Population Groups Research Articles

Hydrogeochemical processes, and health risk assessment of groundwater, in Santa María del rio aquifer: A case study of San Luis Potosí valley, Mexico

The main objectives of this research were to the hydrogeochemical processes that control the groundwater chemistry, groundwater quality, and assessment of health risks of water. The drinking water that supplies the community of Santa María del Rio, S.L.P., comes from groundwater, in some municipality localities, groundwater Fluorine and arsenic are reported. Twenty-one representative groundwater samples were taken. Physicochemical parameters in situ: pH, OD, ORP, Alkalinity, STD, EC, Salinity, Total Coliforms, and E-coli, were analyzed, and in the laboratory, the heavy metals, metalloids and major constituents, cations: calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium, were determined by the ICP, and anions: chlorides, and sulfates, by colorimetry techniques. The results of the analyses were compared with the Mexican and EPA drinking water standards to verify their suitability and ensure that they do not exceed the permitted limit values. The results of the chemistry of the principal groundwater ions in the study area suggest that the main hydrogeochemical process that controls the variation of groundwater quality is the rock–water interaction. Groundwater has been classified into two hydrochemical facies, CaMgHCO3 and NaHCO3, consistent with the type of rock. The samples with the CaMg–HCO3 facie are associated with less evolved waters located in areas with local recharge. The dominant reactions in the aquifer are calcite, dolomite, and gypsum solutions. The presence of the N–NO3- ion is associated with agricultural and urban zone influence, which indicates that this activity has impacted the water quality. The risk index (HI) results show that values > 0.1 < 1 of HI, for Pb present low chronic risks for adults and children. In contrast, HI values > 4 for both population groups represent high chronic risk. Excessive use of fertilizers should be controlled in the study area to prevent groundwater contamination by heavy metals and metalloids and be measured regularly to check drinking water quality.

The cost of climate change: A generalized cost function approach for incorporating extreme weather exposure into public transit accessibility

Public transit offers urban populations physical accessibility to resources and opportunities. However, at the same time, transit trips often expose users to extreme environmental conditions, such as extreme heat and cold since transit journeys usually include out-of-vehicle trip segments including walking and waiting. Such exposure can be considered as environmental health costs because exposure to weather extremes can lead to adverse health outcomes. Even worse, climate change is increasing the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events. In this context, how can we make public transit accessibility measures ready for climate change? This paper attempts to answer this question by developing a generalized cost function approach combining travel time and environmental health costs into an integrated measure of dual accessibility: a measure of the travel costs of accessing a fixed number of destinations. We synthesize transport science, environmental health, remote sensing, and urban climatology to empower the proposed framework. To demonstrate the utility of the proposed method, we carry out an example study that incorporates transit passengers' extreme cold exposure into accessibility measures in the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Further, we perform a social equity analysis to investigate whether the increase in total integrated costs (i.e., decrease in accessibility) due to the inclusion of environmental health costs disproportionately affects socially disadvantaged population groups. The proposed method enables a more realistic and practical measurement of public transit accessibility under climate change; thereby, improving the readiness and resilience of our society and transport systems for future challenges.

Exploring constraints to leisure participation within the countryside

ABSTRACT The health and well-being benefits of accessing occupations in natural outdoor environments are well evidenced. However, not everyone has access to these spaces and constraints to leisure participation within rural spaces have been relatively unexplored. This study explored the everyday lives of participants of the Mass Observation Project archive to identify constraints to occupational participation within the countryside in the United Kingdom. Thematic analysis was used to interpret data from two collections; one that focused on ‘The Countryside’ (Winter 2013) and another on ‘Identity and Environment’ within ‘Loneliness and Belonging’ (Spring 2019). The study found that social norms, infrastructure, health issues, personal preferences, and a lack of shared experiences all affected participation in occupations. These constraints often corresponded with a disengagement from desired occupational participation. Findings have implications for occupational science in relation to understanding constraints to meaningful participation. There is need for further research around the impact of belonging and meaning on occupational participation and engagement within rural spaces within diverse population groups, particularly in terms of age, socioeconomic resources, and ethnicity.

'It's Just Not Working', a Qualitative Exploration of the Weight-Related Healthcare Experiences of Individuals of Arab Heritage With Higher Weight in Australia.

