Demographic Information Research Articles

ASSOCIATION OF RADIAL ARTERY ACCESS WITH REDUCED INCIDENCE OF ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious complication following cardiac procedures, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The choice of vascular access site may influence the incidence of AKI, with radial artery access potentially offering protective benefits compared to femoral artery access. Objective: To evaluate the association between radial artery access during cardiac procedures and the incidence of acute kidney injury among patients. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease from January 2023 to January 2024. A total of 370 patients who underwent cardiac procedures were included, comprising 200 patients in the radial artery access group and 170 in the femoral artery access group. Data were collected retrospectively from medical records, including demographic information, baseline renal function, procedural details, and serum creatinine levels before and after the procedure. The incidence of AKI was determined based on established criteria for changes in serum creatinine. Statistical analyses were performed using appropriate tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Patients in the radial artery access group had a shorter average hospital stay (2.5 ± 1.2 days) compared to the femoral group (3.8 ± 1.5 days, p = 0.001). The mortality rate was lower in the radial group (1.5%) versus the femoral group (4.1%), although this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.09). The incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was 2.5% in the radial group compared to 5.9% in the femoral group (p = 0.07). Acute kidney injury occurred in 10.0% of patients in the radial artery access group (20 out of 200) versus 17.6% in the femoral artery access group (30 out of 170), indicating a significant reduction in AKI incidence with radial access. Conclusion: Using radial artery access during cardiac procedures significantly reduces the incidence of acute kidney injury compared to femoral artery access. These findings support the preference for radial artery access to minimize the risk of AKI and improve patient outcomes.

Effects of Postpartum Web-Based Breastmilk and Breastfeeding Education: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Objective: The aim of the study was to examine the effect of web-based breastfeeding education applied to postpartum primiparous women on breastmilk, breastfeeding knowledge and self-efficacy. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted with 73 participants (experimental group=37; control group=36) at the Zeynep Kamil Gynecology and Pediatrics Training and Research Hospital in Istanbul, Türkiye. The study was at postpartum services between June 2018 and October 2019. The participants in the experimental group attended the internet-based breastmilk and breastfeeding education program; where as those in the control group received routine care. Data were collected pre and post training using the demographic information form, Breastmilk and Breastfeeding Knowledge Test and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. Results: Our result showed that there was no significant difference found between the experimental and control groups on post-training on Breastmilk and Breastfeeding Knowledge Test (p>.05). On the other hand, there was significant difference between the experimental and control groups on post-training on Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (p

How do Road Users in Mixed Traffic Perceive Risk Towards Each Other? A Comparative Study from a Developing Country

Many developing countries have high traffic accident rates due to the mixed traffic environment in which bicycles and motor vehicles travel in the same lanes. This paper examines the perceived risk among road users in mixed traffic. A questionnaire survey was used to obtain demographic information and self-reported risk perception among cyclists, motorcyclists, and drivers. Statistical analyses, including the T-test and ANOVA, were used to examine the relevant differences in risk assessment among the groups. The results demonstrate that the groups differ significantly in sociodemographic characteristics, driving experience, and travel characteristics. For self-reported perceived risk, the respondents’ perceptions of road surface conditions, the potential of daydreaming while operating a vehicle, and distraction from passengers or riding companions exhibited significant differences between the groups. The research findings could be beneficial as a guide for policymakers in planning road safety awareness to reduce risk in mixed traffic environments.

Impact of Sleep Quality on Hemogram-Derived Inflammatory Indices in Medical Undergraduates: A Cross-Sectional Study

The link between sleep-related disorders and inflammation is well-known, but the association between inflammatory indices and sleep deprivation is still unclear. In our study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between irregular sleep patterns and systemic inflammation using Hemogram-Based Inflammatory Indices. We collected demographic information from 90 undergraduate medical students through a confidential questionnaire. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Blood samples were obtained for complete blood count analysis, with platelet (P), lymphocyte (L), and neutrophil (N) counts measured. These values were then used to calculate hemogram-based inflammatory indices, including the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR). A high prevalence of inconsistent sleep was observed among medical students, with 53% reporting a PSQI score greater than 5(mean score 5.9±2.9). Subjects with poor sleep quality had elevated SII values. Additionally, female participants who experienced poor sleep quality demonstrated a significant positive correlation with SII (r=0.322; p<0.049). Irregular sleep patterns are associated with greater systemic inflammation milieu specifically with SII compared to NLR and PLR. This effect was more pronounced in female participants, suggesting a potential gender-specific influence.

