Place Of Residence Research Articles

Thoughts on Self-Harm in Polish Pregnant and Postpartum Women During the Pandemic Period

Background: The risk of depression during pregnancy and postpartum is high and has intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to estimate the risk of depressive disorders and self-harm thoughts in the third trimester of pregnancy and the first week postpartum in the pandemic period. Methods: This study involved a total of 317 pregnant and postpartum women. The risk and severity of depressive disorders and the prevalence of self-harm thoughts in women during the perinatal period were assessed using EPDS. Results: Pregnant women were significantly more likely to have higher EPDS scores compared to postpartum women. Mild depressive symptoms were reported by 22.08% of pregnant women and 17.18% of postpartum women, and severe symptoms were observed in 25.97% of pregnant women and 16.56% of postpartum women. Thoughts of self-harm were reported by 11.69% of pregnant women and 17.79% of postpartum women. Self-harm thoughts were significantly more common among pregnant women: multiparous women, pregnant women who received psychiatric treatment before pregnancy, those diagnosed with depressive disorders, those who suffered from prolonged periods of anxiety and sadness, and those lacking a supportive person. Among postpartum women, there were statistically significant differences in the prevalence of self-harm thoughts for place of residence, education, type of occupation, number of pregnancies, course of pregnancy, and presence of a supportive person. Conclusions: The increased prevalence of depressive symptoms and self-harm thoughts related to the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the urgent need for screening among pregnant women and the implementation of clinical interventions.

Factors associated with mosquito-borne disease protective behaviour in metropolitan France

Abstract Background Mosquito-borne diseases (MBD) are increasing and expanding their range throughout metropolitan France. Promoting individual protective behaviour is imperative, but research on its determinants is limited to southern regions. This study examines factors influencing MBD protective behaviour in the metropolitan French population. Methods 2,087 subjects responded to a self-administered online questionnaire in November 2023. The analysis plan was pre-registered. We fitted two mixed effects models to estimate the frequency and count of protective behaviours across sociodemographic groups and to identify which factors predict protective behaviour. Results Frequency of protective behaviour is significantly positively associated with getting bitten by mosquitoes often (β = 3.39; 95% CI: 3.10, 3.69) and sometimes (β = 1.54; 95% CI: 1.31, 1.76) compared to almost never, perceived MBD threat (β = 0.11; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.15), and having financial difficulties (β = 0.23; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.43). Count of protective behaviours is associated with getting bitten by mosquitoes often (β = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.49) and sometimes (β = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.23), perceived MBD threat (β = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.00, 0.03), MBD knowledge (β = 0.06; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.08), and having a chronic disease (β = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.14). Models were adjusted for place of residence, education, and age. No associations were found between sex, having experienced an MBD, or confidence in public authorities to manage health crises. Conclusions This study provides the first insights into MBD protective behaviour and its associated factors considering all metropolitan French regions. Our results highlight several factors which may inform MBD prevention communication and policies focused on increasing individual protective behaviour. Key messages • People often bitten by mosquitoes are more likely to engage in more frequent and a higher number of mosquito-borne disease protective behaviour than people almost never bitten by mosquitoes. • Higher perceived mosquito-borne diseases threat is associated with more frequent and a higher number of mosquito-borne disease protective behaviour.

Sociodemographic, work- and health-factors predict rejection of vocational rehabilitation in Finland