Culturally and linguistically diverse population groups disproportionately experience higher weight and other non-weight-related discrimination in healthcare settings outside of their ancestral country. Little is known about the experiences of individuals with Arab heritage. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the intersectional weight-related healthcare experiences of individuals of Arab heritage with higher weight in Australia. A general inductive enquiry approach was used. Purposive, convenience and snowball sampling was used to recruit individuals of Arab heritage residing in Australia. Individuals were invited to participate in an online semistructured interview. Interviews were recorded, transcribedand thematically analysed. Fifteen participants took part in the study. Of these participants, 93% were female (n = 14), 80% were aged between 18 and 44 years (n = 12), 73% were university educated (n = 11), 53% were born outside of Australia (n = 8)and all were Muslim (n = 15). Four main themes were identified: (1) appearance-based judgement, (2) generalised advice and assumptions, (3) cultural responsivenessand (4) healthcare system constraints. Individuals of Arab heritage with higher weight in Australia, namely, females, often perceive their healthcare experiences as dismissive of their cultural and religious needs and driven by causality assumptions around weight. It is crucial that care delivered encompasses cultural humility, is weight-inclusiveand acknowledges systemic constraints. Cultural safety training benchmarks, healthcare management reformand weight-inclusive healthcare approaches are recommended to assist healthcare providers in delivering effective, holisticand culturally safe care. Insights gained from conversations with Arab heritage community members with lived experiences regarding weight-related healthcare encounters informed the study design and approach.

Cannabinoid residuals in tissues of lambs fed spent hemp biomass and consumer's exposure assessment

Spent hemp biomass (SHB) contains trace amounts of cannabinoids, including Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), that may accumulate in the tissues of animals consuming SHB. We measured cannabinoid residues in the liver, adipose tissue, and muscle of finishing lambs fed either 10% or 20% SHB for 8 weeks, or 4 weeks followed by 4 weeks SHB withdrawal. We detected multiple cannabinoids in the liver at a similar proportion to the SHB. However, CBD and Δ9-THC were enriched >20-fold in the adipose and muscle, compared to their proportion in SHB. The highest concentration of Δ9-THC was detected in adipose tissue and was 7.4-times higher than in muscle. Most cannabinoids were undetectable in tissues after 4 weeks of clearance. The consumers’ exposure assessment on Δ9-THC revealed tissue levels of total THC (THCA+Δ9-THC) that exceed the acute reference dose of 1 μg/kg BW across population groups. When consuming meat from the lambs fed 10% and 20% SHB, the maximum total THC exposure was 2.03 and 7.32 μg/kg BW, respectively, equal to or below the Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level of 36 μg/kg BW, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level of 12 μg/kg BW or a tolerable dose intake of 7 μg/kg BW.

The Evolution of Science and Regulation of Dietary Supplements: Past, Present, and Future

Dietary supplement use in the United States is widespread and increasing, especially among certain population groups, such as older Americans. The science surrounding dietary supplements has evolved substantially over the last few decades since their formal regulation in 1994. Much has been learned about the mechanisms of action of many dietary supplement ingredients, but the evidence on their health effects is still building. As is true of much nutrition research, there are many studies that point to health effects, but not all are at the level of scientific evidence (e.g., randomized controlled interventions), rigor, or quality needed for definitive statements of efficacy regarding clinical end points. New technologies and approaches are being applied to the science of dietary supplements, including nutrigenomics and microbiome analysis, data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning—all of which can elevate the science behind dietary supplements. Products can contain an array of bioactive compounds derived from foods as well as from medicinal plants, which creates enormous challenges in data collection and management. Clinical applications, particularly those aimed at providing personalized nutrition options for patients, have become more sophisticated as dietary supplements are incorporated increasingly into clinical practice and self-care. The goals of this article are to provide historical context for the regulation and science of dietary supplements, identify research resources, and suggest some future directions for science in this field.

