Cross-sectional Online Survey Research Articles

Prevalence and Correlates of Likely Anxiety Disorder in Ghana During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence From a Cross-Sectional Online Survey.

The COVID-19 pandemic created stressors to daily living, leading to increased mental health problems. It is important to assess the influence of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, specifically anxiety. The goal was to determine the prevalence and sociodemographic, clinical, and other correlates of likely Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) among study subjects in Ghana. This study employed a cross-sectional approach, using an online survey administered primarily through social media platforms. The survey questions included the GAD-7 scale, which was used to assess likely GAD in respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis. Overall, 756 respondents completed the survey, mainly from Ashanti and Greater Accra, which were the hardest hit by COVID-19. The prevalence of likely GAD in our sample was 7.6%. Gender, loss of job due to COVID-19, and seeking mental health counseling were independently associated with increased likelihood of GAD. The findings suggest that women, those who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and those who sought mental health counseling were more likely to experience moderate to high anxiety symptoms as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Priority must be attached to psychological support measures for members of these groups.

Nurses’ reported training needs for advanced cell therapies: a survey on behalf of the Nurses Group of the EBMT

Background Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) for human use have advanced globally with the rapid adoption of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies in haemato-oncology. CAR-T cell therapy and ATMPs have unique, significant acute and chronic toxicities, and appropriate patient care is crucial. Significant challenges, including the need for nurse education and training, accompany optimal patient success and benefits. Objectives This study aimed to describe nurses’ training needs in relation to ATMP management and patient care. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was performed by the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, based on a previously tested questionnaire developed in the UK. Findings 109 complete responses from 86 different centers from 24 countries were returned (1207 distributed). Over 1/3 reported experience delivering licensed ATMPs (CAR-T). High-priority training areas included a general introduction to ATMPs, toxicity management, product-specific information, and regulatory frameworks for ATMPs. A clear need for ATMP-specific training exists and is regarded as important. Training prior to implementation is key and should be supported by ongoing competency maintenance. Counseling, patient support, and long-term follow-up are identified for future training and opportunities for nurse experience sharing in this rapidly evolving field.

Exploring genetic counselors' interest and role in transitional care discussions for pediatric patients with neurodevelopmental conditions.

Previous studies have examined the perspectives of healthcare providers regarding their role in the transition process of pediatric patients with neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs), but the perspective of a genetic counselor has yet to be considered. This study explored genetic counselors' current practices and attitudes regarding care for pediatric patients with NDCs as they transition into adult care. Genetic counselors (GCs) currently seeing patients with NDCs were recruited through a cross-sectional online survey. Questions included demographics, current practices with patients aged 0-15 years vs. patients 16-22 years, self-confidence, attitudes, and barriers regarding a genetic counselor's role in medical transition. A total of 51 surveys were included in the analysis. The majority (76.7%) of GCs were interested in playing a role in the transition process. Furthermore, all participants perceived transition planning for pediatric genetic patients with NDCs as somewhat important or important. Most GCs (70.0%) discussed topics of transition with patients over 18 years of age. These results demonstrate GCs' interest in assisting patients and families with the transition of individuals. Incorporating a genetic counselor skill set into transition discussions with patients with NDCs could improve the transition process and help to meet the standards of care called for by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Subjective well-being and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hungary

Purpose This study aims to examine the impact of COVID-19 pandemics on subjective well-being (SWB) and mental health in Hungary, with a particular focus on the roles of socioeconomic and COVID-19-related factors in shaping these outcomes. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 2,000 Hungarian adults from May 25 to June 8, 2021. The data was collected using standardized questionnaires, including the SWLS, GAD-7 and PHQ-9. Correlation analysis, one-way ANOVA and linear regression were used. Findings The study found significant anxiety (41.5%), depression (48.1%) and life dissatisfaction (41.9%) among 2,000 participants. Females reported higher anxiety and depression than males. Single individuals had the lowest life satisfaction. Higher income levels are correlated with greater life satisfaction. Quarantine and vaccination were linked to higher life satisfaction and lower psychological distress. The regression showed that older age, being married and higher income were linked to lower depression and anxiety. Severity of infection and quarantine increased both depression and anxiety. Infection reduced life satisfaction, but severe cases showed a slight improvement in satisfaction, highlighting complex health and well-being relationships. Practical implications The findings reveal complex relationships, including unexpected resilience in severe COVID-19 cases. Originality/value This study offers insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SWB and mental health in Hungary. By analyzing socioeconomic, demographic and pandemic-related factors in a large sample, it highlights complex relationships between quarantine, infection severity, vaccination and well-being. The findings contribute to understanding how these factors influence mental health, informing targeted interventions during health crises.

