Research Design Research Articles

Integrative Field-Based Health and Performance Research: A Narrative Review on Experimental Methods and Logistics to Conduct Competition and Training Camp Studies in Athletes.

Field-based sport research involves studies that collect data from athletes and/or teams during competition and/or their daily training environments. Over the last decade, sport-specific field-based research projects have significantly increased in number and complexity, partially owing to the further development of more portable measurement equipment (e.g., indirect calorimetry, desktop blood/gas analyzers, portable laboratories, etc.) and/or wearable or consumable technologies (e.g., smart watches, sensors, core temp pills, etc.). However, given these rapid advances and novelty, challenges remain in the validity and applicability of these devices. Unfortunately, there are no global ethical or best-practice standards for the use of portable devices and/or wearables in sport; however, this review will outline various opportunities and challenges. Many decision trade-offs are required when designing field-based research studies to balance gold-standard scientific rigor and strict research control with highly applied, but less-controlled, "real-world" conditions. To our knowledge, there are no narrative reviews that take a wholistic view of the logistical and methodological considerations of field-based research in athletes. Accordingly, this review takes a multi-disciplinary methodological approach (physiological, nutritional/energetic, biomechanical, musculoskeletal, cognitive, and psychosocial factors), along with the logistical considerations involved in project planning, research design, and ethics of field-based research with elite athletes and/or teams. We also provide practical guidance for characterizing the extreme demands of elite training and competition to support research that ultimately catalyzes improved understanding of the limits of human capacity. We hope this review can serve as a practical guide for researchers undertaking elite athlete field-based research.

Vasculopathy among children and adolescents with sickle cell disease: the crosstalk with annexin A1, vitamin D, and myocardial iron overload

ABSTRACT Background Annexin A1 plays an important role in myocardial defense against ischemia-reperfusion injury. We aimed to evaluate the role of annexin A1 as a potential marker of vasculopathy in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD) and its relation to myocardial iron content (MIC) and vitamin D status. Research design and methods Forty-one patients with SCD were compared with 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls, and underwent assessment of serum annexin A1, vitamin D, Doppler echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Results Six (14.6%) SCD patients had cardiac disease, five (12.2%) had abnormal MIC (≥1.16) and 10 (24.4%) had pulmonary hypertension risk. Annexin A1 levels were significantly lower among patients with SCD compared with healthy controls (p < 0.001). SCD patients with pulmonary hypertension risk, evidence of diastolic dysfunction, and nephropathy as well as those with serum ferritin ≥ 2500 µg/L and vitamin D deficiency had lower Annexin A1 levels than those without. Serum annexin A1 levels were negatively correlated to urinary albumin creatinine ratio (UACR) and Tei index while positively correlated to vitamin D among SCD patients. Conclusions Annexin A1 could be a promising marker of vasculopathy and may provide a biochemical explanation for vitamin D deficiency in SCD.

The short-term impact of copayment reductions for government subsidised medicines in Australia

ABSTRACT Background This study aims to examine the short-term, population-level effects of the 2023 Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) copayment reduction on prescription volume, patients’ out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure, and government contributions. Research design and methods We conducted a quasi-experimental study using national data from January 2021 to April 2024. For system-level analysis, we examined all drugs used by general patients, focusing on 252 drugs that were ‘above copayment’ during 2022–2023. We also performed drug category-specific analyses on six broad groups of drugs. Paired-sample t-tests and segmented regression analyses were used to compare prescription volumes, OOP expenditure, and government contributions before and after the copayment reduction. Results The copayment reduction was not associated with significant changes in prescription volumes or government contributions for general patients. However, the copayment reduction led to an immediate, but not gradual, decrease in inflation-adjusted OOP expenditure. Specifically, there was a relative reduction of 26.1% at 15 months post-policy for drugs above the general copayment (95% confidence interval (CI): −34.10, −18.10; p-value < 0.001). Similar immediate declines were observed across the six selected drug categories. Conclusions Further research is needed to assess the longer-term effects of copayment reductions, particularly their impact on medication adherence and overall healthcare costs.

