Early Adulthood Research Articles

Age-related differences of the time-varying features in the brain functional connectivity and cognitive aging.

Brain functional modular organization changes with age. Considering the brain as a dynamic system, recent studies have suggested that time-varying connectivity provides more information on brain functions. However, the spontaneous reconfiguration of modular brain structures over time during aging remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the age-related dynamic modular reconfiguration using resting-state functional MRI data (615 participants, aged 18-88 years) from Cam-CAN. We employed a graph-based modularity analysis to investigate modular variability and the transition of nodes from one module to another in modular brain networks across the adult lifespan. Results showed that modular structure exhibits both linear and nonlinear age-related trends. The modular variability is higher in early and late adulthood, with higher modular variability in the association networks and lower modular variability in the primary networks. In addition, the whole-brain transition matrix showed that the times of transition from other networks to the dorsal attention network were the largest. Furthermore, the modular structure was closely related to the number of cognitive components and memory-related cognitive performance, suggesting a potential contribution to flexibility cognitive function. Our findings highlighted the notable dynamic characteristics in large-scale brain networks across the adult lifespan, which enhanced our understanding of the neural substrate in various cognitions during aging. These findings also provided further evidence that dedifferentiation and compensation are the outcomes of functional brain interactions.

Characterising developmental dynamics of adult epigenetic clock sites

DNA methylation (DNAm), an epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene activity in response to genetic and environmental influences, changes as we age. DNAm at specific sites on the genome can be used to calculate 'epigenetic clocks', which are powerful biomarkers of age, as well as of ageing. However, little is known about how these clock sites 'behave' during development and what factors influence their variability in early life. This knowledge could be used to optimise healthy ageing well before the onset of age-related conditions. We leveraged results from two longitudinal population-based cohorts (N=5019 samples from 2348 individuals) to characterise trajectories of adult clock sites from birth to early adulthood. To explore what factors may drive early individual differences at these clock sites, we also tested for enrichment of genetic factors and prenatal exposures based on existing epigenome-wide association meta-analyses. We find that clock sites (i) diverge widely in their developmental trajectories, often showing non-linear change over time; (ii) are substantially more likely than non-clock sites to vary between individuals already from birth, differences that are predictive of DNAm variation at later ages; and (iii) show enrichment for genetic influences and prenatal environmental exposures, including prenatal smoking, diet and maternal physical health conditions. These results suggests that age(ing)-related epigenetic processes might originate-and differ between individuals-already very early in development. Understanding what drives these differences may in future help us to devise better strategies to promote healthy ageing. This research was conducted while C.A.M.C. was a Hevolution/AFAR New Investigator Awardee in Aging Biology and Geroscience Research. Full personal funding details, as well as cohort funding details, can be found in the Acknowledgements.

Cannabis Use and Age‐Related Changes in Cognitive Function From Early Adulthood to Late Midlife in 5162 Danish Men

ABSTRACTIntroductionCannabis is by far the most widely used and abused drug listed on the Drug Enforcement Administration's Schedule I, which includes drugs with a high potential for abuse. There is evidence of short‐term negative effects of cannabis use on cognition, but only a limited number of studies have explored the association between cannabis use and age‐related cognitive decline. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between cannabis use and age‐related cognitive decline from early adulthood to late midlife.MethodsThe study population consisted of 5162 men who had participated in Danish follow‐up studies on cognitive aging. These studies included scores on the military intelligence test Børge Prien's Prøve from both the conscription assessment (mean age = 20 years; p1 and p99: 18 and 26 years) and from the follow‐up (mean age = 64 years; p1 and p99: 55 and 72 years) as well as extensive data on lifestyle and health from the follow‐up questionnaires. The association between cannabis use and age‐related cognitive decline was investigated in linear regression models.ResultsMen with a history of cannabis use had less cognitive decline from early adulthood to late midlife compared to men without a history of cannabis use. Among cannabis users, neither age of initiation of cannabis use nor frequent use was significantly associated with a greater age‐related cognitive decline.Discussion and ConclusionsIn a sample of more than 5000 men followed for a mean of 44 years, we found no significant harmful effects of cannabis use on age‐related cognitive decline.

