Mail Survey Research Articles

Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome defining malignancies in people living with haemophilia and human immunodeficiency virus after direct-acting antiviral era.

Non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-defining malignancies (NADMs) are the crucial cause of mortality in people living with haemophilia and human immunodeficiency virus (PLWHH). We aimed to analyse the types and characters of NADMs in PLWHH after approval of direct-acting antivirals (DAA), considering that most PLWHH are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We conducted a nationwide questionnaire mail survey across 395 HIV core facilities in Japan between May 2022 and February 2023. Eight-year data from 64 respondent hospitals (n = 328 PLWHH; 2015-2022) were collected; 35 NADM cases were identified and analysed. Standardised cancer incidence ratios (SCIRs) were calculated. The median age of PLWHH with NADMs was 51 years (interquartile range: 47-62 years); the SCIR was 2.08 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.48-2.90) for all malignancies (including carcinoma in situ). Liver cancer accounted for most NADMs (43% [15/35]). The SCIRs of liver cancer (23.09 [95% CI: 13.92- 38.30]) and papillary thyroid cancer (9.38 [2.35-37.50]) significantly increased after adjusting for general Japanese male sex and age. Among PLWHH with liver cancers, 73% (11/15) achieved HCV-sustained virological response. Notably, for patients aged ≤ 50 years, 47% (7/15) were affected by liver cancers, and 27% (4/15) succumbed to NADMs. This study presents the largest survey of NADMs in PLWHH after DAA approval. Our findings emphasised the elevated risk of malignancies in PLWHH, underscoring the need for early cancer screening and preventive measures, particularly against liver cancers, even in younger PLWHH.

An Examination of the Effects of 2M Channel Airing Turkish Soap Operas on Moroccan Audiences: 2009-2019

This paper attempts to shed light on the media effects of the 2M channel on Moroccan audiences viewing dubbed Turkish soap operas (TSO). In particular, the study limits its scope to 2009-2019 period of broadcasting. It is noted that the viewing process is a prerequisite for social change and media effects. This consideration of direct exposure hastens the effects and influences in the audiences’ lives. Not all media effects of TSO are detrimental to the Moroccan audience and government. No sooner had the audience finished a dubbed Turkish serial than the 2M started broadcasting a new one. Additionally, to examine this decade, the paper invests structured interviews and mail surveys to collect data. The study treats the research findings with content analysis and discourse analysis. Presumably, it is noticeable that females are the majority of viewers. Accordingly, the research findings are manifold. The study’s research findings seriously alert the media analysts and Moroccan cultural authorities concerned with Moroccan audiences susceptible to the TSO increasing dangers and insidious menaces. These foreign influences are disseminated through the ignorance, recipient, and Moroccan female lifestyles. Therefore, the result discussion necessitates an awakening paradigm shift in Moroccan cultural policy. In conclusion, the paper calls for an invigorating Moroccan public screen. Moroccan soap opera alternative likely replaces Turkish soap opera since Moroccan audience counts in millions alongside religious diplomacy as a form of soft power.

Do Community Views of Local Police Agencies Change During “Crises of Legitimacy”? Results of a Multi-wave Random Sample Community Survey in a Large Suburban Jurisdiction

AbstractGeorge Floyd’s murder by a Minneapolis Police Department officer on May 25, 2020, was arguably one of the most impactful events in modern policing in the United States. However, several controversial and highly publicized use-of-force events preceded it during the 2010s, leading to this entire period being labeled a “crisis of legitimacy” or “reckoning” for the police. Nationally, perceptions of the police declined during this period, especially after Floyd’s death, prompting a great deal of debate, protest, and discussion about police reform (including arguments about defunding the police). However, a great deal of variation exists in these perceptions at the local level. This study presents a rare insight into this issue, pooling two random-sample household mail surveys that researchers collected in 2015 and 2021 in a large urban-suburban county. It seeks to determine whether changes in specific measures of perceived police legitimacy and effectiveness found in national-level polls were also found in this jurisdiction, and more specifically, across different racial groups. Although this racially and ethnically diverse county is also a progressive Democratic stronghold, the results suggest that local views about police—even when disaggregated by race—may not align with national perspectives or events as expected, which, in turn, may impact support for police reforms at the local and national levels.