Experiences of Consumers on the Health Effects of Fake and Adulterated Medicines in Nigeria

Medicines are used to cure and treat ailments, relieve or eliminate disease symptoms, and slow down the disease process. Any attempt to disrupt this natural medicine process, using falsified medications, spells doom to a consumer of such medication. The challenge of fake medicines is a global one and affects developing and developed nations and currently assumes great significance as a result of globalization challenges, which have flattened the entire world, hence removing barriers to the movement of products and services. The cross-sectional survey was conducted, using six local government areas of Anambra State in South-East Nigeria, namely Awka, Nnewi, Onitsha, Aguata, Ogbaru, and Anaocha, among adults aged 18 years and above. A minimum sample size of 500 was calculated and stratified sampling was employed to select respondents in order to ensure that various population groups, the upper class, middle class, and lower class were represented. This research has shown that falsified medicine is an evil wind that blows nobody any good. It negatively affects every aspect of the citizen’s livelihood, ranging from their health, which manifests as treatment failures, deformities, loss of life to death, to loss of confidence in the healthcare providers, revenue losses to individuals, healthcare providers, manufacturers, and finally corruption of the genuine medicines supply chain with fake and adulterated medicines. The study has clearly shown the experiences of residents of Anambra State, South-East Nigeria with fake and adulterated medicines and also services as a wake-up call to medicines regulators like NAFDAC, PCN, the PSN, and Federal Ministry of Health to declare a state of emergency on the fight against fake and adulterated medicines and make enabling laws that are punitive enough towards the fight against this scourge, so that the healthcare and well-being of Nigerians would be assured at all times.

Phenotypic analysis of mezcal agaves from the Central Valleys of Oaxaca

Objective: Mezcal agaves in the state of Oaxaca have a high economic value due to the demand for mezcal production; therefore, the purpose of this work was to assess and highlight the importance of morphological diversity within and among cultivated Agave species. Design/Methodology/Approach: A completely randomized experimental design with 25 treatments (populations) and 11 replicates (individuals) was implemented. The plant (individual) was the experimental unit and 19 morphological descriptors proposed by the National Seed Inspection and Certification Service (SNICS) were assessed. A total of 275 individuals of the Agave angustifolia, Agave karwinskii, Agave marmorata, Agave rhodacantha, Agave potatorum, Agave seemanniana, and Agave nussaviorum species were assessed using a multivariate analysis to determine their phenotypic variability and existing relationships. Results: The dendrograms for the Q-mode and R-mode were obtained by means of a cluster analysis, forming 4 groups based on the average linkage generated from the standardized BDM of the sampled species of the genus Agave. Four groups were formed using the k-means clustering method, in accordance with field observations and a review of the taxonomic bibliography. The first two principal components (PC) accounted for 66.4% of the total variation, according to the principal component analysis (PCA). For PC1 and PC2, the variables with the highest contribution were those related to leaf shape (Fh), size of the lateral spine (FEL), number of leaves (Nh), plant height (H), uniformity in the size of the lateral spines (UTE), and terminal spine shape (FET). Study Limitations/Implications: A comprehensive study requires taxonomic keys to identify species, subspecies, and even varieties of Agave. Additionally, molecular characterization is essential to understand the variability and phylogenetic relationships of these populations, subject to a phylogenetic analysis. Findings/Conclusions: Multivariate analysis techniques revealed that three species showed high phenotypic variability in the maturation stage under cultivation conditions. The A. potatorum and A. karwinskii species had a greater intra-population phenotypic variability, with significant differences within the same species. Agave marmorata showed no intra- or inter-population variability. Leaf texture (Txh) was the only variable that explained the variation within its group. This is a tall species whose diameter is larger than in the other species. The variables of the Mexican (Agave rhodacantha) group showed low correlation, as their behavior was highly dispersed. The variables obtained in the field from this group of populations must be meticulously assessed to identify the degree of correlation between the variables and to confirm the behavior of this group.

Prevention and correction of micronutrient deficiencies. What do we know about it?

BACKGROUND: Micronutrient deficiencies, including deficiencies of vitamins and microelements, are a major public health concern worldwide. They are highly prevalent, particularly in developing countries, and have significant health consequences, including anemia, impaired immune function, cognitive impairment, and growth retardation. Micronutrient deficiencies can also contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Micronutrient deficiencies can also contribute to the development of chronic diseases. AIM: To study the knowledge, interest and motivation of different population groups regarding vitamin and micronutrient intake. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The original questionnaire with 45 questions was completed by 344 respondents: 141 (41%) without medical education, 91 (25.4%) with higher medical education, 112 (32.6%) by students of medical unvesities. RESULTS: Only 100 (29.4%) respondents considered their nutrition balanced. 180 (52.3%) people did not consume vegetables and fruits on a daily basis, 82 (23.3%) respondents almost never consumed fish and seafood. Almost all respondents [335 (97.4%)] took some vitamin and mineral complex at least in one of the periods of their life, 284 (82.6%) — did it without a doctor’s prescription. Female respondents demonstrated a higher level of knowledge about the problem under study: 115 (41.9%) women and only 17 (24.2%) men had checked vitamin D levels (p = 0.006), while 187 (68.2%) women and only 33 (47.1%) men had taken vitamin D (p = 0.006). Those receiving/having higher medical education were more likely to take vitamin D (4.4 times), vitamin B6 (3.8 times), selenium (3 times), and zinc (2.8 times) than non-medical respondents. CONCLUSIONS: The nature of nutrition indicates potential risks of micronutrient imbalance in the respondents. Knowledge about the problem of micronutrient imbalances among the study participants is not systematized. Men and people without medical education have less knowledge on this topic and are less likely to take various micronutrients.

