Higher Levels Of Educational Attainment Research Articles

Silicon caregivers: a multilevel analysis of European perspectives on robotic technologies for elderly care

ABSTRACT As populations age, women's workforce participation grows and AI advances, understanding attitudes towards care technologies becomes increasingly important. This study examines attitudes towards robot caregivers for older adults across 28 European countries, using 2017 Eurobarometer data from working-age adults (20–59; n = 13,839). We investigate how individual characteristics (gender, education, occupation) and local-level factors (GDP, female labour participation, over 65s as % of the population, spending on old age) are associated with comfort levels with domestic care robots. The results show that men, individuals with higher levels of educational attainment, and those in professional or managerial occupations report greater comfort with robot caregivers. Additionally, local context plays a significant role. Those living in local communities with higher female employment rates and lower spending on old-age support demonstrate higher acceptance of robotic care solutions. These findings highlight the dual influence of individual and community factors in shaping attitudes towards automated care technologies.

Adolescent risk behaviours are associated with educational attainment in early adulthood: results from the Raine Study cohort

BackgroundHigher educational attainment is important for economic wellbeing and associated with better health and longevity. Previous research focused on intelligence, socioeconomic status and mental health or individual risk behaviours as predictors of educational attainment, but the role of multiple domains of adolescent risk behaviours is less clear. This study examined the association between multiple domains of risk behaviour in adolescence and educational attainment by 22 years-of-age.MethodsYoung people (Generation 2, Gen2) and their parents (Generation 1, Gen1) participating in the Raine Study completed questionnaires at years 1, 5, 8, 10 (Gen1 only), 14, 17 (both) and 22 (Gen2 only). The Raine Study is an ongoing longitudinal study initiated in Perth, Western Australia, between 1989 and 1991. The 1,102 Gen2 participants who responded to questions about highest educational attainment were included in this study. The association between Gen2 self-reported risk behaviours (including age at commencement of drinking alcohol, smoking, sexual intercourse and drug use) and educational attainment (defined as self-reported years of completed high school: ≤10, 11, 12 or tertiary education (> 12)) at year 22, after adjusting for mother’s age and combined parental education level, participant sex, and family income, educational performance and adolescent mental health, was explored using ordinal regression models and presented as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsOrdinal models suggested that never smoking or starting older than 18 compared with smoking before age 15 (OR 2.02, 95%CI: 1.28–2.14); first drinking alcohol between 15 and 17 years compared with younger than 15 (OR 1.52, 95%CI: 1.08–2.14); and, first sexual intercourse aged ≥ 18 years compared with under 15 (OR 1.67, 95%CI: 1.08–2.57) were associated with higher levels of educational attainment at 22-year follow-up. Additionally, lower (“better”) behavioural scores increased the odds of higher levels of attainment.ConclusionsAbsence of health risk behaviours at a younger age or later commencement was associated with higher educational attainment. Evidence-based interventions that address the societal influences underpinning risk behaviours in adolescents may support longer school retention.

Causal relationship between educational attainment and chronic pain: A Mendelian randomization study.

Educational attainment (EA) is often used as a symbol of socioeconomic status and is associated with several diseases. However, uncertainty remains regarding the potential relationship between EA and chronic pain. This study aimed to evaluate the potential causal association between EA and chronic pain. The primary method employed in Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was inverse-variance weighted method. Additionally, MR-Egger intercept, Cochran Q, and MR-PRESSO statistical analyses were conducted to assess potential pleiotropy and heterogeneity. The MR analysis provided evidence that genetically predicted additional education significantly reduced the risk of chronic pain. Specifically, this genetic factor may reduce multisite chronic pain by 27.6%, and chronic widespread pain by 3.8%. The results of sensitivity analysis indicated the reliability of our causal estimates. Higher levels of EA may provide protection against chronic pain risk. Enhancing education, narrowing social and economic disparities may help alleviate the burden of chronic pain.

AD|ARC (Administrative Data Agri-Research Collection): Comparative analysis of highest educational qualification in Welsh households receiving a farming subsidy with rurality-matched control households, using 2011 UK Census data.