SPIRITUALITY, RELIGIOSITY AND WELL-BEING RELATIONSHIP IN EARLY ADULTHOOD: TESTING DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECT VIA MEANING IN LIFE

The study explored the impact of religiosity and spirituality indicators on the subjective, social and psychological well-being of individuals aged 18 to 45 years both directly and indirectly through meaning in life. A total of 199 Bulgarians took part in the study (Mage = 27.58; SD = 8.71; 82.4% females). The instruments of the study were: Brief Mental Health Continuum Short, Brief Multidimensional Measure of Religiosity and Spirituality, Meaning in Life Questionnaire. Analyses showed that spiritual forgiveness predicted all domains of well-being and religious support predicted subjective well-being, all performing positive small effects. Meaning in life acted as full mediator in the relationship between daily spiritual experiences, religious support, forgiveness and all the domains of well-being. Meaning in life partially mediated the relationships between religious support and subjective well-being as well as between forgiveness and social well-being. The findings address that religiosity-based social support, daily transcendent experiences, and forgiving to oneself and the others promote well-being in early adulthood, and the underlying mechanism can be explained by meaning in life. Practical implications of the findings and directions for future research were discussed.

Validation of degree day threshold for Delia platura first emergence in New York State

Seedcorn maggot (Delia platura) is a globally distributed agricultural pest that feeds on the germinating seeds of economically important crops, including corn and beans. The larvae cause underground damage, which can lead to stand loss. For decades, D. platura has been managed using insecticide-coated seeds, but following the ban on neonicotinoid-coated corn, soy, and wheat seeds in New York State, this practice will no longer be available. Degree day models have been used to predict the emergence of the overwintering generation of agricultural pests since the late 1900s. However, the terminology used in the literature to distinguish degree day thresholds for first emergence and peak emergence is unclear, and previous reports of a 360 degree day emergence threshold did not align with field observations. In 2023, we captured the first emergence at four sites, and in 2024, we monitored adult D. platura at 25 sites in New York State. We observed the first adult emergence between 52 and 197 accumulated degree days (98 ± 7 degree days, mean ± 1 SE) using a biofix of January 1st, confirming that in New York State, D. platura emergence is earlier than previously reported values. Additionally, we note adult activity during December 2023 and January 2024, suggesting that warming winters may impact our ability to predict pest emergence. We propose future models should incorporate both degree day information and other regionally specific factors known to impact pests, including farm management, soil conditions, and landscape composition, for more accurate predictions.

Crossbreeding and Backcrossing in the Pyrethroid-Resistant Ladybird Beetle Eriopis connexa (Germar) Determines Resistance in Offspring

The conservation of the predatory ladybird beetle, Eriopis connexa (Germar) after its release also relies on its resistance and the performance of its progenies. When resistant individuals are released or evolve in the field through mating with susceptible pairs, we anticipate that they will generate a resistant progeny, inheriting the resistance to lambda-cyhalothrin through an autosomal mechanism. The susceptibility of a field-collected population (EcGA) was characterized and determined by the performance of their progenies generated through mating with a resistant parent (EcViR). We paired virgin adults from the EcGA and EcViR populations, observing how their progenies developed, reproduced, and survived when exposed to dried lambda-cyhalothrin residues applied at field rates. Adults from the EcGA population were ~200-fold more susceptible than those of the EcViR population. Developmental times from larva to adult emergence for EcGA individuals were delayed by approximately 6 days and generated smaller adults compared to EcViR and their progenies. The egg production did not differ across parents and progenies, but females from EcGA and EcGA × EcViR progenies produced 130 more eggs in comparison to EcViR females during the 35-day evaluation period. Exposure to lambda-cyhalothrin resulted in 77.4 to 100% survival for adults from EcViR × EcGA progenies and EcViR parents, while EcGA and the population standard for susceptibility maintained in the laboratory (EcFM) did not survive the insecticide exposure. These findings indicate that field crosses between EcViR and EcGA will improve their progenies’ biological performance compared to the EcViR parents and will maintain a high lambda-cyhalothrin survival rate.

