Influence Of Psychosocial Factors Research Articles

The influence of psychosocial factors on first-time chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: A prospective multicenter cohort study.

12135 Background: Previous studies have suggested that if cancer patients experience no chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) or mild symptoms during their first chemotherapy cycle, they are less likely to experience CINV in subsequent cycles, suggesting that the optimal intervention time may be before the first chemotherapy cycle. Consequently, attention should be paid to relevant risk factors. Currently, there is a lack of data on psychosocial risk factors related to chemotherapy among cancer patients in China. Methods: This study was a multicenter, prospective cohort study that included cancer patients from seven hospitals' oncology departments who were scheduled to undergo their first chemotherapy cycle. The chemotherapy regimens administered were either highly or moderately emetogenic protocols. Demographic and baseline clinical characteristics were recorded by clinical oncologists. Participants were asked to complete the Distress Thermometer (DT), the Mini-Mental Adjustment to Cancer (Mini-MAC), and a risk factor questionnaire the day before chemotherapy, and to keep a daily diary describing their CINV experiencing for 21 days after chemotherapy. Results: Between October 2022 and November 2023, a total of 1100 cancer patients were enrolled in this study and 972 cancer patients completed all the questionnaires. A total of 64.1% reported CINV during the first chemotherapy cycle. In logistic regression analysis, CINV was predicted by higher PS score (OR=1.411, p=0.049), highly emetogenic regimens (OR=1.846, p=0.004), failure to follow anti-emetics guidelines (OR=2.323, p<0.001), history of nausea/vomiting for other reasons(OR=1.817, p=0.001), lower number of hours slept before the night of chemotherapy (OR=8.987, p<0.001), expectancy of CINV(OR=1.505, p=0.032), maladaptive coping (OR = 1.03, p = 0.024) and distress (OR = 1.157, p =0.021). Conclusions: Psychosocial factors significantly correlate with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) among Chinese cancer patients. These findings underscore the importance of integrating psychosocial assessments into the management of CINV, potentially improving treatment outcomes and patient experiences.

Pain-Insomnia-Depression Syndrome: Triangular Relationships, Pathobiological Correlations, Current Treatment Modalities, and Future Direction.

Pain-insomnia-depression syndrome (PIDS) is a complex triad of chronic pain, insomnia, and depression that has profound effects on an individual's quality of life and mental health. The pathobiological context of PIDS involves complex neurobiological and physiological mechanisms, including alterations in neurotransmitter systems and impaired pain processing pathways. The first-line therapeutic approaches for the treatment of chronic pain, depression, and insomnia are a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies. In cases where patients do not respond adequately to these treatments, additional interventions such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be required. Despite advances in understanding and treatment, there are still gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed. To improve our understanding, future research should focus on conducting longitudinal studies to uncover temporal associations, identify biomarkers and genetic markers associated with PIDS, examine the influence of psychosocial factors on treatment responses, and develop innovative interventions that address the complex nature of PIDS. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of these components and to discuss their underlying pathobiological relationships.

Relational aggression in romantic relationship: empirical evidence among young female adults in Malaysia

BackgroundAggressive behaviour in romantic relationship is a social problem of great concern. Studies related to the influence of psychosocial factors on relational aggression are still limited. Furthermore, these factors have not been widely studied in the local context, resulting in the issue of relational aggression among young female adults still not being addressed. This study aims to explore whether psychosocial factors such as big five personality traits, adult attachment style and loneliness could predict relational aggression in romantic relationships among young female adults in Malaysia. In addition, this study aims to identify the moderating effect of social support in the relationship between psychosocial factors and relational aggression in romantic relationship.MethodsA quantitative research approach was used with 424 young female adults in Malaysia aged between 18 and 30 years old (mean age = 24.18) were recruited through multistage sampling design by completing a questionnaire consisting of the Big Five Inventory (BFI), Experiences in Close Relationships Scale II (ECRS-II), Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, Measure of Relational Aggression and Victimization (MRAV) and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS).ResultsMultiple regression analysis predicted significant relationship between agreeableness personality, loneliness, avoidant attachment style and anxious attachment style with relational aggression in romantic relationships. Hierarchical regression analysis found a significant effect of social support as a moderator between loneliness with relational aggression in romantic relationships.ConclusionsThus, the results show that young female adults with low level of agreeableness, high level of loneliness, avoidant attachment style and anxious attachment style are at a higher risk of engaging in relational aggression in romantic relationships. The implication of this study can help in understanding the psychosocial factors that form the basis of relational aggression in romantic relationships. Hence, the gap in knowledge warrants further research.

