Outreach Efforts Research Articles

The Role of Consumer Green Assurance in Strengthening the Influence of Purchase Intentions on Organic Vegetable Purchasing Behavior: Theory of Planned Behavior Approach

This research aims to predict organic vegetable purchasing behavior by testing the three predictors in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) which include attitudes (ATT), subjective norms (SN), and perceived behavioral control (PBC), as well as using consumer green assurance (CGA) to fill the gap that occurs in purchasing intentions (PI) and PBC towards purchasing behavior (PB). The population in this study are organic vegetable consumers spread across the Jakarta area. Data collection from 242 respondents was carried out using the purposive sampling method. Data processing uses PLS-SEM with the help of SmartPLS 4.0. The research results show that ATT and PBC directly influence PI, while SN does not affect PI. Furthermore, PI and PBC directly influence PB. CGA, as moderation, strengthens the influence of PI and PBC on PB. Theoretical contribution of this research is NS is not always a strong predictor of Intention to carry out a specific behavior. The presence of CGA in the TPB model can fill the gap between intentions and actual conduct. The implication results of this study indicate that it is necessary to carry out outreach efforts about the health and environmental benefits of consuming organic vegetables to increase subjective norms in society. Respondents’ understanding of the term organic is different from one another, so there are differences in perception in assessing organic vegetables.

Diplomacy beyond the state: Ukrainian think tank experts as wartime diplomacy actors

ABSTRACT To understand the effects of war on the diplomatic practices of nonstate actors, this article focuses on the wartime diplomacy efforts of Ukrainian think tank experts in the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Drawing on the concept of think tank diplomacy, the study specifically examines how Ukrainian think tankers adapted their diplomacy functions – negotiation, communication, information-gathering and promotion of friendly relations with other countries – under the conditions of the full-out war. The analysis combines insights from existing studies with the authors’ participant observation and original reflexive expert interviews with Ukrainian think tankers. The article reveals how Ukrainian expert professionals, unified by the goal of generating and maintaining international support for their country, adapted their diplomatic practices for asserting greater control over their agendas, engaging in cross-border collaborations and broadening their outreach efforts. By shedding light on the work of Ukrainian think tank experts in times of war, this article showcases the agency of knowledge-producing nonstate actors in wartime diplomacy.

Military Family Perspectives on Enrollment and Engagement in the WIC Program.

One in four U.S. service members endorses food insecurity. The Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is an invaluable, underutilized resource that can increase access to nutritious food for families with children under 5 years of age. Our research sought to evaluate military family perceptions and engagement with the WIC program. We conducted a mixed-method study, recruiting from a convenience sample of military families who applied for financial assistance for child care. An 18-question survey and follow-up focus groups assessed participant demographics and experiences with WIC. We utilized descriptive statistics ordinal logistic regression analyses for quantitative data analysis. For qualitative data, descriptive content analysis with constant comparison and inductive and deductive coding of interviews identified emerging themes. This study was approved by the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Institutional Review Board. Among the 399 survey respondents, 25% were currently enrolled in WIC and 39% had been previously enrolled. Service members and their partners learned about WIC from a variety of sources, and there was no significant association between the branch of service or rank and WIC enrollment. There were 40 total participants in 10 completed focus groups. Six themes emerged: (1) Military-specific factors create unique circumstances related to WIC engagement; (2) the WIC program facilitates access to formula supplementation and nutritious foods for military families; (3) lack of program awareness and misinformation are top barriers to WIC engagement in military families; (4) stigma impacts WIC program enrollment and engagement; (5) logistics of enrollment can impact WIC engagement among military families; and (6) the military can support WIC enrollment and engagement through standardization, education, and leadership commitment. Our findings suggest that unique circumstances related to military family life create a profound need for programs addressing food support, such as WIC. Interventions to improve WIC enrollment among military families need to be rooted in broad outreach efforts, not targeted at specific ranks, branches, or ages. Specific recommendations include increasing information dissemination, universally screening military families for WIC, decreasing logistical burdens, and involving military leadership.