What is the neurobiology of schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders are brain diseases that are developmental dementias (dementia praecox). Their pathology begins in utero with psychosis most commonly becoming evident in adolescence and early adulthood. It is estimated they afflict the U.S. population at a prevalence rate of approximately 0.8%. Genetic studies indicate that these brain diseases are about 80% determined by genes and about 20% determined by environmental risk factors. Inheritance is polygenic with some 270 gene loci having been identified as contributing to the risk for schizophrenia. Interestingly, many of the identified gene loci and gene polymorphisms are involved in brain formation and maturation. The identified genetic and epigenetic risks give rise to a brain in which neuroblasts migrate abnormally, assume abnormal locations and orientations, and are vulnerable to excessive neuronal and synaptic loss, resulting in overt psychotic illness. The illness trajectory of schizophrenia then is one of loss of brain mass related to the number of active psychotic exacerbations and the duration of untreated illness. In this context, molecules such as dopamine, glutamate, and serotonin play critical roles with respect to positive, negative, and cognitive domains of illness. Acutely, antipsychotics ameliorate active psychotic illness, especially positive signs and symptoms. The long-term effects of antipsychotic medications have been debated; however, the bulk of imaging data suggest that antipsychotics slow but do not reverse the illness trajectory of schizophrenia. Long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAI) appear superior in this regard. Clozapine remains the "gold standard" in managing treatment-resistant schizophrenia.

Peran Regulasi Emosi dalam Perilaku Mencari Bantuan pada Korban Kekerasan dalam Pacaran

The stage of early adulthood in human development is to establish romantic relationships with the opposite sex. Therefore, having a romantic relationship is important for individuals at that age. Out of these four types of violence, emotional violence is the one that cannot be seen in real life, and even the victims don't really feel that what they are experiencing is a form of emotional violence. In emotional violence, the perpetrator will play a role by manipulating the victim, so that the victim does not even realize what he is experiencing, but gradually the impact of the violence is felt in everyday life. Meanwhile, the position of victims who are manipulated and unaware of the violence they experience, makes them feel that their perception of the situation they are experiencing is unrealistic, victims usually do not recognize or recognize emotional violence, and they develop coping mechanisms such as denial and minimize the violence they experience. With this condition it is difficult for victims to seek help for what they are experiencing. There are predictors that can influence the behavior of seeking help, including the regulation of the victim's emotions, the intensity of the search for help itself, and so on. In order to seek help from a manipulative, emotionally abusive state, the victim must have trust in others. Conditions that are astonishing and difficult to understand and believe are like victims of natural emotional abuse, forcing them to only want to open up to people they truly trust.

Racial differences in laboratory testing as a potential mechanism for bias in AI: A matched cohort analysis in emergency department visits.

AI models are often trained using available laboratory test results. Racial differences in laboratory testing may bias AI models for clinical decision support, amplifying existing inequities. This study aims to measure the extent of racial differences in laboratory testing in adult emergency department (ED) visits. We conducted a retrospective 1:1 exact-matched cohort study of Black and White adult patients seen in the ED, matching on age, biological sex, chief complaint, and ED triage score, using ED visits at two U.S. teaching hospitals: Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI (U-M, 2015-2022), and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA (BIDMC, 2011-2019). Post-matching, White patients had significantly higher testing rates than Black patients for complete blood count (BIDMC difference: 1.7%, 95% CI: 1.1% to 2.4%, U-M difference: 2.0%, 95% CI: 1.6% to 2.5%), metabolic panel (BIDMC: 1.5%, 95% CI: 0.9% to 2.1%, U-M: 1.9%, 95% CI: 1.4% to 2.4%), and blood culture (BIDMC: 0.9%, 95% CI: 0.5% to 1.2%, U-M: 0.7%, 95% CI: 0.4% to 1.1%). Black patients had significantly higher testing rates for troponin than White patients (BIDMC: -2.1%, 95% CI: -2.6% to -1.6%, U-M: -2.2%, 95% CI: -2.7% to -1.8%). The observed racial testing differences may impact AI models trained using available laboratory results. The findings also motivate further study of how such differences arise and how to mitigate potential impacts on AI models.

