Demographic Profiling Research Articles

CORRELATION OF OXIDATIVE STRESS MARKERS IN MULTIPLE BIOFLUIDS OF END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE PATIENTS

A study established that patients with ESRD have high oxidative stress levels that spike the progression of the disease and its complications. Knowledge about the levels of the Oxidative stress biomarkers in various biofluids including Urine, serum, and saliva can explain the oxidative condition and probable diagnostic accuracy of these markers in ESRD patients. A descriptive cross-sectional exploratory research design was used to perform a comparison of 50 ESRD patients with 50 healthy subjects. On demographic, clinical, and hematological parameters data were obtained. Blood MDA, 8-OHdG, and saliva TAC were determined as the indicators of oxidative stress. Multivariate analysis was conducted to compare the levels of these markers in the biofluids and probable neurological disorders, and the participants’ demographic and clinical data were evaluated. Demographic profiling revealed that ESRD patients’ mean BMI was 26.3 ± 3.9 kg/m², compared to controls 24.8 ± 3.4 km/m², p = 0.032; more of them being smokers’ p = 0.045. ESRD patient’s general hematologic profile showed that their mean hemoglobin level was 10.2 ± 1.5 g/dL and the mean hematocrit was 32.5 ± 4.3 % and the difference was significant when compared with the control group (p<0.05). ESRD was associated with an increase in WMBC, percentage of neutrophils, and CRP level compared with the control group (p<0.05). Acute phase marker study indicates that the MDA level was significantly higher in serum (5.6 ± 1.1 nmol/L) than in urine (3.2 ± 0.8 nmol/L) and saliva (2.8 ± 0.7 nmol/L, p=0.016). The levels of 8-OHdG were significantly higher in serum (10.3 ± 2.1 ng/mL) than in urine and saliva (p=0.027). Salivary TAC was the least suggesting reduced antioxidant defense (p<0.05). The study revealed that ESRD patients have increased levels in the markers of oxidative stress in urine and serum samples, as well as saliva compared to healthy individuals. The studies have identified serum as the most representative biofluid for evaluating oxidative stress in ESRD and therefore assured the practical application of the results for the identification of the best candidates for early interventions.

Digital Divide in the European Union: A Typology of EU Citizens

AbstractThis paper addresses the heterogeneity of the digital divide and internet use among citizens in the 28 European Union (EU) countries (at the time of the survey). Drawing from the Eurobarometer Surveys, three indicators of the digital divide are used to define the groups: frequency of internet access, means of internet access, and online activities. The categorical clustering algorithm identifies six groups of internet users: Non-Users, Basic Users, Information Exchangers, Instrumental Users, Socializers, and Advanced Users, each with distinct socio-demographic profiles. The study reveals significant socio-economic and demographic profiling variables characterizing these patterns, including age, education, gender, occupation, type of community and geographic location. A major digital divide is detected in many countries; Notably, Romania, Greece, and Bulgaria have the largest proportion of Non-Users, emphasizing the need for targeted policy interventions. These results provide crucial insights for the European Commission’s digitization strategy, suggesting that more nuanced and targeted measures are needed to ensure equitable digital access across the EU.

A Scientific Discussion of Post-Materialism Values and Environmental Behavior

Inglehart developed a theory examining the changes of values in post-industrial societies from materialist towards post-materialist views. Inglehart contended that the rise of post-materialism helps explain the rise of environmentalism since the 1960s. Through a 2022 survey targeting individual utility customers, we employed Inglehart’s post-materialist index examining the impact of environmental behavior and other attributes. This study considers demographic profiling for material and post-materialist views in light of recent social movements and inflationary pressures. We observed that materialists, predominately Asians and Whites, tend to be older, are homeowners, are either married or widowed, and have lived in their homes the longest. Post-materialists were also found to be young, partnered, politically liberal, and least likely to be Asian. While investigated, environmental behavior was not explained by any of the demographic characteristics. We suggest research assessing any value shifts pertaining to attitudes and behaviors towards environmental behavior. Future research should obtain a more representative minority-group sample.

