Gender Differences Research Articles

Intraoperative Computed Tomography in the Surgical Treatment of Zygomatic Complex Fracture: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of intraoperative computed tomography (ICT) in managing zygomatic complex (ZMC) fractures surgically. A total of 143 patients (84 men, 59 women; average age 37.13y) undergoing surgical treatment for ZMC fractures participated in this retrospective cohort study, with 72 in the ICT group and 71 in the control group. There were no notable differences in gender, age, time from injury to surgery, and surgical duration between the two groups. The ICT group exhibited significantly fewer surgical approaches than the control group (1.39±0.519 vs. 2.07±0.617, P<0.001). Fixation points in the ICT group (1-point: 42, 2-point: 14, 3-point: 16) significantly differed from the control group (1-point: 15, 2-point: 17, 3-point: 39), P<0.001. Symmetry of reduction was assessed through immediate postoperative images, and stability was compared between immediate postoperative images and those taken at least 3 months later. Both assessments revealed no significant differences between the 2 groups. This study indicates that ICT facilitates prompt evaluation of ZMC reduction, minimizing the necessity for incisions and internal fixation, while achieving comparable reduction efficacy and long-term stability to conventional approaches.

The Negative Effects of Cultural Identity on Preschool Girls in Bong, Lofa, and Nimba Counties of Liberia

This paper probes into the multifaceted issues surrounding violence against women and challenges to girls' education in Liberia. Coomaraswamy's 2002 research underscored the role of cultural behaviors in family structures contributing significantly to violence against women. King and Winthrop's 2015 study explored factors such as poverty, gender norms, and cultural expectations, contributing to discussions on fair educational opportunities. Cunningham et al.'s 2023 research delved into gender disparities across economic, educational, healthcare, and political spheres, employing a women's empowerment perspective. Theoretical frameworks rooted in gender and social norm theories were employed to understand the impact of cultural identity on preschool girls' education in Liberia. The study focused on evaluating negative effects on preschool girls in Bong, Lofa, and Nimba counties, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to create a supportive environment. Coomaraswamy's 2002 insistence on rejecting the use of cultural considerations to justify violence against girls resonates globally. The study also highlighted disparities in girls' primary school enrollment rates in the region compared to the global average, emphasizing the urgency of addressing educational inequalities. Overall, this paper contributes valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and communities, advocating for positive change in Liberia's educational landscape and women's empowerment.

Country Differences in Older Men's Hearing Difficulty Disadvantage.

Objectives: Hearing difficulty is prevalent in older adulthood and projected to increase via global aging, particularly among men. Currently, there is limited research on how this gender disparity might vary by country. Methods: Using 2018 data (n = 29,480) from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) international family of studies, we investigate gender disparities in hearing difficulty among respondents ages 55-89 from the United States (n = 12,566), Mexico (n = 10,762), and Korea (n = 6152) with country-specific ordinal logistic regression models that progressively adjust for demographic, social, and health indicators. Results: In the United States, men's hearing difficulty disadvantage was consistently observed. In Mexico, men's hearing difficulty disadvantage was explained by the interactive effect of gender and age group but resurfaced after adjusting for comorbidities. In Korea, there was consistently no gender difference in hearing difficulty. Discussion: Our results highlight the heterogeneity in older men's hearing difficulty disadvantage among a diverse group of aging countries.

Reciprocal relationship between self-efficacy and achievement in mathematics among high school students

Self-efficacy or perceived ability refers to the confidence an individual has in their ability to successfully perform a specific task. Previous researchers have demonstrated the importance of self-efficacy beliefs and its impact on predicting students’ mathematics performances. Specifically, gender has been regarded as an important moderator variable in the prediction of achievement from measures of affect. To this end, using data from High School Longitudinal Study of 2009, this study utilized the multi-group analysis under the framework of structural equation modeling to examine gender differences in the reciprocal relationship between mathematics self-efficacy and mathematics achievement. The results showed that there were statistically significant differences between male students and female students in the reciprocal relationship between mathematics self-efficacy and mathematics achievement; the impact of prior mathematics achievement on later mathematics achievement was stronger than the impact of prior mathematics self-efficacy on later mathematics self-efficacy. Significance of these findings were discussed in this paper.

Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Disease and Their Management: A Review

Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Disease and Their Management: A Review

The Use of Premixed Drugs in Commodity Packets in the Population: Prevalence and Correlates Revealed by the 2018 National Survey of Substance Use in Taiwan.

Administering premixed drugs in commodity packets was first reported in Asia in 2015, but there continues to be a dearth of related population-based data. This study aimed at examining (1) the prevalence of drug-packet use in the population and (2) the sociodemographic profiles, particularly gender distribution, of drug-packet users. Data were derived from a survey of 18,626 Taiwanese civilians, aged 12-64 years, using stratified, multi-stage, random sampling in 2018. Participants anonymously completed a computer-assisted self-interview on tablet computers which covered the use and problematic use of illicit drugs/inhalants, prescription drugs, and other psychoactive substances. Approximately 1.46% of respondents had a lifetime use of illicit drugs, with drugs in commodity packets (0.18%) being ranked the fifth-most commonly used illicit drugs, higher than nitrous oxide (0.14%) and heroin (0.09%). Ten formats of drug packets were endorsed by users. Approximately 81.6% of persons with drug packet use had lifetime use of other illicit drugs. The correlates of the use of drugs in commodity packets were different from those of the exclusive use of other drugs, particularly concerning the lack of gender differences in the former category in the whole sample and the subgroups of various sociodemographic characteristics and other substance use. Drugs in commodity packets have become a common way of administering illicit drugs in the population in Taiwan, and there were no gender differences among users. Our findings have implications for more efficient drug testing and culturally appropriate intervention for drug-packet use.

Prevalence of Elevated Blood Lead Levels and Gender Differences Among School Children in Banda Aceh, Indonesia

Lead toxicity is a major health problem in developing countries as lead exposure is widely scattered in the environment. Children are particularly vulnerable to the neurotoxicity of low-level, prolonged exposure to lead. Long-term effects of lead accumulation in children can damage them physically and mentally. We evaluated Blood Lead Levels (BLLs) among school children in Banda Aceh Municipality, Indonesia. A cross-sectional study with randomly selected participants was conducted in 2 junior high schools to determine the prevalence of elevated BLLs and gender differences. Among 130 children, aged 12-15, 32 (24,6%) of them had elevated BLLs based on CDC reference ≥3,5 µg/dl with a mean of BLLs 3,01 ±1.14, and 27 out of 32 (84.4%) with elevated BLLs were males. Male students had 5.62 times higher risk (CI:2.00-15.81) with elevated BLLs compared to female students (p=&lt; 0.001). We concluded that the prevalence of elevated BLLs is high in both schools and there was a statistically significant difference in blood lead levels between male and female students. Other risk factors may affect the difference in blood lead levels among school children.

Impact of Sex in the Incidence of Heart Failure in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome.

This review examines the available evidence concerning the incidence of heart failure in patients with chronic coronary syndrome, with a focus on gender differences. The incidence of heart failure in the context of chronic coronary syndrome presents conflicting data. Most of the available information stems from studies involving stable patients' post-acute coronary syndrome, revealing a wide range of incidence rates, from less than 3% to over 20%, observed over 5 years of follow-up. Regarding the gender differences in heart failure incidence, there is no consensus about whether women exhibit a higher incidence, particularly in the presence of evidence of obstructive coronary artery disease. However, in cases where obstructive coronary artery disease is absent, women may face a more unfavourable prognosis due to a higher prevalence of microvascular disease and heart failure with preserved ventricular function. The different profile of ischaemic heart disease in women difficult to establish differences in prognosis independently associated with female sex. Targeted investigations are essential to discern the incidence of heart failure in chronic coronary syndrome and explore potential gender-specific associations.