Abstract Background Vocational rehabilitation (VR) decreases the number of premature retirements. Pension insurance companies operate private sector employees’ VR in Finland. In 2022, some 15,500 individuals received rehabilitation in this earnings-related pension system. However, the rejection rate was 46%. Similar systems exist throughout OECD. VR facilitates finding suitable work despite an illness. A person is eligible if a threat of disability exists within the next few years and non-medical requirements are met. Currently VR is underused. Thus, it is important to understand which sociodemographic, work- and health-related factors predict a VR rejection. Methods We had full application data from a Finnish insurer for 2015-20. Our data cover roughly 40% of the 2.7M person Finnish working population. We excluded applicants with preceding VR and only included under 58-year-old applicants rejected due to ‘no risk for disability’. Our data comprised age, region of residence, salary, doctor’s assessment grades, diagnosis, industry, and data on preceding sickness, unemployment and rehabilitation benefits. For analysis, we used logistic regression. Results After adjustment, younger age and mental disorders showed largest effects on rejection. Features associated with a less severe medical condition as well as decreased employment were significantly connected to rejection. Industry and place of residence showed no effect. Of note, stable employment and higher pay predict entry possibly due to more possible rehabilitation options and better health in general. Interestingly, people with multiple diagnoses are more likely to be rejected. Conclusions The work-ability of aging European populations could benefit from vocational rehabilitation that better suits mental disorders and younger people. Key messages • Vocational rehabilitation (VR) is an underused method to maintain work ability. • Our study identified groups that could benefit from tailored solutions in VR that decrease barriers to entry.

Pertussis on the territory of Serbia in 2024 - challenges and opportunities for the future

Abstract Introduction Surveillance of pertussis in Serbia is passive surveillance and every 3 to 4 years an increased number of positive cases are registered in the population. The last quarter of 2023 and the first quarter of 2024 are characterized by an increased number of pertussis cases. Methods Descriptive study of cases with confirmed pertussis in the territory of the Republic of Serbia based on the evidence by the Public Health Service System of the Institute of Public Health of Serbia Results According to data from the Public Health Service System in the Republic of Serbia, a total of 1348 confirmed cases of pertussis were registered by the end of April 2024 (incidence rate 20.2 per 100,000 inhabitants). Conclusions The largest number of cases was registered in the age groups of people older than 20 years, that is, aged 10 to 14 years, while the highest age-specific incidence rate was recorded in the age group of infants younger than 12 months and in children aged 10 to 14 years. Of the total number of reported cases, 120 (8.9%) were hospitalized, with the largest number of those hospitalized being in the age group younger than 12 months (85, ie 70.8% of hospitalized cases). As for the territorial distribution, the largest number of pertussis cases in relation to the place of residence was reported from the territory of two districts, Južnobački District and the City of Belgrade, where the highest incidence rates were also registered. The postponement of timely vaccination against pertussis and the impossibility of vaccinating newborns up to 2 months of age have influenced the increase in the number of infected persons. Also, advanced PCR diagnostics during Covid and the possibility of applying PCR diagnostics in pertussis helped the timely diagnosis of pertussis. The introduction of vaccination with another dose of acellular pertussis vaccine and vaccination of pregnant women would be a desirable public health intervention to prevent pertussis infection. Key messages • Protection of the target population before starting school and at the age of 14 will contribute to stopping the occurrence of new cases of pertussis. These are public health challenges. • PCR diagnosis of pertussis influenced the timely diagnosis of this infection and the possibility of its adequate and timely treatment.

Infectious disease prevention among internally displaced people: Perspectives from Lviv, Ukraine

