Risk Factor For Disorders Research Articles

From self-compassion to obsessive-compulsive symptoms: the mediator role of intolerance of uncertainty

Abstract High intolerance of uncertainty (IoU) is a well-defined risk and maintenance factor for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Studies have identified different antecedents of IoU, adding low self-compassion to this list. High self-compassion may make it easier for people to cope with uncertain situations and reduce self-blame and control in these situations. Although the protective role of self-compassion in different psychopathologies has been examined, few studies have investigated its role in OCD. No study has investigated the importance of the relationship between self-compassion and IoU for OCD symptoms. Considering that individuals with high self-compassion tendencies do not impose negative feelings on themselves in the face of uncertainties and are more tolerant of them, the association between self-compassion and IoU might be necessary for OCD. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-compassion, IoU, and OCD symptoms and test the mediating role of IoU between self-compassion and OCD symptoms. Four hundred-one adults voluntarily participated in the study and completed measures about self-compassion, IoU, OCD, depression, and anxiety. Results demonstrated the negative correlation between self-compassion and IoU and OCD. Mediation analysis results confirmed the hypothesis that self-compassion was associated with obsessive-compulsive symptoms through the IoU when controlling for depression and anxiety symptoms, gender, and age. Our findings were consistent with recent studies showing the importance of self-related psychological constructs for OCD. Low self-compassion is a feature that needs to be examined in this context as an essential initiator of obsessions and compulsions.

Prevalence and Pattern of Neurological Disorders amongst Children Attending the Neurology Clinic of a Private Paediatric Hospital in Southern Nigeria

Aim: Neurologic disorders are a common cause of morbidity and disability in children worldwide. There is a dearth of knowledge of neurologic disorders in private health facilities thus this study was done to determine the prevalence and pattern of these disorders. Study Design: It was a retrospective study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in a private paediatric hospital in Southern Nigeria over 1-year between 1st January, 2023 and 31th December, 2023. Methodology: Data was extracted from the hospital’s health management system and analysed. Results: Of the 22,965 outpatient clinic visits during the study period, 203 had neurological disorders giving a prevalence rate of 0.9% with slight female predominance 107(52.7). Most common age group was 1 - < 5 years (43.4%). Single neurologic disorders predominated 123 (63.4%). Commonest neurological disorders were seizure disorder (54.6%), autism spectrum disorder (24.3%) and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (11.3%) with the commonest risk factors for neurologic disorders being severe perinatal asphyxia (42.1%) and severe neonatal jaundice (42.1%). There were significantly more males than females with seizure disorder (P value .013) whereas cerebral palsy was significantly more in females (P value .002). Seizure disorder and learning disorder were significantly more in children ³ 5years (P value of .001 & .030 respectively) whereas cerebral palsy and speech impairment were significantly more in children < 5years (P value of < .001 & .030 respectively). Conclusion: The prevalence of neurologic disorders was low, being 0.9% with children under 5 years being mostly affected. Commonest neurologic disorders were seizure disorder, autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactive disorder while perinatal asphyxia and neonatal jaundice were the commonest risk factors. Public enlightenment campaigns about neurologic disorders and the availability of care would improve the outcome of affected children.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Central Sterile Supply Technicians, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand

Objective: The study aimed to examine the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among central sterile supply technicians (CSSTs) in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand, and investigate the risk factors associated with these disorders.Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among CSSTs regarding work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Technicians were asked about the presence and severity of disorders throughout the whole body during the sterilization procedure. The survey was distributed to the CSSTs at the central sterilization supply departments (CSSDs) of 32 hospitals in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand.Results: The prevalence rate of WMSDs in various bodily regions was assessed among technicians at the time of questioning (88.3%), after one week (65.4%), and after one year (59.2%). Various body parts were reported to have developed Musculoskeletal problems, with the lower back being the most frequently reported (88.8%), followed by the upper back (84.9%), and the ankles/feet (38.5%). These MSDs were influenced by age over 30 years (odds ratio [OR] 3.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.59-6.93), work schedule (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.02-4.96) and the handling of heavy-load equipment (OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.47-10.37) or carts, which significantly increased the risk of developing such illnesses.Conclusion: Many CSSTs from the CSSDs reported WMSDs in various locations on their bodies. Lower back pain was the most common complaint.