Understanding and Enhancing Special Education Teachers' Competencies for Inclusive Practice: A Comprehensive Analysis

This study examined the knowledge, skills, and comprehension of the teachers in special education that enable them to address the needs of students with disabilities. Through this, the paper delivered a comprehensive analysis incorporating demographic profiling, assessment of the availability of knowledge and skills, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. The sample of this study comprised 80 special education teachers with various backgrounds and experiences. The results suggest a diversified teacher community: 80% of respondents strongly agree that they are aware of the diversified abilities of the students, and 85% strongly agree that they are good communicators. However, only 40% of the teachers admitted to being able to use technology seamlessly in their teaching. It is indicative of a particular focus area. Correlation analysis has also established significant interrelationships between the various competencies, such as correlation r = 0.632 (p < 0.01) in the aspect of handling workshop equipment and teaching technical skills in the theoretical sessions. This study confirms that the competencies for good teaching are interdependent and stresses the need for adaptable teaching knowledge of the various abilities as well as psychosocial support. These findings could influence policy and practice in teacher education and the improvement of support systems in special education.

Socio-Economic, Socio-Personal and Demographic Profiling of KVK-Based Vermicompost Training Participants: Evidence from Bihar, India

Vermicompost is essentially a varied blend of decomposed farm waste, food waste, and worm castings, organically produced using different species of earthworms. This nutrient-dense organic fertilizer is gaining significant attention amid climate change concerns and the push for organic farming. Agricultural experts are increasingly advising farmers to transition from synthetic fertilizers to organic manures, prompting the need for training programs on vermicomposting to educate farmers about this valuable practice. This research aimed to examine the socioeconomic, demographic, and socio-personal characteristics of farmers who participated in three recent vermicomposting training sessions organized by three Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in Bihar, India. This study adopted cross sectional survey design. The rationale behind this part of the project is to understand the various attributes of the training participants which could contribute in different ways to the adoption of vermicomposting. It also sought to reveal the status of those variables in relation to the adoption scenario amongst the current farming communities in those three districts. The study was carried out in three districts of Bihar—Samastipur, Muzaffarpur, and Madhubani—with a sample size of 150 farmers. Surveys were conducted in two blocks from each of these districts, selected purposefully. Data analysis was performed using statistical tools in SPSS to calculate the index for each individual farmer. A varied socio-demographic profile of the respondents was revealed who participated in the KVK-based vermicomposting training and it also provided a snapshot of the farming communities of the specific regions. This analysis concludes that the training sessions at three different KVKs attracted a diverse group of farm participants, characterized by varying demographic, socioeconomic, and socio-personal attributes. It is noteworthy that the majority of farmers who attended the vermicomposting training programs were small-scale and marginal farmers, with only a small percentage having high income levels. It is recommended to encourage stakeholder farmers to adopt this technology by providing training and support tailored to their socio-demographic profiles, as this could potentially increase the adoption rate among farmers.

Psychological AI: A critical analysis of capabilities, limitations, and ramifications

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) offer new possibilities in various areas of psychology, such as therapy, diagnostics, treatment planning, demographic profiling, sentiment analysis, and consumer psychology. However, AI research in psychology is still lacking. This study aims to explore the specific applications of AI in the field of psychology. Firstly, the article delves into the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of chatbots in delivering cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Next, the article explores the current state of AI in detecting mental health disorders, highlighting the use of digital footprints as a diagnostic tool. Furthermore, the research investigates how AI can assist medical professionals in developing focused treatment plans. It analyzes studies that aim to optimize treatment strategies using AI technologies. The article also examines the influence of demographic characteristics on our understanding and application of psychology. Lastly, the article touches on the use of AI in analyzing sentiment to understand and predict consumer behavior. Ethical implications of using AI-driven psychological assessments are also discussed. It concludes with a summary of key findings and offers a glimpse into potential future developments in this field.