Abstract Background The ongoing war in Ukraine has increased the risk of infection spikes, especially among internally displaced people. The healthcare challenges in the war context necessitate teaching the population of preventative measures, which have become the primary vector of the activities of the Ukrainian Regional Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Objectives The research aimed to highlight the activities of the Lviv Regional Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in relation to internally displaced people. Methods The research project analyzed the incidence rate of infectious diseases and vaccination coverage data among the population and internally displaced people in the region. The data were collected from monthly reports of CDC’s departments and alert messages sent by primary care institutions to the CDC. Results According to the Single register of internally displaced people (IDP), 13% of internally displaced people were permanently staying in the Lviv region (the second place was Zakarpattia region - 9% of IDP, and the third was Kyiv - 7% of IDP). In the Lviv region, 237,000 people registered as forcibly displaced. Total, over 700, 000 people are in the area, including the unregistered and 68,000 children. In 2022-2023, the morbidity rates among IDPs did not exceed the rates among the general population in the area. Each IDP residence place had its physician; 11 thousand IDPs were vaccinated, and 3,235 of those were children. In general, 46 mobile medical brigades worked on-site in the Lviv region. Only one spike of gastrointestinal infection was registered. CDC employees provided lectures and workshops on hygiene and food storage in 56 IDP residence places. Conclusions The review results show that coordination between CDCs, local physicians, and mobile medical brigades in the IDP residence areas prevents outbreaks of infectious diseases and swiftly responds to emerging threats. Key messages • The tragic events in Ukraine resulted in healthcare access issues. Lviv CDC, fighting at its own forefront, quickly assessed the risks and efficiently managed the potential hazards. • The Lviv region remains one of the biggest hubs in Ukraine for the temporary residence of internally displaced people, with CDC employees ensuring that preventive measures are effectively carried out.

Encouraging Residents to Save Energy by Using Smart Transportation: Incorporating the Propensity to Save Energy into the UTAUT Model

The rapid urbanization and technological advancements of the recent decades have increased the need for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. This study examines the acceptance of smart transportation systems (STSs) among residents in Polish cities and explores the impact of these systems on energy-saving behaviors. Using the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) model, which includes the propensity to save energy, this research seeks to understand the determinants of STS adoption. The primary research was conducted using Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI). The sample was controlled for gender and place of residence. A sample of 471 individuals meeting the criteria of living in a city with over 200,000 residents and using smart transportation solutions in Poland were selected from the research panel. SmartPLS 4 software was used to analyze the collected data. The findings reveal that the propensity to save energy significantly influences perceived usefulness, ease of use, social influence, and hedonic motivation toward STSs. Perceived usefulness and ease of use were found to be strong predictors of the intention to use STSs, while perceived costs had a negative impact on it. This study also identified the moderating role of personal innovativeness in mitigating cost concerns. These insights underscore the importance of emphasizing energy conservation benefits and user-friendly features in promoting the use of STSs. This study concludes that aligning technological innovations with user motivations for energy conservation can enhance the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions, contributing to smarter and more sustainable urban environments.

Factors Affecting the Early Diagnosis of Smear-positive Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Patients in Qom Province, Iran

Background and Objectives: According to the report of the World Health Organization (WHO), almost one-third of the world’s population is infected with tuberculosis (TB). The delay in TB diagnosis, in addition to increasing mortality, can increase the duration of disease transmission. This study aims to identify the factors affecting the early detection of smear-positive pulmonary TB in Patients in Qom Province, Iran. Methods: In this case-control study, 120 patients with smear-positive pulmonary TB (60 with a diagnosis delayed for more than three months and 60 with a timely diagnosis) diagnosed from 2018 to 2021 in Qom Province participated. To determine the factors effective in early diagnosis of pulmonary TB, the odds ratio of each factor was calculated, and logistic regression analysis was used for data analysis. Results: The prescription of the sputum test at the first visit had the most significant effect on the early diagnosis of pulmonary TB (odds ratio=161, P<0.001). The TB in patients who visited the clinics and those visited by general practitioners was diagnosed with a higher delay. The lack of knowledge of existing TB diagnosis and treatment services in health centers had increased the diagnosis delay by 2.3. Occupation, gender, and place of residence were not found to be effective factors. Conclusion: It seems that most doctors in Iran neglect to prescribe a sputum test for patients suspected of pulmonary TB and only prescribe chest x-rays. Training and informing doctors, private medical centers, and pharmacies in referring patients suspected of pulmonary TB to the health centers where the patients live can cause timely diagnosis of pulmonary TB.