Alcohol and Substance Use Among Different Subgroups/Ethnicities of East Asian American Youth in the United States

This reading challenges the prevailing Model Minority Myth perspective which influences the examination of substance use patterns among different subgroups of East Asian American (EAA) youth. A disaggregated analysis of existing literature reveals significant variations in substance use across EAA subgroups. This article explores influencing factors such as acculturation, cultural norms, and peer dynamics, emphasizing distinctions between Chinese Americans, Taiwanese Americans, Korean Americans, and Japanese Americans. Several EAA subgroups show a higher prevalence of cigarette or alcohol use than their white counterparts, a finding normally hidden by the aggregation of Asian American data. These unrealized differences prompt a call for tailored and culturally appropriate treatment approaches. Data shows EAA youth are more likely to not seek treatment or to drop out after beginning treatment (Wang & Kim, 2010 as cited in Ong, 2023). Understanding the typical family dynamics as well as the discrimination faced by EAA communities, including cultural stigma and culture-specific syndromes, plays a crucial role in improving treatment adherence. Additionally, studies of treatment preferences show that implementing family-based programs, outreach efforts, and involving culturally attuned treatment providers is crucial to actively address the unique needs of youth of different EAA subgroups (Lee et al., 2004). Keywords: substance use, treatment approach, culturally appropriate care, East Asian American, model minority

Firewood transport and invasive insect spread in Michigan

Transportation of firewood can be a vector for invasive insect spread resulting in damage to surrounding areas. In 2016 and 2021, surveys were conducted at campgrounds around Michigan to understand where campers were sourcing their firewood, awareness of the ‘Do not move firewood’ campaign, knowledge of invasive insects and pests, reactions to a potential ban on bringing firewood to campgrounds, and perspective on kiln-dried firewood – all potential policy levers to reduce the spread of invasive insects. Results indicated that campaign awareness slightly decreased between the survey years, personal firewood transport has decreased, and knowledge of invasives remains low. There is an opportunity for intensifying invasive species and firewood outreach efforts, however, regulation (and enforcement) may be more effective among those who would not comply or support a ban.

Metaverse decline, growth in online videos increases: implications to libraries

Purpose This paper aims to explore the decline of the metaverse and the concurrent growth of online videos, examining their implications for libraries. It analyzes factors contributing to the metaverse decline, such as technical issues and privacy concerns, and explores the emergence and popularity of online video platforms. Design/methodology/approach This study applied the interpretive content/document analysis of literature harvested from different databases of Scopus, Web of Science and Directory of Open Access Journals. Given the shift in digital consumption patterns and their impact on libraries, the paper systematically reviews the literature to elucidate the changing landscape of digital engagement and its implications for library services and outreach efforts. Findings The paper identifies technical issues, privacy concerns and a lack of interoperability as key factors contributing to the decline of the metaverse. Conversely, the growth of online videos is driven by the emergence of platforms, increasing accessibility to high-speed internet and a diversification of content offerings. These trends reshape user preferences and behaviors, presenting both challenges and opportunities for libraries. Originality/value The decline of the metaverse and the rise of online videos underscore the importance of adaptation and innovation for libraries. To remain relevant in the digital age, libraries must transform their services to meet the demand for on-demand content and multimedia resources. The findings highlight the need for libraries to invest in digital literacy and media literacy programs, embrace emerging technologies and forge strategic partnerships with online video platforms. By adapting to changing trends and user preferences, libraries will continue to fulfill their mission of providing access to information and knowledge in the digital age.

Palmer Amaranth in the Pacific Northwest

AbstractPalmer amaranth is one of the most troublesome pigweeds in crop production systems in the United States. It only recently started to appear in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). A coordinated extension and outreach effort among land grant universities (University of Idaho, Oregon State University, and Washington State University), Amalgamated Sugar, other commodity commissions, and industry was launched to track Palmer amaranth in the PNW. In 2023, tissue samples were collected from pigweeds suspected to be Palmer amaranth with tests providing confirmation. Palmer amaranth was detected in several crops as well as right‐of‐way and private property. Most of the Palmer amaranth populations were confirmed to be resistant to glyphosate. Additional surveys and resistance screening efforts are underway to map the distribution of Palmer amaranth and assess the level of herbicide resistance across the region. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Integrated Pest Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.

The Ashwell Project: creating an online geospatial community

As the world increasingly embraces digital platforms, archaeologists are adapting their methods of public engagement accordingly. This was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many outreach and engagement efforts moved online. One such project was The Ashwell Project (TAP), which combined aspects of participatory Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and crowdsourcing of datasets, with Progressive Web App functionality of geolocation and navigation to disseminate community-collected photographs and narratives. The project's primary focus was two-fold: to disseminate anecdotal datasets within local heritage initiatives, and how to facilitate the involvement of users with limited technical proficiency innavigating complex digital systems. This paper highlights the opportunities and valuable lessons regarding digital engagement in communities. It considers strategies to promote the adoption of participatory GIS and crowdsourcing datasets, as well as how users' own devices can be utilised to increase engagement with tangible and intangible heritage. I argue that such approaches merit broader consideration, encouraging communities to actively engage with such platforms. The project underscores the importance of design thinking, emphasising empathy and iterative testing, in crafting effective heritage assets. Furthermore, it demonstrates the feasibility of engaging the public with archaeology even amidst a global pandemic.