The Power of Demographic Profiling in the 2024 Indonesian Presidential Election

This article discusses how demographic profiling played a crucial role in the victory of a pair of candidates in the Indonesian presidential election contest. Prabowo Subianto (PS), a retired general who had previously lost three times in a row in presidential elections, finally won in 2024 with more than 58% of the voters. PS's campaign strategy included pairing with a young running mate from the millennial generation, which helped them achieve a landslide victory compared to the other two pairs of contestants. This article uses secondary data analysis to explain how demographic segmentation was used in the campaign strategies that led to their success. The findings of this study contribute to the existing literature on the importance of marketing concepts in political activities, as suggested by O'Cass (1996), Preko et al. (2020), and Kotler (1999). Additionally, this study questions the arguments made by Bene et al. (2023) about the strategic role of social media in political marketing activities, particularly in the Indonesian context.

Demographic Profiling of Patients on Drug Dependence Admitted in Punjab Institute of Mental Health, Addiction Treatment Centre, Lahore

Objective: Drug dependence is a global public health concern, affecting millions and contributing to widespread negative consequences. This research delves into the demographic characteristics of drug abuse patients at the Punjab Institute of Mental Health (PIMH) Addiction Treatment Center in Lahore, Pakistan. Materials and Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional research-based descriptive design, the study employs purposive sampling and a comprehensive questionnaire to collect data from 100 drug abusers. The analysis considered age, gender, socioeconomic status, residential area, occupation, education, marital status, and family system, shedding light on the diverse factors contributing to the drug dependence of the patients. Results: The results revealed a diverse age range (18-80 years) among participants (M=33,4, SD=10.3), most of them belonging to lower (34%) and middle class (39%); 67 respondents residing in the urban region and 32 from the rural areas. Heroin (32.3%) was reported to be the most consumed substance while cannabis (25.8%) and crystal methamphetamine (16.4%) were the second and third respectively taken mostly through sniffing. Among the reasons for using drugs, peer pressure came out to be the most reported cause. Conclusion: The findings underscored the complexity of drug dependence, necessitating targeted interventions that consider demographic variations that are crucial for effective treatment and prevention strategies. The study contributed valuable knowledge to the existing scientific understanding of drug dependence, paving the way for more informed public health initiatives.

The unified state examination in mathematics in urban and rural schools: The impact of the 2020-2021 pandemic

This mixed methods study investigates the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on outcomes and perceptions related to the high-stakes unified state exam (USE) mathematics assessment in Russia. Quantitative descriptive analyses of USE scores from 2018-2021 revealed statistically significant distributional differences over time, with progressive increases in higher performance tiers. However, while a positive trend was discernible, strength of association tests indicated it was marginally moderate across years. Stratified pass rate analyses illuminated between-group variances, with specialized schools strongly rebounding after initial 2020 declines observed universally. To gain stakeholder insights, surveys were administered to students and teachers from urban versus rural regions. Attitudes regarding the mandatory USE removal diverged between groups; optimism permeated small rural schools despite hardships, while skepticism was pronounced among urban teachers citing accountability concerns. Stress perceptions revealed dissonances signaling wellbeing impacts. Overall, while achievement markers show positive trajectories, attitudinal variations based on school-types underline social dimensions shaping high-stakes test experiences. Results implicate targeted support policies and context-sensitive analytical approaches for optimal crisis mitigation. Granular investigations of less-understood equity gaps, expanding methodologies and detailed demographic profiling would enrich these findings. By quantifying exam trends alongside experiential nuances, the study develops a contextualized understanding of mathematical assessment transformations, informing localized continuity planning for uncertain futures.

Clinical and Demographic Profiling of Patients with Spondyloarthritis and Its Association with Disease Activity in a Tertiary Hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia

Introduction: The assessment of disease activity is crucial for effectively managing chronic diseases like spondyloarthritis (SpA). Establishing the relationship between disease activity, demographic, and clinical factors is essential for better disease management. This study aimed to delve into the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, a tertiary hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of SpA occurrences in Surabaya.Methods: Data were obtained from 38 SpA patients’ data classified using ASAS 2009 criteria at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, excluding individuals with SLE, gout, RA, and septic arthritis. Disease activity was measured using ASDAS-CRP. Association analysis between disease activity, clinical parameters, and demographics was conducted using Mann-Withney U test and Spearman correlation test.Results: Results indicated a male-to-female ratio of 8:30, with patients having a median age of 48 (95% CI: 41-53) and most of the patients had a senior high school education (42.11%). The patients exhibited a mean BMI of 25.19 ± 3.77, a median disease duration of 8.5 (95% CI: 5-10) years, and a median CRP value of 0.2 (95% CI: 0.1-0.5) mg/dL. The majority displayed moderate disease activity, with a median ASDAS-CRP score of 2 (95% CI: 1.5-2.7). Interestingly, no significant correlation was found between disease activity using ASDAS-CRP and the demographic or clinical parameters studied.Conclusion: Disease activities were found not to have correlations with the demography and clinical parameters of patients with SpA from Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia. This emphasizes the necessity for further research to comprehend the intricate relationship between disease activity and diverse influencing factors.