224 Influence of gender on animal science research funding from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture

Abstract According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, females and males in science disciplines obtain bachelor of science degrees at or near parity, yet females are not equally represented in academic faculty positions. This is true for agricultural field including the animal sciences. The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) administers the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) at USDA, a flagship competitive grants program that fund research, education, and extension efforts with a total appropriation of $455 million in 2023. Our objective was to determine the difference between genders for submission rates (i.e., number of standard and seed grant applications submitted), success rates (i.e., number of grant award/number of applications submitted), and peer reviewers of grant applications in the main animal related AFRI program area priorities. All applications submitted to AFRI programs in animal genomics, reproduction, health, nutrition and growth, and welfare during 2013 to 2022 were evaluated. Gender was assigned to Project Directors (PD) and peer reviewers using first names as input into Gender API software (Gender-API.com; Passau, Germany) with ≥ 95% accuracy and ≥ 20 database occurrences used as quality filters and binary outcomes only (i.e., male or female). Effect of gender on submission rates, success rates, and peer review panel compositions were then analyzed using Pearson’s Chi-squared tests with P ≤ 0.05 considered significant. A total of 3,392 applications were submitted, of which 2,579 (76%) PD genders were assigned and analyzed further. Overall, the proportional submission rate for females was 28% and for males was 72%. Submission rates for females increased (P = 0.0497) over time ranging from 22% in 2013 to 33% in 2021. Submission rates differed by gender across programs (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) and ranged from 22% female in animal reproduction to 48% female in animal welfare. Overall, the funding success rate was 22% and did not differ between genders (P = 0.9826). Success rates did not differ between genders over time (P = 0.4691), but differences among programs approached significance (P = 0.0670). Across 53 panels, 42% of panelists were female; no differences were identified for the proportion of female panelists over time (P = 0.9762) or by program (P = 0.7028). Females submitted less than one-half as many applications as males, but the proportion of submissions by females increased over time. This trend remained consistent despite challenges of relocation of NIFA and COVID-19 during this time. Funding success rates did not differ by gender, but some variation was observed across programs. Overall, the proportion of NIFA panelists who were female exceeded the proportion of applications submitted by females. These results indicate that although differences in gender existed for application submission rate and panel composition, these differences did not impact funding success rate of applications in animal science programs at NIFA, which did not differ between genders.

Knowledge, attitude, and perception of robotic-assisted surgery among the general population in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study.

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has revolutionized surgical practices, with robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) significantly advancing. However, the understanding and acceptance of RAS vary, impacting its widespread adoption. This study aims to assess Saudi Arabians' attitudes and comprehension of RAS, which is crucial for promoting its integration into surgical procedures. A cross-sectional study was conducted in various Saudi Arabian cities. A total of 1449 participants were included, while participants with cognitive issues were excluded. Demographic information, knowledge, technology experience, attitudes, and perceptions about RAS were collected using an online self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Of the participants, 51.1% demonstrated awareness of RAS, mainly through social media (36.9%). Factors influencing awareness included gender, education, income, occupation, computer literacy, and technology comfort. Gender disparities were evident in attitudes and perceptions toward RAS. Concerns about RAS included robot malfunction (62.0%), surgical errors (45.4%), and surgeon competency (44.7%). 36.4% of the participants believe RAS is faster, 29.9% believe RAS is less painful, and 25.3% believe RAS has fewer complications. Positive perceptions encompassed the belief that robot-using surgeons are more skilled (44.5%) and hospitals offering RAS are better (54.3%). Notably, 47.7% expressed willingness to consider RAS as a treatment option. The study underscores the significance of promoting awareness and informed decisions to ensure the successful integration of RAS in surgical practices. Addressing concerns and misconceptions and enhancing public comprehension are pivotal for facilitating informed decision-making and fostering RAS acceptance within Saudi Arabia's surgical landscape.