Prevalence and Associated Factors Affecting Outcomes of Adult Patients with Cardiac Arrest Who Receive Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Emergency Department of a Tertiary Hospital

Background Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) aims at restoring spontaneous circulation in a victim of cardiac arrest. This study intends to find out the demographic information of cardiac arrest patients, their outcomes and the possible factors that could affect the outcomes.MethodsA hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Dhulikhel Hospital to investigate cardiac arrest outcomes among patients aged over 14 years who either presented with or developed cardiac arrest in the Emergency Department. Data were documented and, then entered into Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize categorical and continuous variables, while a Chi-square test (p < 0.05) assessed associations between selected variables and CPR outcomes.ResultsThe majority of patients were over 65 years old (31.9%), with the smallest group under 25 years (10.1%). Regarding gender distribution 34.8% were female. Trauma was present in 24.6% of cases, while 48.9% were witnessed by bystanders but none of them received CPR. Initial rhythm was predominantly asystole (87%). CPR lasted for 20-40 minutes in 47.8% of cases and over 40 minutes in 14.5%, averaging 24.1 minutes. 40.6% patients had ROSC after CPR while 59.4% had no Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC). Statistically significant associations with CPR outcomes were found for sex, site of cardiac arrest, trauma, witnessed events, CPR duration, and intubation (p-value <0.05).Conclusions Our hospital experiences a high prevalence of cardiac arrest and has comparable ROSC rate. Statistically significant variables associated with outcomes of CPR were, sex, site of cardiac arrest, Trauma, Witnessed event, Duration of CPR and Intubation.

The Attitudes of 8th Grade Students Towards the Republic of Turkey Revolution History and Kemalism Course

This study is quantitative research that aims to examine the attitudes of 8th graders towards the T.R. History of Revolution and Kemalism Course. The study population consists of 6.650 students studying in the 8th grades of Samsun province central district secondary schools in the 2022-2023 academic year, while the sample consists of 1424 students. A stratified sampling method was used in sample selection, and simple random sampling was used to draw units from the sub-populations of the sample. A survey form, the first part of which includes demographic information of the participants and the second part of which provides for the T.R. History of Revolution and Kemalism Course Attitude Scale, was used as a data collection instrument. Descriptive statistics and hypothesis tests were used in data analysis. The range width of the scale was interpreted based on the formula "range width/number of groups.” Whether the scale scores showed significant differences between demographic groups was tested with hypothesis tests, an independent sample t-test was used to compare independent demographic variables with two groups, and a one-way ANOVA test was used for independent variables with more than two groups. The difference in test scores between these groups was interpreted using the post hoc test, Scheffe. As a result of the study, it was found that the attitude scores of the study sample towards the course were undecided. There were significant differences between participants' attitudes towards the course and the variables of gender, nationality, school type, parental educational status, place of residence, number of people in the household, and course achievement.

Depopulation and Limitations of Demographic Statistics in the Republic of Belarus

The article considers the problems in the demographic processes of the Republic of Belarus. The fluctuations in the modern demographic "waves" of Belarus are analyzed. It is argued that the reproductive processes of the Republic are characterized by changes in the depopulation spiral. Concern about the prospects for its demographic development is substantiated. The problems of the state demographic policy in overcoming depopulation are noted. The state of the Belarusian demographic science in developing approaches to the implementation of demographic policy is highlighted. A characteristic of management decisions is given, both their positive and negative role in the implementation of demographic policy. The significance of the Concept of National Security of the Republic of Belarus and the role of ensuring demographic security in it are shown. In the light of the Concept of National Security of the country, the consequences of restrictions on statistical information for demographic science and demographic policy of Belarus are studied. The role of demographic information in ensuring the national security of the Republic is revealed. The results of the mechanism for recounting the population from the results of the 2019 population census are disclosed. Methodological approaches to calculating the indicators of the reproductive situation of Belarus in 2020-2023 are presented. in conditions of limited demographic statistics.