Translation into Clinical Practice of the G1-G7 Molecular Subgroup Classification of Glioblastoma: Comprehensive Demographic and Molecular Pathway Profiling.

Glioblastoma is the most frequent and malignant primary neoplasm of the central nervous system. In a recent breakthrough study on a prospective Discovery cohort, I proposed the first all-inclusive molecular classification of glioblastoma into seven subgroups, G1-G7, based on MAPK pathway activation. New data from a WHO-grade-4 diffuse glioma prospective Validation cohort offers, in this study, an integrated demographic-molecular analysis of a 213-patient Combined cohort. Despite cohort differences in the median age and molecular subgroup distribution, all the prospectively-acquired cases from the Validation cohort mapped into one of the G1-G7 subgroups defined in the Discovery cohort. A younger age of onset, higher tumor mutation burden and expanded G1/EGFR-mutant and G3/NF1 glioblastoma subgroups characterized the glioblastomas from African American/Black relative to Caucasian/White patients. The three largest molecular subgroups were G1/EGFR, G3/NF1 and G7/Other. The fourth largest subgroup, G6/Multi-RTK, was detailed by describing a novel gene fusion ST7-MET, rare PTPRZ1-MET, LMNA-NTRK1 and GOPC-ROS1 fusions and their overexpression mechanisms in glioblastoma. The correlations between the MAPK pathway G1-G7 subgroups and the PI3-kinase/PTEN, TERT, cell cycle G1 phase and p53 pathways defined characteristic subgroup pathway profiles amenable to personalized targeted therapy. This analysis validated the first all-inclusive molecular classification of glioblastoma, showed significant demographic and molecular differences between subgroups, and provided the first ethnic molecular comparison of glioblastoma.

Analysis of Weather Prediction, Resource Management, and Land Optimization on the Application of Big Data Analytics in Agricultural Land Utilization in Agrarian Areas of West Java

This research investigates the impact of Weather Prediction, Resource Management, and Land Optimization on the adoption of Big Data Analytics in agricultural land utilization within the agrarian region of West Java. Employing a quantitative approach, the study integrates measurement model analysis, structural equation modeling, demographic profiling, and model fit assessment to comprehensively explore the intricate dynamics of technological adoption in agriculture. Results indicate that Land Optimization, Resource Management, and Weather Prediction significantly influence the adoption of Big Data Analytics. Demographic factors such as gender, age, education, and farming experience demonstrate varying correlations with key variables. The model exhibits strong fit, and approximately 60.2% of the variance in Big Data Analytics adoption is explained by the combined influence of the identified factors. This study contributes nuanced insights to inform policy and practice for sustainable and technology-driven agriculture in West Java.

Households Intention to Formally Dispose E-waste Using Theory Planned Behavior

Electronic waste or e-waste is a global issue that continues to escalate. The e-waste contains hazardous materials, which could lead to health issues and pollution if improperly disposed. The most common e-waste sources are household appliances namely refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, radios, televisions, and telecommunications devices containing electric or electronic parts. Each e-waste item also encompasses valuable materials that will profit the business, which in turn can benefit the growth of the economy besides the preservation of resources. This study refers to the Theory of Planned Behaviour as a heuristic guideline to investigate the intention to formally dispose of e-waste among residents at Taman Bahau, Negeri Sembilan. As this study applied a quantitative approach, a questionnaire was utilized as the primary data collection tool, and three hundred seventy-five (375) respondents were selected using a convenience sampling technique to partake in the survey. The demographic characteristics and profiling of the respondents were analyzed using descriptive analysis. In contrast, regression analysis was employed to examine the contribution of variables towards the intention to dispose of e-waste formally. The finding shows the attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral controls constructed towards the intention to dispose of e-waste formally. The result also implies that perceived behavioural control explains the most variance in the respondents' intention to dispose of their e-waste items formally, compared to other variables. This research holds significance as it can enhance community awareness and encourage relevant stakeholders to find solutions to protect the environment from the detrimental consequences of improperly discarded electronic waste