Law Enforcement Agency Practices and Policies for the Investigation of Child Sex Trafficking: Are Agencies Using Victim-Centered Approaches?

AbstractOver the past decade, efforts have been made to reform the way in which law enforcement responds to child sex trafficking (CST). Law enforcement agencies are being urged or required to use victim-centered approaches that provide exploited youth with support and services. However, researchers have yet to empirically examine law enforcement’s recognition of CST at the agency-level, their arrest practices, or the services that are being offered to CST victims. We have little information about the utilization and effectiveness of various law enforcement agency policies, practices and training programs related to CST. The National Law Enforcement Agency Child Sex Trafficking (LEA-CST) Study aimed to address these gaps through a national survey of law enforcement agencies around the U.S. The current study reports on mail survey data collected from a sample of 1,306 agencies that provided feedback on the use of up to nine victim-centered approaches to CST at their agency. Data were analyzed along with information about whether their agency investigated at least one case of CST in the year 2021. Almost all agencies (97.5%) said they used or had access to at least one victim-centered approach to CST investigations, with larger agencies reporting a greater number of approaches. Two policies were significantly related to a greater likelihood of investigating at least one case of CST in 2021: Access to a CST-specific task force and access to a CST-specific victim service agency. Findings document a growing orientation to these cases by law enforcement that recognizes youth victimization, with innovative approaches to identification and support. Community collaboration appears to be critical to helping to identify, support and provide justice to CST victims.Research Summary This study examined law enforcement’s recognition of CST at the agency-level, their arrest practices, and the services that are being offered to CST victims. Among 1,306 agencies across the United States, almost all (97.5%) said they used or had access to at least one victim-centered approach to CST investigations, with larger agencies reporting a greater number of approaches. Two policies were significantly related to a greater likelihood of investigating at least one CST case in 2021: Access to a CST-specific task force and access to a CST-specific victim service agency.Policy Implications Findings from the current study underscore the importance of victim-centered approaches to CST that feature connections and collaborations across communities. These collaborations champion the wellness of youth who have experienced this unique and egregious form of sexual victimization while simultaneously allowing for criminal investigations to proceed, ideally with minimal re-traumatization of the victim.

Analyzing Potential Non-Ignorable Selection Bias in an Off-Wave Mail Survey Implemented in a Long-Standing Panel Study

Abstract Typical design-based methods for weighting probability samples rely on several assumptions, including the random selection of sampled units according to known probabilities of selection and ignorable unit nonresponse. If any of these assumptions are not met, weighting methods that account for the probabilities of selection, nonresponse, and calibration may not fully account for the potential selection bias in a given sample, which could produce misleading population estimates. This analysis investigates possible selection bias in the 2019 Health Survey Mailer (HSM), a sub-study of the longitudinal Health and Retirement Study (HRS). The primary HRS data collection has occurred in “even” years since 1992, but additional survey data collections take place in the “off-wave” odd years via mailed invitations sent to selected participants. While the HSM achieved a high response rate (83 percent), the assumption of ignorable probability-based selection of HRS panel members may not hold due to the eligibility criteria that were imposed. To investigate this possible non-ignorable selection bias, our analysis utilizes a novel analysis method for estimating measures of unadjusted bias for proportions (MUBP), introduced by Andridge et al. in 2019. This method incorporates aggregate information from the larger HRS target population, including means, variances, and covariances for key covariates related to the HSM variables, to inform estimates of proportions. We explore potential non-ignorable selection bias by comparing proportions calculated from the HSM under three conditions: ignoring HRS weights, weighting based on the usual design-based approach for HRS “off-wave” mail surveys, and using the MUBP adjustment. We find examples of differences between the weighted and MUBP-adjusted estimates in four out of ten outcomes we analyzed. However, these differences are modest, and while this result gives some evidence of non-ignorable selection bias, typical design-based weighting methods are sufficient for correcting for it and their use is appropriate in this case.

The potential benefits of extra screening for glycated haemoglobin, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol on donor health management and retention.