The Relationship between Body Mass Index and Level of Response to Alcohol Across the Spectrum of Alcohol Use: Total Body Water and Beyond.

A low level of response (LR) to alcohol is a known risk factor for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Although higher total body water (TBW) is associated with lower blood alcohol concentrations and reduced responses following alcohol consumption, the relationship between morphometric measures such as body mass index (BMI) and LR is less clear. This study aimed to examine the relationship between BMI and LR to alcohol, and the contribution of TBW to this relationship. Participants (n=1,086) enrolled in the NIAAA Natural History Protocol were assessed for LR to alcohol using the Self-Rating of the Effects of Alcohol (SRE) Questionnaire. BMI was estimated using height and weight, and TBW was estimated from height, weight, age and sex. Participants were categorized based on BMI into 3 groups: normal weight (18.5-25.0 kg/m2; n=430), overweight (25.0-30.0 kg/m2; n=403), and obese (≥30.0 kg/m2; n=253). Associations between BMI group and SRE scores for the most recent three-month period (SRE-Recent), and the effect of TBW, were analyzed using ANOVA. Linear regression analysis was conducted to estimate the proportion of variation in SRE-Recent explained by BMI and TBW. BMI category was associated with LR, with the normal weight group showing higher responses (lower SRE-Recent scores) to alcohol than the overweight or obese groups. After controlling for TBW, the relationship became non-significant. Linear regression models confirmed these findings. Higher BMI is associated with lower LR to alcohol. However, TBW seems to account for this relationship, suggesting that concentrations achieved following alcohol consumption may be the primary determinant of BMI-related differences in LR. Future work should replicate these findings and examine these relationships throughout the lifespan and in individuals with AUD.

Exhibitionism - a review of research

Introduction and Objective: Exhibitionism is a paraphilic behavior characterized by a persistent or recurrent tendency to expose one’s genitalia to strangers, typically without the intention of further interaction. The aim of this publication is to discuss various aspects of exhibitionism based on the latest literature. Review Methods: A search was conducted in the PubMed database to identify scientific articles containing the term “exhibitionism” in their title, abstract, or keywords. The search focused on articles published between 2014 and 2024, with an emphasis on studies exploring the etiology, prevalence, and treatment of exhibitionism.Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: While often linked to sexual excitement and followed by masturbation, exibitionism is more commonly observed in men. Research highlights several potential risk factors for exhibitionistic disorder, including childhood sexual or emotional abuse, hypersexuality, and sexual preoccupation. Neurobiological, cognitive, and social mechanisms are believed to underlie the development of these tendencies. Treatment of exhibitionistic disorder primarily involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Pharmacological approaches are also employed to manage symptoms by modulating serotonergic transmission. Summary: Although relatively uncommon, exhibitionistic disorder has significant implications for individuals and society, underscoring the need for improved awareness, accurate prevalence estimates, and expanded access to effective treatment interventions. Further investigation into the true prevalence of exhibitionistic disorder is warranted, as current estimates may be imprecise.

Endometrium-Free Closure Technique During Cesarean Delivery for Reducing the Risk of Niche Formation and Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorders.

To examine the prevalence and severity of postcesarean residual niche, evaluated using saline infusion sonohysterography, in an expanded cohort of women with one prior cesarean delivery and to assess the effect of uterine closure technique on the risk of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders. This secondary analysis includes 70 patients who underwent saline infusion sonohysterography after one prior cesarean delivery. Patients were grouped according to hysterotomy closure technique: two-layer endometrium-free closure (technique A), and two- or one-layer routine closures (technique B). Niche dimensions and residual myometrial thickness were measured. The primary outcome was clinically significant niche (depth larger than 2 mm), a risk factor for PAS. Groups were compared using χ2, unpaired t test, Kruskal-Wallis, and logistic regression with significance at P<.05. There were 33 patients in the technique A group and 37 patients in the technique B group. Technique A was associated with smaller niche dimensions (P=.018 for width, .005 for depth, and .002 for length), and exhibited thicker residual myometrial thickness (8.5 mm vs 5.5 mm, P=.041) and a lower incidence of clinically significant niches. The odds of having a clinically significant niche were 27 times higher in the technique B group (adjusted odds ratio 27.1, 95% CI, 4.35-168.81, P<.001). Uterine closure techniques are associated with the development and size of postcesarean residual niches, which are critical risk factors for PAS disorders. Use of an endometrium-free closure technique during primary cesarean delivery is associated with a reduced risk of future niche formation and PAS complications.