P-716 What do Africans know about their fertility? A systematic literature review exploring fertility knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour among African population groups

Abstract Study question What is the knowledge, attitude, and behaviour regarding fertility, among African population groups? Summary answer Fertility knowledge and uptake of treatment options for infertility were found to be sub-optimal while the attitude towards fertility were mixed. What is known already Infertility affects 1 in 6 couples worldwide according to the WHO, with some evidence of higher incidence among the African population. Health policies have highlighted the importance of optimising fertility through better knowledge and, recently, there has been a concerted effort from several stakeholders to improve fertility-education. An important component of doing this effectively is to understand the current status and identify gaps. Most studies on this topic, however, have focused on high-income countries. This study aimed to assess current patterns of fertility knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour; and identify improvement opportunities but with a focus on the African population group. Study design, size, duration Global Health, MEDLINE, Web of Science PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar databases were systematically searched for articles published between 2000 and 2023. Articles covering fertility knowledge, attitude and practices were included if they had been conducted in Africa and were published in an English language peer-reviewed journal. Participants/materials, setting, methods Articles were extracted and reviewed independently by two researchers. Content was analysed and categorised thematically. Quality assessment of studies were conducted. Main results and the role of chance The systematic search yielded 1939 articles and 25 articles were included, studies were from Nigeria, South Africa, Gambia, Egypt, Kenya. Overall, the reviewed studies showed that Africans place a high value on their fertility and have high aspirations towards parenthood, with childbearing being perceived as fulfilment or destiny. Knowledge and understanding of ART and treatment options was found to be low in studies assessed. There was also low knowledge of age-related fertility decline and low understanding of the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Although the attitude towards infertility and assisted reproductive technology was mixed, there is more openness within the higher-socioeconomic demographics, although generally sub-optimal. Overall studies also highlighted several myths and misinformation about ART. There were important factors influencing behaviour: such as the importance of being married, having a steady income, and safe-housing. Some studies also highlighted that cultural beliefs and religion also play an important role. Research findings showed that there is stigma associated with childlessness in many African communities. Although some studies reported attributing infertility to fate or destiny, most remain open to treatment through various methods, ranging from ART to herbalist and spiritual intervention, with some considering prayer a method of treatment. Limitations, reasons for caution This study focused on fertility knowledge, attitude and practices of Africans which has implications for generalisability among wider population groups. From our quality assessment, some of the studies in the systematic review had methodological limitations. Wider implications of the findings While strategies and policies to improve fertility awareness are being deployed, it is important to consider the needs of lower- and middle-income countries. Findings can inform government policies aiming to improve education, minimise ART costs, improve health-equity and access; ultimately allowing people to achieve their desired family-building intentions. Trial registration number not applicable

O-019 Outcomes and correlations between traditional Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) method and a new AI-enhanced system