An extra health screening, including glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), was initiated for regular donors aged over 40 in Taiwan in November 2015. This study aimed to determine its benefits on donor health management and retention. A stratified random mail survey was conducted among donors who received HbA1c, TC and LDL-C screening between November 2015 and June 2017 to investigate their awareness of the screening, medical histories and post-screening behaviours. Their subsequent screening results and donation records from 3 years before and after the initial screening were obtained up to December 2021. In total, 2070 donors participated in the mail survey, with participation rates ranging 15.7%-23.2% across study groups. The screening newly detected hyperglycaemia in 1.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2%-2.0%) and hyperlipidaemia in 1.0% (95% CI: 0.7%-1.4%) of participants, with 42.7% (95% CI: 40.3%-45.2%) of participants unaware of the screening. Participants with initially abnormal or borderline TC or LDL-C results showed significant decreases in the subsequent screening (all p values<0.05). No difference was found in participants' awareness of the screening. However, those who sought medical consultation or made specific lifestyle changes tended to show greater improvements. Awareness of the screening was associated with increased whole blood donations and donated units. The extra health screening has limited benefits for donor health management without additional interventions, but it may motivate donors to donate more frequently. Raising donors' awareness of the screening is also crucial to maximize its benefits.

Moroccan Secondary School English Teacher’s Perception: Science and Literary Stream Students’ Performance

The study investigates the perceptions of Moroccan secondary school teachers regarding the academic performance of science and literary stream students aged 16 to 18. Through a combination of mail surveys, unstructured interviews with English teachers, and discourse analysis, the research identifies that English as the second foreign language in Moroccan schools influences the perceived advantages of science stream students over their literary counterparts. The findings align with a previous study and suggest that science students often pursue literary studies at Moroccan universities post-baccalaureate. The research delves into the distinctive characteristics of science stream students and proposes recommendations for governmental and ministerial reforms in the Moroccan educational system. The study underscores the historical incorporation of English in the Moroccan educational system since 1956 and highlights recent developments, such as the expansion of English language teaching to middle schools. It emphasises the impact of English language learning on students’ future orientations and tendencies in higher education. Ultimately, the study aims to draw attention to English teachers’ perceptions to facilitate positive changes in the Moroccan educational system, urging the education ministry and relevant authorities to consider reforms.

Characteristics of falls in Japanese community-dwelling older adults.

Understanding the characteristics of falls among older adults is necessary to prevent them. These characteristics include questions such as when (month and time), where (places), who (age), what (injury), why (trigger), and how (direction) the falls occur. The objective of this study was to identify the characteristics of falls in individuals aged 65-74 years (young-old), 75-84 years (old-old), and ≥85 years (oldest-old). We conducted an observational mail survey among community-dwelling older adults in Japan and collected detailed information on the incidence of falls over the past 3 years. The month, time, location, trigger, direction, and resulting trauma of each fall were analyzed and compared across the different age groups (young-old, old-old, and oldest-old). A total of 1695 falls among 1074 community-dwelling older adults were analyzed in this study. Falls were frequent during May and October as well as during the winter season from December to February, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. These fall characteristics were consistent across all the age groups. There was a higher incidence of outdoor falls among relatively young older adults, which were typically caused by tripping or slipping. However, as one progresses with age, there is a higher incidence of falls indoors, typically due to loss of balance or leg entrapment. Approximately 60% of older fallers experience some form of injury due to falls, with fractures considered the most serious, occurring in ≈10% of all falls. We clarified the characteristics of falls including the "when, where, who, what, why, and how" of the fall. A future challenge is to use this valuable information to develop effective fall prevention programs for older populations worldwide. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••-••.

Identifying Veterans with a Higher Risk of Social Needs Using Cluster Analysis.