Their final words: An analysis of suicide notes from the United States

The present study sought to explore motivations (affective, relationships, life events, injury/medical diagnosis) in suicide notes (N = 49) from the U.S. Authors ranged in age from 18 to 74 years and were majority male (73.5%). Four raters analyzed the notes and, through a series of meetings, came to a consensus on the motives behind each note writers’ suicide in terms of the broader motivational themes and the narrower second-level themes. All notes were primarily affectional in nature, with some gender and age differences. For example, suicide notes from males frequently refer to financial hardships whereas suicide notes from females were more focused on lowered self-worth and notes written by younger persons focused more on affect and relationships, while notes written by older adults focused on life events and marriage difficulties and separation. Findings illuminate the varied nature of suicide motivations but also highlight important patterns across groups.

Mainstreaming gender in agroecology: coffee cropping systems in Veracruz, Mexico

ABSTRACT The objective of this paper is to mainstream gender in agroecology, using VIDA’s coffee systems as a case study. Data were collected through a mixed, participatory approach, combining qualitative (participant observation, interviews, workshops) and quantitative methods (a census of 24 men and 26 women). Results reveal gender differences across environmental, economic, social, and political dimensions. Women prioritize plant diversity, while men focus on coffee varieties and farm conditions. Both sexes emphasize economic and social sustainability, with women advocating for greater access to resources and benefits. VIDA has a gender-parity leadership promoting territorial defense and youth visibility to mitigate outmigration.

Female obesity: clinical and psychological assessment toward the best treatment

Obesity is a heterogeneous condition which results from complex interactions among sex/gender, sociocultural, environmental, and biological factors. Obesity is more prevalent in women in most developed countries, and several clinical and psychological obesity complications show sex-specific patterns. Females differ regarding fat distribution, with males tending to store more visceral fat, which is highly correlated to increased cardiovascular risk. Although women are more likely to be diagnosed with obesity and appear more motivated to lose weight, as confirmed by their greater representation in clinical trials, males show better outcomes in terms of body weight and intra-abdominal fat loss and improvements in the metabolic risk profile. However, only a few relatively recent studies have investigated gender differences in obesity, and sex/gender is rarely considered in the assessment and management of the disease. This review summarizes the evidence of gender differences in obesity prevalence, contributing factors, clinical complications, and psychological challenges. In addition, we explored gender differences in response to obesity treatments in the specific context of new anti-obesity drugs.

Estimating Gender Differences in the Association between Cognitive Resilience and MCI Incidence.

Recent evidence suggests that the influence of verbal intelligence and education on the onset of subjective cognitive decline may be modulated by gender, where education contributes less to cognitive resilience in women than in men. This study aims to examine gender differences in the association between cognitive resilience (CR) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) incidence in an Australian population-based cohort. We included 1806 participants who had completed at least the first two waves and up to four waves of assessments in the Personality and Total Health (PATH) through life study (Baseline: 49% Female, Mage=62.5, SD=1.5), age range=60-66). CR proxies included measures of educational attainment, occupation skill, verbal intelligence, and leisure activity. Discrete-time survival analyses were conducted to examine gender differences in the association between CR proxies and MCI risk, adjusting for age and Apolipoprotein E4 status. Gender differences were only found in the association between occupation and MCI risk, where lower occupation skill was more strongly associated with higher risk in men than in women (OR = 1.30, 95% CI[1.07, 1.57]). In both genders, after adjusting for education and occupation, one SD increase in leisure activity was associated with lower MCI risk by 24% (OR = 0.76, 95% CI[0.65, 0.89]). Higher scores in verbal intelligence assessment were associated with reduced risk of MCI by 22% (OR = 0.78, 95% CI[0.69, 0.89]). Occupational experience may contribute to cognitive resilience differently between genders. Life-course cognitive engagement and verbal intelligence may be more protective against MCI than education and occupation for both men and women.