Exploring the Complexities of Temporomandibular Joint Function and Dysfunction: A Contemporary Review

This contemporary review delves into the intricate realm of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function and dysfunction, shedding light on its multifaceted nature and offering insights into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The TMJ, a vital component of the craniofacial complex, plays a pivotal role in everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. Understanding its anatomy and physiology is paramount in the treatment and management of TMJ dysfunction. The biomechanics of TMJ function, from the articular disc to the surrounding ligaments and muscles, have been explored comprehensively. A critical aspect of this review revolves around the diverse etiological factors contributing to TMJ dysfunction. Genetic predispositions, parafunctions, occlusal irregularities, and psychological stress are dissected to illuminate the roles of these factors in the development of TMJ disorders. These complexities prompted the need for a robust classification system elucidating the clinical manifestations and diagnostic criteria for various TMJ disorders. Modern diagnostic modalities, including clinical assessment, imaging techniques, and joint aspiration, are scrutinized for their indispensable roles in accurate diagnosis. The comprehensive overview included management strategies, from conservative measures to surgical interventions. In recognizing the pivotal influence of psychosocial factors, this review underscores the importance of patient-centered care and cognitive-behavioral interventions. Furthermore, regenerative therapies, minimally invasive techniques, and personalized medicine are emerging trends in TMJ research. This review provides a contemporary roadmap for comprehending, diagnosing, and managing TMJ-related conditions.

Status and influencing factors of returning to work 6 months after discharge from hospital with severe acute pancreatitis-a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study in China.

To describe the return to work of patients with severe acute pancreatitis within 6 months after discharge, and to explore the influence of demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors on their return to work. Prospective 6 months follow-up study. A third class hospital in Guizhou Province. Adult of severe acute pancreatitis(18-60years), with a job before admission, in the intensive care unit ≥ 24 h, were included. To study return to work and influencing factors one, three and six months severe acute pancreatitis patients discharge. several measurements were used, including General Health Questionnaire (Demographic, disease-related, job-related and health behavior data), Readiness for Return-To-Work Scale and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Forty-three severe acute pancreatitis patients were included in our study, with mean age 41.53 years. Twenty-nine (67.44%) patients returned to work within 6 months, and fourteen patients did not return to work. The status of Readiness for Return-To-Work Scale: fourteen severe acute pancreatitis patients who did not return to work were mainly in the precontemplation dimension and prepared for action-self-evaluative dimension both 5 cases (35.71%), and the 29 patients who had returned to work were in the Proactive maintenance stage. The study showed that the independent risk factors for returning to work in SAP patients were chronic disease (OR, 0.095; 95% CI [0.011-0.822]; p=0.008), sepsis (OR, 0.071; 95% CI [0.015-0.339]; p=0.009), low education level (OR, 2.905; 95% CI [0.969-8.710]; p<0.001), and anxiety and depression at 6 months (OR, 1.418; 95% CI [0.996-2.019]; p=0.004). In conclusion, the return to work of patients with severe acute pancreatitis needs to be improved. Chronic diseases, sepsis, low level of education and higher degree of anxiety and depression at 6 months were important factors leading to their failure to return to work.