Food Safety and Food Hygiene Knowledge of Hungarian University Students

(1) Background: Foodborne diseases continue to affect millions of people around the world today, posing a huge challenge to public health. Our aim was to focus on the food safety knowledge and food hygiene knowledge of students at the University of Pécs, Hungary. (2) Methods: A quantitative, online, cross-sectional study was conducted between 15 February 2024 and 10 May 2024. Non-probability, convenience sampling was used. The target group consisted of first- and second-year BSc level degree students of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pécs (N = 214). The questions of the self-designed questionnaire include sociodemographic data, questions focusing on food safety knowledge, and questions to assess food hygiene knowledge. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive and mathematical statistical analysis (p < 0.05). (3) Results: Participants were aware of foods that pose a food safety risk and were familiar with both the pathogens in food and the groups at risk of food contamination. In terms of knowledge, a higher proportion of second-year students answered correctly (p = 0.021; r = 0.657). A significant relationship was found between hygiene habits and age (p = 0.035) and place of residence, with most of the students living in dormitories not paying attention to food hygiene (r = 0.094; p = 0.046). (4) Conclusions: The level of knowledge of the students was not always satisfactory, so further research and education on this topic is essential to promote safe food consumption.

VDR gene polymorphisms rs731236 and rsS2228570 affect vitamin D levels in people of the Kaliningrad region

Vitamin D is an essential micronutrient that is involved in numerous biological processes. It not only keeps bones healthy, but also has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, the pancreas and fatty tissue. Around 50% of the world’s population suffers from vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency. The prevalence of these diseases is significantly higher in obese people, regardless of age and place of residence. The presence of polymorphisms in the VDR gene (vitamin D receptor) can explain individual differences in the concentration of vitamin D 25(OH) in blood serum. Of particular interest are the effects of the polymorphisms rs731236 and rs2228570 on vitamin levels. Thus, the VDR polymorphism rs731236 is a synonymous substitution, whereas the polymorphism rs2228570 is a non-synonymous substitution. The article investigated the polymorphisms of the VDR gene rs2228570 (T/C), rs731236 (T/C) and determined their association with blood vitamin D levels in people from the Kaliningrad region with different body mass index (BMI). The material for the study was venous blood taken in the morning on an empty stomach from 232 people (mean age 50±13.5 years, 103 men and 129 women). The vitamin D content in the blood was determined by ELISA and the polymorphisms of the VDR gene were analyzed by PCR. In individuals with a BMI 30 kg/m2, changes in the lipid profile and liver function tests were recorded. The vitamin D level did not depend on the BMI of the study participants. Significant changes in blood vitamin D levels were found depending on the distribution of the VDR genotype. Vitamin D levels were higher in individuals with the CC genotype than in the TT and CT genotypes of the rs2228570 polymorphism and did not depend on BMI. In contrast, the presence of the rs731236 polymorphism in the VDR gene is associated with BMI. In obesity, vitamin D levels are therefore only reduced in people with the TT genotype of the rs731236 polymorphism, but not in people with the CC and TC genotype.

Effect of alcohol abuse on selected markers of inflammation, hemostasis, and endothelial function.

Alcohol consumption, even in moderate amounts, is associated with complex changes in blood biochemistry, involving abnormalities of many markers affecting cardiovascular risk. A total of 100 patients with documented alcohol abuse were included in the study. Demographic data and information on alcohol consumption were collected using a standardized questionnaire. All patients underwent biochemical tests. The following parameters were evaluated: PAI-1, vWF, TNF-α, VCAM-1, adiponectin, fibrinogen, lipid profile, and hsCRP. The results were compared with a control group of 25 healthy subjects. A significant adverse effect of alcohol abuse was observed for markers such as PAI-1, TNF-α, VCAM-1, adiponectin, and fibrinogen. Moreover, most of the subjects showed elevated TC, LDL-C, and TG levels. There was a significant relationship between vWF and average daily alcohol consumption, a positive relationship between adiponectin levels and age, and between fibrinogen and the number of cigarettes smoked. No significant correlations were observed between the other markers and age, gender, place of residence, daily alcohol consumption, and total time of alcohol abuse. Several abnormalities in most of the analyzed markers were observed in persons abusing alcohol, with no significant correlation with the daily amount of alcohol consumed and the total time of alcohol abuse, which may indicate permanent and irreversible damage to many tissues and organs as a result of chronic alcohol consumption. Further studies in this area with a larger group of patients are necessary to clarify the mechanisms leading to cardiovascular damage in the course of alcohol abuse.