Current State of Dry Needling Practices: A Comprehensive Analysis on Use, Training, and Safety

Background and Objectives: Dry needling (DN) is a technique that involves inserting a thin filament needle through the skin to target myofascial trigger points for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Despite its efficacy in a broad plethora of musculoskeletal pain conditions, its safety remains a topic of debate among clinicians and researchers. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the current practice of DN through a national survey, focusing on the frequency of its use and the incidence of adverse events (AEs), considering factors including physiotherapist experience, clinical workload, the extent of training received by practitioners, and the use of ultrasound guidance. Materials and Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Respondents were licensed physical therapists (PTs) working in Spain. The survey covered demographics, professional data, frequency of adverse effects, and if they use ultrasound routinary for guiding interventions. Results: A total of 422 PTs participated in the study, mostly having 21–60 h of DN training (38.6%), less than 2 years of experience (36%), and not using ultrasound during the interventions (85.5%). Post-needling soreness and bent needles were the most common AEs, with most severe events rarely reported. Adverse event frequencies varied significantly based on training hours, experience, patient percentage treated with DN, and weekly clinical dedication. Clinicians with more hours of DN training or fewer years of experience reported higher incidences of certain complications. Conclusions: DN is a common intervention among PTs, with minor AEs frequently occurring and major AEs being less common but still significant. The accidental puncture of non-desired structures highlights the necessity for improve training on anatomical landmarks, needle insertion depth, cross-sectional anatomy education, and patient monitoring. To ensure safe practice, emphasize comprehensive training, adhere to safety protocols, exercise caution, and prioritize the use of ultrasound-guide is encouraged.

Exploring the Association Between Sexual Agency and Intimate Relationship Violence Experienced and Perpetrated by Brazilian and Portuguese Women

Abstract Introduction Women’s vulnerability to violence in intimate relationships has been negatively associated with the development of sexual agency and is not considered just an individual responsibility in the face of a series of social and economic inequalities to which women are exposed. This study aims to verify the association between sexual agency and violence experienced and perpetrated in intimate relationships, as well as the predictive role of sexual agency on violence, and compare populations with economic, social, and educational differences. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was carried out in 2023 with 322 female university students—161 Brazilian and 161 Portuguese, aged between 18 and 29—using measures to verify sexual agency and different types of violence experienced and perpetrated by women in intimate relationships. The data were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U-test, Spearman’s correlation coefficient, and multivariate linear regression analysis. Results Data showed Brazilian women having higher scores in all the variables of experienced and perpetrated violence. Sexual practices and refusal were negatively associated with violence experienced by Brazilian women. Refusal and pregnancy/STI prevention were negatively associated with violence experienced by Portuguese women. Conclusions The differences between groups can be attributed to the intersecting systems of oppression—such as gender, race, and social class—that amplify vulnerabilities and limit investments in protective policies for women, as well as in educational initiatives focused on violence prevention. Policy Implications Results suggest the development of violence prevention programs, comprehensive sexual education programs, and policies that focus on promoting women’s sexual agency.

The Challenges of Patients with Spinal CSF Leaks in Canada: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey.