Many social need screening to advance population health and reduce health disparities, but barriers to screening remain. Improved knowledge of patient populations at risk for social needs based on administrative data could facilitate more targeted practices, and by extension, feasible social need screening and referral efforts. To illustrate the use of cluster analysis to identify patient population segments at risk for social needs. We used clustering analysis to identify population segments among Veterans (N=2010) who participated in a survey assessing nine social needs (food, housing, utility, financial, employment, social disconnection, legal, transportation, and neighborhood safety). Clusters were based on eight variables (age, race, gender, comorbidity, region, no-show rate, rurality, and VA priority group). We used weighted logistic regression to assess association of clusters with the risk of experiencing social needs. National random sample of Veterans with and at risk for cardiovascular disease who responded to a mail survey (N=2010). Self-reported social needs defined as the risk of endorsing (1) each individual social need, (2) one or more needs, and (3) a higher total count of needs. From the clustering analysis process with sensitivity analysis, we identified a consistent population segment of Veterans. From regression modeling, we found that this cluster, with lower average age and higher proportions of women and racial minorities, was at higher risk of experiencing ≥ 1 unmet need (OR 1.74, CI 1.17-2.56). This cluster was also at a higher risk for several individual needs, especially utility needs (OR 3.78, CI 2.11-6.78). The identification of characteristics associated with increased unmet social needs may provide opportunities for targeted screenings. As this cluster was also younger and had fewer comorbidities, they may be less likely to be identified as experiencing need through interactions with healthcare providers.

Abstract A016: Understanding the Impact of Numerous Cancer Prevention Guidelines on Public Adherence

Abstract Background: Organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) have developed comprehensive cancer prevention guidelines focusing on nutrition, physical activity, cancer screening, and vaccination with a goal of reducing cancer incidence and improving cancer health outcomes. However, the abundance and complexity of these guidelines can lead to public confusion and potentially hinder adherence. This study investigates public perception of the multitude of cancer prevention guidelines and their potential impact on compliance. Methods: Data were derived from the 2020 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS 5, Cycle 4, 2020), conducted via a mail survey from February to June 2020. We examined public perception about cancer prevention recommendations and if the number of recommendations made it more difficult to determine which ones to follow. Multivariable Logistic regression was used to examine the factors that are associated with agreement with the statement: “there are so many different recommendations about preventing cancer, it's hard to know which ones to follow.” Results: Survey respondents consisted of 3,747 U.S. adults. Approximately 74.1% of respondents agreed with the statement, "There are so many different recommendations about preventing cancer, it's hard to know which ones to follow." Non-Hispanic Black respondents had the highest proportion of agreement (80.6%) Level of education was statistically significantly associated with agreement with the statement "there are so many different recommendations about preventing cancer, it's hard to know which ones to follow." As education level increased, the odds of agreeing with the statement decreased. Specifically, college graduates (aOR 0.58; 95% CI: 0.36-0.94), and those with postgraduate education had an aOR of 0.38 (95% CI: 0.22-0.67). Conclusion: The study highlights significant public perception challenges regarding the abundance of cancer prevention guidelines. These findings suggest a need for streamlined communication and education strategies to enhance guideline adherence and optimize cancer prevention efforts. Citation Format: Tochukwu Nzeako, Onyema Chido-Amajuoyi. Understanding the Impact of Numerous Cancer Prevention Guidelines on Public Adherence [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A016.

Primary Human Papillomavirus Screening: Women's Perceptions of New Cervical Cancer Screening Recommendations.

Background: Current clinical guidelines recommended primary human papillomavirus (HPV) screening for cervical cancer testing. Previous studies reported patient-level barriers (e.g., limited knowledge and attachment to Pap test) that may hinder wide adoption of primary HPV screening. We assessed these women-level factors following the implementation of primary HPV screening (July 2020) at Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC). Methods: We administered a patient survey (mail and on-line) to female KPSC members aged 30-65 years who received primary HPV screening between October and December 2020. Those who preferred English vs. Spanish language were sampled separately. The survey included domains on knowledge about HPV and HPV screening, awareness of screening guidelines, and attitudes about HPV testing. Demographic data were collected using electronic health records. We used weighted multivariable logistic and modified Poisson regressions for associations between language preference and survey responses. Results: In total, 3,009 surveys were returned (38.0% response rate). Few women (7.0%) found HPV testing as an acceptable screening method. The majority of women (92.2%) remained unaware that HPV testing can replace Pap test for screening. The Pap test was the most preferred screening approach for 33.2% Spanish-speaking women vs. 19.9% English-speaking women. Only 20.6% knew that women aged 30-65 years can be screened every 5 years with cotest or primary HPV screening. Most women (96.4%) did not perceive stigma about taking the HPV test. Conclusion: Proactive patient education will help improve women's knowledge about primary HPV screening, which may facilitate its implementation in additional health care settings.