Neuroprotective Effects of Sodium Nitroprusside on CKD-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction in Rats: Role of CBS and Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a conceivable new risk factor for cognitive disorder and dementia. Uremic toxicity, oxidative stress, and peripheral-central inflammation have been considered important mediators of CKD-induced nervous disorders. Nitric oxide (NO) is a retrograde neurotransmitter in synapses, and has vital roles in intracellular signaling in neurons. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of NO in CKD-induced cognitive deficits by considering the nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/ heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathway and the important roles of cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS, H2S producing enzyme). Forty rats were divided into four experimental groups: sham, five-sixth (5/6) nephrectomy (5/6Nx, CKD), CKD + NO donor (Sodium nitroprusside, SNP), CKD + SNP and a CBS inhibitor (amino-oxy acetic acid, AOAA). To assess the neurocognitive abilities, eleven weeks after 5/6Nx, behavioral tests (Novel object recognition test, Passive avoidance test, and Barnes maze test) were done. Twelfth week after 5/6Nx, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (sCr) levels, as well as the nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression levels and neuronal injury in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were assessed. As predicted, the levels of BUN and sCr (both P < 0.001) and neuronal injury in the hippocampus (P < 0.001 for CA1; CA3; DG) and prefrontal cortex (P < 0.001) increased in CKD rats as well as 5/6Nx induced reduction of Nrf2 (both P < 0.001) /HO-1(P < 0.001; P < 0.01 respectively) pathway activity in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in CKD rats. Moreover, CKD leads to cognitive disorder and memory loss (Novel object recognition test (NOR) (P < 0.001), Passive avoidance test (PA) (P < 0.001) and Barnes maze (BA) (Escape latency (P < 0.001); Error (P < 0.001)). SNP treatment significantly improved Nrf2 (both P < 0.001) /HO-1 (P < 0.001; P < 0.05 respectively) pathways and neuronal injury (P < 0.001 for CA1; CA3; DG) in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex in CKD rats as well as enhanced learning and memory ability in CKD rats. However, ameliorating effects of SNP on cognitive disorder (NOR (P < 0.05), PA (P < 0.001) and BA (Escape latency (P < 0.05); Error (P < 0.001)) and Nrf2 (P < 0.01; P < 0.001 in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex respectively) /HO-1 (P < 0.05 in both) signaling pathway activity were nullified by CBS inhibitor and H2S reduction. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that NO improved CKD-induced cognitive impairment and neuronal death which is may be depended to CBS activity and endogenous H2S levels.

"Missing Mobility": Perspectives of North American Firefighters on the Risks and Causes of Work-Related Shoulder Disorders: A Qualitative Study.

Firefighters are routinely exposed to significant work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) which can sometimes be career-ending due to the workplace stressors and the physical demands of the job. Shoulder disorders are the third most frequent WRMSDs that cause pain, disability, and morbidity in the general working population. However, little is known about the task-specific causes and risk factors for work-related shoulder disorders (WSDs) among firefighters (FFs). To explore the perspectives of FFs who experienced WSDs with respect to the following: (a) risk factors of WSDs; and (b) causative factors for WSDs. Using an interpretive descriptive methodology, we purposefully sampled for age and occupational diversity. Twelve FFs (males, 8 and females, 4) between 26 and 63years, who experienced WSDs during their career ranging from 3 to 33years were recruited. One-on-one interviews based on a semi-structured interview guide were conducted via an online Zoom platform and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The WSDs reported by FFs included rotator cuff tears, labral tears and muscle sprains or strains. Three themes were identified as risk factors for WSDs: (1) too much or too little shoulder exercises is a risk for shoulder injuries; (2) internal contextual factors can increase the risk of shoulder injurie; and (3) personal factors such as age and sex mediate the risk of shoulder injuries. Three themes were reported by FFs as the causative factors of WSDs: (1) unpredictable hazards in harsh environmental conditions can lead to traumatic shoulder injuries; (2) maneuvering heavy equipment in non-ergonomic positions can lead to shoulder strains; and (3) routine firefighting tasks can lead to gradual onset of shoulder injuries. Our results emphasized the inter-related and multifaceted nature of the risks and causative factors that increase the risk of traumatic or gradual onset WSDs among FFs. There is a need for a comprehensive prevention and self-management program that addresses fire-specific prevention and treatment program that addresses modifiable environmental, behavioral and personal risks factors.