Spinal CSF leak can cause disabling headaches and neurological symptoms. Lack of awareness, diagnostic delay and treatment inconsistencies affect the quality of CSF leak care globally. This is the first study aiming to identify and assess these challenges in Canada. A cross-sectional online survey of Canadian patients with spinal CSF leak was designed in collaboration with Spinal CSF Leak Canada, including questions on demographics, headache condition, investigations, treatments, quality of life, financial consequences and out-of-country care. The survey captured 103 respondents with confirmed spinal CSF leak diagnosis, of whom 56% were still suffering. The majority were female (80%), most being highly educated, with a mean age of 41.8 (SD: 10.37) years at the time of diagnosis. Inconsistencies in care resulted in variable durations for obtaining diagnosis and treatment. The majority of respondents (88%) had seen multiple physicians, and only 50% had seen a CSF leak specialist. Invasive imaging was not performed in 43%. CSF leak relapse after initial successful treatment occurred frequently (43%). The incidence of rebound intracranial hypertension was high (52.5%), and the treatment was difficult to access (77%). Out-of-country care was common (28%), and the impact on financial health was omnipresent (81.5%). The survey demonstrates significant gaps in spinal CSF leak care in Canada, similar to global observations. Lack of awareness and access, delayed care, and inconsistencies in investigations and management are common. Spinal CSF leak significantly impacts patients' physical, mental and financial well-being. Increased awareness, referral pathways and standardized treatment algorithms are key factors in optimizing patient care in Canada.

Misperceptions about the effectiveness of cutting down and low-rate daily smoking for reducing the risk of tobacco-caused harm.

Reducing the amount smoked per day, or smoking at a low rate, confers limited protection from smoking harms. We aimed to quantify the prevalence of misperceptions about cutting down and low-rate smoking among Australian adults who smoke. Cross-sectional online survey in April/May 2022 (N=2,740). Participants were asked whether they agreed (misperception) or disagreed that "Reducing the number of cigarettes smoked per day is an effective way to reduce the risk of experiencing the health harms of smoking". They were also asked whether the statement "Smoking 1 cigarette per day is about 1/20th as dangerous as smoking a pack of 20 cigarettes per day" sounded about right (misperception) or if it was less dangerous (misperception) or more dangerous than that. The misperception that reducing the number of cigarettes smoked is an effective way to reduce risk was held by 72.0% of people who smoke overall, but was more common among those who smoked <5 cigarettes daily (76.3%; Adj PR=1.11 [95% CI 1.01-1.21]) or only occasionally (79.7%; Adj PR=1.14 [1.06-1.23]) compared with those who smoked 5+ cigarettes daily (66.7%). Over two-thirds (67.9%) underestimated the dangers of smoking 1 cigarette per day, and this misperception was also more common among low-rate smokers (77.6%, Adj PR=1.14 [95% CI 1.04-1.26]) compared to those who smoked 5+ cigarettes daily (63.1%). Misperceptions about the value of cutting down and low-rate smoking for reducing the risk of tobacco-caused harm are pervasive, especially among those who currently smoke at a low-rate or only occasionally. Recent epidemiological evidence confirms that the risks of harm associated with low-rate smoking and cutting down are much higher than would be expected if the relationship between consumption and harm was linear. Findings from this study indicate that misperceptions about the benefits conferred by these smoking patterns are pervasive among people who smoke, particularly among those who currently smoke at a low rate. Corrective education that explains the mechanisms for the increased risk posed by these behaviours could be delivered via package health warnings and/or public health campaigns and may provide low-rate and occasional smokers with additional reasons to quit.

Role of home nurturing environment on early childhood neurodevelopment: a community-based survey in Shanghai, China.