Objective To investigate highest level of educational attainment in farming households compared to rural non-farming households in Wales. Approach We used the AD|ARC dataset of households in Wales receiving farming subsidies in 2010. We included farming households containing at least one member reporting an Agricultural Main Occupation (AMO) and households where all members reported Non-Agricultural Main Occupations (Non-AMO) but farming occurs. Utilising Census 2011 variables relating to age, gender, education and occupation we conducted comparative analyses of educational attainment within AMO, Non-AMO and non-farming rural households at both an individual and household level. ResultsFindings will be presented comparing the educational attainment for AMO individuals with matched individuals within Non-AMO and non-farming rural households. At the household level, we calculated the highest level of education attained within each household and will present results comparing the highest household level of education between each group. We will present detailed results regarding the structure and educational attainment within these households. Full results and findings will be presented at the conference but are currently subject to information governance restrictions. ConclusionOne indicator of resilience amongst farmers and farm households is ability to respond to economic and non-economic pressures by adopting new practices and techniques or reducing reliance on farming via diversification or off-farm employment. As educational attainment is closely correlated to acquisition of skills and is a gateway to employment, understanding relative and absolute levels of attainment is important in identifying need and devising policies which support agricultural and rural communities.

Comparing the characteristics of firesetting and non-firesetting adults in a New Zealand un-apprehended community sample

This study examines the prevalence of deliberate firesetting in an un-apprehended New Zealand sample and factors that differentiate firesetting and non-firesetting individuals. An anonymous online survey assessing demographic and background characteristics, history of firesetting and psychological characteristics was advertised on Facebook community groups and pinboards across New Zealand. A total of 626 adults completed the survey. One-hundred and three participants (16.45%) self-reported having deliberately set at least one fire over the age of 14 years. When controlling for all other variables in a logistic regression model, having a high-school qualification as the highest level of educational attainment (odds ratio, OR = 2.24), history of a mental health diagnosis (OR = 1.91), fearful attachment style (OR = 1.16) and fire interest (OR = 1.05) showed the strongest unique association with un-apprehended firesetting. Further research is needed to examine the full range of behavioural and psychological characteristics associated with un-apprehended firesetting.

Challenges for Technical and Vocational Education in Achieving Gender Equality in Nigerian Polytechnic

Gender equality in Technical and Vocational Education should be viewed as both a fundamental aspect of the right to education and as rights inherent within the educational system. A balanced participation of both men and women in the education system can facilitate progress toward achieving the highest levels of educational attainment. This study aimed to elucidate the advancements made in promoting gender equality within Technical and Vocational Education in Nigeria. Both international and national consensus on priorities in Technical and Vocational Education emphasize the significance of achieving gender equality within educational spheres. To assess progress toward this goal, an evaluation was conducted on the nature of advancements made and the barriers impeding equal participation. While recognizing the efforts made by the Government of Nigeria and the governing councils of tertiary institutions to enhance gender equality across various courses offered at Polytechnics over the years, challenges persist, particularly in fields such as Engineering, Sciences, and others. The research methodology employed a questionnaire-based approach, where respondents provided information for further analysis, supplemented by observations and document analysis. It was observed that while Polytechnics have strived to enroll equal numbers of men and women, challenges remain, with disparities evident even from secondary school intake. Meaningful gender equality necessitates the establishment of mechanisms to ensure equal treatment. These mechanisms hinge on a commitment to non-discrimination, the eradication of social norms that perpetuate gender inequality, and the concerted effort of all stakeholders to eliminate stereotypes and attitudes that reinforce disparities in resource distribution.

Una caracterización de los flujos migratorios hacia España y otros países de la Unión Europea

Rationale Spain has become one of the European countries with the highest inflows of immigrants relative to its population. This article compares the characteristics of immigrants to Spain with those to other European Union (EU) countries, by origin, gender, age, education and labour-market contribution. Takeaways •In Spain immigrants are mainly from Latin America and are a more homogeneous and culturally proximate group to the destination country than in other European countries. In general, they are older, have a higher educational attainment level and women account for a larger share. •Since the global financial crisis, the average age and the educational attainment level of immigrants in the four main EU countries has risen, doing so more sharply in Spain. •The participation rate of non-nationals residing in Spain is one of the highest in the EU and, unlike in other countries, it is higher than that of the nationals, meaning they contribute more to the increase in labour supply. •Non-national workers tend to be concentrated in activities that do not require a high level of education, although recently there are indications of a slight shift to higher-qualified sectors.