Tracing ocular biometry and their heritability in twins in a hospital-based cohort in South India.

Twin studies, in the background of lack of twin registry in India, are a challenge. We report the response rates in tracing a hospital birth register-based cohort of twins using mail and door to door survey, ocular parameters influencing refractive errors, and their heritability. Twins born from 1991 to 1995 in a tertiary hospital in the Vellore District of South India from a database were traced by mail and home survey from March 2011 to September 2013. Consenting live twin pairs who presented to the eye department were examined, including best corrected visual acuity, cycloplegic refraction, slit lamp examination, measurements of intraocular pressure (IOP) by Goldmann Applanation tonometry, axial length (AL) and anterior chamber depth (ACD), central corneal thickness (CCT), specular microscopy for endothelial count (EC), and a dilated fundus examination. Zygosity was determined by a validated zygosity questionnaire. Heritability was determined using the Falconers formula. Postal contact was made in 14%, and a home visit was successful in another 23% of the cohort. Of those presenting for examination, 51.3% were found to be monozygous. Heritability (h2) of IOP was 0.34, that of ACD was 0.88, that of AL was 0.92, that of CCT was 0.96, and that of EC was 0.58. Tracing of twins using postal and home visits is challenging. Heritability for AL and CCT was found to be high, similar to that reported in other studies. This implies that a large proportion of variation found in AL and CCT is due to genetic causes as seen in twins from South India.

Creation of a Novel Classification System (PTNM) for Peyronie's Disease and Penile Curvature Using Evidence-Based Criteria.

Our goal was to identify new Peyronie's disease (PD) subtypes, non-PD penile curvature classifications, and define active (acute) vs stable (chronic) phases of disease using evidence-based analyses. A retrospective review was performed of 1098 men who presented with penile deformity, including subjective standardized and nonstandardized questionnaires and objective measures. A second cohort of 719 men who were sent a mailed survey was also utilized for the relapsing/remitting subtype. Statistical analyses were performed to identify clusters of disease characteristics representative of distinct PD and non-PD categorizations, including sensitivity/specificity analyses and subtype comparisons. Comparative analyses identified 4 distinct subtypes of PD: (1) classical and nonclassical, (2) calcifying-moderate/severe calcification, (3) progressive-subjective worsening following disease onset, and (4) relapsing/remitting-reactivation following ≥ 6 months of stability. Additional, non-PD categorizations included congenital (lifelong), maturational (developed around puberty), and trauma induced. Statistical analyses demonstrated unique profiles among each category. Penile pain was not found to be a reliable predictor for disease progression or stability. Stable phase disease (historically "chronic") was variably defined by subtype: classical (≥3 months); progressive, calcifying, or trauma induced (≥12 months + ≥3 months stable OR ≥6 months stable). Similarly, PD subtypes may be assigned at ≥ 3 months following disease onset. A PTNM staging system is proposed to help communicate disease states, in which P = PD component (Ca-calcifying, Cl-classical, P-progressive, R-relapsing/remitting, U-undifferentiated), T = trauma component (0-absent, 1-present), N = non-PD component (C-congenital, M-maturational, U-undifferentiated), and M = mode (0-stable, 1-active); for example, PClT1N0M0 = stable classical PD with prior trauma. The current study provides an evidence-based proposal for the establishment of new PD subtypes and non-PD curvature categorizations as well as a standardized definition for active vs stable phases of disease.

Total Quality Management Lean Practices and Firm Performance: Integrated Approach Using MBNQA Criteria in the Thai Automotive Industry