Ages of 0-3 years are critical stages for children's neurodevelopment. However, the impact of the home nurturing environment on early childhood neurodevelopment remains unclear. To explore the role of the home nurturing environment on early childhood neurodevelopment and to provide evidence of an association between fostering quality home nurturing and achieving optimal neurodevelopment. An online cross-sectional survey using the stratified sampling method was conducted from 16 June, 2021 to 18, February, 2022 in all 13 communities of Minhang District, Shanghai. A total of 2,402 children aged 0-3 years with balanced sex distribution were included. The quality of home nurturing environments was measured using validated Child Home Nurture Environment Scales. Neurodevelopment was measured using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire - Third edition (ASQ-3). Generalized Linear Mixed Modeling was used to analyze the association between the quality of home nurturing environments and neurodevelopment. Among children aged 0-1, neglect or restriction was reported as the most prevalent problem (8.02%) among home nurturing environment dimensions, and was associated with an increased risk of suspected fine motor development delay (OR = 2.82, 95% CI: 1.18-6.69, P = 0.019). Among children aged 1-3, inadequate parental warmth, as the foremost (16.10%) problem, was associated with an increased risk of suspected gross motor development delay (OR = 4.12, 95% CI: 1.35-12.53, P = 0.013) and suspected personal-social development delay (OR = 12.50, 95%CI: 1.48-105.36, P = 0.020). Poor home nurturing environments were associated with an increased risk of suspected early childhood neurodevelopment delay. There exists a need for services to guide for establishing a quality home nurturing environment.

Recognising and responding to the community needs of gay and bisexual men around mpox.

In May 2022, a global surge in mpox cases, typically endemic to Western and Central Africa, particularly affected gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). This study examines gbMSM communities' experiences and perceptions around Ireland's public health response to the outbreak. A cross-sectional mixed-methods online survey was conducted. Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis informed by critical realism. A total of 163 gay and bisexual men took part in the survey. Participants accessed information from diverse sources, reporting varying levels of trustworthiness. Overall, participants were well-informed. Four themes were developed from the qualitative data: (1) Perceptions of the mpox response: divergence in urgency, priority, and care; (2) The mpox outbreak as a sign of otherness for gbMSM; (3) The potential for othering through mpox prevention practices; and (4) mpox, memory and fear. While community-led initiatives were effective, significant challenges included stigmatisation, discrimination, and mistrust towards public health institutions, influenced by institutionalised homophobia. The study underscores the need for inclusive, culturally sensitive, and transparent public health strategies. The mpox outbreak highlights the importance of robust community collaboration in public health interventions. Future strategies must ensure equitable access to information, vaccination, and care, and address broader structural inequalities to foster trust and engagement within affected communities.

Examining the Financial Literacy of Healthcare Professionals: A Research on a Provincial Health Directorate.

This research aimed to assess the financial literacy levels of healthcare professionals working at a Provincial Health Directorate and examine their relationships with various financial domains. The study utilized a cross-sectional online survey. The financial literacy scale was employed to assess the financial knowledge and compentencies of healthcare professionals, providing a structured evaluation of their understandig across various financial domains. Statistical analyses, including correlation analysis, independent samples t-test, and one-way ANOVA, were performed using SPSS-25 and R programs. A total of 240 participants took part, comprising 52.1% males and 47.9% females, aged between 20 and 65 years. Younger healthcare professionals (p=.017) and males (p=.001) demonstrated higher financial literacy levels. Significant correlations were found between financial literacy and domains such as investment instruments, debt and risk management, and personal finance management. Weak but positive relationships were observed between financial literacy and digital assets, indicating emerging trends in digital finance awareness. For instance, males exhibited higher proficiency in investment instruments and debt management, while younger professionals displayed higher knowledge in investment areas. The findings underscore the importance of targeted financial education for healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for sector-specific training programs. Enhanced financial literacy is essential for improving financial decision-making, ultimately benefiting both personal financial well-being and professional performance in the healthcare sector.

Knowledge and awareness of undergraduate medical students regarding palliative care in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study.

Our study assesses the current knowledge and prior awareness of undergraduate medical students in Pakistan regarding palliative care. This descriptive Cross-sectional online survey was distributed among undergraduate medical students across Pakistan, with a sample size of 246 participants. The questionnaire, adapted from the PaCKS questionnaire by Kozlov et al. (JAMA 15(5):524-34, 2017), was designed to assess the students' prior knowledge about palliative care. The mean PaCKS score was 9.7 out of 13, with a standard deviation of 2.76. Having heard of palliative care before participation in the study was significantly associated with higher PaCKS scores. Key factors associated with a higher incidence of prior awareness of palliative care included attending private institutions, being in a more advanced year of study, and having a higher mean monthly family income (P < 0.001 for each factor). This study explores medical students' understanding of palliative care in Pakistan, finding that while many have a basic grasp of the concept, there are notable misconceptions, particularly in differentiating palliative care from hospice care and understanding its broader role. Interestingly, students' knowledge did not significantly improve as they advanced through medical school, suggesting potential shortcomings in the curriculum. The findings highlight the need for more precise education and targeted training to better equip future healthcare providers for delivering patient-centered care.