Preferences of nurses in the United Kingdom for attributes of pediatric hexavalent vaccines: a discrete-choice experiment

ABSTRACT Background We evaluated UK nurses’ preferences for pediatric hexavalent vaccine attributes. Research Design and Methods In a discrete-choice experiment study, 150 nurses chose between 2 hypothetical pediatric hexavalent vaccines with varying attribute levels (device type, plastic in packaging, time on the market, and time the vaccine can stay safely at room temperature) in a series of choice questions. Using random-parameters logit-model estimates, conditional relative attribute importance (CRAI) and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated. Results Device type (with associated preparation time and risk of dosage errors) was the most important attribute (CRAI: 61%), followed by years on the market (CRAI: 25%). The odds of choosing a prefilled syringe were nearly 3 times the odds of choosing syringe-and-vial combinations requiring reconstitution (OR, 2.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.93-3.68). Vaccines on the market for <1 year were less likely to be preferred to vaccines available for >3 years (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.47-0.84). ORs for time a vaccine can stay at room temperature (3 vs. 6 days) (0.94; 95% CI, 0.71-1.16) and plastic blisters in packaging (1.19; 95% CI, 0.80-1.56) were not significant, indicating that these attributes did not influence choices. Conclusions In this survey, nurses’ preferences were mainly influenced by device type. Plain Language Summary To simplify childhood vaccination, combination vaccines are used to protect against multiple common diseases simultaneously. In the United Kingdom, two vaccines are available that protect against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) diseases. Nurses who administer these combination vaccines may prefer certain attributes over others. In this study, we surveyed nurses in the United Kingdom to learn about their preferences for pediatric hexavalent vaccine attributes. Of the attributes included in the survey, the most important for nurses was the device used to deliver the vaccine with its associated preparation time and risk of dosage errors. Nurses were almost 3 times more likely to prefer a ready-to-use vaccine in a prefilled syringe over a vaccine available as a syringe and vial that requires mixing (or reconstitution) before use. The second most important attribute for nurses was how long a vaccine has been on the market. Nurses generally preferred vaccines that have been available for longer than 3 years versus less than 1 year. Nurses did not have clear preferences either way on plastic blister in packaging or for how long vaccines can be stored at room temperature before needing to be discarded. In this survey, nurses’ preferences were mainly influenced by device type, preferring ready-to-use vaccines available as pre-filled syringes to vaccines that need to be mixed before use.

Are quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) becoming more expensive? Evidence from economic evaluations of diabetic therapeutics

ABSTRACT Background Empirical evidence regarding temporal trends in cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained remains limited. This study investigates the evolution of cost-effectiveness for diabetes mellitus treatments over time. Research Design and Methods We analyzed cost-effectiveness analyses of anti-diabetic pharmaceuticals extracted from the Tufts Medical Center Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry (CEAR). Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were normalized by GDP per capita and categorized into four threshold-based groups. In addition, we examined temporal trends in incremental QALYs. Analyses stratified by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) membership were also conducted. Results Among 239 eligible studies, the proportion of highly cost-effective interventions in OECD countries decreased from 62.50% (1999-2005) to 35.48% (2021-2023), while interventions exceeding 3хGDP per capita/QALY increased from 12.50% to 54.84%. This trend was less pronounced in non-OECD countries. Mean incremental QALYs remained stable (range: 0.19-0.47) across periods and between OECD and non-OECD countries, suggesting that rising costs rather than diminishing health benefits drive the declining cost-effectiveness. Conclusions The cost-effectiveness of anti-diabetic medications has deteriorated substantially over time, particularly in OECD countries, despite stable therapeutic benefits. These findings highlight the need for dynamic approaches to cost-effectiveness thresholds and robust price negotiations to ensure sustainable access to innovative therapies.

Developing a dementia care and support needs framework for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse populations: A whole-of-community co-design approach.