Abstract Study question In the context of ICSI, how does the Sperm Tracer Deep Neural Network analysis compare to the embryologist’s sperm selection technique? Summary answer Sperm Tracer AI system significantly improves fertilization rates, offering a standardized, objective approach to sperm selection, but nuanced correlations highlight complexities in sperm parameters. What is known already Traditional sperm selection during ICSI relies on subjective, manual methods, introducing variability and affecting pregnancy success. In response, AI applications, aim to enhance objectivity, potentially improving pregnancy rates. Study design, size, duration Between September and December 2023, the study examined 26 fresh ICSI cycles in a total of 268 sibling oocytes. Men aged 18 years and above with 34.4 mean women’s age. The Sperm Tracer group underwent single embryo culture, while the Embryologists' group underwent group embryo culture. The study analyzes statistical differences in fertilization rates, day 3 and day 5 embryo development. The study duration aligns with the analyzed cycles. Participants/materials, setting, methods The study compared real-time AI-assisted sperm evaluation with the Sperm Tracer system to the traditional ICSI method by embryologists. Correlation analysis was performed for the following kinematic parameters: Amplitude of Lateral Head displacement (ALH), Dance (DNC), Linearity (LIN), Straightness (STR), Wobble (WOB), Curvilinear Velocity (VCL), Linear Velocity (VSL) and Average Path Velocity (VAP). Statistical analysis involved Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals, Mann-Whitney U tests and correlation analyses by Pearson’s coefficient. Main results and the role of chance The Sperm Tracer system exhibited a noteworthy enhancement in fertilization rates (OR: 0.46, 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) [0.23, 0.89], p = 0.0224) but no significant differences in cleavage stages, blastocyst formation, or the production of good-quality embryos compared to conventional methods. For correlation analysis used two groups of sperm population. Group A comprises spermatozoa subjected to ICSI with the Sperm Tracer system, resulting in unsuccessful oocyte fertilization and Group B consists of spermatozoa that achieved successful fertilization. In Group A, correlation analysis identified significant negative associations between DNC and linear parameters (LIN, STR, WOB) (p &amp;lt; 0.001), highlighting the clinical relevance in sperm motility. Group B displayed a distinct negative correlation between DNC and LIN (p = 0.03941), indicating potential effects on sperm linear velocity. LIN in Group A exhibited strong negative correlations with WOB (p = 0.0001), moderate negative correlations with STR (p = 0.0028), and VCL (p = 0.0773). Moreover, ALH analysis in Group A unveiled robust negative correlations with LIN, STR, and WOB, suggesting clinical significance in sperm motility. These intricate findings underscore the Sperm Tracer system's primary advantage in optimizing fertilization rates, offering valuable insights for refining sperm selection strategies in assisted reproduction. Limitations, reasons for caution The study faces limitations due to a small sample, impacting generalizability. Divergence in culture embryo strategies introduces bias, necessitating validation in larger studies. The system includes morphology analysis, but no data analysis has been conducted. Exploring the correlation between morphology, considering embryo culture variations, and motility could provide valuable insights. Wider implications of the findings This study highlights AI applications like Sperm Tracer, showcasing their potential to improve assisted reproduction outcomes. Recognizing AI's impact on IVF success is vital for adoption. Integrating AI into clinic protocols may boost IVF efficiency, requiring training for embryologists to ensure effective utilization. Trial registration number Not applicable

P-737 Congenital tubal anomalies: exploring its relationship with tubal factor infertility: observational-descriptive study

Abstract Study question Is there any relation between congenital Fallopian tube anomalies and tubal factor infertility in subset of infertile women? Summary answer Nearly 15% of women who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy revealed congential tubal anomaly (15%), including total or partial agenesis of tubes. What is known already The fallopian tubes play a crucial role in the reproductive process. These structures are 10-12 cm in length, consists of four parts from proximal to distal side: intramural, isthmic, ampullary and fimbrial [1]. Any abnormalities in their development or structure can severely affect fertility. Fallopian tube agenesis, whether partial or complete, constitutes one such anomaly. While there have been numerous advances in the understanding and management of fallopian tube disorders, partial or complete fallopian tube agenesis remains an enigmatic entity with unknown prevalance in the general population. Study design, size, duration Observational study was conducted between 2020 and 2023. All couples with primary infertility were evaluated in an outpatient clinic using basic hormone analysis, semen analysis, sonography and hysterosalpingogram as a standard of care. All women with suspected tubal pathology were offered to have diagnostic laparoscopy (LS) in order to confirm the anomaly. When tubal and/or Mullerian anomalies were detected, urinary system was examined by intravenous pyelography. Other suspected pathologies were examined by abdominopelvic CT x-ray. Participants/materials, setting, methods All women with suspected tubal pathology were offered to have diagnostic laparoscopy in order to confirm the anomaly. Surgeries was performed by two experienced surgeons, after having informed consent. When tubal and/or Mullerian anomalies were detected, urinary system was examined by intravenous pyelography. Other suspected pathologies were examined by abdominopelvic CT x-ray imaging. All anomalies have been reported in an electronic database. Main results and the role of chance A total of 4230 infertile couples were admitted to clinics. Mean age of women in the study population is 30±2.3 years. Overall duration of infertility is 1.2±0.6 years. Among them, 895 women were diagnosed to have suspected tubal pathology after HSG examination (21%). Diagnostic LS was performed to 220 women. Flowchart of the patients is given in figure-1. Among them, 113 (51,3%) women revealed tubal pathologies/anomalies and 107 (49,7%) revealed normal findings. Total of 34 women revealed congenital proximal and/or distal tubal anomaly. Half of these cases (17/34) were complete agenesis and remaning were either with proximal or mid-distal portion agenesis. Majority of women 32/34 (94 %) with tubal pathology revealed at least 1 uterine anomaly as well. Among them, 19 (55.9 %) of these patients was confirmed to have unicornuate uterus, 6 (17.6 %) had uterus didelphys, 4 (11.8 %) had bicornuate uterus, and 3 (8.8%) had uterine septum. No uterine anomaly was observed in 2 (5.9 %) patients. Total of 16 women (14%) were diagnosed to have other system anomalies. Limitations, reasons for caution Lack of a control group in normal population in order to compare incidences. Secondly, our sample size is not enough to precisely conclude on exact prevalances. Third, we did not report fertility data following LS. Wider implications of the findings Tubal factor infertility is one of the major etiologic factor among primary infertility cases and congenital tubal anomalies were reported to be relatively higher (15%) in these younger women contrary to general expectations. Second important finding is high congenital uterine anomaly incidence in women with congenital tubal anomalies. Trial registration number not applicable

