Aspects Of Health Research Articles

The effectiveness of dyadic interventions for health outcomes of prostate cancer patients and informal caregivers: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundProstate cancer is a worldwide health issue, and current prostate cancer care extends to the patient‒caregiver dyadic setting, where individuals are interdependent and interact with each other as well as possible negative psychological and behavioural outcomes. However, the impact of dyadic care interventions on health outcome indicators for prostate cancer patients and their informal caregivers has yet to be examined.AimTo describe the characteristics of dyadic interventions involving patients with prostate cancer and their informal caregivers and investigate their effects on psychosocial health, sexual health, and dyadic relationships.MethodsTen electronic databases (Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and SinoMed) were thoroughly searched for related publications published between the database’s founding and April 2024. The risk of bias for the included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, and a meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4.ResultsThis study identified and evaluated 19 RCTs reporting 22 different interventions, as well as outcome indicators for the three aspects of psychosocial health, sexual health, and dyadic relationships in prostate cancer patients and informal caregivers. A meta-analysis of pooled data revealed that for prostate cancer patients, the intervention improved dyadic coping (SMD95% CI [95% CI] = 0.22 [0.01;0.42], p = 0.04), and for informal caregivers the dyadic care intervention reduced anxiety (SMD95% CI [95% CI] = -0.35 [-0.65;-0.06], p = 0.02), enhanced self-efficacy (SMD [95% CI] = 0.22 [0.01;0.43], p = 0.04), and improved sexual functioning (SMD [95% CI] = 0.29 [0.05;0.54], p = 0.02). No statistically significant overall effects were observed for the other outcome indicators.ConclusionThe results of this review indicate that dyadic care interventions benefit prostate cancer patients and informal caregivers. However, given features such as research quality and sample size, further randomized controlled trials with excellent study designs are needed in the future to evaluate and validate the efficacy of dyadic care treatments for patients with prostate cancer.Trial registrationThe protocol for this study is registered in PROSPERO with registration number (CRD42024567542).

Effect of Yoga on Mental Health: An Overview

Self as well as community development depends on mental health, which is a fundamental human right. Mental health problems can affect our thought pattern, mood states and different types of behaviors at every stage of life. A state of mental well-being is known as mental health which enables individuals to fulfill their potential, learn new skills and work productively, overcome obstacles of the life, and contribute back to their communities. This review assessed the effectiveness of Yoga as an intervention for improving mental health and its different aspects. The present review carried out from databases including Google scholar and PubMed using key terms Yoga, mental health, and well-being. Only randomized control trials and experimental studies were included based on their relevance. Inappropriate and qualitative studies were excluded from the present review. On the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria, only seven studies published between 2014 and 2024 have been included for this review. Overall, the studies showed that comprehensive Yoga program is an effective tool to manage different aspects of mental health. The review suggests that Yoga and its various techniques shows considerable improvement in mental health and its various aspects. Yoga is the key to accomplishing both emotional and physical well-being.

Pharmacotherapy and psychological support: Integrating pharmacists into comprehensive cancer care - a literature review.

Cancer presents significant physical and mental challenges to patients. Therefore, psychological assessment is important following a cancer diagnosis, as well as during and after chemotherapy. In cancer treatment, the goal of healthcare providers, including pharmacists, should be to deliver holistic care that addresses important aspects of patients' health, with particular emphasis on their psychological readiness to combat their diseases. This article reviews published literature from Google Scholar and PubMed to examine the relevant pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy approaches to managing psychological issues in cancer patients. This article also discusses how pharmacists can be integrated into cancer patients' mental health care, while highlighting the potential benefits and challenges associated with this approach. We conclude that the integration of pharmacists into psychological care and support for cancer patients holds promise due to their knowledge of cancer chemotherapy, their ability to improve their knowledge about psychological care, and their capacity to collaborate with other healthcare professionals in cancer treatment.

