Industry Support Research Articles

Creating employment and reducing emissions: Options for South Africa

ABSTRACT South Africa faces huge challenges of poverty and unemployment, yet at the same time, needs to make a contribution to climate action. Historically, our pattern of development gave rise to the ‘minerals-energy complex’, locking us into low employment and high emissions development. It has proved difficult to change this structure, with political economy interests opposing shifts and high adjustment costs. We analyse policy instruments that can reshape the development path: reducing incentives to capital-intensive and high emissions heavy industry, ending direct and indirect support for cheap electricity, and removing fossil fuel subsidies. Industrial policy should pay attention to creating comparative advantage in more labour-demanding sectors. Agriculture can create employment, while enhancing carbon sinks. Based on our exploration of such policy instruments, we suggest that future development can align employment and mitigation objectives, seeking synergies across industrial, energy, and climate policy, while at the same time managing trade-offs.

Assessing the Environmental and Economic Impacts on Industry Informatization for Ningxia’s Renewable Energy Development

This paper analyzes the informatization process of Ningxia's renewable energy industry, its impact on the environment and economy, and uses the coupling coordination degree and grey correlation method to construct a system covering government policies, technological progress, new energy development trends, natural environment and other factors, which can comprehensively evaluate the informatization process in Ningxia and the impact on local renewable energy. Firstly, the coupling coordination degree is used to calculate the relationship between industrial information and renewable energy, and then the gray correlation analysis method is used to evaluate the impact index of Ningxia's renewable energy industry informatization, and corresponding suggestions are taken. The results of the model analysis show that the informatization of Ningxia's renewable energy industry can have a positive impact on the environment and economic development, and there is a strong correlation between the informatization process of Ningxia's renewable industry and government support, Ningxia's economic level, and natural environment quality. The process of informatization is closely related to government policies, technological progress, new energy development trends, and environmental factors, and the optimization of the new energy structure can improve the sustainability of Ningxia's economy, so improving the above content can promote the development process of renewable energy in Ningxia.

A decade of robotic beating-heart totally endoscopic coronary bypass (TECAB) at a single institution: Outcomes with 10-year follow-up

ObjectiveRobotic beating-heart totally endoscopic coronary bypass (TECAB) is performed using single or bilateral internal thoracic arteries with good results. Despite slow adoption and limited industry support, we have evolved our practice and continue to routinely perform TECAB. We describe our series of 874 patients undergoing robotic beating-heart TECAB with up to 10-year follow-up. MethodsA retrospective review of all patients (n = 874) undergoing robotic beating-heart TECAB (July 2013 to April 2024) was performed. Patients were contacted for midterm follow-up, and angiographic data were collected in those undergoing hybrid revascularization. Multivariate regression analysis and Cox proportional hazard modeling were used to analyze risk factors for early/midterm outcomes. Primary end points were midterm all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiac/cerebrovascular events. ResultsMean Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 1.5 ± 2.2%. In total, 470 (54%) underwent multivessel TECAB, of whom 86% received bilateral internal thoracic arteries. There was 1 intraoperative conversion (0.11%). Mean length of stay was 2.3 ± 0.8 days. Hospital mortality was 0.80% (observed/expected 0.54). A total of 393 patients (45%) underwent hybrid revascularization. Early graft patency was 97% (left internal thoracic artery-left anterior descending artery patency 98%). Midterm follow-up was 100% at mean 48 months (longest 10.6 years). Cardiac-related mortality and all-cause mortality were 2.2% and 18%, respectively. Freedom from major adverse cardiac/cerebrovascular events was 93%. In multivariate analysis, left-main disease ≥70% was a risk factor for midterm cardiac mortality (odds ratio, 6.7; confidence interval, 1.9-24, P = .003). ConclusionsIn this series of 874 patients with up to 10-year follow-up, we show that robotic TECAB can be performed with excellent early and midterm results using an iterative approach, despite significant challenges. Further industry support and wider surgeon adoption are necessary to ensure sustainability of this procedure.

The Development Dilemmas, Causes, and Countermeasures of China's Sports Rehabilitation Training Industry

In recent years, with people's increasing emphasis on health, the demand for China's sports rehabilitation training industry has been continuously increasing. In this context, it can provide more development momentum for the sports rehabilitation training industry, which is conducive to the continuous improvement of related medical technology, promote the continuous development of sports medicine integration, and better serve the general public. But in the continuous development of the sports rehabilitation training industry, many difficulties have also been encountered. This study mainly used literature research and logical analysis methods, combined with the current development trend and professional development of the sports rehabilitation training industry, to analyze market demand, professional talent cultivation, and the development of laws and regulations, and propose a series of improvement measures, which can be more accurate for the future development direction of the sports rehabilitation training industry. From a social point of view, it is necessary to strengthen the health awareness of some people and improve the training and professionalism of professional talents. For the government, it is to strengthen support for the sports rehabilitation training industry and strive to cultivate more compound sports rehabilitation talents, which can lay a solid foundation for the better development of the sports rehabilitation training industry.

Exploring the Impact of Financial Development on Water–Energy Efficiency in Western China

The western region of China is a fundamental ecological protection barrier for China. The conflict between regional economic development and ecological environmental protection has always existed in the region. This study first evaluated the water–energy efficiency (WEE) of 11 provinces in western China from 2011 to 2019 using the super-slacks-based model with undesirable outputs and analyzed their spatiotemporal characteristics. It then investigated the influence of financial development level on WEE. The results indicate that (a) the WEE in Western China was at a relatively low level, showing an upward trend from 2011 to 2016 and fluctuating after 2016; (b) financial development levels had U-shaped impacts on the WEE of Western China, which reduced at first and then rose; (c) increasing technological innovation capabilities and trade openness had positive impacts on WEE in Western China, while urbanization level had a negative effect on WEE; and (d) an examination of robustness using two different methods showed that the test results are consistent with the above conclusions. Therefore, this study has robustness. We also put forward corresponding policy suggestions, such as increasing financial support for clean and low-carbon industries, increasing input in science and technology, vigorously developing cleaner and environmentally friendly foreign trade, and implementing a new type of urbanization strategy, to promote the WEE of Western China.

Impacts of COVID-19 on the Building Construction Industry in Nepal

The COVID-19 epidemic has created unprecedented challenges for global economies, affecting every industry, including the building construction industry in Nepal as well. This research aims to examine the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on the building construction industry in Nepal. This study examines institutional, psychological, individual, operational, contractual, and financial factors. To achieve the objective, data were collected from 330 Nepalese construction professionals using a structured Likert scale questionnaire and analyzed with Smart PLS version 3 software for partial least squares structural equation modeling. The reliability and validity of both the measurement and structural models were tested and found satisfactory. All six factors were found to be significant at a 5% level of significance. Among all factors, the institutional factor was found as the most significant factor with a t-value of 7.654 and a beta value of 0.679, emphasizing the crucial role of institutional support in Nepal's building construction industry. The psychological factor also emerged as the second most significant influential factor (t value: 6.087, beta value: 0.463), underscoring the profound effect on the mental well-being of professionals in the field. The finding highlights the critical importance of institutional support and the profound influence of psychological factors on the well-being of construction professionals, necessitating targeted interventions to support the industry's recovery and resilience.

КРЕАТИВНЫЕ ИНДУСТРИИ КАК СПЕЦИФИЧЕСКИЙ СЕКТОР СФЕРЫ УСЛУГ

The modern economy is undergoing processes of structural transformation. The economies of developed countries go through these transformations somewhat earlier, and the economies of developing countries - with a time shift. At the same time, one of the general fundamental trends is a decrease in the share of traditional sectors, in particular industry, in the output structure. As a result, there is a transition to a post-industrial economy. The transformation processes do not end there. The quantitatively developing tertiary (service) sector of the economy is also changing its structure. It highlights the creative economy sector, which is based on creative industries. This is a specific sector of the modern service industry. The article analyzes the role of creative industries as a specific sector of the service sector in the context of the transition from an industrial type of production to a post-industrial one. The author emphasizes the influence of creative industries on economic development and innovation, based on an analysis of changes in the structure of employment and the specifics of consumption in developed countries. Particular attention is paid to how the expansion and deepening of creative industries contributes to economic progress, greater innovation and changes in the nature and structure of employment, transforming society as a whole. The article also examines trends in the development of creative industries and their ability to adapt to the rapidly changing conditions of the global market, emphasizing their role in the formation of a model of sustainable economic and social development. The need to strengthen government support for creative industries is pointed out, because they can become one of the key factors in ensuring Russia's competitiveness in a post-normal world.

Role of Biosecurity Measures in Controlling Infectious Diseases in Poultry Farms in Thailand

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the role of biosecurity measures in controlling infectious diseases in poultry farms in Thailand. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: In Thailand, stringent biosecurity measures are pivotal in curbing infectious diseases in poultry farms. These measures, including controlled farm access, equipment disinfection, waste management, and quarantine protocols for new birds, effectively reduce the incidence and transmission of diseases like avian influenza and Newcastle disease. Government regulations and industry support bolster these efforts, emphasizing collaboration to ensure robust disease prevention. Challenges such as cost constraints and varying compliance levels underscore the ongoing need for innovation and improved practices to safeguard the poultry industry and ensure sustainable production. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Health belief model (HBM), systems theory & social cognitive theory (SCT) may be used to anchor future studies on role of biosecurity measures in controlling infectious diseases in poultry farms in Thailand. Practice-oriented contributions emphasize ongoing training programs for farm workers and stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and compliance with biosecurity protocols. Biosecurity practices contribute to policy development by informing the formulation of regulatory standards and guidelines that mandate minimum biosecurity requirements for poultry farms.

Peran Strategis Nikel dalam Logistik Militer dan Dukungan Industri: Tinjauan Kebijakan dan Peluang

Nickel, a critical element in defense applications, plays a strategic role in military logistics and industrial support. This paper reviews the strategic importance of nickel in military logistics, evaluates the impact of policies and regulations on nickel supply for military purposes, and explores opportunities for enhancing nickel's role in defense applications. This qualitative research study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of nickel's significance in military logistics and identify avenues for optimizing its utilization in defense systems. Using secondary data sources including academic journals, government reports, and industry publications, this study employs qualitative research methods to analyze the strategic importance of nickel, assess the influence of policies and regulations on its supply, and identify opportunities for enhancing its role in military logistics. Findings reveal the multifaceted role of nickel in defense equipment, the complexities of policies and regulations governing its supply chain, and the potential for innovation and collaboration to enhance its utilization in military applications. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive review of the strategic role of nickel in military logistics, the analysis of policy impacts on nickel supply, and the identification of opportunities for enhancing its role in defense applications. Keywords: military logistics, nickel, policies, regulations

Accounting calendar and cyclic ageing factors in diagnostic and prognostic models of second-life EV batteries application in energy storage systems

The rapid expansion of the electric vehicle market has significantly increased the demand for lithium-ion batteries, posing challenges for manufacturers and policymakers regarding efficient use and recycling. When these batteries reach the end of their primary lifecycle, their repurposing for secondary applications such as energy storage becomes critical to addressing environmental and resource management issues. This paper focuses on applying second-life batteries in energy storage systems, emphasizing the importance of accounting for calendar and cyclic aging factors to optimize battery performance and longevity. Calendar aging refers to the degradation that occurs over time due to chemical reactions within the battery, even when it is not in use. This type of aging is influenced by temperature, state of charge (SOC), and storage conditions. Cyclic aging, on the other hand, results from repeated charging and discharging cycles, which cause mechanical and chemical changes within the battery, leading to capacity fade and increased internal resistance. The combined effects of these aging processes necessitate the development of high-precision diagnostic and prognostic models to manage the performance and longevity of second-life batteries effectively. In Ukraine, the adoption of electric vehicles is accelerating, leading to an influx of used electric vehicles. This situation necessitates the prompt development of strategies for repurposing these batteries for energy storage applications. The complexities associated with final recycling processes make secondary use an attractive interim solution. By repurposing used EV batteries, Ukraine can mitigate immediate challenges related to battery waste and resource scarcity while supporting the transition to renewable energy sources. This paper highlights the need for an integral degradation index (DI) that combines calendar and cyclic aging factors with stochastic influences to provide a comprehensive measure of battery health. Such an index is essential for optimizing battery management practices, including the scheduling of charging and discharging cycles, to extend the operational life of secondary batteries. The study also presents practical recommendations for implementing these models in various energy storage scenarios, ranging from residential solar energy systems to industrial grid support and electric vehicle charging stations. By adopting optimized battery management strategies, the potential for extending the lifespan of secondary batteries and reducing operational costs is significant. This approach supports sustainable energy practices and aligns with global efforts to promote renewable energy sources and circular economy principles. Keywords: Lithium-Ion Battery, Electric Vehicle, Energy Storage, Battery Degradation, Calendar Ageing, Cyclic Ageing, Integral Degradation Index, Remaining Useful Life, State of Health.

Ethical Dilemmas and Copyright Challenges among Independent Artists in Kenya's Music Industry

This qualitative phenomenological research aims to find out the ethical dilemmas around revenue generation and copyright practices among independent artists in Kenya. The study delves into various aspects, including collective management organisations (CMOs), copyright laws, governmental policies, exploitative practices, and regulatory frameworks, through an extensive analysis of existing literature and qualitative data. It reveals that while Kenya's music industry has experienced substantial growth with the introduction of new music genres and disruptive innovations, it still struggles with systemic barriers that limit the welfare and success of independent artists. Governmental policies and copyright laws revealed gaps in protecting independent artists' intellectual property rights. The study shed light on issues such as corruption, mismanagement, and failure to distribute royalties to artists fairly, with a close examination of CMOs, thus calling for the need for increased transparency and accountability. These issues are linked to numerous challenges, including inadequate industry support, limited access to resources, and unfair compensation. Exploitative practices conducted by industry participants and intermediaries are subjecting independent artists to illegitimate contractual agreements, delayed royalties, and predatory behaviours from industry participants. The presence of weak regulations magnifies these concerns, resulting in the degradation of artists' rights and limited recourse in cases of copyright infringements or contractual disputes. This research, therefore, calls for regulatory reforms and industry-wide interventions to address these structural barriers and to give light on how to promote a more sustainable and equitable music ecosystem in Kenya. The study recommends the strengthening of copyright enforcement mechanisms, improving transparency and accountability within CMOs, and establishing tailored support systems for independent artists.

Industry payments and implicit bias in cardiothoracic surgery: Difference in industry payments to cardiothoracic surgeons by gender

ObjectiveIndustry payments, as sources of revenue and prestige, may contribute to gender implicit bias. We examined industry payments to cardiothoracic surgeons to determine differences with respect to gender while accounting for practice focus and experience. MethodsPayments to cardiothoracic surgeons from 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022 were abstracted from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Open Payment database. Data were restricted to individual payments >$1000 and the following payment criteria: consulting fees, compensation for services other than consulting, honoraria, education, compensation for serving as faculty or as a speaker for a nonaccredited and noncertified continuing education program, and grant. Physician profiles were queried for gender, practice type, and year of last fellowship completion. Descriptive statistics were reported based on these factors. ResultsIn 2014, 509 cardiothoracic surgeons (497 men and 12 women) received meaningful industry payments. Male surgeons received $10,471,192 (99.3%) with median payment of $6500 and mean of $21,069, whereas women received $70,310 (0.7%) with median of $3500 and mean of $5859. In 2022, 674 cardiothoracic surgeons (613 men and 61 women) received industry payments, with men receiving $10,967,855 (92.4%) with a median payment of $6611 and mean of $17,892 and women receiving $905,431 (7.6%) with a median payment of $6000 and mean of $14,843. ConclusionsIndustry payments to women increased from 2014 to 2022 as the proportion of women in practice rose. Industry support of women, with increases in compensation and roles as speakers, consultants, and educators, offers a potential strategy to combat implicit bias within cardiothoracic surgery.

