kenya: Literature Review

This article investigates the global impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on higher education, focusing on Kenya. Examining published studies, the prevalence of AI in higher education was found to be highest in Asia (41%), compared to 1% in South America and 2% in Africa. A 2023 global student survey revealed that Generative AI was most popular in Kenya, with a usage rate of 63%. Moreover, a study among students aware of AI content detectors in their institutions indicated a significant reduction in the use of AI-generated content, affirming the deterrent effect of such detectors. The future of higher education is poised for a revolution with AI, particularly in individualized learning. Algorithms will assess academic scores, passions, and preferred learning strategies to tailor personalized education paths, adapting and evolving with the learner. AI technologies have enhanced inclusivity in education, benefiting learners with various impairments. Despite the transformative potential, challenges emerge, including the potential impact on careers requiring specific skills and ethical concerns. The absence of protocols and policies addressing ethical matters in AI learning, such as information accuracy, control, and learner privacy, underscores the need for ethical frameworks. Notably, the article underlines that AI cannot replace human teachers, who bring unique qualities like critical thinking, creativity, and emotional understanding to the educational process. The review shows minimal studies have been conducted on AI in Kenya’s higher Education. The article recommends that institutions of higher learning should employ AI detectors to mitigate cheating

Hypospadias-associated penile curvature assessment and management: A global survey of current practice

Our goal was to assess how surgical management of hypospadias-associated penile curvature (HAPC) varies across continents, focusing on factors that influence assessment and decision-making. Members of the European Society of Pediatric Urology (ESPU), Society of Pediatric Urology (SPU), and Hypospadias International Society (HIS) participated in an anonymous, 34-question online survey addressing pre-, intra-, and postoperative elements of HAPC evaluation and management. A selection of intraoperative photos were included in the survey to investigate the prevailing surgical approaches and identify management patterns. Out of the 267 participants, 38.4% of them are located in Europe. Visual estimation was the predominant approach for evaluating HAPC, although being regarded as the least dependable compared to other techniques. Surgeons who performed more than 40 cases per year were more inclined to use goniometers and had varying degrees of HAPC that were considered acceptable without requiring any correction (P<.001). Out of 58% of respondents, a significant number reported regular utilization of artificial erection tests for all categories of hypospadias. Surgeons with fewer than 10 years of expertise commonly utilized erection test as part of their regular practice. A tourniquet was employed to maintain sufficient intra-corporeal pressure, by134 (50%). 116 participants (43%) inject Saline through the corpora cavernosa through the glans, while 150 (56%) administer saline from the lateral aspect. Moreover, the decision-making process differed based on the intraoperative picture scenarios of mild to moderate penile curvature during erection testing. Contrary to temperatures ranging from 25o to 35o, decision-making in cases with less severe degrees of HAPC was uncomplicated. This survey reveals a wide range of surgical practicepatterns in the assessment and management of HAPC. To our knowledge, this global surveyof HAPC practice is the largest to date and could aid in developing new guidelines in pediatricurology. These findings may also provide a foundation for future prospective multinational studies.

Participation in physical education classes and social isolation among adolescents: A harmonized analysis with 266,156 participants from 69 countries

ObjectiveTo analyze the association between participation in physical education (PE) classes and social isolation among adolescents. MethodsWe used data from the Global School-based Health Survey, comprising 266,156 adolescents from 69 countries/territories. Participation in PE classes (days/week) was reported by the students. Social isolation was assessed through questions regarding the number of friends and loneliness perception. Poisson regression models were used to identify the association of weekly participation in PE classes with social isolation, and harmonized meta-analyses were used to estimate a summary association. Results were expressed through prevalence ratios (PR) and their respective confidence intervals (95%CI). ResultsAdolescents who participated in PE classes on one [PR:0.87 (95%CI:0.83; 0.92)], two [0.84 (0.79; 0.89)], and three or more days per week [0.77 (0.73; 0.82)] had a lower prevalence of having a low number of friends than their peers with no PE classes. The loneliness perception was lower among those who participated in PE classes on one [0.86 (0.81; 0.90)], two [ 0.93 (0.87; 0.98)], and three or more days per week [0.94 (0.90; 0.98)] than among those who did not participate in PE classes. Participation in PE classes was also associated with lower social isolation (combined indicator: a low number of friends + loneliness perception) [1 PE day/wk: 0.88 (0.85; 0.92); 2PE days/wk: 0.88 (0.84; 0.92); ≥3 PE days/wk: 0.85 (0.82; 0.89)]. ConclusionsParticipating in at least one PE class per week is associated with a lower perception of social isolation among adolescents. Countries should seek to promote student participation in PE classes as a way of reducing social isolation.