Investigation the effect of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) training on stigma and family functioning in family members of patients with psychiatric disorders: a randomized controlled clinical trial

BackgroundRegarding the prevalence and pervasiveness of psychiatric disorders, which significantly affect not only the patients themselves, but also their families, family therapy has emerged as a promising intervention. This research examined the effects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on stigma and family functioning in family members of patients with psychiatric illnesses, demonstrating effectiveness in improving family functioning and coping strategies in the face of mental illness.MethodsThis randomized controlled clinical trial without blinding. Forty family members of patients with psychiatric disorders were randomly assigned to an intervention group (N = 20) or a control group (N = 20). The intervention group received ACT in eight weekly sessions, each lasting 90 min, while control group remained on a waiting list. Both groups were assessed at three time points: pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at a one-month follow-up. Data collection instruments included a demographic information questionnaire, a stigma assessment, and a family functioning measure. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 23.ResultsA statistically significant difference was observed between the mean post-test and follow-up stigma scores of the intervention and control groups (P < 0.05). The intervention group’s mean scores showed a rising trend, whereas the control group’s mean scores showed a declining trend. This was evident from within-group comparisons of the mean post-test and follow-up stigma scores. Repeated measures ANOVA indicated that the pattern of change in stigma for the intervention group was significant, in contrast to control group, suggesting a reduction in stigma (P < 0.001).ConclusionIn light of the findings presented in this study, ACT emerges as a promising intervention for mitigating stigma, and enhancing the family functioning of individuals afflicted with mental disorders. To improve the generalizability of the study results, comparable studies using this therapy method should be undertaken on family caregivers of patients with mental illnesses.Iranian Registry of Clinical TrialsIRCT registration number: IRCT20190917044802N10.Registration date14/9/2023.

AWARENESS AND ATTITUDES OF ICU NURSES REGARDING POST-EXTUBATION DYSPHAGIA IN TRACHEALLY INTUBATED PATIENTS

Post-extubation dysphagia is a common yet under-recognized condition in intubated patients, which can lead to severe complications. The awareness and attitudes of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurses towards post-extubation dysphagia play a critical role in early detection and management of the condition, improving patient outcomes. Objective: To assess the awareness and attitudes of ICU nurses regarding post-extubation dysphagia in intubated patients. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Intensive Care Unit of Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan, from June 2023 to June 2024. One hundred nurses working full-time in general and specialized ICUs were included. Data were collected using a 28-item questionnaire divided into two sections. The first section collected demographic information, while the second assessed knowledge and attitudes toward post-extubation swallowing disorders using 20 specific questions. Statistical analysis, including multivariate analysis, was performed to identify factors associated with knowledge and attitude scores. Results: The average total standard score was 60.87 ± 14.31. The mean knowledge score was 7.54 ± 2.99, with a standard score of 75.40 ± 29.9. The average attitude score was 8.10 ± 2.01, with a standard score of 81.0 ± 20.1. Multivariate analysis revealed that age group 31-35, job title, and job satisfaction were significantly associated with higher knowledge scores. In contrast, attitude scores were significantly associated with sex, job title, age group, and department. Conclusion: The knowledge and attitudes of ICU nurses regarding post-extubation dysphagia in intubated patients are unsatisfactory. Professional training and educational programs are needed to improve critically ill patients' awareness and management of this condition.

Investigation Of The Relationship Between School Administrators 'Attitudes Towards Reporting Child Sexual Abuse And Self-Efficacy Perceptions

This study aims to investigate the relationship between school administrators' attitudes towards reporting child sexual abuse and their self-efficacy perceptions. The research, involved a sample of 205 school administrators working at various levels in the Rize province. The research utilized the relational survey model, a quantitative research method. Data collection tools included the Demographic Information Form, the Attitude Scale towards Reporting Child Sexual Abuse, and the School Administrators' Self-Efficacy Perceptions Scale. The findings revealed a positive and moderately significant relationship between school administrators' attitudes towards reporting child sexual abuse and their self-efficacy perceptions. Additionally, the study concluded that self-efficacy perceptions significantly predicted school administrators' attitudes towards reporting child sexual abuse.