Abstract In an increasingly competitive global automotive landscape, the strategic integration of Total Quality Management (TQM) and Lean Practices (LP) has emerged as a crucial determinant of operational excellence and sustained organizational performance. Grounded in empirical evidence from the Thai automotive sector, this study explores the intricate synergies between TQM with Malcom Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) dimensions, lean implementation, and firm performance. This study employs the quantitative research method, where the measurement scales for each construct were adopted from the literature and reviewed by academics. Data were collected from 854 manufacturing firms in Thailand through a mail survey method. This study applied a two-step structural equation modeling (SEM) process. The findings reveal a robust direct effect of TQM (leadership, strategy planning, customer and workforce focus) on firm performance, underscoring its pivotal role. Notably, TQM also exhibited a substantial indirect effect on business performance, mediated sequentially through lean practices including continuous flow, 5S, and total preventive maintenance. Lean practices similarly demonstrated significant direct and indirect effects on firm performance. Collectively, the combined effects of MBNQA and lean practices on firm performance was also observed, substantiating their complementary contributions. These findings hold significant implications, both from an academic and a practical standpoint. From a theoretical perspective, this research enriches the discourse by providing empirical insights into the mediating roles of lean practices, elucidating the paths through which TQM's performance-enhancing effects can be transmitted. Concurrently, the magnitude of the impact these practices have on firm performance underscores their practical relevance, and insights derived from this study could play a key role in guiding automotive firms and suppliers to align critical components to drive performance excellence.

Differences in fisher demographics and fishing behaviour from concurrent phone‐recall and smartphone app surveys of recreational angling in south‐western Australia

AbstractTraditional methods for collecting robust samples of recreational effort and catch data from offsite mail or telephone surveys are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. Smartphone applications (apps) that allow recreational fishers to report their effort and catch are a potentially viable data collection tool, but may be biased. We evaluated demographics, effort, and catch of freshwater anglers in south‐west Western Australia by comparing independent data from concurrent phone‐recall and app‐diary surveys for a 12‐month period in 2017–2018. Survey modes differed, with higher proportions of app respondents angling in freshwater and being avid anglers. For both survey modes, unweighted mean effort (days fished) was higher in dams than rivers, but was higher from the phone‐recall survey for dams and rivers. The unweighted distribution of kept and released catches (number of fish per angler) of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and redfin (Perca fluviatilis) were similar between survey modes, with higher retention of redfin and higher release of rainbow trout. Kept and released rates of freshwater cobbler (Tandanus bostocki) and brown trout (Salmo trutta) were less common in both survey modes. Lower response rates and higher survey participation by avid anglers (≥20 days per year) from the app‐diary survey may bias survey data. Such bias needs to be addressed when using digital data collection methods, along with improving recruitment and retention of app participants.

Seven-week trial introduction of green slow-mobility services in a new town

Objectives The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is promoting the introduction of green slow mobility (GSM) vehicles (can drive up to 20 km/h on public roads) for mobility assistance and potential long-term care prevention. We identified four key factors to pinpoint the challenges and enhance opportunities for introducing GSM; GSM's operational achievements, a comparison of the characteristics of GSM users and non-users, purpose for using GSM, and observation of GSM's contribution to long-term care prevention among older adults.Methods A pilot GSM study was conducted in Ikeda City, Osaka Prefecture, from October to December 2022. The service included three routes, operating six times daily on a fixed schedule, and was provided by 10 volunteer drivers. Passengers signaled for boarding, and service details were provided through leaflets. A self-administered mail survey was conducted before and after the demonstration test with 674 respondents to the post-questionnaire, and 502 respondents were asked at both time points about issues related to the service, user characteristics, and care prevention. To assess care prevention, we examined the percentage of favorable changes triggered by GSM based on "opportunities to go out," "personal and behavioral aspects," "social relations," and "psychological aspects." Additionally, we examined whether the health indices in the post-hoc survey were better among GSM users than non-users.Results Of the 223 scheduled GSM services, 214 (96.0%) were operated by 10 volunteers driving an average of 3.1 (SD 2.4) times weekly (0-11 times), indicating an uneven distribution of driving responsibilities. Among the users, 65 (9.6%) were more engaged in community activities and emotional support than non-users. The main purposes for using GSM services were shopping and medical visits, with approximately 70% of users finding it easier to go out owing to these services. The percentage of favorable changes were noted in 3.1-26.2% and 0.2-1.5% of users and non-users, respectively. In the post-test survey, users showed higher independence on the instrumental self-maintenance subscale than non-users.Conclusion GSM facilitates outings among older adults and may reduce the need for potential long-term care. However, a system is required to ensure that the service burden does not decrease even for a few driving volunteers. Additionally, GSM users are often socially active. Thus, strategies to increase service awareness among less active individuals should be developed.