Attitudes towards air quality during outdoor exercise amongst habitual exercisers.

The effects of air pollution on health outcomes are well-established. However, little is known about perceptions of air pollution and how it may influence exercise behaviours. The aim of this study was to understand the perceived importance of air pollution during planned exercise, and where relevant, explore how those perceptions may differ between those living in different locations. A questionnaire was disseminated to several running and cycling clubs in the United Kingdom, covering population characteristics to determine urban, rural or coastal residents and exercisers, self-reported asthma, perceptions of air quality during active travel, planned exercise and attitudes towards learning more about the topic. Anonymised responses were gained from 381 adult participants (≥18years and 60% female), 119 of whom answered questions related to active travel. More than half (54%) of all respondents think about the air quality they are exposed to during exercise and how it may affect their health. More urban than rural respondents (59% vs. 47% and p=0.03) think about air quality and the impact it may have on their health when exercising. There were insufficient coastal respondents for direct comparison. Most survey respondents (57%) state that they would take the most severe course of action regarding exercise behaviour by avoiding it altogether during periods ofheavy road traffic. Individuals with self-reported asthma (n=60), irrespective of place of residence, are the most likely to be conscious of the potential effects of air pollution on their health and exercise performance compared to counterparts without self-reported asthma.

MIGRATION RISK OF DEVELOPING PSYCHOSOMATIC DISORDERS IN SOCIALLY PROSPEROUS YOUNG PEOPLE WITH INCREASED NEUROPSYCHIC AND INTELLECTUAL LOAD

RELEVANCE: The relevance of the study is due to the lack of systematic data on the cause-and-effect relationships between the territorial remoteness of the initial and final settlements when changing place of residence with the risk of developing psychosomatic disorders in a person with increased neuropsychic and intellectual stress. AIM: To develop an integrative indicator of the risk of developing psychosomatic disorders in young people when changing their place of residence. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved students of the Volgograd State Medical University, 97 men and 99 women aged 18-22 years. Nonresident respondents accounted for 44% (45 people) of the sample population of men and 60% (61 people) of the sample population of women. The cross-sectional study was carried out in June 2023, during the spring session, 9 months after the start of university studies, and, accordingly, from the moment nonresident students changed their place of residence. The level of systemic maladjustment of respondents was assessed using the I.N. Gurvich test. The indicators of the Giessen Somatic Complaints Questionnaire and indicators of anxiety-depressive disorders (HADS scale) were taken into account, and the presence of suicidal ideation was determined - according to the suicidal ideation module of the Columbia Suicidal Severity Scale (C-SSRS). The distances (km) between the initial and final settlements of the respondents’ place of residence were calculated. RESULTS: A systemic direct statistically significant relationship was identified between the severity of psychosomatic disorders and the distance of migration movement of young people from the place of previous residence to the final point of residence. Four degrees of migration risk have been identified with zero (up to 20 km) and subsequent three (up to 400, up to 800 and over 800 km) territorial ranges of somatization risk. The control critical values of the migration risk indicator for the development of psychosomatic disorders for men and women were calculated, determining that the migration risk of somatization in young people occurs when the territorial distance of the place of residence from the place of previous residence is 400 km or more. CONCLUSION: The connections between the territorial remoteness of the initial and final settlements when changing place of residence, with the risk of developing psychosomatic disorders in a person under conditions of an intense educational process, are characterized.