Assessment of patients' knowledge and perceptions of MRI scans and safety in Saudi Arabia.

This study was conducted to assess the levels of knowledge about MRI scans and safety measures among patients in Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study was conducted at nine Saudi Arabian hospitals and utilized a questionnaire comprising 22 items that evaluated patients' knowledge regarding MRI scans and safety measures, divided into four sections. The questions encompassed patients' sociodemographic data (A), knowledge about MRI (B), safety measures (C), and communication (D). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the participant demographics and responses. Out of 446 MRI patients, 60.5% correctly identified that MRI does not involve ionizing radiation, and 78% recognized MRI as a diagnostic tool. Further, 94.2% knew that metal objects are not allowed in MRI rooms. However, 80.3% incorrectly believed that pregnant patients cannot undergo MRI at any time, 57% thought the MRI scanner is turned off when not in use, and 72.6% did not recognize any MRI-compatible devices. About 62% were unaware of the need for kidney function tests with contrast agents, and 43% reported anxiety during MRI scans. Overall, 57% of the patients had limited knowledge of MRI safety, with 39.5% considering their understanding adequate. Educational attainment and employment status were significantly associated with improved MRI knowledge. Most participants sought information from healthcare professionals. This study highlights the need to educate patients about MRI procedures and safety protocols. Significant gaps remain in patients' knowledge, especially regarding safety measures. Higher levels of educational attainment and employment status were linked to greater levels of MRI knowledge, suggesting the importance of targeted educational interventions. Healthcare professionals were the patients' main information sources; nevertheless, comprehensive and accessible information is necessary. Improved communication and training for healthcare providers can enhance patient understanding and experiences during MRI scans.

Why has Europe become the concentration area of multi-party states: A novel explanatory model of multifactorial mechanism

The existence of a multi-party system is one of the most important criterion for assessing the degree of democratization of a state. In contemporary democratic republics, the multi-party system has become a formalistic representation. However, in Europe, the de facto multi-party systems are extensively retained, making Europe a veritable concentration area of multi-party states. This research delved into the phenomenon and conducted a qualitative comparative analysis on the cases of 44 European countries to explore the factors contributing to multi-party states’ agglomeration in Europe. The findings demonstrate a novel explanatory model of multifactorial mechanism of Europe becoming the concentration area of multi-party states, whose solution coverage is 0.7 and solution consistency is 0.954545. According to the model, a developed country with a tradition of parliamentary government is more likely to possess a well-established multi-party system in a non-religious environment. High levels of educational attainment and political participation of the population allow a multi-party system to emerge and continue. Furthermore, the model indicates that a strong Christian culture hinders the development of multi-party systems to some extent, while economy growth has a direct and positive relationship with the formation and continuation of multi-party systems.

Enhancing Operations for Sustainability in Indonesian SMEs through Climate Change Awareness and Business Orientation

This study aims to identify the level of climate change awareness among small-medium scale entrepreneurs (SMEs) and to investigate its impact on future business orientation, with individual self-perception acting as a mediating variable. Addressing a significant gap in the literature, this research explores the reciprocal influence between SMEs and climate change—an area previously underexplored. Conducted in West Sumatra, Indonesia, this study employs a quantitative causal analysis approach using Structural Equation Modelling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) for robust analysis. The findings indicate that while awareness and self-perception of climate change among SMEs are low, they significantly influence potential changes in business orientation. The study reveals that although many SMEs possess a high level of educational attainment, this does not necessarily translate into heightened awareness or self-perception regarding climate change. This disconnect underscores the critical role of tailored educational initiatives and support systems to bridge the gap between knowledge and action. Additionally, the study finds that SMEs often prioritize immediate financial stability over long-term environmental sustainability, driven by the necessity to meet daily operational demands. These results underscore the urgent need for pre-emptive government policies to guide SMEs toward sustainable practices. Effective interventions should include financial incentives, technical assistance, and educational programs designed to enhance climate change awareness and capabilities among SMEs. Furthermore, this study contributes to the field of industrial engineering by identifying opportunities to optimize SME operations. By integrating environmental sustainability into business strategies, SMEs can enhance their resilience and competitiveness while contributing to broader environmental goals. This research advances the understanding of the dynamic interplay between SMEs and climate change, providing a foundation for future studies aimed at promoting sustainable industrial practices.