Understanding the Influence of Psychosocial Factors and Multimorbidity on Patient Outcomes in Severe Hypertensive Patients Attending Health Institutions in Southeastern Nigeria

Hypertension is a prevalent problem worldwide and it is an important risk factor for a variety of health conditions. Severe hypertension (180+ systolic or 110+ diastolic) is associated with a two-fold increase in relative risk of death. Interventions to date fail to achieve sustained improvement in blood pressure, particularly in regional areas of high social disparity. Growing evidence points to multiple psychological, social and morbidity factors as contributors to the onset of and trajectory of hypertension. The main objective of this study is to examine the association of psychosocial factors and multimorbidity with response to treatment and treatment outcomes in the management of severe hypertensive patients providing additional knowledge and recommendations to improve their quality of care. We conducted cross-sectional research, using interview self-administered semi-structured questionnaires. Data collected was transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically. Findings were presented in tables, charts, and in narrations as appropriate. Results: There was a significant association between age of the patients and response to treatment in severe hypertension. Overweight/obesity was noted to be significantly associated with response to treatment. In this study, the burden of psychosocial factors and multimorbidity’s in the management of severe hypertension is highlighted. There is a need for effective monitoring and surveillance to monitor progress in reducing the prevalence of severe hypertension and in increasing the awareness for the treatment and management of hypertension.

Breaking the plastic habit: Drivers of single-use plastic reduction among Thai university students.

This study investigated the decision-making dynamics for pro-environmental behavior among Thai university students, focusing on reducing the consumption of single-use plastics (SUP). By adopting a dynamic approach to the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the research examined the influence of psychosocial factors, including attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norms, on SUP reduction intention at different phases of behavior change. Using structural equation modelling, we analyzed quantitative data (n = 317) from the selected universities. The results revealed that attitudes predicted behavioral intentions only among individuals in the contemplation phase of reducing SUP. Attitudes had a small but limited influence on the behavioral intentions of students who had not yet acted. Perceived behavioral control, on the other hand, significantly impacted behavioral intentions across all phases of behavior change, highlighting its importance in SUP reduction. The study also confirmed subjective norms' positive influence on students' behavioral intentions in the pre-contemplation phase. Practical implications suggested segmenting residents based on their behavior change phase so that public policymakers can allocate resources more efficiently and effectively by tailoring campaigns to specific behavior change phases, ultimately promoting sustainable behavior among university students.

Investigating the Influence of Antidiabetic Medications and Psychosocial Factors.

The relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and depression presents a significant area of medical concern, characterized by a higher incidence of depression among T2DM patients compared to the general population. This connection is not only evidenced in the prevalence of depressive symptoms in diabetic patients but also in the way these symptoms impact diabetes management. Furthermore, the influence of antidiabetic medications, especially sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, on depression risk is a topic of ongoing research, with contrasting findings regarding the effects of drugs like metformin and pioglitazone. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between T2DM and depression, focusing on the prevalence of depressive symptoms among diabetic patients, and the role of antidiabetic medications in modulating depression risk. Methods Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we focused on individuals with T2DM. Depression status was assessed using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), a validated tool for evaluating depressive symptoms. Participants' depression status was categorized based on PHQ-9 composite scores. The analysis included demographic variables and the use of antidiabetic medications, with a focus on SGLT2 inhibitors. Logistic regression models adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, and BMI were employed. Results Our study involved 23,575 participants, of which 7,862 had T2DM. A significant difference in age and BMI was observed between diabetic and non-diabetic groups. Logistic regression analysis indicated that non-diabetic individuals had a significantly lower likelihood of depression compared to diabetic patients not on SGLT2 inhibitors. However, no statistically significant difference in depression levels was found between diabetic patients on SGLT2 inhibitors and those not on these medications. Conclusion These findings highlight the complex relationship between diabetes, antidiabetic medication, and depression. Notably, we found no significant impact of SGLT2 inhibitors on depression in diabetic patients, challenging previous assumptions about the role of specific antidiabetic drugs in mental health. We also revealed that older diabetic individuals reported fewer depressive symptoms, suggesting the influence of psychosocial factors and the need for age-specific depression management strategies. This research underscores the necessity of further studies to explore the nuanced effects of different antidiabetic medications on mental health outcomes, guiding toward more personalized treatment approaches for the mental health challenges in T2DM.