Construction Path of Rural Study Base Based on Service Design Concept

The establishment of rural study bases offers a promising opportunity to improve educational opportunities and community development in remote areas. This research investigates the development path of rural study bases using service design concepts that emphasize user-centric methods, stakeholder interaction, and iterative improvement procedures. Understanding rural communities' particular needs and goals allows remote study bases to plan and implement meaningful and impactful educational programs and services. Rural study bases strive to build favourable learning settings that encourage active engagement and cooperation by combining physical infrastructure development, digital resource integration, and community outreach efforts. This paper, using examples from diverse industries and situations, discusses essential issues and best practices for efficiently adopting service design principles in the establishment of rural study bases. Finally, rural studies based on service design concepts show promise for improving socioeconomic outcomes and empowering rural people through education. As an outcome, it provides high user satisfaction (94%), effective community outreach, excellent digital resource integration, enhanced academic performance, and strong stakeholder engagement

Vitamin A supplementation coverage and associated factors for children aged 6 to 59 months in integrated and campaign-based delivery systems in four sub-Saharan African countries

BackgroundVitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a leading contributor to the poor health and nutrition of young children in sub-Saharan Africa. Funding constraints are compelling many countries to shift from longstanding campaigns to integrating vitamin A supplementation (VAS) into routine health services. We assessed child VAS coverage and associated factors for integrated delivery systems in Mozambique, Senegal, and Sierra Leone and for a campaign-based delivery strategy in Tanzania.MethodsData were obtained using representative household surveys administered to primary caregivers of N = 16,343 children aged 6–59 months (Mozambique: N = 1,659; Senegal: N = 7,254; Sierra Leone: N = 4,149; Tanzania: N = 3,281). Single-dose VAS coverage was assessed and bivariate and multivariable associations were examined for child VAS receipt with respect to rural or urban residence; child age and sex; maternal age, education, and VAS program knowledge; and household wealth.ResultsVAS coverage for children aged 6–59 months was 42.8% (95% CI: 40.2, 45.6) in Mozambique, 46.1% (95% CI: 44.9, 47.4) in Senegal, 86.9% (95% CI: 85.8, 87.9) in Sierra Leone, and 42.4% (95% CI: 40.2, 44.6) in Tanzania and was significantly higher for children 6–11 vs. 24–59 months in Mozambique, Senegal, and Tanzania. In Sierra Leone, children aged 12–23 months (aOR = 1.86; 95% CI: 1.20, 2.86) and 24–59 months (aOR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.07, 2.25) were more likely to receive VAS, compared to those 6–11 months. Maternal awareness of VAS programs was associated with higher uptake in Mozambique (aOR = 4.00; 95% CI: 2.81, 5.68), Senegal (aOR = 2.72; 95% CI: 2.35, 3.15), and Tanzania (aOR = 14.50; 95% CI: 10.98, 19.17). Increased household wealth was associated with a higher likelihood of child VAS in Senegal and Tanzania.ConclusionsOur findings indicate routine delivery approaches for VAS are not achieving the level of coverage needed for public health impact in these settings. Intensive outreach efforts contributed to the higher coverage in Sierra Leone and highlight the importance of reducing the burdens associated with seeking supplementation at health facilities. As countries move towards incorporating VAS into routine health services, the essentiality of informed communities and potential losses for older children and socio-economically disadvantaged populations are key considerations in the sub-Saharan African context.