Impact of Lifestyle and Demographic Factors on Diabetes-Associated Complications; A Cross-Sectional Study

Globally, the prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM), a leading cause of death and morbidity, is rising, adults with DM have the highest prevalence of chronic illness. This study pursuits to assess and evaluate the impact of life style and demographic factors that aggravates the diabetic complications. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was carried out in adult diabetic patients. The study was a nationally based study in Lahore, Pakistan, target population was Medical OPDs and Diabetic Care centers. Participants includes both gender with age 20 year to 70 years who’s diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The study variables include the demographic information, patient assessment, regarding the life style, face to face interview through self-structured questionnaire and anthropometric measurement were taken from every participant (weight, height). SPSS version 20.0 was used for data analysis. Results: The sample of this study consisted of 189 (51.1%) females and 181(48.9%) male respondents (N=370). The descriptive Statistics of gender of respondents giving standard deviation of 0.501 and variance of 0.251. As all the respondents are diabetic patients so while cross tabulating the gender with Obese scale 167 of the total population fall in normal weight scale, 110 are categorized as overweight and 33 as obese. The people with good knowledge about their life style impact on Diabetes complications were relatively less affected. Conclusions: The findings alert the medical practitioner informed the patients about the significance of impact of sedentary lifestyle on diabetic’s complications. Regular screening for diabetic patient is necessary for the early detection of complications by skilled health professionals.

Bariatric surgery decreases prescription drug costs for metabolic syndrome: a Canadian population-based cohort study.

Obesity is a chronic disease that is significantly linked to metabolic syndrome. Bariatric surgery is considered the most effective treatment for obesity resulting in long-term weight loss and comorbidity resolution. Prior studies have demonstrated the overall cost effectiveness of bariatric surgery; however, there is little data regarding direct pharmaceutical costs. The objective of this population-based study is to compare the cost of dispensed common prescription medications for metabolic syndrome before and after bariatric surgery. All patients that were enrolled in the Center for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery who underwent gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy between 2013 and 2019 in Manitoba were included. Basic demographic information and outpatient prescription dispensation data were obtained from the Manitoba Population Research Data Repository, which is housed at the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy. Specific drug categories that were reviewed for costs 5years before and after surgery included Antihypertensives, Lipid Lowering Agents, Insulin and Non-insulin Diabetic Drugs. One thousand one hundred and eighty four patients were included in this review. Comparing the 5-yearpre- and post-surgery, there was a decrease in the overall amount of drug dispensed and the overall cost for all drug categories in the 5years following surgery. These categories included Antihypertensives ($506,268.8), Lipid Lowering Agents ($173,866.48), Insulin ($549,305.92), and Other Diabetes Drugs ($513,371.1). Additionally, older patients experienced a larger proportion of cost savings compared to younger patients, with the exception of non-insulin diabetic medications which trended to have more cost savings in the 30-49year old grouping. This is the first Canadian study to use accurate dispensing data from a provincial administrative prescription database to capture long-term cost savings for metabolic prescriptions after bariatric surgery. The results are consistent with the existing literature for prescriptions post-bariatric surgery. Future study will include subgroup analysis by patient age, gender, income quintile, and geography.

Predictive Role of Emotional Intelligence in Authenticity and Self-Disgust Levels of University Students

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationships between emotional intelligence, authenticity, and self-disgust levels of university students. 555 students, 440 females and 115 males that studying in various universities in Turkey in 2022 have participated to the study. The research model of this study is a type of quantitative research called relational survey model. Demographic Information Form, Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire–Short Form, Self-Disgust Scale-Revised and Authenticity Scale were used in the study for data collection processes. The results of the research state that emotional intelligence and authenticity levels of males were higher than females, while self-disgust did not show any difference between genders. When the variables were analyzed according to income status, the emotional intelligence level was higher in individuals with higher income, as self-disgust was higher in individuals with lower income. Authenticity level did not show any difference among income groups. When the relationships between variables were analyzed, a positive significant relationship was found between emotional intelligence and authenticity. Self-disgust was found to have a significant negative relationship with both emotional intelligence and authenticity. According to the multiple regression analyses, it was found that the subscales of emotional intelligence were significant predictors of authenticity. The subscales of emotional intelligence including well-being, self-discipline, emotionality, and sociability together explained 53% of the variance in authenticity scores. Lastly, the results indicates that the subscales of emotional intelligence were significant predictors of self-disgust. The subscales of emotional intelligence including well-being, self-discipline, emotionality, and sociability together explained 41% of the variance in self-disgust scores. According to the results obtained, it is recommended to take increasing emotional intelligence skills into account considering that it may be functional in increasing the authenticity and reducing the self-disgust of individuals in terms of psychological health.