Disclosing Strain: How Psychosocial Risk Factors Influence Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Healthcare Workers Preceding and during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Healthcare workers, particularly nurses, engage in a daily work routine that takes a toll on their emotional well-being, rendering them vulnerable to psychosocial risk factors. This research seeks to analyse the influence of psychosocial risk factors on the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses. An additional analysis was performed to understand the role of age in work-related musculoskeletal disorders and the perception of psychosocial risk factors. The study was conducted during two separate periods-pre-pandemic and pandemic times-involving a sample of 456 nurses from both public and private hospitals in Portugal. The INSAT-Health and Work Survey-was used as measuring instrument. The primary observations indicated a consistency between psychosocial risk factors and the occurrence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The findings revealed a significant exposure to psychosocial risk factors, with work pace, intensity, work relationships, and emotional demands exhibiting higher global average percentages during both periods, pre-pandemic and pandemic. Nonetheless, we find that the psychosocial risk factors change when we analyse the pre-pandemic and pandemic results. During the period before the pandemic, the psychosocial risk factors that were most commonly reported included the demanding pace of work, long working hours, and emotional demands. Through the pandemic, the most pronounced psychosocial risk factors were work relationships, employment relationships, and ethical and values conflicts. Therefore, research in this domain is essential to understanding psychosocial risk factors and assessing the less obvious links between work and health.

The Influence of Psychosocial Factors on the Successful Formal Education Trajectories of Young Spanish People in Vulnerable Situations.

Young people in vulnerable situations tend to have more difficulties realizing successful formal education trajectories. It is extremely important to conduct studies that explore the key dimensions that can help young people overcome the conditioning of vulnerable situations, assisting in the achievement of academic success. According to the existing literature, one of these key dimensions is psychosocial well-being. Thus, this qualitative research aims to identify and analyze psychosocial factors that favor successful school pathways among young people in vulnerable situations. Through a case study approach, 12 in-depth interviews were carried out with 12 young Spanish people who not only have a vulnerable background but also successful formal education trajectories. The data were explored through qualitative content analysis-NVivo11. The results revealed that young people generally associate their successful educational trajectory with the positive impact of psychosocial factors, such as the following: positive caregivers' valuation of formal education and positive school experiences and support networks. Young people also point to many negative school experiences that have been overcome via positive attitudes and individual protective factors. The youngsters suggest changes in the educational system and teachers' skills in order to improve the levels of psychosocial support in formal education contexts. The study's implications and limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Psychological factors show limited association with the severity of Achilles tendinopathy

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the association between psychosocial factors and the severity of Achilles tendinopathy, along with exploring their potential link to the pain's duration. MethodsA cross-sectional study involving 111 individuals with Achilles tendon pain was conducted. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 111 individuals with Achilles tendon pain was conducted. Various psychological factors were assessed using the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Chronic Pain Self-Efficacy Scale (CPSS), Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD). Additionally, the severity of Achilles tendon pain was evaluated using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles questionnaire (VISA-A-Br). Regression analyses were employed to determine the association of these psychosocial factors with pain severity and duration. ResultsSelf-efficacy for chronic pain showed a slight association with Achilles tendon pain severity (β = 0.42 [95% CI: 0.06 to 0.16], p = 0.001), explaining only 19% of the dependent variable. The other variables, including anxiety, depression, pain catastrophizing, and fear of movement, did not exhibit significant associations. ConclusionThe study suggests that psychological factors demonstrate limited association with the severity of Achilles tendinopathy. While self-efficacy for chronic pain was weakly associated, its clinical relevance remains uncertain. Future research, particularly longitudinal studies, should explore the influence of psychosocial factors on treatment adherence and response to enhance management strategies for Achilles tendon pain.

Influence of Clinical and Psychosocial Factors on the Adherence to Topical Treatment in Psoriasis.

