Collection Of Demographic Data Research Articles

The Utilisation of Dissociative Mechanisms - Comparative Study in a Clinical and Non-clinical Population

<p dir="ltr"><span>Dissociative experiences are common in both clinical and general populations. In this study, we had the aim to explore the presence of any differences in the utilization of dissociative mechanisms between two types of populations, namely clinical and non-clinical and also to see if within each group there are differences in the use of these mechanisms. The research group consisted of 216 participants, of which 176 (81.5%) were non-clinical participants and 40 (18.5%) participants with a clinical diagnosis. We used two questionnaires, namely the Detachment and Compartmentalization Inventory and the Dissociative Experiences Scale and a demographic data collection tool. Our results showed that clinical participants scored significantly higher than non-clinical participants on detachment, absorption and compartmentalization. The data also showed that there are significant differences between the use of detachment, compartmentalization and absorption, separately for clinical and non-clinical participants. Detachment, absorption and compartmentalization are dissociative mechanisms used by the clinical as well as the non-clinical population, with no differences between groups in terms of gender. Age appears to influence the use of these mechanisms in the non-clinical population in that they are used less with advancing age. Absorption tends to be used less by married than unmarried people in the non-clinical population. The results of our study converge towards the theory which support the idea of "healthy dissociation".</span></p><div><span><br /></span></div>

Governing the private scales of families and homes: Visiting nurses and Turkey's mobilization of consumptive care

In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the visiting nurses of western empires and nation-states performed vital labor in combating tuberculosis (TB). Their hybrid role combined modern nursing and social work, typically benefitting from civil society organizations. In late Ottoman and early republican Turkey, tuberculosis resulted in many fatalities. To overcome this biopolitical challenge, the state prioritized creating a network of dispensaries and visiting nurses. Going into citizens' homes and communities, these nurses were to both educate the public on TB prevention and treatment and report their health and personal data to the state. Envisioned as essential public health agents, visiting nurses bridged gaps in hygiene education and demographic data collection. However, the republic struggled with insufficient resources to recruit, train, and deploy them effectively. Our study explores the evolving vision of leveraging women's labor for public health and geopolitical aims. By analyzing key thinkers' writings, legislative efforts, and the delayed realization of a visiting nurse corps post-1945, we highlight efforts to professionalize women and expand their societal roles. These mobile public health initiatives not only advanced women's status but also marked a significant development in Turkey's public health and medical governance.