Assessing the impact of migration on the happiness of household women left behind: evidence from Punjab, Pakistan

The concept of happiness is becoming an increasingly significant area of focus in the evaluation of overall quality of life. This research examines the impact of migration on the well-being of women who remain in their place of residence following the migration of their family members. The study employs data from the Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey (2017–2018) in Punjab, Pakistan, and addresses sample selection bias through Propensity Score Matching (PSM). Moreover, as the dependent variable is ordinal, the study employed ordered logistic regression to examine the correlation between migration and happiness, taking into account migration status and other variables. The findings indicate that women from migrant backgrounds tend to benefit from migrating, primarily in terms of enhanced financial resources. In order to gain insight into the varying effects of migration on women’s happiness, the study employed heterogeneity analysis, which revealed that the influence of migration on women’s happiness differs across various areas. In conclusion, the combination of propensity score matching (PSM) with ordered logistic regression and heterogeneity analysis represents a robust methodology for evaluating the impact of migration on women’s perceptions of happiness. The study demonstrates that migration has the potential to improve the quality of life of women who remain in their home countries, particularly those residing in financially disadvantaged households.

Development and validation of a nomogram for sleep disorders among stroke patients

BackgroundPrecisely identifying high-risk sleep disorder patients and implementing suitable measures are important for decreasing the incidence of sleep disorders. In this study, a nomogram method was adopted to construct a tool to predict sleep disorders in stroke based on four factors: individual characteristics, treatment-related factors, psychological factors, and family-related factors. MethodsA total of 450 stroke patients were continuously diagnosed at the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, and the data on participants were randomly distributed into a training set (n = 315) and a validation set (n = 135). Within the training set, using LASSO regression and random forest methods, five optimal predictors of sleep disorders were identified. Five optimal predictors were used to develop a model. The calibration, discrimination, generalization, and clinical applicability of the model were evaluated using calibration curves, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, internal validation, and decision curve analysis (DCA). ResultsWe found that the place of residence, average daily infusion time, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Type D Personality Scale-14 (DS14), and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) were crucial factors associated with sleep disorders. The validation data showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.903 compared to 0.899 in the training set. There was an approach to the diagonal in the calibration curve of this model, and the results of DCA noted that it is clinically beneficial across a range of thresholds from 5 % to 99 %. ConclusionA model was developed to predict sleep disorders among stroke patients to help hospital staff evaluate the risk among patients and screen high-risk patients.

Dietary Patterns Associated with Body-Composition Phenotype in a Middle-Aged and Elderly Population: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: There is currently limited understanding of the intricate dynamics between fat and muscle mass and the potential effect of dietary patterns. This study aimed to investigate the effects of overall dietary patterns on four body composition phenotypes associated with central obesity and low muscle mass in the middle-aged and elderly population of Korea. Methods: We examined data from 6120 adults aged ≥ 50 years, collected during the 4th (2008–2009) and 5th (2010–2011) Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were classified into four groups according to their combined status of central obesity and low muscle mass: healthy control, central obesity, low muscle mass, and sarcopenic obesity. Using factor analysis on the twenty-two pre-defined food groups, we identified three distinct dietary patterns: the “Healthy dietary pattern”, “Convenience-based dietary pattern”, and “Alcohol and side dish pattern”. Multivariate analysis included potential confounders such as age, sex, place of residence, marital status, educational level, occupation, household income, and physical activity level. Results: Higher scores in the “Healthy dietary pattern” were associated with lower odds of sarcopenic obesity (OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.40–0.92, p for trend = 0.018). For the “Convenience-based dietary pattern”, individuals in the third tertile of the dietary pattern score showed a marginal association with low muscle mass (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 0.99–1.41, p for trend = 0.056). The “Alcohol and side dish pattern” was linked to higher odds of central obesity (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.03–1.44, p for trend = 0.016) and low muscle mass (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.01–1.45, p for trend = 0.043). Conclusions: The drinking practice of consuming foods high in saturated fats and salt alongside alcoholic drinks may negatively affect fat accumulation and muscle composition among older adults. Adopting a healthy eating pattern characterized by grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, fish, and seaweed could be notably advantageous for promoting and maintaining healthy body composition and optimal skeletal muscle health.