(1) Background: Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease with different manifestations, affecting the quality of life at social, emotional, and professional dimensions and requiring long-term treatment. This study aimed to investigate the effect of psychosocial and clinical factors on adherence to topical treatment in psoriasis. (2) Methods: Self-reported measures and weighing the medicines were used to assess adherence. Psychopathological symptoms were measured using the Brief Symptoms Inventory (BSI). Social and clinical factors were assessed by a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire. Adherence to treatment with topical medication was assessed using a sample of 102 psoriasis patients. (3) Results: The explanatory models of adherence to topical treatment in psoriasis translated into positive associations between adherence and the education level (higher education) (p = 0.03; φ = 0.23), the single-family household (p = 0.01; φ = 0.44), active employment status (p = 0.05; φ = -0.19), familiar history of psoriasis (p = 0.04; φ = -0.21), and the presence of obsessive-compulsive symptoms (p = 0.01; d = 0.29). (4) Conclusions: In patients who present the characteristics identified that influence non-adherence, instructions should be reinforced to increase adherence. The experimental mortality (39.6%) reduced the sample size, representing a limitation of the study.

Avanzando Caminos (Leading Pathways): Design and Procedures of The Hispanic/Latino Cancer Survivorship Study.

Avanzando Caminos (Leading Pathways): The Hispanic/Latino Cancer Survivorship Cohort Study aims to examine the influence of sociocultural, medical, stress, psychosocial, lifestyle, behavioral, and biological factors on symptom burden, health-related quality of life, and clinical outcomes among Hispanics/Latinos who have been previously treated for cancer. Avanzando Caminos is a prospective, cohort-based study of 3,000 Hispanics/Latinos who completed primary cancer treatment within the past five years that is representative of the general Hispanic/Latino population in the U.S. Participants will complete self-report measures at baseline (T1), 6 months (T2), 1 year (T3), 2 years (T4), 3 years (T5), 4 years (T6), and 5 years (T7). Blood draws to assess leukocyte gene expression, cardiometabolic markers, and genetic admixture will be collected at baseline (T1), 1 year (T3), 3 years (T5), and 5 years (T7). Medical and cancer characteristics and clinical outcomes will be extracted from the electronic medical record and/or state cancer registry at each time point. Data analysis will include general latent variable modeling and latent growth modeling. Avanzando Caminos will fill critical gaps in knowledge to guide future secondary and tertiary prevention efforts to mitigate cancer disparities and optimize health-related quality of life among Hispanic/Latino cancer survivors.

Application of Reflexotherapy According to the «Hexagram Balancing» Method in the Combined Treatment of Neuropathy of the Facial Nerve

The article is devoted to one of the most urgent problems of neurology – neuropathy of the facial nerve. Often, various diseases, especially those that are aggravated under the influence of psycho-emotional stress and other adverse psychosocial factors, are accompanied by long-term symptoms. Medicinal methods of treatment are not fully effective, so non-medicinal technologies should be resorted to. Combined treatment of neuropathy of the facial nerve by reflexology methods has been used for a long time, mainly when there is a slowdown in the recovery of the functions of the facial nerve, and this is, first of all, its motor functions in relation to the muscles of the face. The article also presents the main theoretical principles of the «Balancing of Hexagrams» method and its practical implementation. A clinical case is also presented: neuropathy of the facial nerve with a delayed course. The methods of acupuncture diagnosis are presented, the acupuncture diagnosis is characterized in detail, the description of acupuncture correction is given, the methods of medical correction used in treatment, the features of the «favorable» hexagram are considered. Thus, patients with neuropathy of the facial nerve with a delayed course are found in the practice of a neurologist and a reflexologist. In the combined of therapeutic measures for neuropathy of the facial nerve with a delayed course, the use of the acupuncture method «balancing hexagrams» is effective.

Adult orthodontics, motivations for treatment, choice, and impact of appliances: A qualitative study