Adherence and quality of life in patients with epilepsy in Cyprus

Abstract Introduction Epilepsy affects about 50 million people globally1. Patients often struggle with medication adherence due to forgetfulness, side effects, or lack of understanding, yet consistent use is vital for reducing seizures and improving quality of life2. Community pharmacists can improve outcomes by educating patients, aiding adherence, and clarifying drug effects and interactions, beyond just dispensing prescriptions. Aim The study aimed to assess epileptic patients’ adherence and quality of life in Cyprus. Methods This quantitative study, conducted from September 2022 to October 2023, received ethical approval from the Cyprus National Ethics Committee. Data were collected via phone calls using tools translated into Greek to assess adherence among epileptic patients. These tools included the MMAS-8 Morisky, with 8 items (7 Yes/No questions and 1 Likert 5-Point question), and the Readiness for Change scale, featuring a 0-10 ruler and 3 open-ended questions. The MARS-5, with 5 Likert 5-Point questions, and the QOLIE-31 were also used, along with demographic data collection. Inclusion criteria were patients over 18 with epilepsy, on antiepileptic therapy, and Greek-speaking. Of the 151 patients in the registry, 16 were excluded by the Neurologist of the Limassol's General Hospital due to factors like communication issues, recent stroke, quadriplegia, brain paralysis, mental retardation, and Down syndrome. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS V28. Results In total, 85 epileptic patients participated in the study (out of the 135 patients- response rate 62.96%). The study's demographics included 47 males (55.3%) and 38 females (44.7%), with 18 participants aged 18-34 (21.2%), 46 participants aged 35-64 (54.1%), and 21 participants over 65 (24.7%). Additionally, the age of epilepsy onset was categorised as follows: 39 participants (45.9%) had an onset before 18 years of age, and 46 participants (54.1%) had an onset at 18 years of age or older. The Morisky MMAS-8 results showed 47 participants (55.3%) with high compliance, 26 (30.6%) with medium, and 12 (14.1%) with low compliance. The MARS-5 results indicated 79 participants (92.9%) had high compliance (≥20), while 6 (7.1%) had low compliance (<20). The readiness for change ruler had a mean score of 9.48 (SD = 0.16). Specifically, the distribution of scores was as follows: 1 participant (1.2%) scored 2, 4 participants (4.7%) scored 5, 2 participants (2.4%) scored 7, 4 participants (4.7%) scored 8, 2 participants (2.4%) scored 9, and 72 participants (84.7%) scored 10. The overall quality of life (QoL) score averaged 75.3 (SD = 2.16). Discussion/Conclusion This study is the first comprehensive assessment of adherence and quality of life among epileptic patients in Cyprus. Some patients did not participate due to lack of time and interest. Using the Morisky MMAS-8 and MARS-5 scales, over half showed high medication compliance, but a significant portion had medium to low compliance, indicating a need for targeted interventions. The findings underscore the critical role of community pharmacists in supporting adherence and enhancing quality of life through education, counseling, and personalized care. This study provides a foundation for future research and interventions to improve epilepsy management in Cyprus.

Creating an inclusive workforce in 2024: Are pharmacy teams across England committed to embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion?

Abstract Introduction The Pharmacy Workforce Race Equality Standard (PWRES) published in 2023 provided evidence of the varied experiences that registered pharmacy professionals in NHS trusts face, particularly in relation to gender and ethnicity.1 Following this, the Inclusive Pharmacy Practice delivery group at NHS England set out to raise awareness of the data and to support regions in developing action plans to drive improvements in equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within pharmacy teams. Aim The aim of this study was to identify current initiatives within NHS providers that promote EDI within the pharmacy workforce with a view to enabling the sharing of good practice, and identifying implementation barriers. Methods A questionnaire was created by the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer’s Clinical Fellows and distributed by the 6 regional chief pharmacists within NHS England to their networks. The questionnaire was also promoted in regional pharmacy leadership meetings. Responses were collected between 1st February and 31st May 2024. Data was collected on an Excel spreadsheet. London was excluded from data collection as a similar questionnaire was distributed in 2023. No ethical approval was needed for non-sensitive anonymised data. Results There were 77 responses: 75% (n = 58) from hospital trusts, 13% (n = 10) from integrated care boards and the remaining 9 responses included the Local Pharmaceutical Committee, Hospice and Mental Health Trust. 86% of respondents (n = 66) indicated that their organisation has EDI initiatives in place. These have been summarised into six key themes: 1) EDI network/steering group (n = 44), 2) action plan (n = 14), 3) EDI training/accreditation (n =14), 4) reverse/reciprocal mentoring (n = 11), 5) awareness days (n = 10) and 6) inclusive recruitment practices (n = 10). In contrast, only half of respondents indicated that their team had EDI initiatives. The impact of any initiatives was measured by feedback from staff (e.g. Internal staff survey, NHS staff survey, focus groups, open staff forums) and regular staff demographic data collection. 55% of respondents (n = 36) indicated that recruitment panel members received compulsory EDI training for interviews and 54% of respondents (n = 35) received mandatory recruitment training. Barriers and challenges identified with implementing EDI initiatives included organisational change, workforce capacity, competing priorities and staff apathy. Discussion The survey results highlight a strong commitment to EDI initiatives at an organisational level, with most organisations having established EDI frameworks. However, the lower prevalence of EDI initiatives within individual pharmacy teams suggests a gap in implementation. This discrepancy indicates a need for better dissemination and integration of EDI practices within pharmacy team settings. There is evidence of varied practice in terms of EDI training requirements of interview panellists, and these variations are opportunities where improvements can be made in terms of IPP. The survey was only sent to the managed NHS sector and is not reflective of primary care or community pharmacy. One of the next steps is for regions to use the results of the questionnaire in combination with the PWRES data to develop and implement local action plans to address these issues. Reference 1. NHS England. Pharmacy Workforce Race Equality Standard Report 2023. [Accessed 4th June 2024]. Available from https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/pharmacy-workforce-race-equality-standard-report/