Bereaved parents' perceptions of their cancer-ill child's last month with or without palliative care -a nationwide study.

Cancer is still the leading cause of non-accidental death in childhood, although the majority of children diagnosed in high-income countries survive their illness. In accordance with international standards, equal and early access to palliative care should be available to children and adults. Yet communication and prognostic disclosure may influence the timing of involvement in palliative care. Purpose: To investigate whether parents perceived that their child received palliative care and to what extent that contrasted parents' perceptions of their child's care and symptoms in the last month of life. A nationwide population-based parental questionnaire study in Sweden, one to five years after their child's death (n=226). Descriptive statistics were used. A majority of parents (70%) reported that they were aware that their child received palliative care and they were informed about the incurable disease (57%) within 3 months before the child died. The most common diagnosis among children receiving palliative care was a brain tumor (45%) with a disease related death (90%) and the care was often received at home (44%). Based on the reports of parents who felt that their child did not receive palliative care, 45% were informed within days or hours about the child's incurable disease, 45% of these children were diagnosed with leukemia, 60% died at the intensive care unit, and 49% died of treatment-related complications. It was most common for families who lived in urban areas (28%) to report their child received palliative care, in comparison to families living in sparsely populated areas (11%). A significant proportion of parents whose child received palliative care (96%) stated that the healthcare professionals were competent in caring for their child, for those who reported no palliative care it was slightly lower (74%). In both groups many children were affected by multiple symptoms the last month of life. The study findings highlight the role of understanding parental perceptions of pediatric palliative oncology care, the role of initiating palliative care early, the need of access to national equitable PC and professional competence across the lifespan, regardless of diagnosis and place of residence.

Prevalence of Bottle‐Feeding Practice and Associated Factors Among Mothers of Children Under Five in the World, 2024: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

ABSTRACTBackgroundChild‐feeding practices, particularly breastfeeding, significantly impact children's health and survival. However, bottle feeding, although historically practiced, presents numerous disadvantages affecting optimal child nutrition and health. Despite World Health Organisation and The United Nations Children's Fund recommendations against bottle feeding, it remains prevalent globally, affecting roughly 59% of infants worldwide and 85% in Australia by 5 months of age.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the prevalence and determinants of bottle feeding among mothers of children under five globally.MethodsThis systematic review and meta‐analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis guidelines. We comprehensively searched electronic databases for English‐language articles published between 2014 and 2024. The quality of studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Data were analysed in STATA version 17, including summary tables, narrative descriptions, forest plots, and statistical heterogeneity and publication bias assessment.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of bottle feeding among mothers was 57%. Subgroup analysis revealed higher prevalence in larger sample sizes (> 2151) and lower prevalence in smaller ones. Factors significantly associated with bottle feeding included mode of delivery (OR = 1.953; 95%, CI: 1.272, 2.635), child hospitalisation (OR = 1.984, CI: 1.593, 2.376), mother's occupation (OR = 1.579; CI: 1.467, 1.690), post‐natal care (OR = 2.965; CI: (1.358, 4.571), age of children (OR = 2.836; CI: 1.895, 3.777), place of residence (OR = 1.423; CI: 0.994, 1.852), and mother's education (OR = 3.366, CI: 1.949, 4.783).ConclusionEfforts to promote optimal child‐feeding practices should address the identified determinants, emphasising the importance of breastfeeding and providing support to mothers, especially those facing challenges such as cesarean delivery, child hospitalisation, and maternal employment.