Factors associated with loneliness in Latin-American family care partners during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundCOVID-19-related restrictions led to an increase in overall loneliness and social isolation. Before the pandemic, care partners reported higher levels of loneliness and higher loneliness prevalence compared to non-care partners. Because of the spread and severity of the infections, and the access to support spread, we expect a different impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on LATAM care partners.ObjectivesTo describe the loneliness levels of LATAM caregivers and to identify socioeconomic and health factors associated.DesignAn international online cross-sectional survey for care partners, embedded within the ‘Coping with Loneliness and Isolation during COVID-19’ (CLIC) Study conducted between June 2020– and November 2020.SettingWe analysed data from 246 family care partners living in Latin American countries (46% Mexico, 26% Chile,18% Brazil, and 10% from Argentina, Peru, Venezuela, Panama, Guatemala y Costa Rica).MeasurementsWe assessed loneliness using the 6-items of De Jong Gierveld loneliness Scale. We described the levels of overall, emotional, and social loneliness pre and during Covid, and reported the distribution of care partners who improved, worsened or maintained their levels of loneliness. Moreover, we used longitudinal multiple linear regression models with bootstraps errors of 1,000 iterations to identify factors associated with the levels of overall, emotional, and social loneliness during the pandemic.ResultsParticipants were mostly women, 50 years and older, in a partnership, highly educated and with finances meeting their needs, with good to excellent physical and mental health. Among the total of care partners, 55% perceived higher overall loneliness, 56% higher emotional loneliness, and 21% higher social loneliness during the pandemic in comparison with pre-COVID-19 levels. Perceived mental health was associated with the overall, emotional, and social loneliness.ConclusionsRegardless of their living and health situation, during the pandemic, loneliness increased in all groups of care partners. These should be taken in consideration when planning public health approaches for crises such as pandemics or other large-scale disruptive events.

Prescribing pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention: a cross-sectional survey of general practitioners in Australia.

Background Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a safe and effective medication for preventing HIV acquisition. We examined Australian general practitioners' (GP) knowledge of PrEP efficacy, characteristics associated with ever prescribing PrEP and barriers to prescribing. Methods We conducted an online cross-sectional survey of GPs working in Australia between April and October 2022. We performed univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated with: (1) the belief that PrEP was at least 80% efficacious; and (2) ever prescribed PrEP. We asked participants to rate the extent to which barriers affected their prescribing of PrEP. Results A total of 407 participants with a median age of 38years (interquartile range 33-44) were included in the study. Half of the participants (50%, 205/407) identified how to correctly take PrEP, 63% (258/407) had ever prescribed PrEP and 45% (184/407) felt confident with prescribing PrEP. Ever prescribing PrEP was associated with younger age (AOR 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94-0.99), extra training in sexual health (AOR 2.57, 95% CI: 1.54-4.29) and being a S100 Prescriber (OR 2.95, 95% CI: 1.47-5.90). The main barriers to prescribing PrEP included: 'Difficulty identifying clients who require PrEP/relying on clients to ask for PrEP' (76%, 310/407), 'Lack of knowledge about PrEP' (70%, 286/407) and 'Lack of time' (69%, 281/407). Conclusion Less than half of our GP respondents were confident in prescribing PrEP, and most had difficulty identifying who would require PrEP. Specific training on PrEP, which focuses on PrEP knowledge, identifying suitable clients and making it time efficient, is recommended, with GPs being remunerated for their time.

Israeli dentists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding smoking cessation care.