Analysing the psychological capital influence on academic performance in an e-learning environment

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the evolving landscape of e-learning, which has become a transformative educational approach accelerated by technological advancements and the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to explore the adoption and impact of e-learning across diverse educational settings, focusing on its effectiveness, quality and potential challenges. Furthermore, this research delves into the often-overlooked role of psychological resources and capabilities, particularly Psychological Capital (PsyCap), in enhancing academic performance among university students engaged in e-learning. By investigating the influence of psychological resources and their intersection with e-learning, this study seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors that shape successful e-learning experiences and academic achievement.Design/methodology/approachIn this research methodology, data was collected from an e-learning institution, with a focus on students in various computer science semesters to ensure comprehensive representation. To minimize standard method bias, a random sampling technique was employed, and data collection was conducted with the support of locally hired research associates. Participant confidentiality and anonymity were carefully preserved, and ethical approval was obtained. The study began with demographic data collection and an assessment of PsyCap dimensions. Most measurements were self-reported, except for GPA, retrieved from the institute directly. The study initially involved 468 students, but only 213 provided complete responses, resulting in a 46% response rate. Demographic data included age, marital status and gender. The sample featured diverse generational representation, with 58% from Generation Z, 13% Millennials, 22% Generation X and 6% Baby Boomers. This comprehensive data will help analyse generational influences on e-learning outcomes.FindingsThe study’s findings underscore the significance of self-efficacy, hope, resilience and optimism in e-learning success. Higher self-efficacy positively impacts student engagement, aligning with previous research. PsyCap, which includes these traits, proves relevant in educational settings. Resilience is notably beneficial, aiding students in overcoming challenges and bolstering their self-belief. Hope enhances problem-solving and adaptability, while optimism fosters a proactive attitude and perseverance, both vital for academic excellence. These insights have broad implications for e-learning practices, emphasizing the need to nurture psychological resources. Incorporating PsyCap-based interventions can enhance the educational experience, promoting student success.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has certain limitations that should be considered. It focused exclusively on computer science students, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research should encompass a wider range of academic disciplines for broader applicability. The study was conducted within a specific cultural and regional context, emphasizing a collectivist culture in an Asian setting. To enhance the applicability of the results, it is crucial to explore different regions and cultural contexts. While the study controlled for generational cohort effects on academic performance, further investigation is warranted to understand how different generational cohorts perceive e-learning. Additionally, the study suggests examining how psychological resources influence students' perceptions of e-learning as a stressor or motivator. Furthermore, a comprehensive study comparing the impact of PsyCap on academic performance in both e-learning and traditional education, involving diverse samples and various cultural settings, is needed to provide a more comprehensive understanding.Originality/valueThis research contributes by thoroughly examining the impact of e-learning in diverse educational settings, focusing on its effectiveness, quality and potential challenges. A novel aspect is the exploration of the often-overlooked role of PsyCap in enhancing academic performance among university students engaged in e-learning. This sheds light on the intersection of psychological resources and e-learning. Additionally, the study’s rigorous research methodology underscores its commitment to ethical and responsible research conduct. The research also presents valuable demographic data on generational cohorts and gender, offering insights into how these factors influence e-learning outcomes. These original contributions collectively enhance our understanding of the multifaceted dynamics of e-learning and the pivotal role of psychological resources in academic success.

In vivo lacrimal gland imaging artefact assessment based on swept-source optical coherence tomography for dry eye disease.