Older individuals with dementia and their families from CALD backgrounds face a 'triple jeopardy' due to the combination of dementia, caregiving challenges and cultural stigma. Despite the growing need for culturally responsive dementia care, existing services do not adequately address the specific concerns of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. This study explored the experiences of two CALD communities to inform the development of a culturally tailored dementia care support framework. This study employed a whole-of-community co-design approach, integrating community-based participatory research and human-centred design principles. A total of 36 participants, including nine individuals with dementia and 27 family caregivers from the Macedonian and Italian communities in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region of NSW, Australia, collaborated with ADHERe researchers and the Multicultural Health Service. Data were collected through co-designed focus groups and interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Participant feedback was regularly incorporated to ensure the framework reflected their lived experiences and needs. Key barriers to dementia care included emotional and psychological strain contributing to caregiver burden, social isolation limiting peer support, language difficulties hindering communication with health-care providers and cultural misunderstanding impacting service uptake. Participants emphasised the importance of face-to-face interactions, culturally relevant educational programs and practical guidance from health-care professionals to improve dementia care and support. This study highlighted the need for a culturally tailored, community-driven dementia care framework. Piloting a dementia education program with the Macedonian and Italian communities will provide valuable insights for expanding support to other CALD groups, promoting more inclusive and accessible dementia care.

Reflective syllabus design: exploring Vietnamese tertiary EFL teachers’ perceptions of syllabus revision as a practice of reflective teaching

ABSTRACT This study investigates the perceptions of Vietnamese tertiary English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers on course syllabus revisions as a practice of reflective teaching. Adopting a qualitative research design, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with nine EFL teachers from two educational institutions in Vietnam, representing various stages of teaching careers. Thematic analysis uncovered insights into how these teachers perceive and engage with syllabus revisions. The findings reveal that teachers view syllabus revision as an integral component of reflective teaching, emphasizing its role in adapting to student needs, integrating new methodologies, and ensuring pedagogical effectiveness. The study highlights benefits of syllabus revisions, including enhanced responsiveness to student needs and professional development. However, it also identifies challenges such as institutional constraints and resource limitations. These findings suggest the need for institutional support focusing on syllabus design and revision. This study contributes to the understanding of reflective teaching practices and highlights the importance of syllabus revision in maintaining the effectiveness of language education.

Consumer Attitudes and Perceptions Towards Electric Vehicles

The study concentrates on the consumer’s attitudes and perceptions towards electric vehicles (EVs) in Punjab, India. Second it fills a ‘gap’ in research—there is a need for studies on long term behavioural changes related to sustainability awareness. A quantitative research design was applied and data generated from the use of a structured question were analyzed using SPSS. Just two statistical tools were used to peruse demographic patterns and trends and factors analysis to identify drivers for EV adoption. As a first step, I confirmed the dataset usability for factor analysis through Kaiser Meyner Olkin (KMO) value of 0.733 and Bartlett’s Test (p &lt; 0.001). Despite the fact that a large 71.4% of respondents considered EVs to be environmentally beneficial, only 58.9% indicated a willingness to switch solely on environmental grounds. The two key barriers were high pricing, charging infrastructure and range anxiety. Based on empirical results, seven key factors that influence EV adoption were identified and the government incentives, peer influence and safety perceptions were found to be the strongest of these components. Practical solutions will bridge the gap between attitude and behavior to complement environmental messages. Keywords: Environmental attribute, Government policy, Social acceptance, Attitude, Perceived behaviour

Men and masculinities in entrepreneurial ecosystems: entrepreneurial leaders’ perspectives on gender bias interventions