Critical review of management of Garbhasrava

All women aspire to experience the joy of pregnancy and dream of giving birth to a healthy child. The significance of delivering a healthy baby is universally acknowledged. However, from the moment of conception to the point of delivery, the pregnancy journey is susceptible to various potential complications; one such complexity is recurrent abortions. As per Acharya Sushruta, it is known as Garbhasrava for up to four months highlighting the liquid nature of the product of conception. Subsequently in fifth and sixth month it is called as Garbhapata signifying that by this stage, the fetal parts have achieved a degree of stability. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that addresses both preventive and curative aspects of individual health. Ensuring the prevention of Garbhasrava involves adhering to appropriate Garbhini Paricharya practices. The treatment of Garbhasrava, as outlined by Acharya Sushruta, involves the curative approach known as Masanumasik Garbhasravahar Chikitsa. Here an attempt has been undertaken to analyze both the preventive and curative dimensions, aiming to establish a base for clinical practices in the prevention and treatment of Garbhasrava.

Dietary Acid Load and Human Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies.

Dietary acid load (DAL) plays an important role in different aspects of human health. The aim of this meta-analysis was to systematically synthesize the observational evidence reporting on the associations between the DAL (represented by a potential renal acid load [PRAL] and net endogenous acid production [NEAP]) and a range of health outcomes. A systematic search of Medline (via PubMed), EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed to identify eligible studies. Study screening and risk-of-bias assessment were conducted by 2 independent reviewers. The credibility of each outcome was graded based on predefined criteria: pooled effect size with corresponding 95% CI, 95% prediction interval, heterogeneity, small-study effect, and excess significance bias. In total, 118 observational studies (case-control [n = 22], cross-sectional [n = 65], and cohort [n = 31]) on 38 outcomes were included, incorporating a total population of 1 014 081 participants. Overall, 21/37 and 20/38 of the outcomes reported statistically significant effect sizes for PRAL and NEAP, respectively. The credibility of the evidence for PRAL was rated convincing (class I) for type 2 diabetes (T2D), and as highly suggestive evidence (class II) for overall cancer and systolic blood pressure. By assessing the credibility of the evidence for NEAP, T2D and overall cancer presented convincing evidence (class I) and breast cancer presented highly suggestive evidence (class II). The remaining outcomes presented class III (suggestive) or lower evidence (weak or no association). The higher acid-forming potential of diet was associated with a higher risk of T2D and overall cancer. Since this meta-analysis included observational studies and some of the associations were graded as weak, caution should be exercised in interpreting these associations. Further cohort studies are required with consideration of other factors that can cause biases. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022336050.

Urban marginalization experiences and social etiology of Indigenous migrants' sleep disturbance.

In recent decades, many Indigenous people in Taiwan have left their tribes and migrated to cities. However, there has been limited research focused on understanding the psychological processes that link these migrants' experiences in urban environments and their sleep, a crucial but overlooked aspect of health. This study conducted and qualitatively analyzed 40 interviews with urban Indigenous migrants aged 25-60 to examine how everyday life experiences in cities shape their sleep. The analysis finds that urban Indigenous migrants have a high prevalence of sleep disturbance that is attributable to three psychosocial mechanisms that result from experiences of marginalization in their urban lives: (a) enduring stress and unstable schedules in the journey toward better opportunities; (b) feeling marginalized from the ways and cultural logic of urban life that normalizes a fast pace and prioritizes efficiency; and (c) having limited psychosocial resources from an urban social network that is weaker and creates alienation. These psychosocial mechanisms fundamentally interfered with urban Indigenous migrants' sleep time, generated heightened stress, and lowered their resilience during difficult times, which in turn increased the likelihood of sleep disturbance. The findings (a) document the underlying psychosocial processes of marginalization experiences that cause sleep disturbance among urban Indigenous migrants in Taiwan and (b) contribute empirical evidence from a non-Western society to the global literature on Indigenous health and psychology and to the literature on the psychosocial studies of minority well-being. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Influence of the β-Casein Genotype of Cow’s Milk (A1, A2) on the Quality and β-Casomorphin-7 (BCM-7) Content of a Semi-Hard Cheese During Production