This study aimed to characterise imaging artefacts in the lacrimal gland using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) in patients with dry eye disease (DED) and healthy participants and identify risk factors for these artefacts. In total, 151 eyes, including 104 from patients with DED and 47 from non-DED participants, were analysed. Demographic data collection, comprehensive ocular examinations and SS-OCT imaging of the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland were performed. Artefacts were classified into distinct categories with different severities. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association of age, gender, best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP) and the presence of DED with the presence of artefacts. Eight artefact types and severity grading were defined by analysing 1208 lacrimal SS-OCT images. The three most prevalent artefacts were defocus (75.83%), cliff (67.47%) and Z-off (58.44%). The presence of artefacts was significantly associated with the presence of DED (OR=9.13; 95% CI, 2.39 to 34.88; p=0.001) and higher IOP (OR=1.34; 95% CI, 1.14 to 1.58; p<0.001). Furthermore, multivariate logistic analyses showed that lower tear film breakup time (OR=0.71; 95% CI, 0.55 to 0.92; p=0.009) and higher meibum quality score (OR=2.86; 95% CI, 1.49 to 5.48; p=0.002) were significantly associated with higher odds for the presence of artefacts. DED eyes had more SS-OCT image artefacts than normal eyes. Stringent standardised image quality control should be implemented before further image analysis when using SS-OCT to assess lacrimal gland image.

Predictors of self-care behaviors in hypertensive patients based on the protection motivation theory

IntroductionGlobally, hypertension is a significant public health concern and a leading cause of premature death. Since this disease is incurable, it is necessary to promote patients’ self-care behaviors to control it. The goal of this research was to identify the elements that influence self-care actions in individuals with hypertension, utilizing the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) framework.MethodsA study was carried out in Omidiyeh, located in southern Iran, using a cross-sectional design, involving 397 adults with hypertension (198 females and 199 males) who were selected from comprehensive health centers using a stratified random sampling technique. Data was gathered through a demographic data collection form and a questionnaire created by the researcher, which was based on the PMT. Data were assessed utilizing SPSS 25 and AMOS 24 software, and various statistical tests including one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, independent t-test, and structural equation modeling were conducted.FindingsThe variables of intrinsic reward (r = 0.182), extrinsic reward (r = 0.288), and response cost (r = 0.126) showed a significant negative correlation with self-care behaviors. On the other hand, perceived susceptibility (r = 0.212), perceived severity (r = 0.110), self-efficacy (r = 0.555), and response efficacy (r = 0.424) demonstrated a significant positive correlation with self-care behaviors. Specifically, self-efficacy and response efficacy were the most powerful predictors of self-care behaviors, respectively.ConclusionThe results showed that several factors can forecast self-care behaviors in patients with hypertension. Researchers are recommended to incorporate PMT in educational interventions and concentrate on self-efficacy and response efficacy constructs.

Prognostic nutritional index as a predictor of mortality among patients admitted to ICU with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BackgroundThe PNI is a metric that may assess the combined impact of the inflammatory process and nutritional condition. It may be beneficial in evaluating the nutritional state of patients with AECOPD.In recent years, it has also been utilized for prognostic assessment of cases admitted to the critical care unit.Aim of the workThe objective of the research was to assess the relationship between PNI and the prognosis for ICU patients with AECOPD.Patients and methodsThis was a prospective cross-sectional observational research carried out in the RICU of Ain Shams University Hospitals from April 2023 to March 2024. The study included 161 AECOPD patients who were admitted to RICU. All patients underwent demographic data collection, special habits and comorbid conditions evaluations, and hematological indices with laboratory markers and ABG. ICU and hospital stay duration, SOFA score, and SAPS II were also documented. The PNI value was computed using the following equation: the formula to calculate the value is 10 times the serum albumin concentration in grams per deciliter plus 0.005 times the total lymphocyte count in cubic millimeters. The main measure of interest was the death rate within 30 days for all causes. Additional measures were the duration of stay in the ICU, the duration of hospitalization, and the rate of MV.ResultsThere was a significant relationship between PNI and type of respiratory failure, mechanical ventilation, fate, hypertension, and diabetes. One hundred five (65.2%) of the patients were extubated and discharged, while 56 (34.8%) of them died. The study also noted a significant positive relationship among PNI and HCT, lymphocytic %, HB, and albumin. However, there was a significant negative relationship between PNI and age, RDW, WBC, neutrophil count, neutrophil %, NLR, CRP, SAPSII, and SOFA. The SAPS II score (with SAPS II mortality) had greater AUROC in predicting mortality than PNI, NLR, and SOFA. The optimal cut-off value for PNI in this study was ≤ 29 with sensitivity 82.14% and specificity 56.19%.ConclusionThe study showed that PNI can be a useful biomarker for AECOPD. PNI with SAPS II scores on admission to ICU were closely correlated to adverse outcomes.