Assessing Household Awareness of Indoor Air Pollution in Cagayan de Oro City: Implications for Health Promotion

Background & Aim: Indoor air pollution is a significant health threat, yet public awareness remains low, particularly in regions like the Philippines. This study assessed household awareness of indoor air pollution sources in a barangay in Cagayan de Oro City. Using the Health Promotion Model by Nola Pender and the Environmental Theory by Florence Nightingale, it sought to understand factors influencing awareness and inform health programs addressing indoor air pollution in the community. Methods & Materials: This study used a descriptive correlational design to explore how demographic factors influence awareness of indoor air pollution sources in a barangay in Cagayan De Oro City. Surveys, translated into the local language and validated through pilot testing, were administered to 264 randomly selected respondents. Statistical analyses, including T-tests and ANOVA, were conducted to assess associations between demographic variables and awareness levels. Results: Significant differences were observed in respondents' awareness levels of indoor air pollution sources across age groups, with middle-aged individuals demonstrating the highest awareness. Females exhibited consistently higher awareness compared to males across all pollution sources. Educational attainment influenced awareness levels, with postgraduates showing the highest awareness. Conclusion: The study revealed significant correlations between demographic factors and respondents' awareness of indoor air pollution sources. Age, gender, and educational attainment influence awareness levels, motivating individuals to prioritize proper ventilation for health preservation. Recommendation: Clinical practitioners should prioritize health education programs targeting middle-aged individuals, females, and those with higher educational attainment levels in addressing indoor air pollution awareness, emphasizing the importance of proper ventilation practices for health preservation and promoting healthier indoor environments in communities

Proximity to public green spaces and depressive symptoms among South African residents: a population-based study

BackgroundExposure to green spaces has been suggested to improve mental health and may reduce the risk of depression. However, there is generally limited evidence on the association between green spaces and depression originating from low-and middle-income countries and Africa in particular. Here, we investigate the association between proximity to public green spaces and depressive symptoms among residents of Gauteng Province, South Africa.MethodsWe used data from the 2017/2018 Gauteng quality of life survey. We included all individuals aged 18 years or older residing in the nine municipalities of Gauteng Province that completed the survey (n = 24,341). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-2. Proximity to public green spaces was defined as self-reported walking time (either less or greater than 15 min) from individuals’ homes to the nearest public green space. To assess the association between access to public green spaces and depressive symptoms, we used mixed-effects models, adjusted for age, sex, population group (African, Indian/Asian, Coloured (mixed race), and White), educational attainment, and municipality. We additionally performed stratified analyses by age, sex, educational attainment, and population group to evaluate whether associations differed within subgroups. Associations are expressed as prevalence ratios (PR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).ResultsWe observed a 6% (PR = 0.94, 95%CI = 0.92–0.96) prevalence reduction in depressive symptoms for individuals who reported that the nearest public green space was less than 15 min from their homes as compared to those who reported > 15 min. After stratification, this inverse association was stronger among females, individuals aged 35–59 years,those with higher levels of educational attainment, and Coloured individuals as compared to their counterparts.ConclusionOur findings suggest that public green spaces close to residential homes may be associated with a reduction in the occurrence of depressive symptoms among urban populations in resource-constrained settings like South Africa.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of pregnant women regarding urinary tract infections living in peripheral areas of Pakistan: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the most common infections affecting women during pregnancy, which – if left untreated – may lead to severe consequences for both mother and infant health. Low socio-economic status and educational attainment levels, inappropriate personal hygiene practices – especially in rural women – may lead to an increased risk of developing UTIs. The present study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of pregnant women – who are living in peripheral areas of the Chakwal district, Punjab, Pakistan – regarding UTIs, according to the Health Belief Model (HBM). MethodsA descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out using a 91-item questionnaire, including six HBM domains. Data collection was performed with convenience sampling among pregnant women in hospitals between July and September 2021. Statistical analyses (descriptive statistics, χ2-tests) were carried out using IBM SPSS 25.0. Results98.4% (n = 243) of the respondents were married, 77.7% (n = 192) were housewives, 41.7% (n = 103) attended up to an intermediate college education, while 43.7% (n = 108) were in their first trimester. Majority of women (81.8%) had positive attitudes towards UTI-related knowledge-acquisition, and most of them (94.7%) had good hygiene practices; on the other hand, only around half of the participants (55.5%) had acceptable knowledge levels. Advanced age (p = 0.005) and higher educational attainment levels (p = 0.025) were associated with better attitudes, while higher income levels were associated with better knowledge (p < 0.001). In the HBM domains, major obstacles noted by the respondents’ were finding it difficult to go for a urine/laboratory test and feelings of hesitation to refuse intimacy with their husband while having a UTI; on the other hand, good hygiene practices were not denoted as a barrier to prevent UTI occurrence. Participant age and the responses in the perceived benefits domain showed significant associations (p < 0.05). ConclusionAs attitudes towards learning were overwhelmingly positive, our results suggest that educational interventions may enhance rural women's knowledge regarding UTIs, which may helpful in the prevention of recurrent infections and the associated health risks for the mother and fetus.