Cow’s milk contains A1- and A2-β-caseins. The breakdown of A1-β-casein produces β-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7), a peptide with opioid-like properties that is associated with health aspects. In addition, A1- and A2-β-casein have different technological properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether cheese produced from the milk of homozygous A1A1 and A2A2 cows varies in terms of its physicochemical parameters and BCM-7 concentration. These parameters were analyzed during initial cheese processing, six weeks of ripening and 84 days of storage, including additional microbiological analyses during the storage period. The pH values of the A1A1 cheeses were higher than those of the A2A2 cheeses from the beginning of production until the starter culture bacteria were added. The yellowness values of the A1A1 cheeses were lower until the salt bath treatment. Water activity, lightness, hardness, fat, protein, NaCl and dry matter content, as well as color and microbiological parameters, were not affected by the β-casein genotype. BCM-7 concentrations were higher in the A1A1 cheeses after pressing and during ripening. We found mainly comparable quality characteristics and slightly different BCM-7 levels in the A1A1 and A2A2 cheeses. From this point of view, both varieties are equally suitable for cheese production.

Association of chronic exercise with markers of cardiometabolic health: asystematic review andmeta-analysis.

The impact of chronic exercise on cardiometabolic risk is a crucial aspect of public health. However, limited knowledge exists regarding differences in cardiometabolic parameters between older athletes, older controls, and sedentary or active young controls. A comprehensive search in major databases until October 2024 was conducted for studies comparing older athletes with older controls or with both sedentary and active younger adults. Mean differences (MDs) with 95 % confidence intervals were used for data reporting. From 25,910 screened studies, 61 studies including 75 cohorts were deemed of good quality, encompassing 1393 older athletes, 1369 older controls, 402 young sedentary controls, and 283 young active individuals. In comparison to older controls, older athletes exhibited significantly improved vascular parameters (systolic [MD=-5.04 mmHg] and diastolic [MD=-2.03 mmHg] blood pressure), cardiac (heart rate frequency [MD=-10.41 bpm]), and metabolic parameters (serum cholesterol profile). Conversely, when compared to young sedentary controls, older athletes displayed a less favorable blood pressure and metabolic (cholesterol, glucose) profile. Similar trends were observed when comparing older athletes to young active controls. Sensitivity and meta-regression analyses suggested that exercise lasting over 30 years might offer partial benefits for several markers of cholesterol and VO2max. Long-term exercise is linked to a more optimal cardiometabolic profile, although it may not fully replicate the metabolic and cardiovascular health markers observed in younger individuals.

CLPr_in_ML: Cleft Lip and Palate Reconstructed Features with Machine Learning

Background: Cleft lip and palate are two of the most common craniofacial congenital malformations in humans. It influences tens of millions of patients worldwide. The hazards of this disease are multifaceted, extending beyond the obvious facial malformation to encompass physiological functions, oral health, psychological well-being, and social aspects. Objective: The primary objective of our study is to demonstrate the importance of imaging in detecting cleft lip and palate. By observing the morphological and structural abnormalities involving the lip and palate through imaging methods, this study aims to establish imaging as the primary diagnostic approach for this disease. Methods: In this work, we proposed a novel model to analyze unilateral complete cleft lip and palate after velopharyngeal closure and non-left lip and palate patients from the Department of Stomatology of Xuzhou First People's Hospital, Conical Beam CT (CBCT) images in silicon. In order to demonstrate the generalization, the simulated dataset was constructed using the random disturbance factor, which is from the actual dataset. We extracted several raw features from CBCT images in detail. Then, we proposed a novel feature reconstruction method, including six types of reconstructed factors, to reconstruct the existing features. Then, the reconstructed features weretrained with machine learning algorithms. Finally, the testing and independent data model was utilized to analyze the performance of this work. Results: By comparing different operator features, the min operator, max operator, average operator, and all operators can achieve good performances in both the testing set and the independent set. Conclusion: With the different operator features, the majority of classification models, including Gradient Boosting, Hist Gradient Boosting, Multilayer Perceptron, lightGBM, and broadened learning, classification algorithms can get the well-performances in the selected reconstructed feature operators.