The Relationship of University Students’ Academic Achievement with Emotional Intelligence and Self-esteem: A Descriptive Correlation Study Design at Jouf University, Saudi Arabia 2023

Background: Understanding the factors that influence academic achievement among university students is crucial for educational institutions. This study aims to clarify the possible relationship between students’ academic achievement, emotional intelligence, and self-esteem. The findings from this research may provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers in developing strategies to enhance students’ academic performance and well-being. Methods: A descriptive-correlational study design was used. Participants were a total of 412 university students belonging to the selected 13 medical, scientific, and literary faculties of Jouf University, Saudi Arabia. The sample was determined randomly from different faculties. A multipart assessment tool was used to focus on assessing demographic information in terms of college, years of education, gender, parents’ educational level, marital status, and birth order. Students’ academic performance was based on their selfreported responses, as the grade point average is measured out of five. In contrast, emotional intelligence was measured using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire- Short Form and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale used to calculate students’ self-esteem. Results: The study found a strong positive correlation between grade point average, emotional intelligence, and self-esteem with parental educational level and academic year. Emotional intelligence and self-esteem were significantly influencing grade point average. Gender and academic year also had slight positive effects.Conclusion: There is a significant positive correlation between academic achievement, emotional intelligence, and self-esteem. Variables like fathers, mothers, academic year, gender, and self-esteem positively impacted grade point average.

A cross-sectional study investigating malaria prevalence and associated predictors of infection among migrants to a newly established gold mining settlement in the Gambella Region of Ethiopia.

Malaria is a major disease burden in Ethiopia. Migration can influence malaria transmission dynamics, with individuals relocating from malaria-free highland regions to malarious lowlands potentially facing elevated risks of contracting malaria. Migrants may find it difficult to protect themselves against malaria and have limited access to diagnosis or treatment. Settlers in gold mining sites are one type of migrant and are often neglected in malaria research yet may have particularly high malaria risk. This study was a malaria prevalence survey among settlers in a new gold mining settlement in the highly malarious Gambella Region, Ethiopia. n = 590 people were surveyed for demographic information and their knowledge and practices of malaria. Participants were tested for malaria using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy. Using logistic regressions, the influence of demographic characteristics on malaria infections and bed net access were analysed. A sub-sample of participants was interviewed to comprehend settlement living conditions and healthcare accessibility. The overall prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum was 37.5% (CI 32.4-42.3%). Young children were most likely to have malaria, with individuals aged 15-24 having 67% lower odds (aOR: 0.33; CI 0.13-0.86) of infection compared to those aged 1-4years old. Meanwhile, those age 25-plus had 75% decreased odds of malaria infection (aOR 0.25; CI 0.10-0.65). Individuals with bed nets had ~50% decreased odds of testing positive for falciparum malaria than those reporting having no bed net (aOR: 0.47; CI 0.22-0.97). Individuals who relocated from low elevation with high malaria test positivity rate areas were more prone to testing positive for malaria, as were those residing in densely populated households with multiple malaria cases. Conversely, individuals from higher elevations with low malaria test positivity rates, and those living in households with 5-10 occupants and < 2 malaria infections, were more likely to possess bed nets. This gold mining settlement provides an example of an oft-neglected atypical community where malaria is a significant, but under-addressed, health problem. Within this community, future interventions focused on distributing bed nets, particularly to larger households and those with children, have great potential to alleviate the malaria burden. Efforts should also be made to provide affordable, and accessible, early diagnosis and treatment.