Using latent class analysis to investigate enduring effects of intersectional social disadvantage on long-term vocational and financial outcomes in the 20-year prospective Chicago Longitudinal Study.

Class and social disadvantage have long been identified as significant factors in the etiology and epidemiology of psychosis. Few studies have explicitly examined the impact of intersecting social disadvantage on long-term employment and financial independence. We applied latent class analysis (LCA) to 20-year longitudinal data from participants with affective and non-affective psychosis (n = 256) within the Chicago Longitudinal Research. LCA groups were modeled using multiple indicators of pre-morbid disadvantage (parental social class, educational attainment, race, gender, and work and social functioning prior to psychosis onset). The comparative longitudinal work and financial functioning of LCA groups were then examined. We identified three distinct latent classes: one comprised entirely of White participants, with the highest parental class and highest levels of educational attainment; a second predominantly working-class group, with equal numbers of Black and White participants; and a third with the lowest parental social class, lowest levels of education and a mix of Black and White participants. The latter, our highest social disadvantage group experienced significantly poorer employment and financial outcomes at all time-points, controlling for diagnosis, symptoms, and hospitalizations prior to baseline. Contrary to our hypotheses, on most measures, the two less disadvantaged groups did not significantly differ from each other. Our analyses add to a growing literature on the impact of multiple forms of social disadvantage on long-term functional trajectories, underscoring the importance of proactive attention to sociostructural disadvantage early in treatment, and the development and evaluation of interventions designed to mitigate ongoing social stratification.

The effect of educational attainment on birthrate in Japan: an analysis using the census and the vital statistics from 2000 to 2020

BackgroundIn Japan, difference in birth rates depending on educational attainment has not been investigated. This study aimed to reveal birth rates in Japan depending on the highest level of educational attainment and their trends over the years using nationwide government statistics data.MethodsIndividual-level data from Vital Statistics and the Census from 2000, 2010, and 2020 were used for birth and population data, respectively. Data linkage was conducted for males and females in the Census and fathers and mothers in the Vital Statistics using information about gender, household, nationality, marital status, birth year, birth month, prefecture, and municipality for individuals. The birth rate was calculated by gender, a five-year age group, the highest level of educational attainment achieved, and year. In addition, the slope index of inequality (SII) and relative index of inequality (RII) were calculated to evaluate the degree of inequality in birth rates, depending on the educational attainment.ResultsBirth rates were higher in persons with lower educational attainment compared to those with a higher educational attainment among males and females in their twenties, while they tended to be higher in persons with higher educational attainment among those in their thirties and forties. Additionally, an increase in the birth rate from 2000 to 2020 was the largest in university graduates among males aged 25–49 years and women aged 30–49 years, and a decrease in the birth rate was the smallest in university graduates among males and females aged 20–24 years. As a result, SII and RII increased from 2000 to 2020 among males and females in their thirties and forties.ConclusionsIn conclusion, persons with higher educational attainment tended to have a relatively favorable trend in the birth rate compared with persons with lower educational attainment in recent decades. It suggested that enhanced administrative support for individuals with lower educational attainment or lower socioeconomic status may be required to ameliorate the declining birth rate in Japan.