Patient-reported outcomes and measures are under-utilised in advanced therapy medicinal products trials for orphan conditions

ObjectiveAdvanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) are medicines based on genes, tissues or cells and can include gene therapy, somatic-cell therapy, and tissue-engineered medicines. Patient reported outcomes (PRO) are reports on health and wellbeing that come directly from the individual without external interpretation. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) are questionnaires aimed at assessing the individual and subjective experience with health and other psychosocial aspects. The aim of the present review is to assess the extent and quality of PROs and PROMs used in orphan ATMPs trials. Study Design and SettingThe database from NHS Special Pharmacy Service Horizon scanning was searched on 27 March 2024 to identify all ATMPs for orphan conditions. Clinical trial protocols were included in this review if they investigated ATMPs for orphan conditions and were published in clinical trial databases. ResultsA total of 100 trials were included. These accounted for 64 conditions. Only 37% (37/100) of the trials included PROs. Overall, 17 different types of PROs were identified across the trials. QoL and HRQoL were the most frequent PROs found in 18% (18/100), respectively 13% (13/100) of the trials. A total of 33 PROMs were identified. Of these, 57% (19/33) were HRQoL 89% (17/19) or QoL 11% (2/19) measures. Of the HRQoL measures identified, 71% (12/17) were disease specific, and 29% (5/17) were generic. Of the non-QoL PROMs, 29% (4/14) were designed to measure pain and 71% (10/14) PROMs focused on other psychological outcomes, including anxiety and depression. ConclusionOur results show that only 37% of the orphan ATMPs trials include patient-reported outcomes and measures. This highlights the urgent need for relevant PROs/PROMs that capture benefits and harms and assimilation of existing PROMs for better comparison between or within conditions. It is essential to include and reflect the patients’ experience so that those intended to benefit from the research have the opportunity to influence its direction.

Turning Cramps into Comfort: A Review of Yogas Role in Alleviating Primary Dysmenorrhea and Promoting Reproductive Health

Abstract: Dysmenorrhea, the most frequent menstrual problem in adolescence, is a widespread condition affecting women globally. It is highly prevalent, affecting around 50–90% of the female population, with a global prevalence rate of 71.1% according to a meta-analysis spanning 38 countries. Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is a common menstrual disorder affecting many women and significantly impacting their quality of life. The symptoms of PD are lower abdominal or pelvic pain, which may radiate to the back or legs, typically starting 6 to 12 months after menarche. Dysmenorrhea caused significant effects, including school absenteeism, poor performance, difficulty in daily activities, and social life disruption. Yoga, as nonpharmacological alternative medical intervention, has been increasingly studied for its potential benefits in managing PD. The purpose of this review is to highlight Yoga therapy as most effective alternative treatment in this cutting-edge era for primary dysmenorrhea. This study reviewed English-language literature published from 2000 to 2024, searching databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus using keywords “yoga” and “menstrual pain” or “dysmenorrhea.” Out of 1,453 articles, 12 studies met the selection criteria and were included in the final review. This review of 12 RCTs’ highlights the effectiveness of yoga therapy for managing primary dysmenorrhea. Various yoga practices, including asanas, Yoga Nidra, and pranayama, significantly alleviated pain and improved symptoms. This study concludes the positive effectiveness of yoga therapy in managing primary dysmenorrhea. Yoga practices significantly alleviated pain and improved physical, psychological and social aspects of health, suggesting yoga as a holistic and beneficial treatment for dysmenorrhea.

Determinants of pregnant women’s knowledge about antenatal care and compliance with pregnancy check-ups at Poasia Health Center