INVASTIGATION OF PATIENT AND HOSPITAL PERCEPTIONS OF CHILDREN PARTICIPATING IN EDUCATION AT THE HOUSE OF COMPASSION

This study was conducted to determine the perceptions of children, one of whose relatives was undergoing chemotherapy treatment and who participated in education at the House of Compassion, about the patient and hospital perceptions and their views on the House of Compassion. Case study design, one of the qualitative research designs, was used. Criterion sampling, one of the purposeful sampling types, was used to determine the study group. The study group consisted of 20 children who participated in the training at the House of Compassion in a hospital in Ankara and one of whose relatives was undergoing chemotherapy treatment. In the study, "Demographic Information Form" was used to collect information about children and parents, "Child Interview Form" and "Children's Pictures" were used to determine children's perceptions of patients, hospital and House of Compassion. The data obtained were analyzed using the descriptive analysis technique. As a result of the research, it was observed that children knew the definition of the hospital, the personnel working in the hospital, and the practices carried out, and emphasized the healing and therapeutic aspects of the hospital. Children reported coming to the House of Compassion to play games, have fun, and have a good time. It was determined that children felt happy and sound in the House of Compassion and that they liked the House of Compassion. As a result, it can be said that the House of Compassion has positive effects on children's perceptions of the patient and the hospital.

CARotenoid and Parkinson’s Disease Severity study (CARPS) – Preliminary results from a Pilot Study

Abstract Background Carotenoids are naturally occurring anti-oxidants that give fruit and vegetables their bright colour. Skin carotenoid score (SCS) gives total carotenoid-levels in the body and corresponds well to blood carotenoid-levels. Studies have shown blood carotenoid-levels are low in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease compared with controls. CARPS exams the relationship between carotenoids and Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease (IPD) by measuring carotenoids in the skin and blood of individuals with IPD vs. controls. Methods Cross-sectional, case-control study with age-matched controls. Recruitment commenced January 2024. Case-subjects must have IPD and attend the hospital movement-disorder clinic. Control-subjects are spouse/care-partners of IPD-patients. Exclusion criteria: other forms of PD, Dementia, taking anti-oxidant supplements. Data collected: demographic information, medical history, BMI, frailty assessment. IPD severity assessed using UPDRS. Carotenoid-specific food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to assess dietary intake. Data was inputted to excel and exported to SPSS. Results 41 IPD-cases (23 Men, 16 Women) and 12 controls (8 Men, 4 Women) have been recruited to-date. 9/12 controls are spouses of an IPD-participant. Mean age of IPD-cases vs control: 76.1 vs. 74.5. Mean UPDRS score for IPD-cases: 28.02. The skin carotenoid score (SCS) was low in both groups, with a score &amp;gt;400 being within normal range. Mean SCS was lower in the IPD-cases compared to controls: 282.61 vs. 320.58. The IPD cohort are slightly frailer compared to the controls, with higher median-CFS: 3 vs. 1. Mean BMI was similar in both groups. Analysis of blood samples and FFQ is due to take place at a later date. Conclusion Early results suggest a trend towards lower SCS scores in the IPD cohort, with an interesting trend towards higher SCS scores in spouse-controls vs. their IPD partners, despite similar food intake. CARPS recruitment is ongoing with further analysis of blood-carotenoids and FFQ required to determine if the link between IPD severity and reduced carotenoid-levels is statistically significant.

Advance Care Planning Practices For Nursing Home Residents Referred To Specialist Palliative Care In An Acute Hospital Setting