PurposeThis study examines how male entrepreneurial leaders perceive and engage with gender bias interventions, highlighting their varied roles in challenging dominant masculinities within entrepreneurial ecosystems and advancing gender diversity.Design/methodology/approachUsing a qualitative research design, we conducted a single-case study of a medium-sized technology startup located in one of Europe’s leading startup ecosystems. This methodology allowed us to gain in-depth insights into a revelatory case while minimizing potential self-selection biases in our sample.FindingsThe analysis reveals a spectrum of attitudes among male entrepreneurial leaders toward gender bias interventions. These attitudes, and ultimately men’s willingness to challenge dominant masculine norms within entrepreneurial ecosystems, are shaped by factors such as their awareness of gender biases, perceived responsibility to address them, capacity for empathy with women in male-dominated environments, and prior experiences with gender bias interventions.Originality/valueWhile previous research has critiqued the limitations of “fixing the women” approaches in fostering gender-inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems, this study shifts the focus to addressing how to “fix the system” and its inherent gender biases. The role of men in either perpetuating or challenging hegemonic masculinities through gender bias interventions has been largely neglected in existing literature. By addressing this gap, our study provides both theoretical insights and practical recommendations for creating more effective gender diversity initiatives within entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Instructional Scaffolding and Metacognitive Strategies of Language Teachers in Public Secondary Schools

This study examines the relationship between instructional scaffolding and metacognitive strategies of language teachers in selected public secondary schools in the Division of Island Garden City of Samal. A descriptive-correlational research design was used with a sample of 132 language teachers. Data were collected through standardized questionnaires administered via face-to-face surveys. The data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation (SD), Pearson product-moment correlation, and multiple linear regression analyses. The results revealed that both instructional scaffolding and metacognitive strategies were rated very high. Correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between these variables. Furthermore, specific domains of instructional scaffolding, including situation, visual, question stems, graphic organizers, and processing, were found to significantly influence teachers' metacognitive strategies. It is recommended that school administrators focus on further strengthening instructional scaffolding to enhance the development of metacognitive strategies among teachers. Promoting teacher collaboration, providing professional development opportunities, and encouraging reflective practices will help sustain strong levels of metacognitive strategies and improve teaching effectiveness in schools.

An Evaluation of Stakeholder Management Performance in County Government-Funded Construction Projects: A Case of Machakos County

Stakeholder management is a pivotal aspect of construction projects funded by county governments in Kenya. Effective stakeholder management is essential for aligning project objectives with the diverse needs of all the stakeholders involved. In Kenya, public infrastructure projects often face challenges such as delays and budget overruns. Therefore, robust stakeholder management practices are essential for ensuring successful project implementation. The specific objectives of this study were to determine the current state of stakeholder management performance in County government-funded construction projects, to establish the existing stakeholder management practices in County Government-funded construction projects, and to establish the influence of stakeholder management practices on stakeholder management performance in County Government-funded construction projects. The study adopted a survey research design. The data was collected using questionnaires and measured using a 5-point Likert scale. Simple stratified sampling was used to identify the 254 respondents. The respondents included contractors, project consultants, end users, ward development officers, PMC representatives, ward administrators, and village administrators. The collected data was coded and entered into Statistical Packages for Social Scientists (SPSS) and analysed using descriptive statistics. The multiple regression analysis method was used to determine if a relationship existed between the dependent and independent variables. The overall level of stakeholder management performance had a mean of 2.25. This research established that stakeholder management practices are statistically significant in explaining the stakeholder management performance in construction projects funded by the County in Machakos County. Additionally, this study concluded that the level of stakeholder management performance was low in Machakos County. Finally, the study recommended that counties should prioritise stakeholder management training through well-organised awareness campaigns.

Abstract 3614: Examining social networks within public housing to better direct cancer screening interventions for Pacific Islanders

Background: Social networks and social interactions play an important role in an individual’s health and cancer screening behaviors. We examined the relationship between types of social interactions to better understand where to direct efforts for cancer screening interventions for Pacific Islanders (PIs) in Hawaiʻi (Native Hawaiians, Chuukese, and Marshallese adults) in public housing communities where PIs are often overrepresented. Methods: We utilized a mixed methods research design, examining an existing survey dataset of 1,010 PIs and 16 semi-structured interviews from the same sites where we surveyed individuals, to determine the role of social networks on health outcomes within PIs living in public housing. As a measure of social networks, we formed a social network index from three survey items, including, the number of individuals a person knows personally, interacts with, and discusses personal matters with utilizing a range of 0-9 for each item. Findings from the 16 semi-structured interviews regarding social networks used by individuals for information sharing and with whom participants discussed personal health matters provided qualitative data used for examining the social network index. We applied means testing between the groups (515 Native Hawaiians, 305 Chuukese, 180 and Marshallese) to determine if there were differences in the groups’ social networks, and grounded theory to extract the major themes from the narratives. Results: Interviewees discussed the role of small social circles consisting of their families and households for information and health resource sharing. Within the dataset, Chuukese had significantly smaller personal networks (x̅= 4.05, p=.003); however, they had significantly more individuals (x̅= 4.90, p=.04) with whom they would discuss personal matters, more than Native Hawaiian and Marshallese adults. Marshallese indicated significantly more individuals (x̅= 5.10, p=.04) that they have interacted with over the past two weeks. Conclusions: Chuukese adults have small personal networks; however, their small social circles used to discuss personal and important matters is larger than the other groups, Marshallese and Native Hawaiian. This thus indicates more meaningful social networks for this group. Marshallese adults may interact with more people; however, they did not indicate more close relationships than Chuukese to discuss personal matters. These findings indicate social networks and the type and frequency of social interactions have meaningful roles in health and cancer information sharing for PIs. Future interventions must recognize the frequency and types of meaningful social networks within PIs to potentially change cancer screening behaviors by increasing resource sharing within the most valuable networks. Citation Format: Mark L. Willingham, Kevin Cassel, Ian Pagano, Grazyna Badowski. Examining social networks within public housing to better direct cancer screening interventions for Pacific Islanders [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 3614.

Embracing human centric marketing for enhanced firm performance: the role of innovation strategy in India

Purpose The purpose of this study is to provide valuable insights to academics as well as practitioners looking for ways to improve their firm performance by judiciously focusing on marketing strategy, i.e. Marketing 5.0. Design/methodology/approach Using a mixed-method approach, a cross-sectional survey is conducted using 396 responses from an emerging economy setting. Analysis was conducted using a sequential research design, where qualitative interviews are conducted before the quantitative phase. Findings The findings suggest that firms should focus on building the right strategies using Marketing 5.0, thereby enhancing technology capability and absorptive capacity to promote open and eco-innovations. Originality/value This paper offers integrative and holistic implications to firms looking for ways to improve their overall performance using open and eco-innovations.

AI IN PULMONARY FUNCTION ANALYSIS: REVOLUTIONISING THE DIAGNOSIS OF OBSTRUCTIVE AND RESTRICTIVE LUNG DISEASES

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration for pulmonary function analysis. AI as it foreshadows a new era of pulmonary function diagnosis of obstructive and restrictive lung disease. These AI-based assistants promise to deliver greater accuracy and efficiency, improved automation, and smoother workflow in lung function exploration, yet the acceptance level among the health workforce still needs comprehensive scrutiny. Background: This study investigates acceptance of AI as well as perceived usefulness, ease of use, and associated barriers/challenges in the clinical setting. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was used including data collection via a structured questionnaire based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) for assessing AI use by 273 healthcare professionals. The survey measured major determinants including Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEU), Attitude Toward AI (AT), Behavioral Intention to Use AI (BIU), and Perceived Risks. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, reliability testing (Cronbach's Alpha), correlation analysis, and regression modelling. Results: The fact that the responses were positively skewed indicates that overall, healthcare professionals have a positive perception of AI in terms of usefulness and ease of use. However, internal consistency was poor (Cronbach’s Alpha = -0.194) , indicating the need for survey instrument refinement. The R² value of the regression analysis (R² = 0.036) indicates PU, PEU, and AT predict only 3.6% of the variance explained in BIU, leading to future research directions such as institutional policies, ethical concerns, and prior AI experience that can affect the actual usage of AI. Normal distribution of data is ruled out by the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, indicating that non-parametric statistical tests may be needed in further studies. Conclusion: The currently provided pulmonary function AI technology is widely accepted by healthcare professionals but healthcare practitioners are not aware of AI in pulmonary function analysis and only the perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness are not enough to drive AI adoption in the healthcare profession. The need to consider additional factors, including trust in AI, regulatory frameworks, and organizational support is important for future research, as highlighted in the study. By addressing these challenges, AI-powered pulmonary diagnostics can be effectively executed, ultimately enhancing disease detection and Uber, patient outcomes, and clinical decision-making.

Corporate Sustainability Reporting and Firm Growth of Hotel and Tourism Companies Listed in Nigeria: A Moderating Role of Ownership Structure

The study examined the effect of moderating effect of ownership structure on the relationship between corporate sustainability reporting and firm growth in Nigeria listed Hotels and Tourism firms. The study employed ex-post facto research design to sample four (4) Hotels and Tourism firms listed on the Nigeria Exchange Group (NGX) for the period 2014 to 2023. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation matrix and panel estimation method. Using panel regression analysis on data from four firms, findings reveal that environmental sustainability reporting has a significant positive effect on firm growth, while social sustainability reporting does not. Ownership structure positively moderates the relationship between environmental reporting and firm growth, but negatively moderates the social sustainability-growth link.The study recommended that regulatory agencies like the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) should mandate hotel and tourism businesses to disclose on issues relating to energy use and emissions, water management, waste management and biodiversity and land use because they impact greatly on the environment and its disclosure contributes positively to the growth of the firm.

Rabies Vaccination and Public Health Insights in the Extended Arabian Gulf and Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Scoping Review

Background and Aim: This systematic scoping review examines rabies-related incidents, interventions, and post-exposure immunoprophylaxis in the Arabian Gulf region and Saudi Arabian Peninsula. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Scopus, WoS, MedLine, and Cochrane Library up to July 2024. Studies were included discussing the reported cases of rabies that received the PEP in all countries of the Arabian Gulf, their epidemiological data, the received schedules of vaccination, and their safety. The search was done by using the following terminologies: rabies vaccine, rabies human diploid cell vaccine, vaccine, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Southwest Asia, Iran, West Asia, Western Asia, Persian Gulf, Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Ajam, Saudi Arabian Peninsula, and The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Results: The systematic scoping review included 36 studies, synthesizing findings from diverse research designs, including large-scale cross-sectional studies and case reports, spanning nearly three decades. Findings indicated that young males in urban areas are most at risk for animal bites, predominantly from domestic dogs and cats. While post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) was generally administered within recommended timeframes, vaccination completion rates varied. Conclusions: The review highlighted gaps in public awareness about rabies risks and prevention. Vaccine safety profiles were generally favorable, with mostly mild-to-moderate side effects reported. The study underscores the need for enhanced public health education, standardized PEP protocols, and a One Health approach to rabies prevention.

Social marketing and consumer behavior: a bibliometric analysis

Abstract This research offers insights to both researchers and policymakers to address major societal issues through the lens of social marketing and consumer behavior research from the Web of Science relevant empirical evidence that may aid in planning interventions in the future. The publication, leveraging bibliometric analysis using R-Biblioshiny, examines research design parameters, techniques to gather data, means of analysis, visualization, and interpretation frameworks. Using Bradford and Lotka’s laws as well as intellectual, social, and conceptual structure analyses, the study illustrates the significance of the previous literature in sharing impactful research. Results suggest that social marketing and consumer behavior research, which was originally developed in the USA, has gained traction internationally through increasing levels of collaboration and citation activity. Features covering wellness, ecology, accident prevention, and community development show how the industry has the potential to address some important issues for society. This study identifies leading authors, publications, and gaps in the literature providing a roadmap for academics and practitioners alike on the direction of future research and policies, thus enhancing the understanding and use of social marketing and consumer behavior.