Survival Outcome of Retroperitoneal Sarcomas Treated With a Surgery-First Approach: A Single-Center Experience.

Background Retroperitoneal sarcomas (RPS) are rare and complex tumors originating from the retroperitoneal space, an anatomical region nestled behind the abdominal cavity and shielded by the posterior abdominal wall. Late clinical presentation is a hallmark of retroperitoneal sarcomas. The symptoms are often nonspecific, and nodal metastases are rare. Computed tomography (CT) remains the investigation of choice, and a preoperative biopsy is usually not needed. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment, along with adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy. Survival rates are in general poor, even after complete resection. In this study, we attempt to shed some light on the clinicopathological profiling of retroperitoneal sarcomas and their survival outcomes. Objective The objective of this study is to assess the demographic, clinical, and pathological profiling of patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma and to study the survival of patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma. Methodology We conducted a hospital-based retrospective observational study in a tertiary care center in South India between January 2011 and January 2021. We included all patients with histopathologically proven retroperitoneal sarcoma. Metastatic cases and those who underwent chemotherapy or radiation prior to presentation were excluded. Their demographics, pathological reports, and survival were followed up and collected, and statistical analysis was done. Results The study included 16 cases with retroperitoneal sarcomas across the decade in which the data was collected, confirming the rarity of the tumor, out of which more than 40% of patients were above the age of 60.The most common symptom was found to be a bloating sensation in nine patients, followed by abdominal pain in three patients. Seventy-five percent of the patients were found to have a T4 (i.e., a size of more than 15 cm) tumor at presentation. Well-differentiated liposarcoma was found to be the most common pathological variant accounting for 25% of the cases. The mean survival was found to be 8.05 years, which dropped to 5.74 years in Grade 3 tumors. Conclusion Retroperitoneal sarcomas are rare tumors of which liposarcoma is the most commonvariant. A significant reduction in the mean survival was identified in Grade 3 sarcomas compared to the cumulative survival time of Grade 1 and Grade 2 retroperitoneal sarcomas.

PREVALENCE AND SYMPTOMS OF ASTHMA AND ALLERGIC RHINITIS IN ADULTS WITH CHRONIC RHINOSINUSITIS IN THE EASTERN REGION OF SAUDI ARABIA

Background: This cross-sectional study explores the prevalence and symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis among adults diagnosed with Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: Involving 386 participants, the research employs demographic profiling and symptom analysis and explores the interplay of upper and lower airway conditions. This study investigates the prevalence of asthma and allergic rhinitis among 386 adults with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in Eastern Saudi Arabia. Employing a cross-sectional design, participants from King Fahad Specialist Hospital and Jubail General Hospital were selected through random and stratified sampling. Results: The study reveals a higher prevalence of asthma (40.6%) compared to allergic rhinitis (25.1%), emphasising the need for a comprehensive understanding of these respiratory conditions. Intriguing associations between asthma attacks and specific CRS symptoms, such as chest tightness and waking due to shortness of breath, provide insights into shared pathways. Demographically, higher prevalence is observed among females, individuals with lower educational attainment, and nonsmokers, highlighting socio-demographic influences on respiratory health. Conclusion: The study discloses a noteworthy prevalence of asthma (40.6%) in comparison to allergic rhinitis (25.1%) among adults with Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Eastern Saudi Arabia. Asthma attacks showcase distinctive associations with specific CRS symptoms, emphasising the intricate interplay of these respiratory conditions. The demographic influences of education and smoking underscore the importance of lifestyle factors. Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies and clinical validations to enhance the validity and depth of our findings.