Overview: This study investigates the relationship between knowledge and attitudes about Antenatal Care (ANC) and the completeness of ANC visits among pregnant women in the service area of Poasia Health Center, Kendari City. It aims to identify factors influencing adherence to the recommended ANC schedule, a crucial aspect of maternal and fetal health. Body of Knowledge: Guided by Green and Kreuter’s health behavior theory and Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior, this study underscores knowledge and attitudes as key predisposing factors in shaping health behaviors. Knowledge equips individuals with the information necessary for informed decision-making, while attitudes influence the intention to act. Despite their importance, external factors such as perceived barriers, social support, and behavioral control also play a role in determining health behavior outcomes. Methods: The study used a descriptive-analytic design with a cross-sectional approach. Fifty respondents were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected and analyzed using the Chi-Square test to explore the relationship between the variables of knowledge, attitudes, and ANC visit completeness. This method facilitated a better understanding of how these factors interact to influence health behaviors. Results: The results showed a significant relationship between knowledge and the completeness of ANC visits (p = 0.012), with respondents possessing good knowledge more likely to complete ANC visits. Conversely, no significant relationship was found between attitudes and ANC visits (p = 0.073), suggesting that positive attitudes alone are insufficient to ensure adherence. Recommendation: To improve ANC adherence, interventions should include comprehensive education to enhance knowledge, strengthened family and community support systems, and the use of technology-based reminders. Health centers should conduct regular program evaluations and implement targeted strategies to address barriers, emphasizing the risks of incomplete ANC visits to ensure maternal and fetal health.

Sleep Patterns and Human Brain Health.

It is a widely held opinion that sleep is important for human brain health. Here we examine the evidence for this view, focusing on normal variations in sleep patterns. We discuss the functions of sleep and highlight the paradoxical implications of theories seeing sleep as an adaptive capacity versus the theory that sleep benefits clearance of metabolic waste from the brain. We also evaluate the proposition that sleep plays an active role in consolidation of memories. Finally, we review research on possible effects of chronic sleep deprivation on brain health. We find that the evidence for a causal role of sleep in human brain health is surprisingly weak relative to the amount of attention to sleep in science and society. While there are well-established associations between sleep parameters and aspects of brain health, results are generally not consistent across studies and measures, and it is not clear to what extent alterations in sleep patterns represent symptoms or causes. Especially, the proposition that long sleep (>8 hours) in general is beneficial for long-term brain health in humans seems to lack empirical support. We suggest directions for future research to establish a solid foundation of knowledge about a role of sleep in brain health based on longitudinal studies with frequent sampling, attention to individual differences, and more ecologically valid intervention studies.

Planetary Health Diet in a hospital cafeteria: Increasing employee satisfaction and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and costs

In order to ensure a healthy diet for the world's population within planetary boundaries, the EAT-Lancet Commission has made recommendations for a "Planetary Health Diet" (PHD). Due to the special responsibility of the health sector for healthy living conditions, offering food provision in line with the Planetary Health Diet is a sensible thing to do for health facilities. With this in mind, we evaluated the acceptance, costs and reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through a correspondingly modified food offer in the cafeteria of a large university hospital. For three months, a lunch menu adapted to the recommendations of the PHD and information material on sustainable nutrition were offered in the hospital cafeteria. Customers in this cafeteria (intervention group) and in all other hospital cafeterias (control group) completed a questionnaire before (from 12/2022 to 01/2023) and after (from 03/2023 to 04/2023) the intervention period. In this questionnaire, customers were asked how satisfied they were with the sustainable food offer using German school grades (from 1 to 6). We calculated the difference-in-differences (DID), 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p-values for the school grades. Open-ended questions were used to learn about customers' perception of health and sustainability aspects of the food supply and written feedback analysed qualitatively. We conducted a bottom-up analysis of the greenhouse gas emissions of the different lunch menu lines based on the main ingredients of the dishes and calculated cost differences between the vegan menu line and the conventional menu lines based on food costs. In the intervention group, the ratings for the sustainability, health, diversity, and flavour of the food on offer improved significantly compared to the control group. The composition of the food (e. g., proportion of meat or vegetables), the product selection (regional, seasonal, organic) and the amount of waste produced were important to the employees when rating the sustainability and healthiness of the food. In the intervention cafeteria, GHG emissions fell by 27 % from 26.2 tonnes to 20.5 tonnes of GHG emissions (saving 5.6 tonnes of GHG emissions) in the second half of the intervention period compared to the previous year, despite a higher number of orders. During the entire intervention period, the intervention group saved about € 4,000 on ingredients. Due to the robust quasi-experimental study design and in combination with the qualitative results, this study provides initial evidence that a PHD-oriented food offer can increase food-related employee satisfaction. Switching to sustainable food supply at hospitals is to be recommended due to its cost-effectiveness, positive feedback from employees and the reduction of GHG emissions.