Understanding the rationale for adult patients undertaking orthodontic treatment and the impact of appliances on their quality of life has become increasingly important to research efforts and clinical care. This study aimed to understand why adult patients undergo orthodontic treatment and their overall experience with the choice of appliance. A cross-sectional qualitative study using semistructured interviews with adult patients from 4 private specialist orthodontic practices in the London region involving a purposive homogeneous sampling technique to obtain variation regarding gender, treatment modalities (fixed ceramic [FC], removable aligner [RA], and fixed lingual [FL] appliances), and stages of treatment (early, late, and posttreatment stage) was undertaken. A piloted topic guide was used to standardize data collection. Interviews were audio recorded, and field notes were taken. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using framework methodology until data saturation was reached. A total of 22 participants (FC, 8; RA, 8; and FL, 6), with a mean age of 38.9 ± 11.7 years, with the majority being female (n= 13; 59.1%), were interviewed. Psychosocial and dental health-related factors were reported as the main reasons to seek orthodontic treatment. Social factors and appliance features influence an adult's decision-making in selecting a specific orthodontic appliance. Wearing FC, RA, and FL was seen to have both positive and negative impacts on an adult's quality of life. Functional and psychological factors were the strong influencers on patients' treatment experience. The study highlighted the influence of psychosocial factors and dental health concerns in the decision-making processes of adults seeking orthodontic treatment. FC, RA, and FL appear to affect an adult's quality of life, with functional and psychosocial factors being commonly reported.

Influence of radiological factors, psychosocial factors, and central sensitization-related symptoms on clinical symptoms in patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis.

No study to date has concurrently evaluated the impact of radiological factors, psychosocial factors, and central sensitization (CS) related symptoms in a single lumbar spinal canal stenosis (LSS) patient cohort. To investigate the associations between these factors and clinical symptoms in LSS patients. We recruited 154 patients with LSS scheduled for surgery. Patient-reported outcome measures and imaging evaluation including clinical symptoms, psychosocial factors, CS-related symptoms, and radiological classifications. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and multiple regression analyses were employed. Spearman's correlation revealed CS-related symptoms positively correlated with low back pain (r= 0.25, p< 0.01), leg pain (r= 0.26, p< 0.01), and disability (r= 0.32, p< 0.01). Pain catastrophizing positively correlated with leg pain (r= 0.23, p< 0.01) and disability (r= 0.36, p< 0.01). Regression analysis showed that pain catastrophizing was associated with disability (β= 0.24, 95%CI = 0.03-0.18), and CS-related symptoms with low back pain (β= 0.28, 95%CI = 0.01-0.09). Radiological classifications were not associated with clinical symptoms. Our findings suggest that psychosocial factors and CS-related symptoms, rather than radiological factors, seem to contribute to clinical symptoms in patients with LSS.

The role of sociodemographic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors in the use of preventive healthcare services in children and adolescents: results of the KiGGS Wave 2 study

BackgroundIn Germany, various preventive services are offered to children and adolescents. These include regular standardized examinations (so called U/J examinations) and several vaccinations. Although strongly recommended, most of them are not mandatory. Our aim is to identify factors associated with the use of U/J examinations and vaccination against diphtheria, hepatitis B, Hib, pertussis, polio, and tetanus. While previous research has focused on sociodemographic factors, we also include socioeconomic, behavioral, and psychosocial factors.MethodsWe analyzed cross-sectional data from 15,023 participants (aged 0–17 years) of the nationwide representative KiGGS Wave 2 Survey. Participation in U/J examinations was assessed using a questionnaire, filled out by participants and/or their parents. Information on vaccination status was drawn from the participants’ vaccination booklets. To identify relevant determinants for the use of preventive examinations and vaccinations, unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models were employed with up to 16 different independent variables.ResultsVarious independent variables showed an association with the use of preventive services. Higher socioeconomic status, absence of migration background, and lower household size were associated with significantly higher utilization of U examinations. Parents’ marital status, area of residence, behavioral and psychosocial factors yielded insignificant results for most U/J examinations. Higher vaccination rates were found for children with no migration background, with residence in eastern Germany, lower household size, and with married parents.ConclusionThis study attempted to depict the influence of sociodemographic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors on the use of several preventive services. Our results indicate that predominantly sociodemographic variables influence the use of preventive services. Further efforts should be made to investigate the interplay of different determinants of healthcare use in children and adolescents.

When stroke survivors' self-ratings are inconsistent with the ratings of others: a cohort study examining biopsychosocial factors associated with impaired self-awareness of functional abilities.