Perception on Investing in Stocks With ESG Relevance: A Descriptive View on Influence of Key Demographic Variables and Risk Profiling of Investors

INTRODUCTION: To be purposeful beyond the return consideration by the way of giving importance to environment, society and governance of company through investing in companies that give priority to aforementioned factors by investors and their perception towards ESG is the crux of this research paper. For this several factors that measures the environment, social and governance are itemized and considered as the dependent variable. OBJECTIVES: To know whether the influences of the three risk-acceptance levels on environment, social and governance factors were different based on selected demographic variables METHODS: Some of the key demographic variables like Age range, Annual income and Employment status are taken as independent variables with another key variable the tolerance towards risk of the investors. The individual and interactive effect of the demographic variable along with the key variable (risk tolerance) in manipulating the effects over the dependent variables (ESG) in the key concept of discussion in this research. The research was conducted through a structured questionnaire among the investors in Chennai region of Tamilnadu (India). Data was analyzed through SPSS and the tool used to explain the purpose of the research was MANOVA. RESULTS: All the three demographic variables considered in the research had a significant influence over the risk tolerance of the investors in manipulating the considerations over the ESG factors. CONCLUSION: All the three demographic variables considered in the research had a significant influence over the risk tolerance of the investors in manipulating the considerations over the ESG factors.

An interpretive phenomenological analysis of nursing student perceptions of summative assessment feedback using LEGO® Serious Play®

PurposeThe aim of the study is to explore perceptions of the impact of assessment feedback by international undergraduate nursing students. Research to date indicates that summative assessment feedback may impact significantly on student achievement but if it is undertaken sub optimally or does not provide students with the opportunity to engage with the process and reflexively respond, it can also be exceptionally damaging to the learning experience.Design/methodology/approachA scoping exercise of overall student feedback experience was initially collated via the adoption of an Interpretive Phenomenological Approach (IPA). Participants were recruited via purposive sampling and the LEGO® Serious Play® method was used to collect data. Analysis with Quirkos software was used to examine the salience as well as commonality of findings as an integral part of a recognised five-step thematic analytical approach.FindingsFeedback was perceived, by students, as significantly impacting factor in relation to their overall progression, attainment and retention rates. Themes generated from the findings evidenced student perceptions that summative feedback is a positive driver and source of motivation for academic success and progression. It was perceived that levels of attainment were related to the clarity, quality and individualised nature of feedback that students received and that this was perceived to be evident in their final grades. These were accompanied by perceptions that feedback clarity also determined the potential of breaking down perceived student barriers to learning, their perceived capacity for effective assignment planning and preparation and the likelihood of them having any positive collective or individual interpersonal relationships with their tutors. Summarised, students perceived that feedback ought to lead to student empowerment in managing their studies and as such it ought to be clear, straightforward and non-ambiguous.Research limitations/implicationsThe methodological design of the study means that generalisability from its findings was never intended or possible. However, there may be the potential transferability of findings to similar institutions and contexts of nurse education with students who have similar demographic profiling. The study was also a means of providing an insight into the lived experience of students which could be used in the prospective adaptation of feedback mechanisms for staff at a local level within Higher Education.Practical implicationsThe study reveals the perceived impact of gamification as a mechanism of summative assessment as conveyed by a designated group of students. Whilst specific recommendations for change can only be made within the context specificity of the research, there may be aspects of the findings which are potentially transferable to other similar contexts of Higher Education delivery whose pedagogical approaches mirror those in operation at the institution where the research was undertaken. It became apparent that the standardisation of feedback approaches offered many opportunities to improve existing systems. The issue of monitoring workloads is also of significance in terms of the level and degree of summative assessment and feedback that academic staff can undertake.Originality/valueThe study revealed the perceived magnitude of assessment feedback on progression, attainment and retention rates, alongside the perceived need for a universal feedback template and the opportunity to provide audio-video feedback. This study adds to existing knowledge in the field of pedagogic practice about both the execution of LEGO® Serious Play® as a research methodology and why the perceptions of feedback as articulated and illuminated by a group of contemporary nursing students ought to matter in the context of Higher Education.