The Fetal Environment and the Development of Hypertension-The Epigenetic Modification by Glucocorticoids.

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a risk factor for postnatal cardiovascular, metabolic, and psychiatric disorders. In most IUGR models, placental dysfunction that causes reduced 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (11βHSD2) activity, which degrades glucocorticoids (GCs) in the placenta, resulting in fetal GC overexposure. This overexposure to GCs continues to affect not only intrauterine fetal development itself, but also the metabolic status and neural activity in adulthood through epigenetic changes such as microRNA change, histone modification, and DNA methylation. We have shown that the IUGR model induced DNA hypomethylation in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in the brain, which in turn activates sympathetic activities, the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), contributing to the development of salt-sensitive hypertension. Even in adulthood, strong stress and/or exogenous steroids have been shown to induce epigenetic changes in the brain. Furthermore, DNA hypomethylation in the PVN is also observed in other hypertensive rat models, which suggests that it contributes significantly to the origins of elevated blood pressure. These findings suggest that if we can alter epigenetic changes in the brain, we can treat or prevent hypertension.

Clinical Significance of Serum MMP-9, S100-β and GFAP in Patients with Mental Disorders after Traumatic Brain Injury.

Diagnosing psychiatric disorders following craniocerebral trauma primarily depends on clinical symptoms and neuropsychological evaluation, which can be subjective and limited. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of serum matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), S100 calcium-binding protein β (S100-β), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in post-traumatic mental disorders. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 108 patients with craniocerebral trauma admitted to Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine between January 2021 and December 2023. Patients were categorized into a post-traumatic mental disorder group (n = 68) and a simple craniocerebral trauma group (n = 40) according to whether they had mental disorders. Serum MMP-9, S100-β, and GFAP levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and compared between the two groups. Logistic multivariate regression identified risk factors for post-traumatic mental disorders, while receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis assessed the predictive value of the biomarkers. Spearman correlation analysis examined the relationship between serum biomarkers and the presence of post-traumatic mental disorders. Serum levels of MMP-9, S100-β, and GFAP were significantly elevated in the post-traumatic mental disorder group compared to the simple traumatic brain injury group (p < 0.001). Logistic regression revealed that craniocerebral injury severity, family satisfaction, and serum levels of S100-β and GFAP were significant risk factors for post-traumatic mental disorders (p < 0.05). The areas under the ROC curve for MMP-9, S100-β, and GFAP were 0.768, 0.937, and 0.904, respectively. Spearman correlation analysis showed that serum MMP-9, S100-β and GFAP were significantly positively correlated with the incidence of post-traumatic mental disorders (p < 0.001). The levels of MMP-9, S100-β and GFAP were abnormal in the serum of patients with craniocerebral trauma. These biomarkers hold significant diagnostic value in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Pesticide exposure and sleep disorder: A cross-sectional study among Thai farmers.

Pesticide exposure might be an important risk factor for sleep disorders, however current epidemiological evidence is limited. The main objective of this study was to determine the association between historical use of pesticides and sleep disorders. Data on the historical use of 38 individual pesticides of almost thirty thousand Thai farmers were collected using questionnaire method. This information was linked to medically diagnosed sleep disorders using a multivariable logistic regression. The study found a positive association of 19 individual pesticides (twelve insecticides, two herbicides, and five fungicides). Some associations demonstrated a dose-response pattern. Additionally, the study revealed that women are at a higher risk of sleep-related issues with pesticide exposure compared to males. These results not only substantiate existing literature but also unveil several new individual pesticides that may impact sleep health. Sleep health should receive more attention, as it can contribute to various diseases and significantly impact the overall well-being of individuals.