The 5A's model for brief smoking cessation care (SCC) is recommended for dentists to reduce the negative impacts of smoking on oral health. This study investigates Israeli dentists' adherence to the 5A's guidelines and explores factors influencing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices. An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among Israeli dentists during June-August 2020. The questionnaire included sociodemographic, smoking, and professional characteristics; knowledge (10 true/false statements); attitudes regarding SCC [based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF)] using 13 statements (1-5 Likert scale), for a composite mean attitude score; and 5A's performance (1-5 Likert scale, never to always). Two primary outcomes were analysed: (1) performing all of the 5A's 'often or always'; and (2) performing 'always' the first two steps ("Ask" and "Advise"). Multivariable logistic regression explored the association between the various characteristics and the primary outcomes. Overall, n = 410 responded. Mean knowledge score was 2.58 (SD = 1.51). Mean attitude score was 2.65 (SD = 0.60). Performance of all 5A's was low with 14.1% (n = 57) reporting completing all 5A's 'often or always', while 34.1% (n = 139) reported 'always' performing 'Ask' and 'Advise'. Specialists had better odds of 'often or always' performing the 5A's (adjusted OR = 2.01, p = .022) and 'always' performing 'Ask and Advise' (adjusted OR = 1.71, p = .022). This study highlights the insufficient performance of SCC among Israeli dentists, revealing gaps in knowledge and attitudes related to SCC. Various measures, such as training, automatic referral systems, and integrating SCC as quality measures, may improve SCC provision among Israeli dentists.

Digital Screen Usage Amongst Doctors: Demographics, Patterns of Use and Effect of Health Parameters

Background: Advances in digital technology have led to widespread availability of digital devices and consequent increased usage amongst across the population including practising healthcare professionals. Increased ‘Digital Screen time’ and its effect on physical, psychological health, and sleep patterns has been predominantly evaluated in children, adolescents and adults from various walks of life. Purpose of the Study: The purpose of this survey was to evaluate the impact of Digital Screen usage (time and patterns) spent on portable and desktop digital devices amongst physicians, surgeons and radiologists. Material &amp; Methods: An online cross-sectional survey of an 11-part questionnaire (multiple choice questions and free text box) was circulated amongst orthopaedic surgeons, radiologists and physicians in India and the UK, to evaluate demographics, speciality and place of practice; Digital platform usage reasons and time; effect on mental health, physical health, sleep time amongst practising healthcare professionals. Results: There was an even spread amongst the various age groups. Smartphones were the commonest device utilised for digital screening in 90 (67.7%) doctors with 29 (38.5%) of doctors reporting more than five hours of daily screen time. Sixty-three (47%) of doctors used this for academic purposes, whereas 43 (32%) used it for entertainment more than for academic purposes. Thirty-nine doctors (29%) were unaware of whether screen usage affected mental health. Seventy-two (53%) were of the opinion that screen usage was having a negative effect on their physical health whilst 81 (60%) thought that it was having an adverse effect on their sleeping time respectively. Conclusion: A significant proportion of doctors appear to be using digital devices beyond the recommended ‘Digital Screen time’ by various national or international healthcare organisations. There is an emerging need to highlight the deleterious effect of excessive ‘Digital Screen time’ on various health parameters and be part of a global health narrative to mitigate ill-effects and a sustainable lifestyle.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on influenza vaccination rate among health care workers

ABSTRACT Vaccinations against influenza are critical in mitigating the severity of the disease, preventing its transmission, and restricting its dissemination. Concerns about vaccination hesitancy among healthcare workers (HCWs) have been duly recognized during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. To examine the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the adoption of vaccinations among HCWs. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted four years after the COVID-19 pandemic among HCWs in Saudi Arabia. We performed a logistic regression analysis using influenza vaccination uptake as the dependent variable and perceived COVID-19 pandemic’s impact, age, gender, marital status, employment status, education level, monthly income, respondent’s overall health, doctor visits, tobacco use, number of adults in the household, and number of children in the household as independent variables. The study included 574 participants, an 86% response rate. Of the sample, 47% reported they had the influenza vaccination. HCWs who reported a greater negative impact due to the COVID-19 pandemic were 40% more likely to acquire the influenza vaccine (OR = 1.4, 95% CI [1.24, 1.58]). Compared to HCWs without children, HCWs with a child had a 44% lower likelihood of taking the influenza vaccination (OR = 0.34, 95% CI [0.16, 0.69]). The odds of HCWs obtaining the influenza vaccine were 4.5 times higher for those who reported one yearly medical visit, 2.6 times higher for two, and 1.4 times higher for three or more. HCWs who experienced more severe COVID-19 outcomes were more likely to get vaccinated against the virus. However, long-term monitoring of this inclination is necessary.