THE ROLE OF AGRICULTURAL SUBSIDIES IN SHAPING YOUNG FARMERS' DECISION-MAKING IN THE GREEK AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

The Greek agricultural sector is grappling with a dynamic environment characterized by evolving policies, global market forces, and reduced protectionism. To effectively navigate these challenges, a paradigm shift toward a new development philosophy is imperative. This philosophy seeks to address structural issues, enhance technical and economic aspects, and strategically orient production towards crops that capitalize on the Mediterranean region's comparative advantages. This study explores Greek farmers' attitudes, expectations, and satisfaction levels in this evolving landscape, with a particular emphasis on assessing the impact of the Young Farmers 2021 program and demographic factors. Utilizing a questionnaire of 18 closed-ended questions, data were collected from 144 respondents, comprising 76 participants in the Young Farmers 2021 program and 68 non-participants. The survey encompassed inquiries into demographic and social variables and delved into the assessment of attitudes, expectations, and satisfaction levels. The collected data underwent rigorous analysis involving Non-Linear Principal Component Analysis and categorical regression. The examination yielded two discernible factor axes: „Challenges and Diminished Satisfaction“ and „Favorable Perceptions and Optimistic Prospects.“ Remarkably, Young Farmers 2021 program participants exhibited fewer hurdles, higher contentment, and a more sanguine outlook compared to non-participants. These disparities were statistically significant, underscoring the program's substantial influence. Furthermore, demographic attributes emerged as pivotal determinants. A higher level of educational attainment was correlated with diminished difficulties, augmented satisfaction, and more favorable perceptions and expectations. This underscores the pivotal role of educational initiatives in equipping farmers with the necessary acumen and skills to effectively surmount obstacles and cultivate optimism within the agricultural sector. In summary, this study underscores the noteworthy impact of the Young Farmers 2021 program on Greek farmers' attitudes, expectations, and contentment levels. Program involvement was associated with reduced challenges, heightened satisfaction, and a more positive outlook regarding the future of agriculture. Additionally, educational attainment surfaced as a pivotal factor in molding farmers' experiences and outlooks. These insights offer valuable guidance to policymakers and agricultural organizations, facilitating the development of targeted interventions and policies aimed at encouraging program participation and delivering educational resources. Keywords: agricultural subsidies, decision-making, financial considerations, policymaking. JEL: Q12; Q14; O2

Enhancing quality of life and medication adherence for people living with HIV: the impact of an information system

BackgroundThe widespread availability of antiretroviral therapy has led to improvements in life expectancy and thus an increase in the number of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) worldwide. However, a similar increase in the number of newly-diagnosed patients in Cyprus suggests the need for solutions designed to improve monitoring, planning, and patient communication. In this study, we aimed to determine whether the use of an information system to manage PLWHA might contribute to improved quality of life and critical adherence to prescribed drug regimens and ongoing medical care.MethodsA randomized controlled trial study was conducted in Cyprus based on information that we collected using the highly valid and reliable Greek translation of the World Health Organization (WHO) Quality of Life (QOL) HIV-BREF questionnaire to assess sociodemographic variables and patient compliance. We distributed 200 questionnaires before implementing a Health Medical Care (HMC) information system at our clinic. Six months after implementing this system, 68 of the completed questionnaires were selected, including two groups of 34 participants who had been assigned at random to the intervention or the control group. Participants included PLWHA aged ≥ 18 years who had been receiving antiretroviral therapy for more than 12 months between July 15, 2020, and July 15, 2022.ResultsThe changes in baseline to six-month scores reported for the intervention group were significantly higher than in the control group in all six subscales assessed with the WHOQOL-HIV-BREF questionnaire, as well as in the assessment of compliance. Furthermore, compliance with treatment was associated with higher scores in the questionnaire subscales, including physical health, psychological health, degree of autonomy, social relationships, life circumstances, and spirituality/religious/personal beliefs. We also identified specific demographic factors and behaviors that were associated with better compliance with scheduled medical care and the prescribed drug regimen. Specifically, men exhibited better compliance than women and younger PLWHA exhibited better compliance than the elderly as did individuals who reported a higher level of educational attainment. Additionally, individuals who did not use addictive substances, consumed less alcohol, and were managed using the monitoring information system all exhibited better compliance compared to those in the control group.ConclusionThe results of this study suggest that management of PLWHA via the use of an information system can contribute to improved QOL and drug compliance.