Relationship between DNA methylation changes and skeletal muscle mass

BackgroundSarcopenia is a disease diagnosed in the elderly. In patients with sarcopenia, the muscle mass decreases every year. The occurrence of sarcopenia is greatly affected by extrinsic factors such as eating habits, exercise, and lifestyle. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between muscle mass traits and genes affected by epigenetic factors with three different adjustment methods using Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KOGES) data.ResultsWe conducted a demographic study and DNA methylation profiling by three studies according to the muscle mass index (MMI) adjustment methods: appendicular skeletal muscle mass divided by body weight (MMI1); appendicular skeletal muscle mass divided by square of height (MMI2); appendicular skeletal muscle mass divided by BMI (MMI3). We analyzed differentially methylated regions (DMRs) for each group. We then restricted our subjects to be top 30% (T30) and bottom 30% (B30) based on each MMI adjustment method. Additionally, we performed enrichment analysis using PathfindR to evaluate the relationship between identified DMRs and sarcopenia. A total of 895 subjects were included in the demographic study. The values of BMI, waist, and hip showed a significant difference in all three groups. Among 446 participants, 44 subjects whose DNA methylation profiles were investigated were included for DNA methylation analysis. The results of enrichment analysis showed differences between groups. In the women group through MMI1 method, only the glutamatergic synapse pathway showed a significant result. In the men group through MMI2 method, the adherens junction pathway was the most significant. Women group through MMI2 method showed similar results, having an enriched Rap1 signaling pathway. In men group through MMI3 method, the Fc epsilon RI signaling pathway was the most enriched. Particularly, the notch signaling pathway was significantly enriched in women group through MMI3 method.ConclusionThis study presents results about which factor should be concerned first in muscle mass index (MMI) adjustment. The present study suggested that GAB2 and JPH3 in MMI1 method, HLA-DQB1 and TBCD in MMI2 method, GAB2, NDUFB4 and ISPD in MMI3 method are potential genes that can have an impact on muscle mass. It could enable future epigenetic studies of genes based on annotation results. The present study is a nationwide study in Korea with the largest size up to date that compares adjustment indices for MMI in epigenetic research.

Navigating Customer Relationships: Unraveling Social Media Marketing's Impact on Buying Intention in Pakistan's Tourism Sector with Brand Equity as a Moderator

This study aims to investigate the impact of social media marketing (SMM) on Pakistan's tourism industry. For this purpose, a quantitative research methodology was employed, involving the collection of data from 350 residents of Pakistan. The collected data underwent comprehensive statistical analysis, including demographic profiling, reliability testing, descriptive statistics, and correlation analysis, using the SPSS software. Additionally, the Smart PLS 4 software was utilized to apply the Structural Equation Model (SEM) approach to the proposed conceptual framework. The outcomes of this research hold significant importance and applicability within the context of Pakistan's tourism sector. By shedding light on the factors influencing buying intentions, these findings offer valuable insights. The implications of these insights are thoroughly examined, with potential consequences for business strategies, marketing approaches, customer engagement, and overall profitability within the tourism industry.

Assessing wellbeing: Profiling and socioeconomic status of Kenyir Lake side community, Malaysia

The Kenyir Lake side community offers numerous advantages to the local community. However, the problems of backwardness and poverty have been identified as the government's main challenges in its efforts to develop the community and maximise the advantages. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the Kenyir Lake community's profile and assess its well-being. The study was conducted in three sub-districts near Tasik Kenyir, namely Kuala Berang, Hulu Telemong, and Jenagor, with a total of 510 respondents, who are heads of households (HOH). This study was carried out using a quantitative approach using questionnaire with a simple random sampling method. The findings of this study offered demographic profiling and discovered nine indicators of well-being, namely 1) Life Achievement, 2) Health Level, 3) Family Relationship, 4) Community Relationship, 5) Spiritual Level, 6) Safety Level and Social Problems, 7) Income or Finance, 8) Basic Facilities, and 9) Communication Technology. The study found that most respondents are satisfied with their lives now compared to 10 years ago. This study will help many parties to develop the Kenyir Lake Side Community, starting from the local authorities to the highest administration in the country.