742 Injury Pattern Analysis to Optimize Burn Injury Prevention in the Unhoused Community

Abstract Introduction Unhoused patients represent a unique and vulnerable population of burn survivors. Burn injuries in unhoused patients are more likely to be related to assault, drug use, and mental health issues compared to the general population. Here, we explore the more specific circumstances and activities contributing to burn admissions among unhoused patients to better inform injury prevention efforts. Methods After IRB approval, the burn registry at an urban regional burn center was queried for burn admissions in unhoused adults from 2019-2022. Registry data pulled included demographics, urine toxicology, mechanism of injury, and injury subjective history. Subjective injury history was reviewed to determine more specific injury circumstances and activities during which accidental burns occurred. Demographic and mechanistic trends in burn admissions were explored via descriptive statistics. Results There were 254 admissions to the burn unit for unhoused patients. Patients were mostly male (76.8%), Hispanic (49.6%), and middle aged (IQR 33-55 years). 58.1% of patients were positive for stimulants on admission. The most common burn etiologies were open flame (27.6%), burning clothing or bedding (17.7%), and accelerants (14.2%). Most burns were self-reported accidental (69.7%), 9.8% assault, and 7.1% self-inflicted (missing = 34). Among accidental injuries, 11.3% were related to cooking, 10.1% involved cooking or using methamphetamine, 9.6% involved smoking, 7.3% were due to bonfires, and 5.6% were caused by candles. Conclusions Most burn injuries among unhoused patients were accidental. Although methamphetamine use was directly related to only a small proportion of accidental injuries, more than half of unhoused patients were positive for stimulants upon admission. Most burn injuries among unhoused patients were preventable, with many accidental injuries related to cooking, smoking, and open flames for warmth or light. Applicability of Research to Practice Analysis of admission patterns and subjective history can reveal potential interventions for preventable causes of injury. Safe consumption sites, as well as outreach efforts to educate unhoused patients about situational awareness, accelerants, safe smoking practices, and safe cooking practices may be effective tools in reducing burn admissions in this vulnerable population.

Watching the sunrise on our ocean planet in a new era of marine science

Abstract Over the last 30 years, ocean sciences have been undergoing a technological revolution. Changes include the transition of autonomous platforms from being interesting engineering projects to being critical tools for scientists studying a range of processes at sea. My career has benefitted immensely from these technical innovations, allowing me to be at sea (virtually) 365 days a year and operate ocean networks globally. While these technical innovations have opened many research doors, many aspects of oceanography are unchanged. In my experience, working/talking/scheming with scientists is most effective face-to-face. Despite the growing capabilities of robotic platforms, we will still need to go to sea on ships to conduct critical experiments. As the responsibilities of scientists expand with mandated outreach efforts, I strongly urge young scientists to leverage the expertise of Broader Impact professionals, who are increasingly available to our community, in order to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of our outreach efforts. Given the increasing observations of change occurring in the ocean, our work is ever-more important while still being fun. I am blessed to have had a career as an oceanographer exploring this planet.

Wildfires and social media discourse: exploring mental health and emotional wellbeing through Twitter.

The rise in global temperatures due to climate change has escalated the frequency and intensity of wildfires worldwide. Beyond their direct impact on physical health, these wildfires can significantly impact mental health. Conventional mental health studies predominantly rely on surveys, often constrained by limited sample sizes, high costs, and time constraints. As a result, there is an increasing interest in accessing social media data to study the effects of wildfires on mental health. In this study, we focused on Twitter users affected by the California Tubbs Fire in 2017 to extract data signals related to emotional well-being and mental health. Our analysis aimed to investigate tweets posted during the Tubbs Fire disaster to gain deeper insights into their impact on individuals. Data were collected from October 8 to October 31, 2017, encompassing the peak activity period. Various analytical methods were employed to explore word usage, sentiment, temporal patterns of word occurrence, and emerging topics associated with the unfolding crisis. The findings show increased user engagement on wildfire-related Tweets, particularly during nighttime and early morning, especially at the onset of wildfire incidents. Subsequent exploration of emotional categories using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) revealed a substantial presence of negative emotions at 43.0%, juxtaposed with simultaneous positivity in 23.1% of tweets. This dual emotional expression suggests a nuanced and complex landscape, unveiling concerns and community support within conversations. Stress concerns were notably expressed in 36.3% of the tweets. The main discussion topics were air quality, emotional exhaustion, and criticism of the president's response to the wildfire emergency. Social media data, particularly the data collected from Twitter during wildfires, provides an opportunity to evaluate the psychological impact on affected communities immediately. This data can be used by public health authorities to launch targeted media campaigns in areas and hours where users are more active. Such campaigns can raise awareness about mental health during disasters and connect individuals with relevant resources. The effectiveness of these campaigns can be enhanced by tailoring outreach efforts based on prevalent issues highlighted by users. This ensures that individuals receive prompt support and mitigates the psychological impacts of wildfire disasters.