Pelvic floor disorder prevalence and risk factors in a cohort of parous Ugandan women.

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) and associated risk factors among parous Ugandan women. We performed a cross-sectional study of parous Ugandan women. Demographics and assessment for PFD were obtained. The presence of PFD was defined by participant symptom report, standardized questionnaires, and standard physical examination (pelvic organ prolapse quantification [POP-Q] and cough stress test [CST]). A total of 159 women were enrolled in the study between June 2022 and June 2023. The median age was 35 years and median parity was 4. Forty-four (28%) women in the cohort reported symptoms of urinary incontinence. No women reported symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse or anal incontinence. Seventy-two (46%) participants had a positive CST and 93 (58.3%) had stage II or greater prolapse based on the POP-Q. Cesarean section was found to have a protective effect for the development of PFD (odds ratio [OR] 0.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07-0.59, P = 0.004). PFDs are prevalent among parous Ugandan women at rates similar to cohorts in other low- and middle-income countries. Cesarean section seems to be a protective factor against developing PFDs.

Anxiety Disorders: A Narrative Review

The prevalence of anxiety disorders in the U.S. has varied between 34 and 38%. Surprisingly, this rate has only increased 1% across the last three decades. Emotional sensitivity and worrying are the only negative effects that have appeared in this recent literature. Also, only two studies have focused on risk factors including anxiety sensitivity and avoidance behavior. Most of the recent research has explored potential underlying biological mechanisms and interventions. The underlying mechanisms have included low heartrate variability, abnormal EEG patterns, altered cytokines, dysregulated neurolipids, neuroinflammation, low hippocampal volume and gray matter and a low connection between cranial hemispheres. The interventions have included metacognition, cognitive behavioral therapy, internet delivery of cognitive behavioral therapy, coloring, acupuncture, exercise, cannabidiol and pharmacology in general. Although this is an informative literature, it is unclear why limited attention has been directed at negative effects and risk factors for anxiety disorders.

Dynamics of affect modulation in neurodevelopmental disorders (DynAMoND) – study design of a prospective cohort study

BackgroundAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neuro-developmental disorder that often persists into adulthood. Moreover, it is frequently accompanied by bipolar disorder (BD) as well as borderline personality disorder (BPD). It is unclear whether these disorders share underlying pathomechanisms, given that all three are characterized by alterations in affective states, either long or short-term. BD is characterized by infrequent but intense mood shifts, while ADHD and BPD involve more dynamic emotional fluctuations. It is yet to be determined whether these disorders represent distinct phenomena or different points on a spectrum of affective dysregulation.MethodsThis study seeks to distinguish the emotional dysregulation of BPD, ADHD, and BD by using digital phenotyping, a measurement burst electronic-diary method with different sampling rates, and accelerometry to measure participants’ activity. Our study will include 480 participants aged 14 to 50 (120 each from BPD, ADHD, BD, and healthy control groups) from five European sites. Participants’ smartphones will provide continuous data on their digital phenotypes, i.e., by indicators of physical activity and communication, for one year, along with daily evening ratings of mood and sleep. Moreover, five intensive measurement periods of five days each, called measurement bursts, will occur throughout the year, with electronic diaries asking participants to report on mood, self-esteem, impulsivity, life events, social interactions, and dysfunctional behaviors ten times a day. Moreover, participants will wear activity sensors during the five measurement bursts. Statistical analysis aims to identify whether affective dysregulation aspects share or differ across disorders. Specifically, data analysis aims to investigate the differences in parameters of affect fluctuation such as attractor strength and variability between disorders and to test the association of genetic risk factors for psychiatric disorders and resilience factors with critical parameters of affect modulation.DiscussionThe results of this study offer the potential to link patients’ external exposures with their affective state, reduce misdiagnosis, and determine the best timing for therapeutic interventions. Potential limitations of the study include insufficient recruitment of patients and drop-outs due to various protocol violations.Trial registrationStudy code: DRKS00028917, registered 27.07.2022, https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00028917.

Long-term, cell type-specific effects of prenatal stress on dorsal striatum and relevant behaviors in mice.

Maternal stress during pregnancy, or prenatal stress, is a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In ASD, dorsal striatum displays abnormalities correlating with symptom severity, but there is a gap in knowledge about dorsal striatal cellular and molecular mechanisms that may contribute. Using a mouse model, we investigated how prenatal stress impacted striatal-dependent behavior in adult offspring. We observed enhanced motor learning and earlier response times on an interval timing task, with accompanying changes in time-related medium spiny neuron (MSN) activity. We performed adult dorsal striatal single-cell RNA sequencing following prenatal stress which revealed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in multiple cell types; downregulated DEGs were enriched for ribosome and translational pathways consistently in MSN subtypes, microglia, and somatostatin neurons. DEGs in MSN subtypes over-represented ASD risk genes and were enriched for synapse-related processes. These results provide insights into striatal alterations relevant to neurodevelopmental disorders.

Maternal Risk Factors for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. The etiology of ASD is multifactorial, involving genetic, environmental, and maternal factors. Recent studies have suggested maternal factors, such as advanced maternal age, high BMI, smoking, and depression during pregnancy, as significant risk factors for ASD. Objective: This study aims to investigate the maternal risk factors that contribute to ASD in children at Diyala, Iraq. Patients and Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 150 children, comprising 75 children diagnosed with ASD and 75 healthy children as a control group. The study was carried out from August 2023 to May 2024 in Diyala, Iraq. Data collection included comprehensive demographic, social, obstetric, and maternal health histories. ASD diagnosis was confirmed using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale 2 (CARS-2). A logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between maternal risk factors and ASD. Results: The study revealed several significant maternal risk factors for ASD. Advanced maternal age at pregnancy (mean age 28.1 years in cases vs. 22.9 years in controls, p=0.001), high maternal BMI (mean BMI 26.9 in cases vs. 24.4 in controls, p=0.0001), maternal smoking (6.7% in cases vs. 0% in controls, p=0.023), and maternal depression during pregnancy (22.7% in cases vs. 0% in controls, p=0.0001) were all significantly associated with an increased risk of ASD. The use of stimulating hormones before pregnancy also showed a significant association (21.3% in cases vs. 4% in controls, p=0.001). Parity, particularly having 1-2 pregnancies, was also a significant risk factor (p=0.002). Conclusion: This study identifies advanced maternal age, high BMI, smoking, depression, and the use of stimulating hormones before pregnancy as significant maternal risk factors for ASD in children. Keywords: Autism, ASD, maternal age and autism, maternal illness and autism.

Video analysis of biomechanical risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders in loincloths female weavers Faso Dan Fani in Burkina Faso

Background The purpose of this study is to describe the kinematic characteristics of manual weaving related to the biomechanical risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders. Methods The welve professional female weavers participated in this study. The video recording of their workstations was performed perpendicularly in the sagittal and transverse planes in a synchronized manner, at about 2.45 m and for 5 minutes. The videos were then analyzed using the Kinove software. Statistical processing by the statistical SPSS 22 software. Results The results identified a succession of cycles, each with two important phases called the “interlacing” phase and the “winding/adjustment” phase. The average cycle time is 127.9 ± 11.7 seconds. The “interlacing” phase is the longest and concerns an average 80% of the cycle time or 103.5 ± 35.9 seconds. The segmental movements are mainly flexion-extension type with angular variations constantly above the acceptable limits. It is the same for the repetitiveness of the movements which solicit the upper limb and the trunk particularly. Conclusions These results recommend one of the actions to prevent musculoskeletal disorders including instructions on postures and frequencies of weaving movements as well as physical exercises adapted to the physical needs of practitioners.

Evaluating Exoskeletons for WMSD Prevention: A Systematic Review of Applications and Ergonomic Approach in Occupational Settings.