The impact of social media screen-exposure time on suicidal ideation among Pakistani adolescents.

Adolescence is a crucial life stage for the individual identity formation. The growing employment of social media and screen-exposure among teenagers and the concerning rise in suicide ideation rates in this susceptible group both suggested this study. Thus, we explored the association between adolescents' suicidal ideation and their daily social media screen-exposure. We surveyed 502 students, aged 13 to 19 years old, recruited in colleges and universities of Punjab, Pakistan. The survey was based on a 28-item self-reported questionnaire and demographic data collection. Approximately 40% of adolescents reporting suicidal ideation showed an extended social media screen-exposure, as well as significant depressive feelings and problematic personality traits. In particular, suicidal ideation increased by 0.39 for each one-unit increase in screen-exposure time and levels of depression increased by 0.21 times by unit of screen-exposure. The correlation coefficients further indicated a moderate positive association between depression and suicidal thoughts as well as personality traits played as mediators between social media screen-exposure time and suicidal ideation among adolescents. Our study found a positive association, even if modest, between the use of social media screens and suicidal ideation among adolescents. This evidence may suggest to adopt specific strategies to address the use of media among youths and prevent mental disorders related to the prolonged and inappropriate use of digital technologies in those users with a vulnerable personality.

Health Care Workers' Perspectives on Collecting Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in the Adult Primary Care Setting.

Despite numerous calls for standardized collection of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data in clinical settings, uptake of this practice still lags. This study conducted a preimplementation assessment of staff attitudes toward SOGI data collection within an adult primary care practice in an urban academic medical center in the northeastern United States. We created a process map of the flow of patient data from the point of registration to the clinical encounter to identify all staff roles associated with registration and patient demographic data collection. We purposively sampled staff members across these roles and conducted semistructured virtual interviews between November 2021 and February 2022. The research team used deductive and inductive coding and conducted a thematic analysis to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation. Nine clinical staff and eleven nonclinical staff were interviewed. Participants were asked about their general experiences with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) patients, their perspectives on collecting this data, and potential barriers and facilitators to incorporating this into the workflow. The main themes that emerged were the relevance of SOGI data to the clinical practice; concerns about patient acceptability; the prevalence of cis-gender, heteronormative assumptions; and concerns about linguistic, cultural, and generational differences. Differences were noted between clinical and nonclinical staff. Greater education is needed to help both clinical and nonclinical staff understand how patients' SOGI demographics can be used to provide affirming, patient-centered care. Implementation strategies can be tailored to address specific barriers at the individual, organizational, and social levels.