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Subjective Cognitive Decline Among Transgender Adults.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) and subjective cognitive decline (SCD), self-reported confusion/memory loss, and an early clinical manifestation of ADRD. While ACEs and SCD have both been individually studied in transgender and nonbinary (TGN) adults, no study has examined the relationship between the two among this population. This study sought to establish the prevalence of ACEs and their association with SCD among TGN adults. Cross-sectional, secondary analysis of publicly available data. 2019-2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, representing 16 US states that assessed ACEs, SCD, and self-reported gender identity were used to determine the association between ACEs and SCD among TGN adults aged 45+ (N = 206). Pearson's chi-squared/Fisher's exact tests assessed the association between ACEs (individual, categorical, sum score) and SCD. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (aORs) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to investigate the associations between ACEs and SCD. 18% (n = 38) of TGN adults in the sample endorsed SCD, 60% (n = 120) experienced any ACE, 20% (n = 41) 1 ACE, and 18% (n = 37) experienced > 4 ACEs. Nearly 50% experienced childhood abuse (n = 94) or household dysfunction (n = 92). Among those with SCD, 34% (n = 13) reported > 4 ACEs, and 73% (n = 26) reported childhood abuse or household dysfunction (n = 27). Most ACES were associated with and increased the risk of SCD, even after adjusting for BRFSS year, age, race, education, and employment. The odds of SCD increased 40% as the number of ACEs increased (aOR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.2-1.6, p < 0.0001). The odds of SCD were higher with childhood abuse (aOR = 4.3, 95% CI: 1.88-10.02, p < 0.01) or household dysfunction (aOR = 4.7, 95% CI: 2.00-11.07, p < 0.01). ACEs increase the risk of SCD among TGN adults. Gender-affirming and trauma-informed nursing care are important, and screening and interventions for ACEs and SCD are needed to help reduce the risk of SCD and ADRD. Examining how adverse childhood experiences impact different aspects of health, including brain health, is important to nursing practice as it can provide clinical care strategies and identify interventions to specifically address ways to improve the health and well-being of transgender and nonbinary people.

Bakery Waste Inclusion in the Diet of Growing Black Goat Kids: Evaluation of Performance and Health Aspects

The influence of bakery waste (BAWA) in the diet of black goat kids on nutrient intake, health, growth potential, and carcass features was assessed. Three treatment diets, consisting of 0 BAWA (CON), 50 g/kg BAWA (BAWA50), and 100 BAWA (BAWA100) of dietary dry matter (DM), were administered to 27 male kids (initial body weight = 17.43 ± kg; age = 105 ± 3.5 days) at random (9/treatment). Bakery waste was included in diets BAWA50 and BAWA100, replacing some of the barley grain. The study lasted for 70 days (7 days used for adaptation and 63 days used for data collection). Kids in the BAWA100 group consumed considerably more (p &lt; 0.01) DM, crude protein (CP), and metabolizable energy than those in the BAWA50 and CON groups. However, intakes of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and ether extract (EE) were similar (p ≥ 0.08) among the treatment diets. The kids’ initial and final body weights, total growth, and average daily weight were not substantially impacted (p ≥ 0.13) by the addition of BAWA. All diets had similar feed efficiency when it came to converting feed into body weight increases (p ≥ 0.11). Nevertheless, the BAWA diet yielded a considerably lower cost gain (p = 0.04) than the CON diet. The three treatment groups had no differences (p ≥ 0.15) in DM, ADF, NDF, and EE digestibility. However, compared to the CON group, the digestibility of CP tended to improve (p = 0.07) in the BAWA100 and BAWA50 groups. The three experimental groups’ nitrogen (N) intakes did not differ significantly from one another (p &gt; 0.33). Additionally, the three diets’ N retention percentage and grams/d were equivalent (p &gt; 0.33). Several carcass metrics, such as dressing percentage, hot and cold carcass weights, fasting live weight, and non-carcass components, were not significantly affected (p &gt; 0.23) by the addition of BAWA. Additionally, no differences in carcass cut weights were found. The inclusion of BAWA100 and BAWA50 increased loin cut weight (p = 0.043) and total lean muscle weight (p = 0.001) compared to the CON group. Other components, such as intermuscular fat, subcutaneous fat, total fat, total bone, meat-to-bone ratio, and meat-to-fat ratio, were similar among the three diet groups. Concerning carcass linear dimension measurements, only rib fat depth was greater (p = 0.008) in kids fed the BAWA100 diet compared to the BAWA50 and CON diets. No significant variation was observed among the treatments concerning various physicochemical properties of the longissimus dorsi muscle in the black goat kids. All measured serum metabolites and hematological parameters were not affected by the incorporation of BAWA into the diet. In summary, the inclusion of 50 and 100 g/kg BAWA in the diet had comparable effects on the black goat kids’ feed intake, digestibility, growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and overall health. Importantly, feed costs can be reduced by using up to 100 g/kg of BAWA on a DM basis.