Gender norms and the gender gap in higher education

Cross-country differences in the gender gap of higher education attainment are large. In this paper, we study the role of gender norms for this particular gender gap. To isolate the effect of gender norms from institutional and economic factors, we investigate the decisions of second-generation immigrants in the United States to achieve at least a bachelor’s degree. We measure gender norms using economic outcomes as well as beliefs prevailing in the migrants’ parents’ country of origin. We find that gender norms explain part of the observed differences in the gender gap in attaining at least a bachelor’s degree. There is also a sizable effect of gender norms on gender gaps in higher educational attainment levels, such as a master’s degree or a Ph.D. We confirm the gender norms effect using a sample of siblings, which allows us to hold unobservable and observable household characteristics constant.

Characteristics and cognition of older adults engaged in lifelong learning

ABSTRACT Lifelong learning programs for older adults are suggested as a promising strategy to promote successful and active aging. This observational study utilized cross-sectional data from a nationwide survey administered to adults aged 65 and older who were recruited through nine Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes (OLLI). Data collected included general demographics, and measures of physical and mental health, cognitive ability, meaning and purpose, cognitive reserve, and successful aging. Descriptive characteristics of the population revealed a predominantly White, female population, the majority of whom were married, retired, and reported high levels of educational attainment. Participants reported high levels of physical and mental health, and meaning and purpose as measured by PROMIS® measures. High levels of cognitive reserve, self-reported cognitive ability, and successful aging were also found in this sample. Using references to the general aging adult population comparative analyses found OLLI participants reported significantly higher physical health and mental health, and cognitive reserve scores. This study provides additional context for understanding characteristics of older adults who are cognitively aging well.

Perceptions of the COVID-19 Vaccination Within a Convenience Sample of Sudanese Americans.

Sudanese American and other immigrant and refugee communities are at greater risk for exposure to COVID-19. This survey sought to better characterize COVID-19 vaccination practices, motivators, and drivers for hesitancy among Sudanese Americans. We developed an online, cross-sectional survey in English and Arabic distributed by Sudanese American community leaders in April 2022 with data stored anonymously in REDCap. Inclusion criteria were self-reporting being born within Sudan and living in the US within the last 2 years. Descriptive analysis tested survey responses for possible associations between the primary outcome, self-reported vaccination status, and questions regarding vaccination history, perspectives on vaccination, and demographic characteristics using Fishers Exact and Chi Squared Tests. Of 111 survey responses received, 107 met inclusion criteria. 93% of respondents reported COVID-19 vaccine uptake with the primary motivation to protect oneself from disease. The most cited reason for vaccine hesitancy was belief it had not been studied enough. The group that reported vaccination had higher levels of education (.032) and were more likely to perceive that COVID-19 vaccinations were able to reduce spread (.001), decrease severe outcomes (.004), and benefits outweighing their risks (.004). This survey population of Sudanese Americans demonstrated high levels of vaccine uptake (93%), far greater than either the corresponding US (78%) or Sudanese population (15%). It is likely that high levels of educational attainment moderated vaccine uptake, though our survey may not have had the power to fully evaluate vaccine hesitancy.