Landowner Perceptions toward Adopting Patch-Burn and Mixed-Species Grazing for Rangelands in the U.S. Southern Great Plains

AbstractThe sustainability of grazed rangelands can be improved by adopting innovative management practices that enhance the ecological resilience, productivity, and long-term viability of rangeland ecosystems. This study applied a bivariate Multiple Indicator–Multiple Causation model to examine how landowner characteristics are associated with their perceptions concerning patch-burn grazing (PBG) and mixed-species grazing (MSG). Data were collected through a mail survey of landowners in the Southern Great Plains who own at least 100 acres. The significant and positive correlation between PBG and MSG suggests that their relative preference tends to change together, potentially allowing them to complement when implemented together.

Development of Four-Item Attitudes toward People Living with Dementia Scale for population surveys.

This study developed a short version of a scale measuring attitudes toward people living with dementia, the Four-Item Attitudes toward People Living with Dementia Scale (APDS4), that could be included in a large population survey. We used three datasets from Japan: a web panel survey, a community-based mail survey, and data from a randomised controlled trial on dementia education. The original scale used was the Attitudes toward People Living with Dementia Scale developed by Kim and Kuroda. Test-retest reliability and item response theory analyses were used to reduce the number of items. The reliability, internal consistency, validity, and responsiveness of the short version were evaluated. Six items with low test-retest reliability and four items with low discrimination parameters were removed from the 14-item scale. The APDS4, consisting of four items, had test-retest reliability and internal consistency comparable to those of the original scale. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the APDS4 fit a unidimensional model. The validity of the APDS4 was confirmed by significant associations between the APDS4 scores and the original scale scores, knowledge of dementia, helping behaviour intentions toward people living with dementia, helping behaviour experience, attending the Dementia Supporter Training Course, and engagement in healthcare jobs. In a randomised controlled trial dataset, the APDS4 was more responsive to educational interventions than the original scale. The shortened APDS4 was established as a reliable, validated, and responsive scale. This scale can be used efficiently in population surveys to evaluate dementia-friendly initiatives at the community level.

Substance Use Among Illinois Farmers

Background: People in agriculture face unique stressors and occupational hazards, and relatively little is known about substance use in this population. The purpose of this study was to describe substance use among farmers in Illinois. Methods: We conducted a mail survey of Illinois farmers that included the Brief ASSIST to assess substance use for lifetime and past three-month use of ten different substances. The survey also included questions about farming characteristics, mental health, stress, coping, social support, and demographic characteristics. We used chi-square and non-parametric tests to assess group differences. Results: Alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and sedatives were most reported as used for a lifetime and in the past three months. About three-quarters of the sample had recently used alcohol. Recent tobacco use was associated with not being married, less education, and less concern about climate-related farm stress. Recent sedative use was associated with greater concern about isolation-related farm stress. People who reported multiple substance use were at a greater risk for suicide and were more likely to meet the criteria for generalized anxiety disorder. None of the participants reported recent use of cocaine, heroin, inhalants, or hallucinogens. Conclusion: Specific social and cultural aspects of farming and farm communities may contribute to substance use among people working in agriculture. Future research can help to better understand this intersection and make recommendations for programs and resources to promote adaptive coping strategies.

The Role of Organizational Innovation Capability in The Relationship Between Disruptive Innovation and Organizational Performance of Thai Listed Firms

This research aims to examine the mediating effect of organizational innovation capability on the relationship between disruptive innovation and organizational performance. Data collection was implemented through a mail survey method via questionnaires completed by the executive managers of Thai-listed firms. Of the returned and completed surveys, 148 questionnaires were deemed usable. Statistical analysis was performed by means of structural equation modelling, to test the hypothesized relationships. Results indicated that organizational innovation capability plays a vital role through its mediating effect on the relationship between disruptive innovation (technological disruption and market disruption) and organizational performance. The findings contribute insights for current and large firms regarding the influence of disruptive innovation, indicating that this ensures enhanced organizational performance via organizational innovation capability. More importantly, the study also increases the knowledge of disruptive innovation, informing predictions and assisting decision-makers involved in generating firms’ competitive advantages.