Nursing students' knowledge and related factors towards skin cancer: A systematic review

This systematic review aims to examine the nursing students' knowledge and related factors towards skin cancer. In order to conduct this comprehensive and review study, articles were searched from the earliest to April 1, 2023 using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as "knowledge", "skin cancer", and "nursing students" in various international electronic databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database. The appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool) was used to evaluate the quality of the studies included in this article. In total, 2,841 nursing students participated in five cross-sectional studies. The average age of the students was 20.93 (SD=1.89). 78.07% of the students in this study were female. 19.70% of students had a history of skin cancer in their family member. The average nursing students' knowledge and related factors towards skin cancer was 14.78 (SD=2.68) out of 25 which suggests a moderate level of knowledge. Factors such as year of study, female gender, age, using cosmetics, using depilatory wax, using epilating appliance, skin cancer caused by sun exposure, and protection of information have a significant positive relationship with nursing students' knowledge about skin cancer. However, knowledge had a negative relationship with factors such as using shaving, having mole, and having swelling. Additionally, the factors of father education, place of residence, sunburn frequency, source information had a significant relationship with nursing students' knowledge about skin cancer. According to the results of this review, the knowledge of nursing students in skin cancer is moderate. Therefore, nursing professors may contribute to the development of nursing students' knowledge by providing an online or physical education platform related to skin cancer.

Study of the Association Between Socioeconomic Determinants and Pregnancy Follow-Up Indicators of Mothers of Low-Birth-Weight Infants: Insights for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Aims: This study investigates the association between socioeconomic determinants and pregnancy follow-up among 200 mothers of low-birth-weight newborns. By identifying factors influencing maternal care and birth outcomes, the study contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3, 8, and 10, focusing on improving maternal and child health, reducing socioeconomic disparities, and ensuring equitable healthcare access. Methods: A prospective descriptive study was conducted over 12 months (June 2020–July 2021) at the neonatology and nutrition reference center of Rabat Children's Hospital. The study recruited 206 mother-child pairs, focusing on those with low-birth-weight infants. Results: Among the 200 mothers, 92% followed their pregnancies. Distribution of prenatal consultations was as follows: 0.54% had one visit, 5.98% two visits, 33.7% three, 41.85% four, and 17.93% more than four. Analysis revealed significant associations between pregnancy follow-up and socioeconomic factors. Maternal age (p < 0.001), education level (p < 0.001), and place of residence significantly influenced pregnancy monitoring, with urban mothers more likely to receive follow-up care. Single mothers had a 100% non-tracking rate, while married mothers predominantly monitored their pregnancies. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the strong influence of sociodemographic factors on antenatal care use, aligning with findings from other contexts. It contributes new insights into the specific characteristics of our study population and has practical implications for shaping maternal and child health policies, addressing the unique needs of diverse sub-populations. Achieving SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) requires targeted interventions that improve equitable access to quality maternal care.

The Use of National Minority Culture in Tourism Development

In our tourist travels, we seek experiences in locales distinct from our places of residence or work. Tourism developments strive to fulfil this desire by showcasing and making tangible some unique local characteristic, thus attracting visitors to a specific place. In resource-poor areas, one of the simplest and least investment-demanding ways to achieve this is by turning a unique element of local culture into an attraction and celebrating it. This does not require costly infrastructure development, but it can still attract tourists. Our study focuses on these local celebrations, which are most often referred to as festivals, feasts or competitions. In the first part of this paper, our goal is to draw attention to a specific group of local festivals, events that focus on the culture of national minorities. Along with examples from Hungary, we present in more detail two festivals: one in Southwest Hungary’s Feked and the other in Southeast Hungary’s Deszk. In the second part of the study, we categorise local festivals based on the cultural elements they highlight. According to my research, four basic categories can be determined. Festivals can be created to celebrate a well-identifiable local cultural or economic phenomenon. There are local celebrations aimed at preserving or reviving disappearing or vanished local cultural elements. There are festivals that emphasise newly invented traditions. Finally, events based on humour or randomness can also be the basis of a tourist attraction.