When do part‐time workers increase effectiveness? A study of food banks and the SNAP program outreach

AbstractThe use of part‐time employees to support operations has been a contentious topic in the literature. While part‐time employees add cost‐effective flexibility to operations, their impact on operational outcomes has largely been documented as negative. However, there are a number of sectors (e.g., non‐profit) which rely heavily on part‐time employees, with anecdotal evidence supporting their role in improving outcomes. Through this research, we seek to shed light on these contradicting perspectives. We do so by investigating the impact of the percentage of part‐time employees in the workforce dedicated to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) outreach efforts at United States (U.S.) food banks on the effectiveness of this initiative. SNAP is the largest domestic hunger program in the U.S., assisting over 42 million individuals, and food banks play a critical role in outreach and enrollment for SNAP. We utilize data on the operational characteristics and SNAP activities of food banks that are members of the Feeding America network and U.S. Census data on the demographic characteristics of their service area. We find that an increased percentage of part‐time FTEs (full‐time equivalent) in a food bank's workforce dedicated to SNAP outreach efforts increases its effectiveness, particularly in relation to operational and contextual factors that can benefit from a more flexible workforce. Based on these findings and our review of the literature, we propose a conceptual framework on the effectiveness of part‐time employees in different settings.

A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Influence of a Clinician Outreach Effort for VUS Resolution in Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (P10-4.011)

A Pilot Study to Evaluate the Influence of a Clinician Outreach Effort for VUS Resolution in Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (P10-4.011)

An Updated Integrated Pest Management System: A Footprint for Modern-Day Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) stands out as a multifaceted approach, offering efficient, socially acceptable, and environmentally friendly pest management solutions in agriculture. It not only maximizes farmers' financial returns but also fosters environmental and human health benefits, contributing significantly to sustainable food production. However, challenges persist due to farmers' insufficient engagement in IPM technology development and a lack of understanding of its ecological principles. To address these challenges, the traditional ecological perspective of pest management has evolved into a more comprehensive IPM model. This modern approach integrates recent advancements in agricultural technology, leveraging contemporary communication tools, and responding to shifting consumer trends towards sustainably produced food systems. Additionally, heightened awareness of global trade and travel impacts necessitates a reconfiguration of IPM strategies. The enhanced IPM model encompasses four key components: identifying pest management alternatives, synthesizing knowledge and resources to develop effective management strategies, facilitating timely decision-making through information management, and fostering the dissemination of crucial information through outreach efforts. Moreover, the new model recognizes the interplay of human, environmental, social, and economic factors in food production. It places emphasis on the business aspect, involving producers, customers, and sellers, while also addressing sustainability considerations such as economic viability, environmental safety, and social acceptability. By integrating these elements, the revamped IPM approach holds the promise of doubling farmers' income, ensuring food security for all, and promoting overall health and well-being. It represents a holistic solution to pest management challenges, aligning with the broader goals of sustainable agriculture and enhancing the quality of food production for generations to come.

Outreach work in Belgian primary care practices during COVID-19: results from the cross-sectional PRICOV-19 study

BackgroundGeneral practitioners (GPs) have a vital role in reaching out to vulnerable populations during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, they experience many challenges to fulfill this role. This study aimed to examine associations between practice characteristics, patient population characteristics and the extent of deprivation of practice area on the one hand, and the level of outreach work performed by primary care practices (PCPs) during the COVID-19 pandemic on the other hand.MethodsBelgian data from the international PRICOV-19 study were analyzed. Data were collected between December 2020 and August 2021 using an online survey in PCPs. Practices were recruited through randomized and convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed. Four survey questions related to outreach work constitute the outcome variable. The adjusted models included four practice characteristics (practice type, being a teaching practice for GP trainees; the presence of a nurse or a nurse assistant and the presence of a social worker or health promotor), two patient population characteristics (social vulnerability and medical complexity) and an area deprivation index.ResultsData from 462 respondents were included. First, the factors significantly associated with outreach work in PCPs are the type of PCP (with GPs working in a group performing more outreach work), and the presence of a nurse (assistant), social worker or health promotor. Second, the extent of outreach work done by a PCP is significantly associated with the social vulnerability of the practice’s patient population. This social vulnerability factor, affecting outreach work, differed with the level of medical complexity of the practice’s patient population and with the level of deprivation of the municipality where the practice is situated.ConclusionsIn this study, outreach work in PCPs during the COVID-19 pandemic is facilitated by the group-type cooperation of GPs and by the support of at least one staff member of the disciplines of nursing, social work, or health promotion. These findings suggest that improving the effectiveness of outreach efforts in PCPs requires addressing organizational factors at the practice level. This applies in particular to PCPs having a more socially vulnerable patient population.