Recovery support services as part of the continuum of care for alcohol or drug use disorders.

The definition of 'recovery' has evolved beyond merely control of problem substance use to include other aspects of health and wellbeing (known as 'recovery capital') which are important to prevent relapse to problematic alcohol or other drug (AOD) use. Developing a Recovery Oriented System of Care (ROSC) requires consideration of interventions or services (Recovery Support Services, RSS) designed to build recovery capital which are often delivered alongside established treatment structures. Lived experience and its application to the process of engaging people, changing behaviour and relapse prevention is an essential part of these services. To map out the evidence base for RSS as part of guidance for commissioners of addiction services in each of the 152 local authorities in England. The authors updated the findings of a 2017 systematic review of RSS through a further rapid scoping review, aiming to map out the extent, range and nature of research under six headings: (1) Peer-based recovery support services (P-BRSS); (2) Employment support approaches; (3) Recovery housing; (4) Continuing care and recovery check-ups; (5) Recovery community centres (RCC); and (6) Recovery support services in educational settings. A systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, CENTRAL and PsychINFO databases was conducted. The abstracts of all articles published since 2017 were reviewed by two of the authors, and the full text versions of all relevant articles were obtained and relevant data extracted. A narrative review of the findings was then prepared, mapping them on to the ROSC continuum of care. The review was restricted to adults (over 18 years), but all substances and available outcomes were included. Four of the six forms of RSS were well supported by evidence. RCTs of interventions to increase levels of employment demonstrated large effect sizes, and continuing care interventions that extend treatment intervention into the early recovery phase have shown small but significant benefit. Peer-delivered interventions to link people to ongoing support were associated with decreased rates of relapse and re-admission, increased engagement, and increased social support for change. However, the variability in the design of these studies means that further work is required to clarify the effective components of the intervention. Studies of recovery housing have also shown positive results, including significant differences from standard care. No controlled studies exist to support RCCs or RSS in educational settings, but the complexity of these interventions and the wide range of potential outcome measures mean that other study designs may be more relevant. This monograph provides a structure to help policy makers, commissioners and service providers describe and understand an emerging field of research. Recovery Support Services (RSS) are proving to have clinical, public health and cost utility. A rational social and fiscal response to endemic alcohol or other drug challenges should therefore include the more intensive acute care clinical services linked with more extensive community-based RSS.