This review provides a comprehensive analysis of studies investigating the impact of occupational exoskeletons on work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) risk factors. The primary objective is to examine the methodologies used to assess the effectiveness of these devices across various occupational tasks. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, covering studies published between 2014 and 2024. A total of 49 studies were included, identified through searches conducted in Scopus and Web of Science databases, with the search string launched in August 2024. The review identifies a growing body of research on passive and active exoskeletons, with a notable focus on laboratory-based evaluations. The results indicate that direct measurement and self-report methods are the preferred approaches in these domains. Ergonomic limitations and user discomfort remain concerns in some cases. The findings of this review may influence stakeholders by providing insights into the potential benefits of adopting exoskeletons and improving workplace ergonomics to reduce WMSD risks. Additionally, the identification of WMSD assessment methods will be valuable for validating the use of these technologies in the workplace. The review concludes with recommendations for future research, emphasizing the need for more real-world assessments and improved exoskeleton designs to enhance user comfort and efficacy.

Psychological stress among hypertensive male patients in Jordan: prevalence and associated factors

BackgroundHypertension is a global, modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders, imposing a significant burden due to its high mortality and morbidity rates. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of psychological stress among hypertensive patients in Jordan and identify the factors associated with psychological stress.MethodsThis descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on hypertensive patients at three community healthcare clinics in Jordan from May to July 2024. A sample of 276 hypertensive male patients was randomly selected, representing 85% of the total patients in the selected clinics. Patients were selected via systematic random sampling. A self-administered questionnaire on psychological stress using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42) was employed. The data were collected through Google Forms and analyzed using SPSS statistical software (version 27).ResultsA total of 276 hypertensive males participated in the study, and the mean score of psychological stress was 16.02(± 7.59). The prevalence of psychological stress was 55.1%, with 60 (39.5%) experiencing mild stress and 57 (37.5%) experiencing moderate stress. Chronic diseases and inadequate exercise were significantly associated with psychological stress (p-values: 0.003 and < 0.001, respectively). Participants reporting stressful work were more than four times more likely to experience psychological stress than those who did not report work-related stress (OR = 4.06; 95% CI: 2.00–8.25; p < 0.001). A stressful home environment and insufficient sleep were also significantly associated with psychological stress (p = 0.026 and p < 0.001, respectively).ConclusionsThe results highlight a strong association between psychological stress and hypertension. Factors such as chronic diseases, insufficient exercise, occupational stress, a stressful home environment, and inadequate sleep contribute to psychological stress among hypertensive patients. These findings provide valuable insights for healthcare providers in developing tailored interventions to alleviate stress while managing hypertension.

Maternal and paternal risk factors associated with diagnoses within the continuum of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in the USA: Proximal and distal influences.

We sought to determine risk factors for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in the United States. Mothers of first-grade children participating in the Collaboration on FASD Prevalence (CoFASP) in three regional sites were interviewed. Maternal and paternal data were reported by mothers of children with an FASD diagnosis and controls. Interviews were conducted with mothers of children with an FASD (n = 114) and controls (n = 753). Fifty-seven percent of control mothers usually drank 2.7 drinks per drinking day (DDD) once per month prior to pregnancy, and 79% of mothers of children with FASD reported drinking 4.2 drinks 1-2 times per week. Mothers of children with alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder reported the most alcohol consumption overall: bingeing, drinking frequency, drinking in each trimester, and other drug use. Mothers of children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and partial FAS (PFAS) underreported consumption. Distal maternal risk factors were liver problems, depression, later pregnancy recognition and first prenatal visit, lower frequency of marriage, and lower spirituality. Postnatal risk indicators were low birthweight and gestational age. Regression analysis indicated that maternal reports of three DDD before pregnancy were associated with a diagnosis within the FASD continuum (p < 0.001, OR = 9.92). First-trimester exposure (p < 0.001, OR = 7.64) and all three trimesters (p < 0.001, OR = 7.77) were associated with a child's FASD diagnosis. An independent association was found between paternal DDD during pregnancy and FASD diagnoses (p = 0.002, OR = 1.08); but, once maternal drinking was a covariate, paternal influence was not significant. Stepwise models indicated that combined maternal alcohol use measures (p < 0.001, χ2 = 61.09), later pregnancy recognition (p = 0.032, χ2 = 4.58), later prenatal visits (p = 0.036, χ2 = 4.38), and depression in lifetime (p = 0.002, χ2 = 9.47) were significant FASD predictors. The final 10-step model explained 27.4% of the variance in FASD risk. While multiple, significant maternal risk factors for FASD were identified, paternal drinking was not a statistically significant, independent risk factor.