Dual Infection of Different Clusters of HIV in People Living with HIV Worldwide: A Meta-Analysis Based on Next-Generation Sequencing Studies.

To understand the global dual HIV infection (DI) profiles comprehensively, the databases Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science were the data sources up to March 31, 2024 (PROSPERO: CRD42023388328). Stata and R-language software were used to analyze the extracted data. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's test. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the stability of the combined effect values. Data from 17 eligible studies across four continents (Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America) with 1,475 subjects were used. The combined dual infection rate (DIR) was 10.47% (95% CI: 7.11%-14.38%) without a time trend (p = 0.105). The DIRs of target population groups differed significantly, with FSWs having the highest DIR (15.14%), followed by general population (12.08%), MSM (11.84%), and DUs (9.76%). The subtype profiles of 122 patients with dual infection were extracted, and the results showed that intrasubtype infections were predominant in coinfection (16/22, 72.73%) and superinfection (68/100, 68.00%) groups, with the subtype pattern B and B accounts for the largest proportion. The global dual infection rate may be underestimated, even though the data fluctuated around 10% and showed no time trend. The occurrence of DI indicated that individuals still do not acquire sufficient resistance to HIV even after primary infection, which could potentially compromise the patient's treatment effect and lead to the emergence of new subtypes, posing a significant challenge to HIV prevention, control, and treatment, suggesting that behavioral counseling and health education for all HIV-infected individuals are still crucial during the antiviral therapy.

Evaluation of Thyroid functions in Patients with End Stage Renal Disease in a Sample of Egyptian Populations

Abstract Background In most cases, hypothyroidism is not linked to kidney disease. However, hypothyroidism has been shown to hasten the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Aim of the Work to evaluate thyroid abnormalities in patients with end stage renal disease in a sample of Egyptian populations. Patients and Methods This study was conducted with 70 Egyptian Patients selected from Nephrology department in Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, in a case control study, they were categorized into 2 groups Group 1: Stage V renal disease group (n = 40): patients with eGFR &amp;lt;15 mL/min with no history of thyroid disease or receiving any thyroid medications. Group 2: Age and sex matched health population group (n = 30): with normal renal function with no history of thyroid disease or receiving any thyroid medications. All subjects underwent full thyroid profile, and estimated GFR. Results Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction were more frequent in end stage group, the difference statistically were significant only in muscle weakness. TSH was statistically significantly higher in cases with hypothyroidism. TGABs were statistically significantly higher in cases with hypothyroidism. Antimicrosomal antibodies recorded only in hypothyroid cases, the differences were statistically significant. FT3, TSH, TGABs and thyroid volume statistically had perfect diagnostic performance in diagnosing hypothyroidism among end stage renal disease group. Conclusion Frequency of hypothyroidism was higher in end stage renal disease patients compared to control group. So, it is important to keep monitoring thyroid functions in patients with advanced renal impairment that may enhance quality of life.