Unmet clinical needs in women with polycystic ovary syndrome regarding fertility and obesity: a cross-sectional study from the patient's perspective.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, often leading to anovulatory infertility. Obesity exacerbates the reproductive, metabolic and psychological features of PCOS, making fertility treatment and patient satisfaction difficult. Despite guidelines from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) emphasizing lifestyle modifications and specific treatments, there remains a significant gap in adherence to these guidelines by both healthcare providers and patients. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from 1 January to 14 March 2021 among PCOS patients in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. A non-standardized, non-validated questionnaire covering several aspects of reproductive health was distributed via online channels. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, Student's t-tests and Jonckheere-Terpstra tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Out of 2029 participants, 1902 completed the fertility questionnaire. Of these, 73.9% perceived their fertility to be impaired, with this perception being higher in obese women (80.8% vs. 67.4%, p < 0.001). The analysis focused on 564 childless women with a current desire to have children, 67.0% of whom met WHO criteria for infertility. Obese women (BMI ≥ 30kg/m2) reported lower satisfaction with fertility treatment (40.9 vs. 47.8, p = 0.009) and were less likely to receive fertility treatment (56.7% vs. 75.8%, p < 0.001). Despite recommendations, only 34.1% reported lifestyle changes as part of their treatment. Letrozole, the recommended first-line treatment, was underused (14.6%) and clomiphene citrate was more commonly prescribed (35.4%). Obese women reported fewer current pregnancies (4% vs. 13.9%, p < 0.001) and were more likely to be infertile for more than one year (77.0% vs. 53.0%, p < 0.001). They also expressed a greater desire for possibilities to ask more questions about PCOS and fertility and to undergo more infertility tests. (56.1% vs. 45.3%, p = 0.013; 69.4% vs. 59.8%, p = 0.020). Fertility management in PCOS patients, especially in obese patients, shows significant gaps in adherence to recommended guidelines, highlighting the need for improved patient education, professional training and individualized treatment strategies. Improved health care is essential to address reproductive concerns and improve outcomes in this population.

The Relationship of Bullying and Peer Victimization to Emotional and Behavioral Aspect of Mental Health among School Going Adolescents in India

Background: Adolescents often struggle with social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties that can lead to functional impairment later in life. School-going children are at risk of bullying victimization at school, which can lead to social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties (SEBD). This study aimed to estimate the burden of SEBD, evaluate possible risk factors, and explore the correlation between bullying victimization and SEBD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done among 9th to 12th class students from July 2021 to June 2022. Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was utilized to evaluate SEBD. Bullying victimization was assessed by “Adolescent peer relation instrument” (APRI). Chi square test, t-test, pearson correlation, and logistic regression was used. Results: Out of 391 participants, 35.3% faced peer problems, 22.2% conduct problems, 16.4% hyperactivity, and 15.6% emotional symptoms. Prosocial behavior was present in only 12.7% of adolescents. 70.8% bullied others and 62.9% were victims in the past 1 year. The victims were at increased risk for emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, and peer problems. Social perpetrators were at risk for emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, and peer problems; verbal and physical perpetrators were prone to conduct problems and hyperactivity. Higher emotional problems and prosocial behavior were reported among girls; higher conduct problems, peer problems, and hyperactivity were reported among boys. Hyperactivity was significantly more prevalent in students with poor performance. Emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, and peer problems were positively correlated with bullying and victimization, but negatively correlated to prosocial behavior. Conclusions: The burden of SEBD and bullying is high among school-going adolescents. Bullying and gender are significant risk factors for social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. It also impacts the academic performance of the student. Anti-bullying interventional programs, cognitive behavior therapy, and parent management training programs for parents at school should be implemented universally at school to control these problems effectively.

Quality of life among healthcare workers in the hospitals and primary healthcare centers in Gaza Strip: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundQuality of life (QoL) is an important measure of overall well-being linked to physical, mental, social, and environmental aspects of health. This study aimed to assess the QoL among healthcare workers (HCWs) in hospitals and primary healthcare centers (PHCs) in Gaza Strip, Palestine.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 1850 HCWs in Gaza Strip, Palestine. Data were collected by using self-administered questionnaires in the paper-based format containing a sociodemographic profile and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief questionnaire. Factors associated with QoL were examined using an independent t-test, Chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression models.ResultsThe study included HCWs with a mean age of 38.62 years old, of whom 61.9% were male. The mean QoL score was 55.98 (standard deviation: 11.50), with 55.5% reporting a good QoL. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, smoking status, workplace, and work shifts were associated with the overall QoL score (p < 0.05). Older age (≥ 35 years), working in a hospital, and working the morning shifts were identified as protective factors for QoL, while smoking and working the evening-night shifts were inversely associated with QoL.ConclusionsThis study found that HCWs in Gaza Strip exhibited moderate levels of QoL. Age, smoking status, workplace, and work shifts were associated with overall QoL. Strategies to improve HCWs’ QoL, such as lifestyle interventions, additional support through training or educational programs, and reducing work schedules, could be considered under high-pressure situations.