The Relationship Between Perceived Workplace Bureaucracies, Self-Efficacy and Job Motivation Over the COVID-19 Pandemic

Workplace bureaucracies impact many areas of an employee’s working life. High levels of perceived bureaucracy can diminish employees’ job motivation, satisfaction, and performance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, infection containment measures contributed significantly to the ‘great resignation’ via the lack of self-efficacy from perceived bureaucracy. This study surveyed 240 full-time employees between late 2021 and early 2022 across organizations in both private and public sectors in Singapore using the Work Extrinsic Intrinsic Motivation scale, the Workplace Bureaucracy questionnaire, and the General Self-Efficacy scale alongside demographic data collection. Results showed that salary range, education levels, self-efficacy and job motivation were negatively associated with perceived workplace bureaucracies but not gender, age, and length of employment. The study’s findings provide insight into the effect of increased perceived bureaucracy during the COVID-19 pandemic on employee experience that would be relevant to the workplace environment even in regular times as a possible intervention point for better employee experience.

Evaluation and Surveillance of Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy in Manual Workers: Identifying Elbows at Risk

Abstract Background: Manual workers are at risk of developing lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET). We aimed to validate the hypothesis that asymptomatic elbows of manual workers with LET are more likely to have positive physical examination results and morpho-mechanical changes on elbow ultrasonography compared to healthy individuals. Methods: This cross-sectional case–control study included 30 manual workers with unilateral LET (LET group) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers (control group). Demographic data collection and functional evaluation were performed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand; Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation; and European Quality of Life Five-Dimensions questionnaires. Physical examination of the elbows and evaluation of the common extensor tendon (CET) with B-mode morphology ultrasonography and Young’s modulus elastography were performed. The LET-unaffected and LET-affected elbows in the LET group were compared with the elbows in the control group. Results: The LET-unaffected elbows in the LET group had a higher prevalence of positive chair test results and focal hypoechoic change and microcalcification on ultrasonography than those in the control group (P &lt; 0.05, 0.005, and 0.05, respectively). In addition, LET-affected elbows showed higher focal hypoechoic change, microcalcification, erosive cortex, and neovascularity than elbows in the control group (P &lt; 0.001, 0.001, 0.005, and 0.001, respectively). The unaffected and affected elbows showed greater CET thickness than those in the control group (P &lt; 0.05 and 0.005). Conclusion: The unaffected elbows of manual workers with unilateral LET should be considered at risk of LET. We proposed a risk assessment and surveillance protocol based on chair test results and abnormal ultrasonographic findings.

Exploring Demographic Representation and Reporting in Lung Cancer Clinical Trials with Canadian Sites from 2013 to 2023.

This review evaluates the reporting of demographic characteristics and the diversity of participants of phase III lung cancer clinical trials with Canadian research sites. A literature search was conducted using the ClinicalTrials.gov registry to identify clinical trials conducted between 1 January 2013, and 31 December 2023. The demographic reporting practices and the representation of sex/gender, racial, and ethnic groups were assessed. The location of Canadian research sites was also examined for trends in reporting and representation. Associated publications were reviewed for demographic data collection methods. Of the 25 clinical trials, 24 reported race and 18 also reported ethnicity. All clinical trials reported sex/gender, and the city and province of the participating Canadian sites. Most participants were White (66.1%), identified as not Hispanic or Latino (81.4%), and were male (57.8%). The provinces with the most clinical trial sites were Ontario (43.6%) and Quebec (34.2%). Lung cancer clinical trials lack adequate demographic reporting and representation of females, diverse patient groups, and geographical locations in Canada with high lung cancer incidence rates. Specifically, the Indigenous Peoples of Canada and Nunavut require better representation in lung cancer clinical trials conducted in Canada. These findings highlight the need to improve diversity and demographic representation in clinical research.

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COVER PHOTO: Mulla et al. (this issue; Article e4368; doi:10.1002/ecy.4368) performed annual monitoring to assess the recovery of coral populations which led to the emergence of a Pocillopora‐dominated reef at Orchid Island (also called Lanyu), Taiwan, pictured on the cover. Their demographic data collection from 2012 to 2020 tracks individual corals after Typhoon Morakot severely impacted the region in 2009. Coral cover increased from 1.1% to 20.2% as Pocillopora juveniles quickly transitioned to sexually mature adults and dominated the reefs within six years of the disturbance. The increase of Pocillopora cover was accompanied with a decrease in the number of individuals. The authors used integral projection models (IPMs) to construct eight successive models examining annual changes to illustrate how the application of IPMs based on long‐term data can be useful for robust predictions and an improved comprehension of ecological dynamics. Photo credit: Aziz J. Mulla. image

Landscape of racial and ethnic health disparities in the All of Us Research Program.