Relationship Between Instagram, Body Satisfaction, and Self-Esteem in Early Adulthood

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to explore the effects of Instagram use on body satisfaction and self-esteem in young adults 20 to 40 years (N = 95). Given the widespread use of social media and its potential influence on body image, we sought to understand how Instagram use may contribute to body dissatisfaction and self-esteem, particularly through quantitative analysis of self-report measures. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design in which the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), and additional ad hoc questions designed to assess Instagram usage patterns were employed. Results: The results indicated that greater Instagram use is associated with increased body dissatisfaction (p = 0.005), although it did not significantly affect self-esteem (p = 0.211). Gender did not play a significant role in these relationships (p = 0.173). Notably, a significant positive correlation was found between body satisfaction and self-esteem, showing that individuals with higher body satisfaction also reported higher self-esteem (p < 0.001). Further analyses indicated that users exposed to appearance-centered content were more likely to report body dissatisfaction. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Instagram usage, particularly in the context of appearance-focused content, has a considerable impact on body dissatisfaction among young adults but does not appear to influence self-esteem. This highlights the importance of developing interventions focused on promoting healthy social media habits and critical content engagement to mitigate negative impacts on body image. Social media exposure should be a key component in future interventions designed to improve body image and overall psychological well-being.

Developmental Timing of Associations Among Parenting, Brain Architecture, and Mental Health

Parenting is associated with brain development and long-term health outcomes, although whether these associations depend on the developmental timing of exposure remains understudied. Identifying these sensitive periods can inform when and how parenting is associated with neurodevelopment and risk for mental illness. To characterize how harsh and warm parenting during early, middle, and late childhood are associated with brain architecture during adolescence and, in turn, psychiatric symptoms in early adulthood during the COVID-19 pandemic. This population-based, 21-year observational, longitudinal birth cohort study of low-income youths and families from Detroit, Michigan; Toledo, Ohio; and Chicago, Illinois, used data from the Future of Families and Child Well-being Study. Data were collected from February 1998 to June 2021. Analyses were conducted from May to October 2023. Parent-reported harsh parenting (psychological aggression or physical aggression) and observer-rated warm parenting (responsiveness) at ages 3, 5, and 9 years. The primary outcomes were brainwide (segregation, integration, and small-worldness), circuit (prefrontal cortex [PFC]-amygdala connectivity), and regional (betweenness centrality of amygdala and PFC) architecture at age 15 years, determined using functional magnetic resonance imaging, and youth-reported anxiety and depression symptoms at age 21 years. The structured life-course modeling approach was used to disentangle timing-dependent from cumulative associations between parenting and brain architecture. A total of 173 youths (mean [SD] age, 15.88 [0.53] years; 95 female [55%]) were included. Parental psychological aggression during early childhood was positively associated with brainwide segregation (β = 0.30; 95% CI, 0.14 to 0.45) and small-worldness (β = 0.17; 95% CI, 0.03 to 0.28), whereas parental psychological aggression during late childhood was negatively associated with PFC-amygdala connectivity (β = -0.37; 95% CI, -0.55 to -0.12). Warm parenting during middle childhood was positively associated with amygdala centrality (β = 0.23; 95% CI, 0.06 to 0.38) and negatively associated with PFC centrality (β = -0.18; 95% CI, -0.31 to -0.03). Warmer parenting during middle childhood was associated with reduced anxiety (β = -0.05; 95% CI -0.10 to -0.01) and depression (β = -0.05; 95% CI -0.10 to -0.003) during early adulthood via greater adolescent amygdala centrality. Neural associations with harsh parenting were widespread across the brain in early childhood but localized in late childhood. Neural associations with warm parenting were localized in middle childhood and, in turn, were associated with mental health during future stress. These developmentally contingent associations can inform the type and timing of interventions.

Educational achievement and health during adolescence in second generation immigrants in Sweden