Coalition for Health and Gender Equity (CHANGE)-a protocol for a global cross-sectional survey of health and gender equity in rheumatology.

The primary aim of the CHANGE survey is to determine the current state of gender equity within rheumatology, and secondarily, to review the physician perspective on bullying, harassment and equipoise of opportunities within rheumatology. The CHANGE e-survey is a cross-sectional self-reported questionnaire adapted from EULAR's gender equity in academic rheumatology task force. The survey was launched in January 2023; it is available in six languages and distributed widely via rheumatology organizations and social media. Eligible participants include rheumatologist physicians and rheumatology health-care professionals. Survey responses will undergo descriptive analysis and inter-group comparison aiming to explore gender-based discrimination using logistic regression, with subgroup analyses for country/continent variations. This e-survey represents a comprehensive global initiative led by an international consortium, aimed at exploring and investigating the gender-related disparities and obstacles encountered by rheumatologists and rheumatology health-care professionals across diverse communities and health-care environments. By pursuing this initiative, we aim to take the broader rheumatology community a step closer to understanding the underlying origins of inequities and their determinants. Such insights are pivotal in identifying viable interventions and strategies to foster gender equity within the field. Ultimately, our collective objective is to ensure equitable access to opportunities for every individual, irrespective of gender, thereby promoting inclusivity and fairness across the entire spectrum of professional practice and career development.

The Mediating Effect of Loneliness on the Relationship between Bullying Victimization and Suicidal Behavior among Adolescents in Ghana

Research from Western countries, Asia, and some parts of Africa has documented that bullying victimization has ramifications for adolescents, including suicidal tendencies. Some studies have also reported that loneliness among teenagers is strongly linked to suicidal behavior. However, little is known about whether loneliness mediates bullying victimization and suicidal behavior. The present study aims to apply the general strain theory to explore the relationship between being bullied and suicidal behavior among juveniles in Ghana. The study also examines the effect of bullying victimization on loneliness. Additionally, the research evaluates the impact of loneliness on suicidal behavior. Lastly, the study explores the mediation role of loneliness on the association between peer victimization and suicidal behavior among juveniles in Ghana. Data from the 2012 Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) and a sample size of 2626 were used in this research. The results revealed that bullying victimization positively predicted loneliness, and bullying victimization and loneliness significantly predicted suicidal behavior. Finally, loneliness partially mediated the association between bullying experience and suicidal behavior. This study not only provides new evidence to support the general strain theory (GST) but also discusses the theoretical and political implications of the findings.

Rising Bribes: Accessing Public Health Services in Northern Cyprus during COVID-19

Objective: This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on informal payments (bribes) in accessing public health services. It assesses whether the pandemic increased informal payments and whether vulnerable populations, namely women, migrants, and low-income individuals, were more susceptible to bribery.&#x0D; &#x0D; Methods: Data from pre-pandemic (2019) and pandemic (2021) Global Corruption Barometer surveys in Northern Cyprus were statistically analyzed to examine changes in informal payments and their associations with gender, income, and immigrant status.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: The study revealed a significant surge in informal payments for accessing public health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, 4.70% of respondents reported paying bribes, but in 2021, this figure spiked to 17.85%, with an odds ratio of 4.391 underscoring the magnitude of the increase. Notably, gender and socioeconomic disparities were evident. Women reported higher bribe rates (20.3%) compared to men (13.7%), migrants had substantially higher bribe rates (25.7%) than natives (15.7%), and individuals with lower incomes (25.6%) were more inclined to engage in bribery. Logistic regression estimation results showed that migrants had a 9.48% higher likelihood of bribery, low-income individuals had a 14.27% higher probability, and being female was associated with a 9.28% higher chance of engaging in bribery.&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion: This study highlights a troubling surge in bribery within the public health sector during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vulnerable populations, especially women, migrants, and low-income individuals, face increased risks. Urgent action is needed to combat corruption in healthcare during pandemics and ensure equitable access to healthcare services.&#x0D; &#x0D; Key Words&#x0D; COVID-19, bribes, public health, vulnerable groups, Cyprus

Three-Year Point Prevalence Survey of Antimicrobial Use in a Chinese University Hospital.