The All of Us Research Program ("All of Us") is an initiative led by the National Institutes of Health whose goal is to advance research on personalized medicine and health equity through the collection of genetic, environmental, demographic, and health data from volunteer participants who reside in the USA. The program's emphasis on recruiting a diverse participant cohort makes "All of Us" an effective platform for investigating health disparities. In this work, we analyzed participant electronic health record (EHR) data to identify the diseases and disease categories in the "All of Us" cohort for which racial and ethnic prevalence disparities can be observed. In conjunction with these analyses, we developed the US Health Disparities Browser as an interactive web application that enables users to visualize differences in race- and ethnic-group-specific prevalence estimates for 1755 different diseases: https://usdisparities.biosci.gatech.edu/. The web application features a catalog of all diseases represented in the browser, which can be sorted by overall prevalence as well as the variance in prevalence across racial and ethnic groups. The analyses outlined here provide details on the nature and extent of racial and ethnic health disparities in the "All of Us" participant cohort, and the accompanying browser can serve as a resource through which researchers can explore these disparities Database URL: https://usdisparities.biosci.gatech.edu.

Impact of altitude on the development of low bone mineral density and osteoporosis in individuals aged 50 years and older: protocol for a multicentre prospective cohort study

IntroductionOsteoporotic fractures are a leading cause of disability and contribute significantly to medical care costs worldwide. Variations in bone mineral density and the risk of osteoporosis are notably influenced by...

Gut Microbiome in Children with Congenital Heart Disease After Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery (GuMiBear Study).

The gut microbiome of infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery (CPB) is at risk of profound alteration. The aim of this study was to examine the gut microbiome pre- and post-bypass surgery to explore potential implications of altered gut biodiversity.A prospective cohort study involving infants with CHD who underwent CPBwas performed. Faecal samples were collected from infants alongside the collection of demographic and clinical data in order to examine gut microbiome changes before and after surgery. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis was performed on DNA isolated from stool samples to determine changes in gut microbiome composition. Thirty-three patients were recruited, with samples from thirteen of these available for final analysis. Compared with healthy, matched controls, at a genus level, pre-operative samples for infants with CHD demonstrated a higher relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella (31% vs 2-6%) and a lower relative abundance of Bifidobacterium (13% vs 40-60%). In post-operative samples, the relative abundance of Escherichia-Shigella (35%), Enterococcus (11%), Akkermansia (6%), and Staphylococcus (5%) were higher than pre-op samples. One infant developed post-operative necrotising-enterocolitis (NEC). They displayed a marked abundance of the Enterococcus (93%) genus pre-operatively. This study demonstrates that infants with CHD have an altered gutmicrobiome when compared with healthy controls and there might be a possible link between an abundance of virulent species and NEC.

Household food expenditures and socioeconomic status in relation to dietary nutrient intake in Iranian families

PurposeExamining the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) and expenses spent on food preparation on nutritional intake has always been one of the critical concerns for policymakers. This study aims to investigate the association between household food expenditure as well as SES and dietary nutrient intake in Kermanshah, Iran.Design/methodology/approachIn this cross-sectional study, households were randomly selected from different strict in Kermanshah, Iran. Data were collected with an SES questionnaire, a demographic data collection form, a weekly food purchase checklist and a food record. The authors performed the analysis of covariance to determine the relationship of dietary nutrient intake of study participants across quintile categories of SES and total food expenses per day.FindingsOut of 125 households, 119 households including 401 people finished the study. A significant association was observed between higher SES and higher intake of vitamin B2 (p-value = 0.03). Moreover, the household members at the top level of total food expenses per day had significantly greater dietary nutrient intake of energy (p < 0.001), potassium (p < 0.001), magnesium (p < 0.001), calcium (p < 0.001), zinc (p < 0.001), vitamin B2 (p < 0.001), B6 (p < 0.001), B12 (p = 0.002) and vitamin C (p = 0.04).Originality/valueIn our study, higher dietary nutrient intake was observed in the household members at the highest level of total food expenses daily as well as SES. Therefore, governments and policymakers should pay basic attention to optimizing food costs and improving the economic status of people.