A Model for Cybersecurity Education through Challenge Events

AbstractThe INCOSE Vision 2035 sets an important Cybersecurity goal: “Cybersecurity will be as foundational a perspective in systems design as system performance and safety are today”. A critical enabler of achieving this vision is educating cyber informed engineers and professionals. Across industries, the demand for talented cybersecurity professionals is high, which means the personnel and students need inspirational education and training to fill these opportunities. This is particularly the case for complex systems in transportation, maritime, agriculture, aerospace, energy, and industries that rely on operational technology implemented with embedded systems. This broad category of sectors need talent and community to address cybersecurity concerns. Often these economic sectors have systems with long lifecycles, regulations, market forces, or other constraints that preclude security solutions envisioned for information technologies. To address the needs for cybersecurity personnel for these industries, a model for developing talent and building community is explained in general terms with specific examples as it relates to automotive, heavy duty, maritime, and agriculture. The model describes the CyberX Challenge, where X is an industry sector, such as the CyberAuto Challenge, CyberTruck Challenge, CyberBoat Challenge, and CyberTractor Challenge. These Challenge Events are described in detail with a focus on the characteristics of what makes those successful or difficult. The successful events have strong industry support, elite instructors, and motivated students. The model for the event is described in detail, with the intention that other industry verticals may inspire additional students and further build communities able to address cyberthreats to our modern way of life. This work directly contributes solutions to addressing the needed foundational concept of Security Education and Competency development as highlighted by the INCOSE FuSE working group.

A Review of Research on Marine Main Propulsion Systems

Ship power, as an essential component of ship engineering, directly affects the navigation performance, economy, and environmental friendliness of ships. This article reviews the development history of ship power, introduces the main propulsion devices including internal combustion engines, steam engines, and electric motors, and discusses the structure and optimization design of ship power systems. Modern ship power technology includes traditional diesel and gasoline engines, as well as new power devices such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) engines, hybrid power systems, and fuel cells. Electric ships are gaining attention due to their efficiency and environmental benefits. In the future, ship power technology will develop towards green environmental protection, intelligence, integration, diversification, and digitization, providing more reliable and efficient power support for the shipping industry and the advancement of ship engineering.

Effective Packaging Design as an Empowerment Strategy for Household MSMEs: A Participatory Learning and Action Approach

Empowering Household Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is a primary focus in local economic development and community economics. One crucial aspect in enhancing the competitiveness and capabilities of Household MSMEs is effective packaging design. Packaging design is not merely about visual aesthetics but also about functionality and interaction with consumers. The Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) method is utilized to develop effective packaging designs, involving MSME actors, consumers, and other relevant parties. This PLA approach is expected to assist Household MSMEs in facing tight market competition. This research proposes community empowerment activities through the production of Rempeyek products in one of the MSMEs in Majalengka, using the PLA method. The success evaluation of the activities is conducted through the four-level evaluation model (Kirkpatrick), covering reaction, learning, behavior, and results. The evaluation results show an improvement in participants' knowledge, understanding, and skills in packaging design. The overall scores indicate that these activities successfully achieve the Kirkpatrick evaluation goals. Recommendations to enhance the implementation of this service development include increasing the capacity of project participants, addressing deeper issues, local government support, and support for domestic industries. This research demonstrates that training and mentoring in packaging design can provide significant benefits to Household MSMEs, enhancing product quality, market value, and competitiveness in a competitive market.

The Impact of Low Fertility Rate on Education in China and Its Countermeasures

The change of China's population structure is bound to have a great impact on China's education field. This change has put forward higher requirements for the country's economic and social development. Research on the impact of China's low fertility rate on education and corresponding measures can provide a scientific and powerful basis for government decision-making. This research aims at discussing the influence of low birth rate on Chinese educational development. By analyzing the available documents and positive studies, many factors influence educational development, such as reducing the number of students enrolled, the stress of teachers' job, the unequal allocation of educational resources and the deterioration of educational quality. To address the education challenges of a low birth rate, the following measures are proposed: increase investment in basic education, rationally allocate educational resources, encourage the development of high-quality educational institutions, innovate the education system, and increase support for the education industry. Through these measures, China can provide a better educational environment for the next generation, cultivate outstanding talents, and promote equitable education development. China can overcome the educational challenges brought about by low fertility rates and promote the development of education.

SME support for halal industry and sharia economy in Indonesia: SWOT analysis

Purpose – This study aims to identify and analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats as well as strategies related to micro, small, and medium enterprises (SME) support in the development of the halal industry and the Sharia economy in Indonesia.Methodology – This study used a mixed-method approach in the form of a sequential exploratory design with strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis.Findings – This study highlights the vast number of SMEs and their workforce as significant strengths. However, the lack of digital technology integration among SMEs is a weakness. Opportunities include a large Muslim population and availability of institutions willing to provide loans. However, threats emerge from low awareness among Indonesian Muslims regarding halal products. The proposed strategies include enhancing financing facilities, government subsidy programs, awareness campaigns, ecosystem strengthening, and socialization efforts.Implications – The findings offer practical insights for supporting SMEs, including improving access to financing and increasing awareness among Indonesian Muslims. Socially, the study suggests potential benefits such as fostering economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and promoting the production and consumption of halal products. Overall, this study provides valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders interested in enhancing SME support in Indonesia's halal industry and Islamic economy, with implications for economic and social development.Originality – The study's original contribution lies in its comprehensive analysis of SMEs in Indonesia within the context of the halal industry and Islamic economy.

Research on the influence of fiscal policy uncertainty on corporate strategic investment – Evidence from China

ABSTRACT Corporations should pay attention to various policies issued by The Chinese government when making strategic investment. This paper discusses the influence of fiscal policy uncertainty on corporate strategic investment and its mechanism. The results show that the uncertainty of fiscal policy has a nonlinear effect on strategic investment. With the increase of fiscal policy uncertainty, strategic investment increases first and then decreases. The nonlinear mediation effect model and the nonlinear moderation effect model show that the uncertainty of fiscal policy affects the strategic investment of corporations by influencing corporate financing constraints and investor sentiment, which is weakened by the size of corporations and strengthened by the business environment. Further research shows that the nonlinear effect between fiscal policy uncertainty and strategic investment is stronger in non-state-owned corporations, corporations with a low proportion of independent directors and corporations without industrial policy support. Finally, this paper puts forward some suggestions for The Chinese government and corporations to deal realistically with the uncertainty of fiscal policy.

(085) DAILY CHANGES IN GENITAL PAIN, NON-GENITAL PAIN, AND MOOD, AS PREDICTORS OF SEXUAL DESIRE AND SEX WITH PARTNER: THE ROLE OF POSITIVE MOOD AND THE NEED FOR A POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY OF SEX