To evaluate the prevalence and quality of antimicrobial prescriptions using a Global Point Prevalence Survey (PPS) tool and help identify targets for improvement of antimicrobial prescribing and inform the development of antimicrobial stewardship activities. Antimicrobial prescriptions for inpatients staying at a hospital overnight were surveyed on one weekday in October 2018, November 2019, and November 2020. Data including basic patient information, antimicrobial drugs, quality evaluation of antimicrobial drug prescription, and the risk factors of nosocomial infection were collected from doctor network workstation. Patient information was anonymized and entered in the PPS Web application by physicians. A total of 720 patients (median age, 62 years) were surveyed. Of them, 246 (34.2%) were prescribed antimicrobials on the survey days. Hospital-wide antimicrobial use had a significantly decreasing trend (P < 0.001). The most commonly prescribed antimicrobial drugs were third-generation cephalosporins (40.5%), followed by quinolones (21.8%) and second-generation cephalosporin (12.5%). In our study, cefoperazone/sulbactam, ceftazidime, and levofloxacin were the most commonly used antimicrobials. The most common indication for antimicrobial use was pneumonia or lower respiratory tract infection (159/321, 49.5%). Antimicrobial for surgical prophylaxis represented 16.2% of the total antibiotic doses. Of those, 67.3% were administered for more than 24 h. The rate of adherence to antibiotic guidelines was 61.4%. The indications for antimicrobials were not documented in 54.5% of the prescriptions. Stop/review date was documented for 36.8% of prescriptions. The PPS tool is useful in identifying targets to enhance the quality of antimicrobial prescriptions to improve the adherence rate in hospitals. This survey can be used as a control to assess the rational application quality of antimicrobial after regular application of antimicrobial intervention.

General somatic health and lifestyle habits in individuals with obsessive- compulsive disorder: an international survey.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been associated with a broad range of health-related issues. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as physical inactivity, an unhealthy diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption are hypothesized to contribute to this association. However, the lifestyle habits of individuals with OCD have been scarcely investigated. In this international survey, we explored the physical health and lifestyle habits of adults with a self-reported diagnosis of OCD. An online global survey available in seven languages was disseminated through interest organizations and social media between July 2021 and March 2022. The survey included questions relating to socio-demographic variables and clinical characteristics (including OCD symptom severity - as measured with the 12-item self-report scale Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory [OCI-12] - and psychotropic medication), physical health, and lifestyle habits. Frequencies and percentages, or means and standard deviations, as appropriate, were calculated. Subgroup analyses by OCD symptom severity, gender, and age group were performed. A total of 496 individuals with OCD completed the survey and were included in the analyses (mean age = 36.0 years, SD = 12.5, range 18-79; 78.8% women). Most participants were from Europe (n = 245, 49.4%) and North America (n = 187, 37.7%). OCD symptom severity scores were on the moderate range (OCI-12 mean score = 21.2, SD = 9.1). A majority (n = 354, 71.4%) reported having comorbid somatic health issues, mainly allergies, gastrointestinal conditions, and cardiometabolic conditions. Nearly half of the sample (n = 236, 47.6%) reported a body mass index ≥ 25, corresponding to at least overweight. A significant proportion of the participants reported low physical activity (n = 271, 55.0%), unhealthy dietary habits (n = 182, 36.7%), risk consumption of alcohol (n = 111, 22.3%), and non-restorative sleep (n = 268, 54.0%). Subgroup analyses showed overall similar results across groups, with some exceptions. In this sample, individuals with OCD self-reported a range of health-related issues and a number of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, most prominently a lack of physical activity. Interventions aimed at modifying unhealthy lifestyles to prevent or improve health conditions beyond the psychiatric symptoms should be considered.

(363) A Global Survey of Sexual Dysfunction Management Among Urologists and Sexual Medicine Experts