Abstract Background Over the last decades, immigration have increased markedly in Sweden. Educational achievement is essential for successful integration; however, second generation immigrants have been shown to lag behind. There is a complex intertwinement between educational attainment and health outcomes. Thus, schooling is crucial in terms of integration but also from a public health perspective. We aim to compare school performance and health in children of immigrant parents and children of parents born in Sweden. Methods In this population-based cohort study, 1723 children were followed from birth to age 20. Of these 246 (14.3%) had at least one parent born abroad. Logistic regression was performed controlling for gender, language spoken at home and sociodemographic data obtained at 3 months, 3-, 12- and 20 years. Outcome measures were school performance at age 12 (n = 984), grades from compulsory and upper secondary school (n = 1668) and register data on psychiatric diagnoses (n = 737). Self-response questionnaires on general health, long term health problems and psychiatric conditions were administered at age 20 (n = 731). Results There were no differences in reading (p = 0.676) or mathematics (p = 0.324) at age 12, eligibility to upper secondary school (p = 0.298) or university (p = 0.232) between second generation immigrants and children of native-born parents. No differences in frequency of psychiatric diagnoses (p = 0.112), presence of long-term health problems (p = 0.267) or self-reported health (p = 0.595) were shown. Conclusions The results indicate that young adults born in Sweden in the middle of the 1990’s with immigrant parents perform similarly in school compared to children of parents born in Sweden. They are not at increased risk for mental illness, long-term health conditions and report their general health equivalently to children of native-born. The comprehensive school system and child health programs used in Sweden are likely important factors to promote education and health. Key messages • In a birth-cohort of children followed into early adulthood, no difference in educational achievement or health was shown between second generation immigrants and children of parents born in Sweden. • International comparative studies are needed to highlight the importance of underlying structural and socio-cultural factors.

Impact of body mass index on aortic valve stenosis and its clinical outcomes in early adulthood: a long-term study of young men

Abstract Aims Studies investigating associations between body mass index (BMI), incidence of aortic valve stenosis (AVS), and clinical outcomes in AVS patients are scarce. Purpose To investigate the relationship between BMI in youth and subsequent diagnosis of AVS. A secondary aim was to determine the role of obesity in clinical outcomes in individuals diagnosed with AVS. Methods This was a nationwide, register-based cohort study of 1 701 390 men (mean age, 18.3 ±0.8 years) enrolled in compulsory conscription for military service in Sweden from 1969 through 2005. Anthropometrics, blood pressure, fitness, muscle strength and IQ were recorded at baseline. AVS cases and cardiovascular outcomes were identified according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 registered in the National patient register and Cause of Death Register through the Swedish 12-digit personal identification number. BMI (kg/m2) was categorized as <18.5, 18.5–<20, 20–<22.5, 22.5–<25, 25–<27.5, 27.5 <30, 30–<35, and 35–<50 kg/m2. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the association between adolescent BMI and future hospitalization for AVS while adjusting for potential confounders. The BMI reference was set as 20–<22.5. Those who developed AVS formed a subcohort that was followed until a first clinical cardiovascular outcome of death, cardiovascular mortality, Heart failure, Atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, or ischaemic stroke. Results During a median follow-up of 32 years (IQR, 24-41 years), 5766 cases (mean age 54.7±9.4 years) of AVS were diagnosed. After adjustment, underweight subjects with a BMI of <18.5 kg/m2, compared to those with a low-normal BMI (20.0–<22.5 kg/m2) showed lower risk (HR 0.70; 95% CI 0.61–0.80) of AVS. The multivariable-adjusted HR for AVS increased from HR 1.28; 95% CI 1.17–1.39 for BMI 22.5–<25 kg/m2 to HR 1.91; 95% CI 1.12–3.25 for those with BMI 35–50 kg/m2. Further on, individuals diagnosed with AVS were followed for a median of ~5.5 years. The multivariable-adjusted HR for all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and heart failure for obese (BMI 30–50 kg/m2), compared to BMI <20.0 kg/m2 in men diagnosed with AVS, were 4.69 (95% CI 2.61–8.44), 4.09 (95% CI 1.72–9.73), and 2.76 (95% CI, 1.36–5.60), respectively. Conclusions Elevated BMI in youth, even within the normal range, is associated with increased risk of developing AVS, while subnormal BMI was protective. Excess weight in youth diagnosed with AVS is associated with higher risk of subsequent clinical outcomes. These findings are novel, generating new questions as to potential mechanisms and implying more vigilant monitoring of patients with AVS and a history of obesity in youth.Figure 1Figure 2

Examining factors associated with cocaine use in late adolescence and early adulthood