Treatment outcomes of vulvar and vaginal melanoma at an NCCN institution between 1993 and 2021

BackgroundVulvar melanoma and vaginal melanoma are rare and difficult to treat. We describe the last three decades in a cohort predominantly treated surgically with adjuvant therapy. MethodsAll new patients between 1993 and 2021 followed until 2024. Collection of demographic and oncologic data allowed comparisons and Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) stratified by adjuvant therapy type, diagnosis before and after 2011, and between vulvar and vaginal melanomas. ResultsConsultation for 63/72 patients (87.5 %) were for primary treatment. Most patients had vulvar melanoma (50/72, 69.4 %), received surgery (65/72, 90.3 %), and adjuvant treatment (40/72, 55.6 %) with immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and/or targeted therapy. Median survival for 63 patients presenting for primary treatment was 54.2 months, and 9/13 patients who were disease free after five years later received adjuvant immunotherapy. Survival did not vary by adjuvant therapy type or diagnosis after 2011 but was significantly less for vaginal melanoma. Following recurrence seven patients experienced complete response including three patients receiving combined nivolumab with ipilimumab and two nivolumab alone experienced. ConclusionsSurvival was not significantly different by adjuvant therapy type or after 2011. Most patients who were disease-free five years after surgery had received adjuvant therapy. Seven patients experienced complete responses to therapy after recurrence of whom five received immune checkpoint inhibitors. Although survival is not improved as in cutaneous melanomas by immune checkpoint inhibitors, signal continues for the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in gynecologic melanomas.

Association of transmural dispersion of ventricular repolarization (Tpeak-Tend interval) with components of metabolic syndrome: data from the ESSE-RF3

Aim. To study the associations of the Tpeak-Tend interval (TpTe) with components of metabolic syndrome (MS) in a sample of Novosibirsk residents.Material and methods. The study included 1042 residents of Novosibirsk (510 (48,9%) men) aged 35-74 years. The examination included the collection of demographic and social data, anthropometry, blood pressure (BP) measurement, and electrocardiography (ECG). MS was determined according to the 2013 criteria. The TpTe interval from the peak, as the maximum positive or negative T wave deviation, to the end of the T wave, was measured manually in lead V5. The corrected TpTe (cTpTe) interval was used in the study.Results. The cTpTe is inversely associated with female sex (B 3,390, 95% confidence interval (CI): (-5,516-2,504), p=0,001). The cTpTe interval is associated with a blood pressure (BP) ≥140/90 mm Hg (B 3,154, 95% CI: (1,614-4,688), p=0,001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) &gt;3,0 mmol/l (B 1,818, 95% CI: (0,409-3,544), p=0,030), regardless of other MS components, sex and age. The cTpTe interval was higher in individuals with BP ≥140/90 mm Hg compared with individuals with BP &lt;140/90 mm Hg (69,08 95% CI: 67,59-70,66 vs 65,93 95% CI: 64,60-67,24; p=0,001), and in persons with LDL-C &gt;3,0 mmol/l (68,41 95% CI: 67,11-69,63 vs 66,60 95% CI: 65,02-68,23; p=0,023), compared with individuals with LDL-C &lt;3,0 mmol/l.Conclusion. The cTpTe interval, considered as an indicator of transmural dispersion of ventricular repolarization, is shorter in women than in men and is associated with hypertension and atherogenic dyslipidemia, regardless of other MS components.