Acute coronary syndrome in young (≤45 Years) patients: a multicenter observational study

Introduction: Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) in young individuals (≤45 y) is increasingly recognized as a significant health concern, yet research in this demographic remains limited, particularly within the Palestinian context. This study aims to bridge this gap by comprehensively investigating the clinical characteristics, age-specific profiles, gender disparities, treatment modalities, and angiographic patterns of ACS in young patients compared to their older counterparts. Materials and Methods: A multicenter observational study was conducted, enrolling 468 participants aged 18-55 diagnosed with ACS and admitted to three prominent Palestinian hospitals. Data were collected from medical records, and statistical analysis was performed to assess demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, risk factors, treatment strategies, and outcomes. Results: The majority of participants were male (87%), with a higher proportion in the older age group (&gt;45 y). Clinical presentations varied, with Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) being the most common diagnosis (48%). Risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes were prevalent, with notable gender and age-specific differences. Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) was the predominant treatment strategy (83%), with consistent medication use across age groups. Conclusion: ACS in young patients poses a significant public health challenge in Palestine, necessitating tailored preventive strategies and comprehensive management approaches. Understanding the unique demographic and clinical characteristics of young ACS patients is crucial for informing targeted interventions and policies aimed at reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease in this population. These findings contribute valuable insights to the existing literature and underscore the importance of further research in this area to improve outcomes and mitigate the impact of ACS in young individuals globally.

Type 2 diabetes in the employed population: do rates and trends differ among nine occupational sectors? An analysis using German health insurance claims data

BackgroundSocioeconomic inequalities in type 2 diabetes (T2D) are well established in the literature. However, within the background of changing work contexts associated with digitalization and its effect on lifestyle and sedentary behavior, little is known on T2D prevalence and trends among different occupational groups. This study aims to examine occupational sector differences in T2D prevalence and trends thereof between 2012 and 2019.MethodsThe study was done on 1.683.644 employed individuals using data from the German statutory health insurance provider in Lower Saxony, the “Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse Niedersachsen” (AOKN). Predicted probabilities for T2D prevalence in four two-year periods between 2012 and 2019 were estimated based on logistic regression analyses for nine occupational sectors. Prevalence ratios were calculated to illustrate the effect of time period on the prevalence of T2D among the nine occupational sectors. Analyses were stratified by gender and two age groups.ResultsResults showed differences among occupational sectors in the predicted probabilities for T2D. The occupational sectors “Transport, logistics, protection and security” and “Health sector, social work, teaching & education” had the highest predicted probabilities, while those working in the sector “Agriculture” had by far the lowest predicted probabilities for T2D. Over all, there appeared to be a rising trend in T2D prevalence among younger employed individuals, with gender differences among occupational sectors.ConclusionThe study displayed different vulnerability levels among occupational sectors with respect to T2D prevalence overall and for its rising trend among the younger age group. Specific occupations within the vulnerable sectors need to be focused upon in further research to define specific target groups to which T2D prevention interventions should be tailored.

Burden of Ischemic Heart Diseases among US States from 1990-2019.

Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) is a leading cause of global mortality, including in the United States. Understanding the burden of IHD in the United States is crucial for informed decision-making and targeted interventions aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality associated with this leading cause of death. This study aimed to understand the burden of IHD, identify gender disparities and risk factors, explore the relationship between socioeconomic growth and IHD, and analyze risk factor distribution across the states of the United States. This study utilized data from the Global Burden of Diseases Study 2019, which provided comprehensive information on IHD from 1990 to 2019. Data related to IHD from these years were extracted using a query tool from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) website. The study assessed the relationship between IHD and socioeconomic development using the Socio-demographic Index (SDI) and measured the overall impact of IHD using Disability-adjusted Life Years (DALYs), considering premature death and disability. Additionally, the study analyzed the burden of IHD attributed to six main risk factors. Data analysis involved comparing prevalence, mortality, SDI, DALYs, attributable burden, and risk estimation among the states. Between 1990 and 2019, there was an improvement in socioeconomic development in all states. Age-standardized rates of disease burden for IHD decreased by 50% [ASDR 3278.3 to 1629.4 (95% UI: 1539.9-1712.3) per 100,000] with the most significant decline observed in Minnesota. Males had higher burden rates than females in all states, and the southeast region had the highest mortality rates. The prevalence of IHD showed a declining trend, with approximately 8.9 million cases (95% UI: 8.0 million to 9.8 million) in 2019, representing a 37.1% decrease in the Age-standardized Prevalence Rate (ASPR) from 1990. Metabolic risks were the leading contributors to the disease burden, accounting for 50% of cases, with Mississippi having the highest attributable risk. Arkansas had the highest attributable risk for high cholesterol and smoking. Conversely, Minnesota had the lowest burden of IHD among all the states. This study highlights variations in the burden of IHD across US states and emphasizes the need for tailored prevention programs to address specific risk factors and gender differences. Understanding the trend in IHD may inform policymakers and healthcare professionals in effectively allocating resources to reduce the burden of IHD and improve national health outcomes.