Examining the Effectiveness of Project Management in&lt;b&gt; t&lt;/b&gt;he Agricultural Sector of Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone, like in most developing countries, faces acute problem of projects failure, more especially agricultural projects, due to the short fall of project management best practices. The study employed descriptive quantitative and qualitative research design and employed judgmental sampling in the selection of 60 respondents from four Agricultural Projects in the Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Food Security (MAFFS). The results presented for all the phases from planning to implementation of the projects investigated revealed that best project management practices, to a very large extent, were followed by the Projects Implementation Units (PIUs) of MAFFS. The study further revealed effective management of resources as resources were available on time, projects tracked against their plan, their were effective communications, and effective monitoring and evaluation of most of these agricultural projects.

Urban Forestscapes

This issue of SPOOL elaborates a designerly perspective on urban forestry. Evidence has increased rapidly in the recent years to confirm the agency of trees and urban forests to cure a number of ills besetting urban societies. An expanding range of disciplines, in varying and novel combinations, are turning to an urban version of forestry to re-configure green (and grey) infrastructures, re-write neighbourhoods, re-purpose derelict territories and re-vitalize disparate peripheries. As such, in the face of the growing number of challenges facing cities globally, we see that urban trees and forests are becoming increasingly central to spatial planning and design practise. And yet, with all this work done on the environmental, ecological, technical and recently also urbanism-related aspects of urban forestry (cf. Journal of Landscape Architecture 1/2023), its site-specific, spatial, aesthetical, and cultural dimensions have received less attention in research. For us as SPOOL editors, this is an invitation to focus on trees and forests from the vantage point of landscape architecture and the related thread of SPOOL, called ‘landscape metropolis’. This thematic thread addresses the dynamic, composite, and layered urban landscape with all its biotic and abiotic elements from a design perspective, with the intent to transcend the conventional city-countryside dichotomy, and to understand landscape as a permanent underlying subtext of the urban condition, with repercussions into the remotest corners of the globe. From a landscape metropolis perspective, cities are understood as complex territorial mosaics where the conventional categories of urban and non-urban give way to a mix of material environments in various stages of ‘naturalness’, or to put it another way: natures in various stages of becoming ‘cultured’. Building on the potentials of an alternative reading of the urban territory then, in this issue we feature a number of select authors who elaborate on this condition, expanding on a designerly frame of knowing and doing in urban forestry. Publication formats also help: besides regular papers, visual essays are featured as a lesser-known yet highly appropriate category of exploration for design research.

Hepatobiliary disorders and Direct-Acting Antiviral (DAA) therapies: real-world evidence and insights from the EudraVigilance database

ABSTRACT Background The introduction of Direct-Acting Antivirals (DAA) brought about a breakthrough in the treatment of HCV. This study aims to analyze the hepatic safety profile of Harvoni® (sofosbuvir/ledipasvir), Epclusa® (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir), and Vosevi® (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir) through a review of the Individual Case Safety Reports (ICSRs) reported in EudraVigilance (EV). Research design and methods ICSRs with adverse events (AE) belonging to the system organ class (SOC) hepatobiliary disorders were retrieved from the EV database. A descriptive analysis was performed. Reporting odds ratios (ROR) were calculated to assess the reporting frequency of hepatobiliary disorders among the DAA combinations. Results Out of 5,552 ICSRs reported between January 2018 and December 2023, 1,942 were for Harvoni®, 3,180 for Epclusa® and 430 for Vosevi®. Three hundred and thirty-nine ICSRs reported 1,616 PT within the SOC hepatobiliary disorders. Harvoni® showed a statistically significant lower frequency of reporting for the hepatobiliary disorders SOC when compared to Epclusa® and Vosevi® (ROR, 0.33; 95% CI [0.26–0.41] and ROR 0.31; 95% CI [0.19–0.48], respectively). Conclusion Harvoni® showed a lower reporting frequency of hepatobiliary disorders and fewer drug ineffectiveness reports, suggesting it may be preferred over Epclusa® and Vosevi® in patients with preexisting liver or biliary conditions.