Abstract Background In 2022, cocaine was the leading problem drug for which individuals sought treatment in Ireland, overtaking opioids for the first time. Despite increasing concerns about cocaine, there is limited longitudinal research examining factors associated with cocaine use in the general youth population. We describe levels of use and associated factors at 17 and 20 years old Methods Past-year cocaine use was studied at age 17 (N = 5965) and 20 (N = 4679) in a nationally representative cohort. Individual, family, social and environmental exposure variables were selected a priori. Weighted logistic regression models were fitted using Generalised Estimating Equations to multiply imputed and complete case data. Results Cocaine use was reported by 220 (4%) at age 17, and 1072 (23%) at age 20. Both individual and community factors predict use. Earlier alcohol initiation and having friends who use cannabis were strongly associated with increased odds of cocaine use at both ages. Those with parents who reported that neighbourhood intoxication or drug-taking was common had elevated odds of cocaine use at age 17. Conclusions Past-year cocaine use at 20 years old in this cohort is substantially higher than other international cohort studies. Levels of cocaine use increase significantly between 17 and 20 years old. Acknowledgement: Growing Up in Ireland (GUI) is funded by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY). It is managed by DCEDIY in association with the Central Statistics Office (CSO). Results in this report are based on analyses of data from Research Microdata Files provided by the CSO. Neither the CSO nor DCEDIY take any responsibility for the views expressed or the outputs generated from these analyses. Key messages • Our study underscores significant cocaine use rates and correlations with early substance initiation and neighbourhood factors. • This emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive, multilevel strategy for preventing cocaine use.

Epicardial adipose tissue and subclinical alterations in cardiac structure and function in early adulthood

Abstract Background Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is the visceral fat depot surrounding the heart and coronary arteries and shares the same microcirculation with myocardium. Under normal physiologic conditions EAT contains important cardioprotective properties such as cushioning the heart against mechanical stress, thermoregulation of the myocardium in hypothermia as well as balancing myocardial fatty acid homeostasis. Higher accumulation of EAT has been reported to independently associate with deleterious alterations in cardiac structure and function. However, majority of previously addressed study results are derived from older study population and in presence of cardiovascular diseases. Data on the associations of EAT and cardiac echocardiograpghically derived structural and functional parameters in a young and middle-aged population without prevalent cardiovascular disease is scarce. Purpose We aimed to address this knowledge gap by investigating the associations of echocardiographically measured EAT thickness and possible adverse subclinical alteration in cardiac structure and function in a population cohort of young and middle-aged adults. Methods This study participants were examined as part of the ongoing multi-centre longitudinal cohort, focusing on cardiovascular risk factors from childhood through adulthood. EAT thickness was measured by manual delineation from parasternal long-axis echocardiograms at end systole. Transthoracic and Doppler echocardiograpghy was performed and data on cardiac structural and functional parameters were derived comprehensively in accordance with EAE/ASE guidelines. Results In this study population (N=1677, men=770, women=897 ; age range 34-49 years) mean EAT thickness was 4.0 mm in whole population. In multivariable regression analysis models adjusted for age, sex, waist circumference and systolic blood pressure, significant independent associations of EAT and left atrial dimension (P<.0001) and various measures of left ventricular (LV) wall thickness such as LV mean wall thickness (P<.001), LV relative wall thickness (P<.001) as well as LV posterior wall thickness (P<.001) were observed. We found no significant associations between EAT thickness and cardiac functional and hemodynamic parameters after covariate adjustments in multivariable analysis models. Conclusion The findings of this study highlight that larger EAT thickness is associated with subclinical alteration in cardiac wall thicknesses in young and middle-aged adults. However, we found no associations between EAT thickness and cardiac functional parameters, which is perhaps due to the high cardiac adaptation properties in our relatively young study population. Therefore, further follow-ups is required to address long-term probable alterations in cardiac hemodynamics when the participants are older.

Trajectories of lipid profile during adolescence and risk of subclinical atherosclerosis in early adulthood: a two-decade population-based study