Los bienes patrimoniales de las parroquias urbanas de Guayaquil, una mirada desde la percepción de los visitantes

This research aimed to analyze visitors' perceptions regarding the heritage assets of the urban parishes of Guayaquil. The study was conducted in three phases: determining heritage assets according to categories and parishes, analyzing perceptions based on these heritage assets, and verifying the correlation between visitors' opinions and their origins. A mixed-method approach with descriptive and correlational scope was applied, utilizing documentary techniques and cross-sectional surveys. The findings show a positive evaluation across all parameters, with similar assessments among the three studied population groups: residents, national tourists, and foreign tourists. It is concluded that there is limited updating of the city's intangible assets, despite them being among the most highly valued by tourists.

Missing the vulnerable-Inequalities in social protection in 13 sub-Saharan African countries: Analysis of population-based surveys.

We assessed socioeconomic inequalities in social protection coverage among the public, men and women living with the human immunodeficiency virus (MLHIV, WLHIV), and adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). We used population-based data from Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. We constructed concentration curves (CC) and computed concentration indices (CIX) for each country and population group. A CC represents the cumulative percentage of social protection coverage plotted on the y-axis against the cumulative proportion of the population-ranked by socioeconomic status from the poorest to the richest-on the x-axis. The CIX quantifies the concentration of social protection coverage among the poor or the rich. The sample size ranged from 10,197 in Eswatini to 29,577 in Tanzania. Social protection coverage among the public varied from 5.2% (95% Confidence Interval 4.5%-6.0%) in Ethiopia to 39.9% (37.0%-42.8%) in Eswatini. It ranged from 6.9% (5.7%-8.4%) MLHIV in Zambia to 45.0% (41.2-49.0) among WLHIV in Namibia. Among AGYW, it varied from 4.4% (3.6-5.3) in Ethiopia to 44.6% (40.8-48.5) in Eswatini. Socioeconomic inequalities in social protection coverage favored the poor in 11/13 countries surveyed. It favored the rich in Cameroon and was undefined in Côte d'Ivoire. The CIX in these 11 countries ranged from -0.080 (p = 0.002) among the public in Malawi to -0.372 (p< 0.001) among WLHIV in Zimbabwe. In 8 of these 11 countries, ≥15% of people from the poorest households reported receiving social protection. Only in countries with higher levels of social protection coverage did most people from the poorest households achieve high coverage. Social protection coverage was low and favored the poor. Pro-poor social protection is insufficient to reach the poor. Research is required to reach the poorest households with social protection in Africa.

Hemifacial microsomia: a scoping review on progressive facial asymmetry due to mandibular deformity.

This scoping review explores various parameters of the mandible in progressive facial asymmetry (FA) in hemifacial microsomia (HFM) patients, highlighting its relationship with sex, population, and age group. The review was based on a comprehensive search of PubMed, EBSCOhost, and Web of Science. Eligible studies that met the inclusion criteria form part of the selection study. The included studies were appraised using screening and quantitative criteria of mixed-method appraisal tools. The authors utilised a pre-set data extraction form to obtain information from the included studies. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. The mandible parameters used were angular measurements, chin point, ramal height, body length, and total length. There was no relationship between FA and sex in HFM patients in the included studies. Most of the studies were comprised of European participants (55%), followed by Americans (36%) and Chinese (9%). The age groups included in the selected studies were categorised as dentition age (18%), early-to-middle childhood (18%), and varied ages (64%). The data presented in this review only pertains to the anomalous characteristics recorded on the affected side in HFM patients. No concomitant control data was recorded in this review. An assessment of the included studies revealed that FA does not increase with age in HFM. Hence, FA is non-progressive in HFM patients. This information is relevant to diagnosing and managing HFM patients. More reports are needed on the progression of FA in HFM patients.

Efficacy and Safety of Filgotinib in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Aged over and under 65 Years (ENANTIA-65).