Abstract Background Advance care planning (ACP) is a structured process of discussion between patients, their loved ones and health care professionals, which aims to establish and record an individual’s goals and preferences for future medical treatment and care. It is of significant relevance to nursing home residents, a comorbid and frail population at high risk of clinical deterioration. Methods This prospective, observational study included all nursing home residents referred to an inpatient specialist palliative care (SPC) service in a model four hospital over a six-month period (November 2023 to May 2024). Basic clinical and demographic information as well as data on functional status and advance care planning was anonymised and collated using Microsoft excel. Results 36 patients (mean age 79 years) were recruited. 36% (n=13) were referred within 48 hours of admission. The average Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Scale score was 40 on admission. 94% (n=34) had a clinical frailty score of ≥7 on admission. 72% (n=26) had an advance care plan in the nursing home. However, 22% (n=8) had not recorded their wishes pertaining to hospital readmission and 3 patients were admitted despite documenting a preference to remain in the nursing home. 53% (n=19) had not documented their preferred place for end-of-life care. 69% (n=25) died in hospital. Conclusion Most nursing home residents referred to the inpatient SPC team had severe frailty and died in hospital, reflecting the prognostic implications of severe frailty. Crucial components of the advance care plan were omitted in a significant proportion of patients, which may have influenced their referral to hospital. Provision of increased support to staff caring for older, frail adults in the residential care setting should be considered to enhance ACP.

Attitudes and Levels of Concern and Trust Towards COVID-19 Vaccination Among Patients Hospitalized at Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Kashan, Iran

Introduction: This study aimed to explore hospitalized patients' attitudes, concerns, and trust regarding Coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-cross-sectional study was conducted on 128 patients hospitalized at Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Kashan, Iran, in 2022. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. The questionnaire included questions about demographic information, attitudes towards vaccination (7 items), levels of concern (14 items), and trust (15 items). Data were analyzed using SPSS 26 software. Descriptive statistical analysis and chi-square tests applied. Results: Fifty-three (41.4%) of cases had a history of two vaccinations. Sinopharm was used in 28.12% of patients. The average attitude score was 8.21 ± 2.88, significantly associated with age (p = 0.02), nationality (p = 0.01), education (p = 0.01), and vaccination history (p = 0.02). The mean concern score was 35.41 ± 11.87, significantly linked to gender (p = 0.01) and vaccination history (p = 0.02). The average trust score was 40.50 ± 13.64, significantly associated with age (p = 0.04), gender (p = 0.01), vaccination history (p = 0.01), hospitalization history due to COVID-19 (p = 0.03), and COVID-19 infection history (p = 0.03). Conclusion: The vaccination rate among participants was acceptable. However, concerns about vaccination and its complications were the primary reasons for vaccine hesitancy. Given that vaccine acceptance across various community groups is as crucial as vaccine development, it is recommended that health organizations provide information on vaccine benefits and address concerns about potential side effects.

The Impact of Flavonoid Supplementation on Serum Oxidative Stress Levels Measured via D-ROMs Test in the General Population: The PREVES-FLAVON Retrospective Observational Study.

Oxidative stress has emerged as a key contributor to numerous NCDs (non-communicable diseases), including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. This study aims to explore the potential of targeted interventions to mitigate oxidative stress as part of a primary prevention strategy. The study included 32 healthy participants (11 men, 21 women) aged 45-65 who completed both the initial and follow-up assessments of the Healthy Days Initiative, a community-based wellness program organized by the non-profit Associazione O.R.A. ETS. Through blood analysis, vital sign assessment, lifestyle questionnaires, and individualized recommendations, participants received guidance on improving their health and reducing disease risk. The initiative also offered the opportunity for participants to consume a flavonoid supplement containing quercitrin, rutin, and hesperidin, with the goal of reducing oxidative stress. Participants who opted for supplementation were instructed to take 1-2 tablets daily for two weeks. Data collected included demographic information, anthropometric measurements, vital signs, dietary and lifestyle habits, medical history, WHO-5 Well-Being Index scores, and blood parameters. Significant reductions were observed in glucose levels (from 82 to 74.5 mg/dL), reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) (from 394.5 to 365.5 U.CARR), and systolic blood pressure (from 133 to 122 mmHg) after the two-week flavonoid intervention. Most participants (26/31) reported no side effects, and the majority (30/31) expressed a willingness to continue using a product combination of quercitrin, rutin, and hesperidin or a similar product long-term. While limited in scope and duration, the PREVES-FLAVON study contributes valuable insights to the growing body of evidence suggesting that flavonoid supplementation may play a significant role in reducing risk factors associated with NCDs in primary prevention settings. By targeting novel risk factors such as oxidative stress, this intervention holds promise for mitigating the global burden of NCDs and promoting healthy aging.