Abstract Introduction There is a lack of research using prospective daily reports to study the associations between genital pain, psychological state, and sexual function. Although many studies have examined the relations among these variables, the most common strategy used is one-time retrospective accounts, which are limited by recall bias and the inability to study day-to-day variations in these symptoms. Objective To examine how day-to-day changes in genital pain influence daily changes in negative mood, and how day-to-day changes in genital pain and psychological symptoms are associated with daily changes in sexual desire and having sex with a partner. Methods A sample of 258 women with genital pain completed daily surveys measuring pain symptoms, psychological state, and sexual desire and activity (n=5831 surveys total; M=20.6 surveys per participant). Daily reports of genital pain addressed pain intensity, duration, and type (continuous vs intermittent); daily reports of psychological state addressed feeling depressed, tense/on edge, happy, and attractive/beautiful; and daily reports of non-genital pain addressed headaches and cramps. Presence of menstruation was also queried. Multilevel analyses tested for effects of genital pain on negative mood; and for effects of all pain and psychological symptoms on sexual desire and sex with partner. Results Analyses presented in tables 1 and 2 consider only days when genital pain was present (3316 surveys; 57% of surveys). Analyses including days with no genital pain were also conducted, recoding pain intensity and duration as zero, and excluding pain type, with only minor changes in results which did not change the overall conclusions. Table 1 presents results from models testing for effects of genital pain on feeling depressed and feeling tense/on edge, and show that, controlling for random intercepts of individual participants, feeling depressed was significantly predicted by all three pain scores, whereas feeling tense/on edge was predicted only by pain intensity and duration. Table 2 presents results from models predicting sexual desire/libido and having sex with partner from all predictor variables while controlling for random intercepts of individual participants. Overall, the results from these models show that the strongest and most consistent predictors across the two outcomes were the psychological variables of feeling tense/on edge, feeling happy and feeling attractive. Feeling depressed had no effect on either outcome. Of the genital pain symptoms, only pain duration had an effect on desire, whereas both pain duration and intensity predicted sex with partner. Pain intensity showed a positive association with sex with partner, which likely reflects an increase in pain intensity after having sex. Conclusions The current findings illustrate the potential impact of genital pain on negative emotions, as well as the importance of positive mood (feeling happy and attractive) on sexual desire and activity. Whereas past research has often focused on negative affect as an outcome of genital pain1, and as a predictor of sexual function2, the present study suggests that we give more attention to positive mood and a positive psychology approach3 in addressing the link between genital pain and sexual function. Such an approach may also have broader implications for general wellness. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Data was partially collected using the app “Vulvae”, which is a free-to-use app, and presents no conflict of interest for either of the authors. Clarification: No industry support in study design or execution.

(116) SUBJECTIVE AND GENITAL SEXUAL RESPONSE IN FEMALE BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS: RESULTS FROM A PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGY STUDY

Abstract Introduction Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent concern affecting more than 70% of female breast cancer survivors, casting a substantial shadow on their quality of life. Beyond the physical impact of cancer and its treatments, the emotional and psychological toll of sexual dysfunction introduces additional challenges, amplifying stress levels and undermining overall well-being. Acknowledging the profound implications of sexual dysfunction in this group and the absence of therapies, there is an urgent need to delve deeper into the intricacies of its manifestations. Objective This study aimed to gather preliminary data on psychophysiological aspects of sexual function in premenopausal breast cancer patients undergoing antihormonal therapy and compare them with a healthy control group. Exploring sexual arousal in breast cancer patients may unveil potential targets for innovative treatment strategies to address sexual dysfunction in this population. Methods Participants were prescreened during a telephone interview. We included 40 premenopausal breast cancer survivors with an age range of 29 to 57 years (M = 43.5, SD = 6.36) on current hormonal treatment and 20 healthy controls with an age range of 22 to 35 (M = 27.55, SD = 3.19). Physiological measures (VPA and HRV), subjective sexual arousal (SSA) and self-reported orgasm were assessed in response to audiovisual stimuli and vibrotactile clitoral stimulation sexual stimuli in breast cancer survivors and healthy controls. Self-reported measures like the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Sexual Self-Esteem Inventory (SSEI) und the PROMIS29 were incorporated. Data were analyzed using 2-level mixed effect models. Results No significant differences in VPA scores were observed between healthy controls and breast cancer survivors. Both groups exhibited a greater genital response to clitoral vibrator use than to visual stimuli. Group differences emerged in SSA and HRV, with higher SSA and lower HRV being detected. Breast cancer survivors climaxed less frequently than healthy controls and had significantly lower self-reported sexual function. Conclusions Physiological measures of arousal in breast cancer survivors were comparable to healthy controls and only subjective arousal differed. This finding indicates that subjective arousal should be further explored as the focus of intervention and treatment methods for breast cancer patients experiencing sexual dysfunction. Our findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies that resonate with individual narratives, acknowledging the emotional intricacies of post-cancer sexual well-being. This study not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also calls for a compassionate and personalized treatment paradigm, enriching the landscape of survivorship care. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: WOW Tech GmbH Clarification: No industry support in study design or execution.