According to recent data, the age of patients could represent an important risk factor for MACE (major cardiovascular events), cancer, and VTE (venous thromboembolism) during treatment with JAK inhibitors in rheumatoid arthritis. We decided to analyze the population involved in the ReLiFiRa study by identifying two groups of patients: 65 years or more and less than 65 years of age, evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of 200 mg of Filgotinib daily. Of the 120 ReLiFiRa patients, 54 were younger than 65 years old and 66 patients were 65 years old or older. The data of efficacy and tolerability of treatment with FIL 200 mg daily for 6 months were evaluated. After six months of treatment, FIL was effective in both age groups. In both groups, the median values of steroid DAS28, CDAI, ERS, PCR, tender joints, swollen joints, VAS, HAQ, PGA patients, and PGA physicians were reduced with a statistically significant difference comparing these values with the baseline values. The difference in age did not impact the effectiveness of the drug. The lipid profile data also did not demonstrate significant differences between the two age groups; however, the comparison between younger vs. older patients' populations regarding the total cholesterol/HDL ratio and LDL/HDL ratio shows a statistically significant difference: total cholesterol/HDL 3.4 (2.12-3.66) vs. 3.64 (3.36-4.13) p = 0.0004, LDL/HDL 1.9 (0.98-2.25) vs. 2.41 (2.04-2.73) p = 0.0002. There are no differences regarding the atherogenic index (LDL-C/HDL-C) and coronary risk index (TC/HDL-C) compared to baseline. After six months of treatment with FIL, the older population group showed a higher level of LDL and a lower level of HDL compared to younger patients. The atherogenic index and coronary risk index are higher in patients aged ≥ 65 years, but interestingly, there were no differences when comparing the 6-month data to baseline values. This condition highlights the impact of typical risk factors that act independently of treatment with Filgotinib.

Changes in Health-Related Quality of Life of Patients Treated for Esophageal Cancer in Eldoret, Kenya

Purpose: The study objectives were: to determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients treated for EC in Eldoret and to determine the change in health-related quality of life of patients treated for EC. Methodology: A longitudinal study was conducted at three cancer centers in Eldoret, Kenya. Participants were interviewed at enrollment (pre-treatment) and three months post-treatment. The study included patients aged 18 and above with histologically confirmed esophageal cancer. Consecutive sampling method was used to enroll study participants until a predetermined sample size of 59 was achieved. Independent variables considered were patient characteristics (demographic and clinical), and baseline HRQoL while the dependent variable was 3 months post-treatment HRQoL. Patients' characteristic data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages); change in HRQoL was calculated using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and the results were presented using tables. Findings: At baseline, 59 patients (68% female, mean age 56.3 years) were enrolled. The most common complaints were dysphagia (100%) and weight loss (74.6%). The baseline mean HRQoL score was 107.1, indicating a compromised quality of life at the start of treatment. After treatment, patients receiving chemotherapy plus surgery showed improved HRQoL, while radiotherapy alone was associated with deterioration. The differences were statistically significant (p-values: 0.04 and 0.0092, respectively). Multivariate regression revealed that only baseline HRQoL was significantly associated with post-treatment HRQoL (p=0.0065).This study sheds light on the underexplored aspect of HRQoL in Kenyan esophageal cancer patients. The findings emphasize the impact of treatment modalities on HRQoL, with chemotherapy plus surgery showing better outcomes. The study underscores the importance of considering patients' baseline HRQoL in assessing post-treatment outcomes. Addressing these factors can inform targeted interventions to improve the overall well-being of esophageal cancer patients in Kenya. Further research with larger, more diverse samples is warranted to enhance the generalizability of these findings. Unique Contribution to Theory Practice and Policy: This study highly recommends community sensitization and awareness of esophageal cancer to the at-risk population groups, further research on HRQoL as a prognostic marker for patients with esophageal cancer and more high-quality studies on HRQoL with large sample sizes are needed to determine the association between characteristics of the patients and health-related quality of life.

Reduced seasonal coronavirus incidence in high-risk population groups during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Epidemiological data on seasonal coronaviruses (sCoVs) may provide insight on transmission patterns and demographic factors that favor coronaviruses (CoVs) with greater disease severity. This study describes the incidence of CoVs in several high-risk groups in Ottawa, Canada, from October 2020 to March 2022. Serological assays quantified IgG and IgM antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-HKU1, and HCoV-229E. Incident infections were compared between four population groups: individuals exposed to children, transit users, immunocompromised, and controls. Associations between antibody prevalence indicative of natural infection and demographic variables were assessed using regression analyses. Transit users and those exposed to children were at no greater risk of infection compared to the control group. Fewer infections were detected in the immunocompromised group (p = .03). SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was greater in individuals with low income and within ethnic minorities. Our findings suggest that nonpharmaceutical interventions intended to reduce SAR-CoV-2 transmission protected populations at high risk of exposure. The re-emergence of sCoVs and other common respiratory viruses alongside SARS-CoV-2 may alter infection patterns and increase the risk in vulnerable populations.