Abstract Introduction Understanding and addressing sexual dysfunction is of paramount importance to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life of individuals worldwide. While significant progress has been made in the field of sexual medicine, variability in practice patterns among healthcare professionals remains a potential barrier to optimal patient care. To bridge this knowledge gap and identify the prevailing trends in sexual dysfunction management, we conducted an international survey targeting urologists specializing in Andrology, Sexual Medicine, and related fields. Objective This international survey aimed to assess male and female sexual dysfunction management practices among sexual medicine physicians across to globe to identify variability in practice patterns. Methods A survey was distributed globally to urologists specializing in Andrology, Sexual Medicine, and related fields who are members of International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) or affiliated regional societies (SMSNA, ESSM, MESSM, APSSM, SASSM, SLAMS, ISSWSH, SIU). Demographic information (age, gender, specialty, and practice setting) and treatment approaches for male and female sexual dysfunction were collected. Respondents also reported the percentage of their practice dedicated to sexual dysfunction and whether treatments were covered by health insurance. Results A total of 200/3000 practitioners participated, with 101 (50.7%) identifying as urologists. The majority were male (72.9%) and worked in private practice or community hospitals (32.7%) or a mixture of both (34.2%). Male sexual dysfunction was treated by 71.4% of respondents, with 25.7% dedicating 75-100% of their practice to it. Female sexual dysfunction was treated by 36.9% of respondents, with 64% dedicating 0-25% of their practice to it. Health insurance covered 25-49% of their care for 41.2% of respondents, predominantly provided by private companies (45.9%). The most common treatments for erectile dysfunction were oral medications (86.5%), injections (61.7%), and inflatable penile prostheses (45.1). For Peyronie's disease, oral therapies (59.1%) and penile traction therapy (34.4%) were most frequently offered, while surgical treatment for Peyronie's disease was offered by 58.2% of respondents, with penile prostheses being the primary choice (79.7%). Regarding female sexual dysfunction, 58.4% of respondents offered treatments for genitourinary syndrome of menopause/atrophic vaginitis, with vaginal estrogen being the most common choice (50%). For dyspareunia due to vaginismus/hypertonic pelvic floor dysfunction, 50.3% of respondents offered treatment, with pelvic floor exercise/physiotherapy being the most recommended (66%). Conclusions This study provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers regarding the current landscape of sexual dysfunction management. The results underscore the importance of continuous efforts to develop comprehensive and individualized approaches, ensuring that both male and female patients receive effective and accessible care for their sexual health concerns. By addressing issues related to insurance coverage and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the medical community can collectively work towards improving sexual well-being and quality of life for patients worldwide. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Advisory board and speaker for Coloplast; consultant for Cynosure; advisory board and speaker for Halozyme; intellectual property with Masimo; advisory board for Promescent; consultant for Sprout; advisory board for Xialla.

Exploring Preconceptions as Barriers to Peritoneal Dialysis Eligibility: A Global Scenario-Based Survey of Kidney Care Physicians

IntroductionDespite growing number of patients requiring kidney replacement therapy peritoneal dialysis (PD) is underutilized globally. A contributory factor may be clinician myths around its use. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions around PD initiation by clinicians according to various physical, social and clinical characteristics of patients. MethodsAn online global survey (English, Thai) was administered to ascertain nephrologists’ and nephrology trainees’ decisions on recommending PD as a treatment modality. Results645 participants (522 nephrologists; 123 trainees; 56% male) from 54 countries (66% high income countries (HICs), 22% upper middle income, 12% low middle income countries and 1% from lower income countries) completed the survey. 81% of respondents identified as attending physicians/consultants with 19% trainees or other. PD was recommended for most scenarios including repeated exposures to heavy lifting, swimming (especially in a private pool and ocean), among patients with cirrhosis or cognitive impairment with available support, and those living with a pet if a physical separation can be achieved during PD. Certain abdominal surgeries were more acceptable to proceed with peritoneal dialysis (hysterectomy 90%) compared to others (hemicolectomy 45%). Similar variation was noted for different types of stomas (nephrostomies 74%; suprapubic catheters 53%; ileostomies 27%). ConclusionsThe probability of recommending PD in various scenarios was greater among clinicians from HICs, larger units and consultants with more clinical experience. There is a disparity in recommending PD across various clinical scenarios driven by experience, unit-level characteristics and region of practice. Globally, evidence-informed education is warranted to rectify misconceptions to enable greater PD uptake.

Sweating for Sobriety: Exploring the Relationship Between Exercise Engagement and Substance Use Disorders

ABSTRACT Despite various interventions available for substance use disorders, relapse rates remain substantial and, therefore, alternative strategies for attenuating dependence are needed. This study examined the associations between exercise frequency, illicit substance use, and dependence severity among a large sample of people who use drugs. The study utilized data from the Global Drug Survey 2018 (N = 57,110) to investigate the relationship between exercise frequency, illicit substance use, and substance dependence severity. Binomial regressions were employed to examine the relationship between exercise and SDS scores for 9 drugs. Greater exercise frequency correlated with reduced severity of substance dependence for specific drugs: cannabis (χ2 = 14.75, p < .001), MDMA (χ2 = 4.73, p = .029), cocaine (χ2 = 8.37, p = .015), amphetamine powder (χ2 = 6.39, p = .041), and methamphetamine (χ2 = 15.17, p < .001). These findings suggest a potential link between exercise and reduced substance use dependency. Further research is needed to understand the complex dynamics between exercise and substance use, considering potential bidirectional relationships and concurrent factors.