Abstract Background/Introduction Recent studies have shown the highest burdens of premature cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in the Middle-eastern, and North Africa (MENA) region. The role of dyslipidemia, as a major metabolic disturbance, in the progression of subclinical atherosclerosis and subsequently premature CVDs, indicated by carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), must not be overlooked, specifically in young adults. Purpose To examine the impact of early-life lipid profile trajectories in adolescence on subclinical atherosclerosis, evidenced by cIMT in adulthood. Methods In this trajectory analysis, with 1006 participants (472 male, mean age=14.72±3.23 years), latent class growth modeling, particularly Group-based multi-trajectory modeling (GBMTM) was used to analyze the heterogeneity in the longitudinal lipid alterations (total cholesterol [TC], triglycerides [TG], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], and non-HDL-C). The trajectories were named based on direction (rising/decreasing) and slopes of the associated trends in lipid alterations (stable/ slow/ rapid). The association between lipid trajectories, and cIMT values, both as continuous and categorical variables, were evaluated using multivariate regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and systolic blood pressure at the baseline, as well as antihypertensive and lipid-lowering drug use, smoking, physical activity, and desired lipid parameter at the nearest survey to cIMT measurement. Results During a median follow-up of 17.6 years, the "Rising" trajectories of TC, TG, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C were linked to elevated cIMT values (in the fully-adjusted model beta-coefficients [βs]=0.08 [-0.01,0.14], 0.11 [0.05,0.17], 0.13 [0.05,0.21], and 0.12 [0.06,0.18], respectively). The "Rapid-Rising" trajectories of TG, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C notably amplified the risk (in the fully-adjusted model odds ratios (OR)=2.05 [1.46-2.75], 1.99 [1.35-2.92], and 2.02 [1.45-2.77], respectively). Conversely, the "Decreasing" trajectories of TC, LDL-C, and TG were associated with lower cIMT measures (βs =-0.09 [-0.16,-0.03], -0.11 [-0.17,-0.01], and -0.08 [-0.14,-0.02], respectively); also "Decreasing" trajectories of TC and LDL-C lowered the risk by at least 30% in the fully-adjusted model (ORs=0.59 [0.39-0.81] and 0.68 [0.41-1.02], respectively). While HDL-C "Rapid-Decreasing" trajectory doubled the risk of elevated cIMT (OR=1.98 [1.47-2.68]). Conclusion The findings showed the unfavorable trajectory alterations in all lipid parameters were significantly associated with higher cIMT values, underscoring the need for sustained efforts to monitor lipid levels from early adolescence.

Self-harming behaviours and social support among a sample of young men in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Abstract Background Psychiatric morbidity is substantially higher in Northern Ireland (NI) than in peer nations and men are disproportionately represented in suicide mortality data, particularly at early adulthood and middle age. To better scale interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality among young men, a mixed-methods study was conducted combining interviews and validated quantitative tools. Methods A non-random community sample of 30 working-class young men in Belfast aged 16-19 was recruited via organisations focused on job training, restorative justice, and youth work. Participants completed the Self-Harm Inventory and a semi-structured interview. Analyses were completed in NVivo and RStudio. Results The prevalence of self-harm was more than 8 times higher than for the general population of adolescents in NI, with 83.3% reporting ever engaging in self-harm. Only 2 of the 28 participants reported making a suicide attempt and most injuries were minor, suggesting nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) represented almost all injuries. Although the sample had a higher risk profile than the general population-with high levels of trauma, substance use, and socioeconomic deprivation-participants also endorsed strong social connections to friends, family, and community. While many expressed concerns about sharing their own emotional distress, almost all reported that disclosures are important to avert poor mental health and shared times when they or friends sought support. Conclusions Although there was a high prevalence of NSSI in the sample, the low prevalence of suicide attempts may be associated with the high levels of protective social connections reported by participants. Gender-based concerns regarding emotional support were common, but there was also strong endorsement for the importance of seeking support from trusted relationships. This suggests that there may be an appetite for male role models to provide education around the “bravery” of help-seeking. Key messages • Prevalence of nonsuicidal self-injury may be substantially more elevated in some populations of adolescent males. • Gender-based concerns continue to act as a barrier to young men sharing their emotional distress with trusted individuals.

Diagnoses of mental health disorders among Norwegian youth and young adults with immigrant parents