Background Stroke survivors' self-ratings of functional abilities are often inconsistent with ratings assigned by others (e.g. clinicians), a phenomenon referred to as 'impaired self-awareness' (ISA). There is limited knowledge of the biopsychosocial contributors and consequences of post-stroke ISA measured across the rehabilitation journey. This multi-site cohort study explored biopsychosocial correlates of ISA during subacute rehabilitation (inpatient) and at 4 months post-discharge (community-dwelling). Methods Forty-five subacute stroke survivors participated (Age M (s.d.) = 71.5 (15.6), 56% female), and 38 were successfully followed-up. Self-assessments were compared to those of an independent rater (occupational therapist, close other) to calculate ISA at both time points. Survivors and raters completed additional cognitive, psychological and functional measures. Results Multivariate regression (multiple outcomes) identified associations between ISA during inpatient admission and poorer outcomes at follow-up, including poorer functional cognition, participation restriction, caregiver burden, and close other depression and anxiety. Regression models applied cross-sectionally, including one intended for correlated predictors, indicated associations between ISA during inpatient admission and younger age, male sex, poorer functional cognition, poorer rehabilitation engagement and less frequent use of non-productive coping (adjusted R 2 = 0.60). ISA at community follow-up was associated with poorer functional cognition and close other anxiety (adjusted R 2 = 0.66). Conclusions Associations between ISA and poorer outcomes across the rehabilitation journey highlight the clinical importance of ISA and the value of assessment and management approaches that consider the potential influence of numerous biological and psychosocial factors on ISA. Future studies should use larger sample sizes to confirm these results and determine the causal mechanisms of these relationships.

Psychosocial work factors affecting safety incidents of long-distance bus drivers in Ghana: Mediating role of psychological well-being

BackgroundImproving psychosocial work environment of long-distance bus drivers is essential for their psychological well-being and on-the-road safety. Despite the importance of the work environment of bus drivers, it has received little research attention in Ghana and other developing nations. Hence, this study examined the influence of psychosocial work factors (job demands and job resources) on safety incidents of long-distance bus drivers and how psychological well-being mediates this association. MethodsThis cross-sectional survey sampled 7315 long-distance bus drivers who commute from the cities of Accra and Tema to other parts of Ghana and other cities in the West Africa sub-region. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test four hypotheses. FindingsThe results suggest that job demands and job resources have direct association with safety incidents of the long-distance bus drivers. The psychological well-being of the bus drivers played a partial mediation role in the association between psychosocial work factors and safety incidents of the drivers. ConclusionThe job demand-resource model provides a useful model for understanding the impact of the work environment on driving performance among these long-distance bus drivers. Providing the drivers with high job control and supportive work culture can equip and support them to value the critical roles they play in the transport sector. Managers of bus transport companies and individual bus owners should implement effective communication strategies like the bottom-up communication approach, conduct periodic assessments to identify and address drivers’ precarious work conditions, create safety on the road, and reduce crashes and associated fatalities.

Psychosocial risks and their consequences on health and job satisfaction among Spanish police officers.

Police officers are exposed to risk and violence, which makes their work highly stressful. According to the Job Demand-Resource model, the working conditions of police officers may affect their health and job satisfaction. The aims of this research were to evaluate the psychosocial factors at work in a sample of municipal police officers from the Valencian Community (Spain) to identify the prevalence of psychosocial risks and their consequences and analyse the influence of psychosocial factors (resource and demands) at work on job satisfaction and health. The Unidad de Investigación Psicosocial de la Conducta Organizacional (UNIPSICO) battery was used to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of different levels of risk and their consequences in police officers (n=103). The influence of psychosocial factors (resource and demands) at work on psychosomatic disorders and job satisfaction was examined using stepwise regression analysis. All considered variables showed moderate levels of psychosocial risk for the whole sample. As for the consequences of psychosocial risks, moderate levels of psychosomatic disorders and job satisfaction were also observed. Perceived stress levels and organizational stressors have a negative effect on health and job satisfaction. To create positive conditions for the health and well-being of police officers, real commitment is required when evaluating psychosocial risks in local police organizations and the establishment of prevention and intervention measures where psychosocial risk factors are detected.