Perceived Causes of Sleep Problems in Higher Education Students: An Exploratory Study.

The major purpose of the present study was to explore higher education students' perceptions of the causes of their sleep problems. The data were drawn from a previous cross-sectional online survey, from which only the questions relevant to this study were selected, including items on sleep disturbances and their causes. The participants included 1519 full-time students (76% women), aged 18-30years (M = 20.9, SD = 2.3); 95.3% were single and studying for a Bachelor's degree (75.2%) across diverse fields of study. Overall, 30% of the students reported suffering from insomnia, 17.8% met the criteria for clinical insomnia (according to the Insomnia Severity Index), and 12.5% reported being dissatisfied with their sleep. The most significant perceived causes of sleep difficulties were stress (85%), academic problems (67%), and general worries (56.5%). Other causes included affective/love problems (28.4%), family issues (27.5%), changes in sleeping habits (25.9%), financial problems (13.7%), transition to higher education (10.4%), pain (7.1%), and general illness (5.5%). These findings may have important implications for interventions aimed at improving sleep health among higher education students.

Understanding Parental Decision-Making and Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccination for Children in Vietnam: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey

Background/Objectives: In Vietnam, COVID-19 vaccination campaigns for children have encountered numerous challenges due to acceptance issues among parents. This study aimed to assess parental decision-making and identify factors influencing their decision to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Methods: This was a cross-sectional online survey conducted between April and May 2023 among parents of children aged 6–17 years enrolled in urban and rural schools in Thai Nguyen province, Vietnam. Data on parental and child demographics, vaccination decision-making, COVID-19 experiences, and health beliefs based on the Health Belief Model were collected and analyzed, using univariate and multivariable multinomial regression analyses. Results: Among 4235 respondents (median age 41 years, 80.4% female), 81.3% had accepted all vaccine doses for their children, 9.7% had accepted some doses, 4.6% had rejected all doses, and 4.5% had not vaccinated their children for reasons unrelated to vaccine acceptance. Factors influencing parental decision-making included parental age, educational status, area of residence, health beliefs, prior experience with COVID-19 vaccination, and their child’s age and health status. Conclusions: We found overall high levels of parental acceptance for COVID-19 vaccination for children in Thai Nguyen province. To enhance COVID-19 vaccination acceptance, targeted communication strategies should focus on younger parents, those living in urban areas, parents with higher educational levels, and those with children who are younger or have underlying medical conditions. Trusted sources such as healthcare workers, teachers, and official health websites are essential for disseminating accurate information and fostering trust in vaccination programs.

Perspectives of general dental practitioners on restoring endodontically treated molars: a UK-based vignette study.

Aims To assess and compare how UK general dental practitioners (GDPs) restore endodontically treated molars and what tooth-related factors they consider relevant to their management.Method An online cross-sectional vignette survey was sent out to UK dentists via email and the use of social media platforms. Three clinical cases were designed.Results In total, 394 participants completed the survey. GDPs showed a preference towards restoring the endodontically treated molars with indirect restorations, such as crowns and onlays. Material selection varied, with a notable inclination towards gold and lithium disilicate. This was influenced by factors such as the number of remaining tooth walls, thickness of walls and the presence of parafunction.Conclusion Clinicians generally agreed on whether to place a direct or indirect restoration but there was greater disagreement when deciding on the type of restoration and material. Further evidence and education are required to help UK dentists decide more objectively whether to place an onlay or a crown, what material to select and what prognostic factors are most pertinent to the case.