Paper or Tablet? The Impact of Digital Tools on Sketching During Engineering Design Concept Generation

Abstract Sketching is an important tool for engineers during concept generation. Sketch quantity during this early stage of design has been linked with eventual design outcomes and sketch quality has been linked with design perceptions. As such, both are important metrics to track. Prior work has also found gender differences in some of these sketch attributes. Given the increase in use of digital tablets for sketching, it is important to assess how tablet use affects early stage engineering design sketches. This is especially important as tablets can automatically smooth lines and help perfect sketch features, but these features may also take longer to use and may result in fewer sketches produced. This study investigates differences in sketch quality, quantity, and understandability (the effectiveness of the sketch as a communication tool) between sketching on a tablet and sketching with pen on paper during an engineering design concept generation exercise. Results indicate that there is no difference in sketch quantity or understandability between the two tools. However, sketch quality, smoothness, and proportion/accuracy are all higher for the pen and paper condition than for the tablet condition. Finally, no gender differences in performance for either sketch quantity or quality were found.

Narcissism and Its Association with Neurotic Tendencies Among Students at University Technical Education Colleges in Jordan

The goals of this research are to determine the degree of narcissism among students at Jordanian university technical education colleges, investigate the connection between narcissism and neurotic tendencies among the study participants, and determine whether there are differences in the subjects' levels of narcissism based on the gender variable (male versus female student group). Additionally, the study's psychometric and demographic variables will be used to predict the levels of narcissism and neurotic tendencies. A total of (362) students participated in this study during the second semester of the academic year (2023/2024) and were selected randomly. Two scales were applied, namely, the narcissism scale and the neurotic tendencies scale. The findings revealed a medium level (68%) of narcissism among the subjects. A statistically significant and positive correlation between narcissism and neurotic tendencies was observed. Furthermore, in narcissism, statistically significant gender differences were evident. Given the literature and the study results, the researcher ultimately suggested a set of practical practices. 

Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and Cloud Infrastructures: Policy Recommendations for Enhancing Women's Participation in the Tech-Driven Economy

This study investigates the underrepresentation of women in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Cloud Infrastructures, exploring the barriers and challenges they face and assessing the effectiveness of current policies and initiatives to promote gender diversity within the tech industry. Employing quantitative research methods, the study used a survey distributed to 572 female professionals in tech-related roles across various industries, achieving a 67.9% response rate. Multiple regression analysis was utilized to test four main hypotheses concerning barriers to entry and advancement, the inclusivity of educational programs, the impact of diverse teams on innovation and performance, and the effectiveness of gender-inclusive policies. Key findings indicate that the type of organization and specific tech sectors significantly influence the barriers experienced by women. Notably, gender diversity within teams correlates strongly with improved innovation and performance. However, educational and training programs often fail to be sufficiently inclusive, underscoring the need for programs better tailored to women's needs in tech fields. Moreover, the study confirms that implementing gender-inclusive policies substantially increases women's participation in tech roles, especially when these policies are applied long-term. Based on the findings, recommendations are made for adopting comprehensive, inclusive practices at organizational and educational levels, promoting diversity in team composition and leadership, committing long-term to effective policy implementation, and developing supportive networks through mentorship and sponsorship programs. These measures are aimed at reducing gender disparities and enhancing the integration of women into the high-tech economy. The study underscores the critical role that strategic policy-making and organizational change play in fostering an inclusive tech environment that not only addresses gender disparities but also enhances overall industry innovation and performance.