Abstract Introduction Adolescence and early adulthood are associated with an increase in mental health problems. Migration is also a risk factor for mental disorders. Yet, there is a notable gap in research concerning the mental well-being of descendants of immigrants. This study investigates the risk of a diagnosis of a mental health disorder among those aged 16-30 years, born in Norway with at least one immigrant parent. Methods Data were sourced from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway, the Norwegian Patient Register, and Statistics Norway. Cox proportional hazard regressions were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) of being diagnosed with different mental disorders, in total and by parental region of origin, compared to individuals of Norwegian background. Analyses were adjusted for sex, year of birth, and parental education. Results Individuals with two immigrant parents had a lower risk of most mental disorder diagnoses, while those of one immigrant parent had a higher risk. With the exception of schizophrenia, individuals with two immigrant parents had a lower risk of most mental disorder diagnoses compared to those with Norwegian-born parents. The HR for the risk of a diagnosis of anxiety for those with two immigrant parents was: 0.79 [95% CI 0.76 - 0.81], with immigrant mother: 1.07 [95% CI 1.04-1.10], with immigrant father: 1.28 [95% CI 1.24 -1.30]. Similarly, for depression, two immigrant parents: 0.85 [95% CI 0.82-0.88], immigrant mother: 1.13 [95% CI 1.09 - 1.17], immigrant father: 1.31 (95% CI 1.28-1.37). Bipolar disorders, two immigrant parents: 0.67 [95% CI 0.60-0.76], immigrant mother: 1.19 [95% CI 1.07 - 1.31], immigrant father: 1.47 [95% CI 1.35-1.61]. The pattern was relatively consistent across parental regions of origin. Conclusions Those with one immigrant parent are more likely to use specialist mental health services, while those with two immigrant parents are not. These need special attention in adulthood. Key messages • Differences in risk of diagnosis for mental disorders could be due to differences in the utilization of mental health services. • Early prevention of mental health issues seems to be especially important among children and youth raised in families with one immigrant parent.

Registered Nurses' Familiarity With Delegation Standards and Confidence Delegating to Unlicenced Care and Support Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

To survey registered nurses' familiarity with delegation standards and confidence to delegate to unlicenced workers within their practice. Cross-sectional exploratory survey design. The survey focused on Australian registered nurses (n = 420). Initial descriptive analysis was undertaken. Additionally, inferential analysis was undertaken between two independent variables focused on familiarity of delegation policy, and confidence to delegate, and several demographic and workplace variables. Stepwise linear regression was undertaken to determine predictors of the two delegation variables. The cross-sectional study was undertaken according to the STROBE reporting checklist. The majority of respondents were somewhat familiar, or not familiar at all with delegation standards. This pattern was followed for results relevant to confidence delegating to unlicenced workers. Nurses working in adult acute, intensive care and emergency department reported the lowest levels of familiarity with delegation. Additionally, intensive care nurses were significantly less likely to feel very confident delegating to unlicenced support workers. Stepwise regression revealed identifying as male, and working in the public sector were less likely to be confident delegating. Nurses working in the acute setting and public sector were less familiar with delegation standards. The findings of this study highlight the nuanced nature of delegation to unlicenced workers in Australian nursing settings, with nurses from certain contexts being far less likely to be familiar with or confident undertaking the practice. The findings of this study have significant implications to increase understanding of nurses diverse contexts of practice and how delegation standards might not be implemented in practice in a confident manner.

PRE-CONCEPTION READINESS AMONG PROSPECTIVE BRIDES

Background: Preconception is the best preparation time for the First 1000 Days of Pregnancy. Prospective brides are a group that must receive attention and monitoring regarding health conditions, including nutritional status, to prepare for pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby. This research aims to determine the preconception nutritional readiness of prospective brides. Method: This type of research was quantitative with a cross-sectional descriptive design. The population in the study was 30 prospective brides and was obtained using a consecutive sampling technique of 20 prospective brides. The variables studied were the bride and groom's sociodemographic data, including age, highest level of education, work status, and sources of nutrition and health information. Other variables studied were body mass index nutritional status, chronic lack of energy status, anemia status, energy, protein, iron, calcium, folic acid intake, ferro supplementation and folic acid supplementation, and preconception nutritional knowledge. The collected data will be entered and processed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS, then analyzed univariately using a descriptive frequency test. Results: The results of this study show that the sociodemographics of the majority of prospective brides are in the early adult age category (55%), have secondary education (75%), are not working (75%), and receive health and nutritional information from health workers (45%). Adequate energy intake level (75%), insufficient protein (55%), insufficient iron (85%), insufficient calcium (95%), insufficient folic acid (100%), no supplementation (85%), nutritional status of each -respectively normal and obese (35%), not CED (60%), not anemic (80%), lacking knowledge (70%), and lacking preconception nutritional readiness (85%). Conclusion: Most prospective brides cannot meet at least half of the preconception nutritional readiness indicators measured.