Community health worker outreach to farmworkers in rural North Carolina: Learning from adaptations to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Community health workers represent a critical part of the health outreach and services for migrant and seasonal farmworkers ('farmworkers') in rural areas of the United States. We sought to identify adaptations to farmworker patient engagement and health outreach made by community health workers during the first 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this qualitative study, we used semi-structured interviews with community health workers from August 2020 to February 2022 (n = 21). Two coders used thematic analysis to identify three themes related to the experiences of community health workers in conducting health education and outreach to farmworkers prior to and following the onset of the pandemic. We found themes related to pre-pandemic outreach efforts to provide health education resource sharing with farmworkers and pandemic-related outreach efforts that included adoption of porch drops and distanced delivery of health education, adaptation of modes of health education and communication through technology and the internet, and taking on new roles related to COVID-19. Finally, we identified changes that reverted after the pandemic or will continue as adaptations. Community health workers created practice-based innovations in outreach in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These innovations included new COVID-19 related roles and new modes of health education and outreach, including the use of digital resources. The changes developed for emergency use in COVID-19, particularly related to internet and technology, have likely altered how community health workers conduct outreach in North Carolina going forward. Funders, community health worker training programs, and researchers should take note of these innovations. Community health workers who typically come from patient populations and provide critical navigation and connection with the health care system advised on the design and creation of this research project, including serving on an advisory board. Two authors have experience working as community health workers.

Willingness to cooperate with police in hate crime cases: the impact of police legitimacy, police encounters and race/ethnicity

PurposeWhile the significance of public cooperation for police effectiveness is widely acknowledged, less is known about factors associated with cooperation in hate crime cases. The current study aims to explore how individuals’ perspectives on police legitimacy, contact experience with police and race/ethnicity shape their willingness to cooperate with police in hate crime incidents.Design/methodology/approachThis study used a sample of 693 college students and was conducted at a public university in the south-central region of the southern United States of America. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression models were used to examine factors related to willingness to cooperate with police.FindingsFindings show that those who have a high level of positive perceptions of police legitimacy and those who have a low level of negative personal experience with police reported more willingness to cooperate. Asian respondents were less likely to report that they would cooperate with police compared to white respondents.Originality/valueThis study, emphasizing the relationships between perceived police legitimacy and positive personal experiences with a willingness to cooperate in hate crime cases, has practical implications. The identification of racial/ethnic differences in cooperation attitudes, particularly the lower likelihood of cooperation among Asian respondents, contributed to the current literature and underscores the importance of considering diverse perspectives and outreach efforts.

Clinical and psychometric characteristics of depression in the elderly

IntroductionDepression in the elderly represents a multifaceted and critical area of study within the realm of geriatric mental health. As the global population continues to age, the prevalence and impact of depression among older adults have garnered increased attention from researchers and clinicians.ObjectivesThis abstract delves into the comprehensive exploration of the clinical and psychometric characteristics of depression in the elderly population. This study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of depression’s manifestation in the third age, providing invaluable insights that can inform tailored interventions, improve diagnostic accuracy, and enhance the overall quality of life for older adults.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted that gathered 80 patients. Their common characteristics were the signing of the consent, their admission to the Psychiatry Clinic in Timișoara and their main diagnosis with one of the ICD-10 codes F32.x, F33.x or F06.8.This selection resulted in three groups: patients younger than 65 years old, patients older than 65 years in whom depression began before this age, and patients older than 65 years in whom depression began after 65 years of age. Anamnestic data, paraclinical, socio-demographic data, psychometric scales that measured the level of depression as well as personality scales were collected. The data that was obtained was compared and examined to find significant correlations between the 3 batches.ResultsThe results show that there are no significant differences between patients with depression from rural or urban areas, showing the universality of the occurrence of this disorder among the population, regardless their environment. Depression in the third age is most often found in the elderly who have only finished secondary school, education levels playing a role in depression prevalence suggest the significance of socio-economic factors, warranting targeted outreach and education efforts in vulnerable populations. Correlations were also found between the level of depression and certain blood parameters. The integration of these findings for an understanding of the etiology of depression can pave the way for new therapeutic approaches. Certain personality traits were correlated more with certain items on the scales that evaluated depression, thus in those with a neurotic personality it is very strongly correlated with the appearance of guilt as a symptom, agreeableness with psychomotor slowness, paranoid with insomnia, and anankastic and dependent personalities were correlated much more with social isolation.ConclusionsBy recognizing the distinct clinical features and implications of depression in older adults, we can pave the way for improved mental health care and better quality of life for this growing population. This study reinforces the importance of continuous research and collaboration in the field of geriatric mental health.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared