Self-reported Questionnaire Scores Research Articles

Women's health and well-being in five birth cohorts from low- and middle-income countries: Domains and their associations with early-life conditions.

Women's health and well-being (WHW) have been receiving growing attention, but limited progress has been made on how to measure its different domains in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We used data from five long-term birth cohorts in Brazil, Guatemala, the Philippines and South Africa to explore different domains of adult WHW, and how these domains relate to early life exposures. Based upon an a priori conceptualisation of eight postulated WHW outcomes available in the data, we grouped them as follows: human capital (intelligence quotient, schooling, height, and teenage childbearing), metabolic health (body mass index and metabolic syndrome score), and psychological (happiness and Self-Reported Questionnaire (SRQ) scores). Correlation analyses confirmed the variables theoretically belonging to the same dimension of WHW were statistically related. We then applied principal component analysis to each group of variables separately and used the first principal component as a summary quantitative measure of the corresponding WHW dimension. Finally, we assessed the association of each domain with a range of early-life factors: wealth, maternal education, maternal height, water, and sanitation, birthweight, length at two years and development quotient in mid-childhood. The three domains were largely uncorrelated. Early determinants were positively associated with human capital, while birth order was negatively associated. Fewer associations were found for the metabolic or psychological components. Birthweight and weight at age two years were inversely associated with metabolic health. Maternal education was associated with better psychological health. Our findings indicate that WHW is multidimensional, with most women in the cohorts being compromised in one or more domains while few women scored highly in all three domains. Our analyses are limited by lack of data on adolescent exposures and on other relevant WHW dimensions such as safety, agency, empowerment, and violence. Further research is needed in LMICs for identifying and measuring the multiple domains of WHW.

Metacognitive self-knowledge and cognitive skills in project-based learning of high school electronics students

ABSTRACT Self-knowledge is an important element of metacognition. It encompasses understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses and includes belief and self-assessment of one’s capacity to perform a task. Cognitive skills comprise a range of mental processes, such as attention, memory, problem solving, systems thinking, abstract thinking, and critical thinking, that are essential for acquiring and applying knowledge. The research described in this paper examined the ability for self-knowledge and cognitive skills of electronics students engaged in project-based learning. The study, which used quantitative and qualitative tools, involved 140 twelve-grade electronics students and explored the self-knowledge and cognitive skills they exhibited while executing their final projects. The correlation and paired-samples t-test between the students’ self-report questionnaire (indirect assessment of cognitive skills) and achievement test (direct assessment of cognitive skills) scores were examined to assess the students’ self-knowledge and cognitive skills. The findings revealed a significant difference between self-report questionnaire scores and achievement test scores, indicating that the students’ self-knowledge did not reflect their actual low level of cognitive skills. Measuring self-knowledge and cognitive skills in project-based learning is essential for assessing the effectiveness of the learning process, resulting in improved project outcomes and a firmer foundation for future academic and professional success.

Analysis of factors impacting postoperative pain and quality of life in patients with mixed hemorrhoids: A retrospective study.

Hemorrhoids are among the most common and frequently encountered chronic anorectal diseases in anorectal surgery. They are venous clusters formed by congestion, expansion, and flexion of the venous plexus in the lower part of the rectum. Mixed hemorrhoids bleed easily and recurrently, and this can result in severe anemia. Hence, they may have a negative effect on the health of the patient and surgical treatment is required. Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy has been widely used since 1937 for the treatment of grade III and IV hemorrhoids. However, most patients experience different degrees of postoperative pain that may cause anxiety. To assess the factors influencing pain scores and quality of life (QoL) in patients with mixed hemorrhoids post-surgery. The clinical data of patients with mixed hemorrhoids who underwent Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy were collected retrospectively. The basic characteristics of the enrolled patients with mixed hemorrhoids were recorded, and based on the Goligher clinical grading system, the hemorrhoids were classified as grades III or IV. The endpoint of this study was the disappearance of pain in all patients. Quantitative data were presented as mean ± SD, such as age, pain score, and QoL score. Student's t-test was used to compare the groups. A total of 164 patients were enrolled. The distribution of the visual analog scale pain scores of all patients at 3, 7, 14 and 28 d after surgery showed that post-surgery pain was significantly reduced with the passage of time. Fourteen days after the operation, the pain had completely disappeared in some patients. Twenty-eight days after the surgery, none of the patients experienced any pain. Comparing the World Health Organization Quality of Life - BREF self-reporting questionnaire scores of patients between 14 and 28 d after surgery, we observed that the quality-of-life scores of the patients post-surgery had significantly improved. There were six items that were compared at 14- and 28-d post-surgery. The mean QoL score 28 d after surgery (4.79 ± 0.46) was higher than that at 14 d post-surgery (3.79 ± 0.57). The mean health condition score 28 d after surgery (4.80 ± 0.41) was also higher than that at 14 d post-surgery (4.01 ± 0.62). The mean physical health score 28 d after surgery (32.10 ± 2.96) was significantly higher than that at 14 d post-surgery (23.41 ± 2.85). The mean psychological health score 28 d after surgery (27.22 ± 1.62) was significantly higher than that at 14 d post-surgery (21.37 ± 1.70). The mean social relations score 28 d after surgery (12.21 ± 1.59) was significantly higher than that at 14 d post-surgery (6.32 ± 1.66). The mean surrounding environment score 28 d after surgery (37.13 ± 2.88) was significantly higher than that at 14 d post-surgery (28.42 ± 2.86). The differences in quality-of-life scores at day 14 and day 28 post-surgery were observed to be statistically significant (P < 0.001). Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy can significantly improve the postoperative QoL of patients. Age, sex, and the number of surgical resections were important factors influencing Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy.

Efficacy and safety of herbal medicine Gongjin-Dan and Ssanghwa-Tang in patients with chronic fatigue: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial

BackgroundGongjin-dan (GJD, also known as Gongchen-dan) and Ssanghwa-tang (SHT, also known as Shuanghe-tang or Souwa-to) are herbal medicines that are widely used in Korea for treating fatigue. However, few studies have evaluated the efficacy and safety of GJD and SHT in the treatment of chronic fatigue. MethodsIn this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 90 individuals with persistent (≥6 months) chronic fatigue of unknown cause and a Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) score of ≥4 were randomly assigned to GJD group, SHT group, and control group in a 1:1:1 ratio. Outcomes were the changes in the self-reported fatigue questionnaire scores, levels of fatigue-related biomarkers and safety assessment. ResultsOut of 103 patients recruited, 90 were included in the analysis. A significant improvement in the Social Functioning (SF) score of Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) at week 4 was observed in the GJD group; similarly, a significant improvement compared with that in the Control group was observed in the Role Emotional (RE) score of SF-36 at weeks 4 and 6 and the Physical Functioning (PF) score of SF-36 at week 6 in the SHT group. Laboratory tests revealed no abnormalities, and serious intervention-related adverse events were not reported. ConclusionsIt is suggested that SHT can effectively treat chronic mental and physical fatigue, whereas GJD can effectively treat chronic mental and social fatigue. Furthermore, this study presents evidence supporting the safety of the long-term use of GJD and SHT (up to 4 weeks). Trial registrationThis study was registered at Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) of Korea with the registration number KCT0007515.

Sacrolumbar Interbody Fusion (SLIF): Feasibility, Technical Nuances, Biomechanical Assessment, and Clinical Outcomes.

S1-L5 transdiscal screw fixation is a direct stabilization technique used for surgical treatment of high-grade (III-IV) L5-S1 spondylolisthesis. It has not been used for nonspondylolisthetic cases or in combination with an interbody cage (IC). This study aimed to develop a novel, direct S1-L5 sacrolumbar interbody fusion (SLIF) technique, a combination of IC and sacrolumbar transdiscal screw. SLIF was tested in cadaveric, clinical, and finite element analysis settings. Three cadaveric lumbar spines were used to test the SLIF procedure before clinical application. Eight patients underwent the SLIF procedure. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by visual analog score for leg and back pain, short form 36, Oswestry disability index, and neurological examination. CT scans of the lumbar spine were used to assess the hardware placement and subsequent fusion. Finite element analysis was performed on a healthy human CT-based L5-S1 model. Intact segment, unilateral facetectomy and discectomy, SLIF, and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) procedures were compared in terms of the range of motion (ROM), von Mises stress on hardware, and shear-induced directional deformity. Additionally, the same set of tests were conducted in an osteoporotic model. Excellent hardware placement was feasible in three cadavers and eight patients. Preoperative neurological deficits improved in all patients. Statistically significant improvements were obtained on all self-reported questionnaire scores. All patients developed solid, Bridwell grade I fusions. Biomechanical testing revealed similar outcomes for TLIF and SLIF regarding the ROM. However, the screw's von Mises stress and shear-induced directional deformity were low for SLIF of healthy and osteoporotic bone. SLIF is a feasible, safe, and effective L5-S1 fusion option suitable for all clinical scenarios. It provides several biomechanical advantages, yielding excellent clinical outcomes.

Plasma proteomics discovery of mental health risk biomarkers in adolescents

An estimated 10–20% of adolescents experience mental health conditions, and most of them remain underdiagnosed and undertreated. Discovering new susceptibility biomarkers is therefore important for identifying individuals at high risk of developing mental health problems, and for improving early prevention. Here we aimed to discover plasma protein-based susceptibility biomarkers in children/adolescents aged 11–16 years at risk of developing mental health issues. Risk was evaluated on the basis of self-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) scores, and plasma proteomic data were obtained for individuals participating in the Spanish WALNUTs cohort study by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Bioinformatic analyses were performed to identify the biological processes and pathways in which the identified biomarker candidates are involved; 58 proteins were significantly associated with the SDQ score. The most prominent enriched pathways related to these proteins included immune responses, blood coagulation, neurogenesis and neuronal degeneration. This exploratory study revealed several alterations of plasma proteins associated with the SDQ score in adolescents, which opens a new avenue to develop novel susceptibility biomarkers to improve early identification of individuals at risk of mental health problems.

Mental Wellbeing among Children with Cancer during COVID-19 Pandemic in Indonesia: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Introduction Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected both physical and mental aspect of people worldwide, especially the high-risk group such as pediatric cancer patients. Children with cancer were considered both clinically and mentally vulnerable during this pandemic. They were also affected by the self-isolation, quarantine, and social distancing policy taken as a respond to public threat. Objectives To evaluate the impact of social distancing and health protocol during COVID-19 on the mental health profile of children with cancer in Indonesia. Methods A cross-sectional study evaluating the mental health of children with cancer during COVID-19 pandemic was conducted in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia from June to September 2020. An online questionnaire was used to collect demographics of parents and children, children's Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) score, and parents' Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ). SDQ score consists of five subscales, including the emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer relationships problems and prosocial behavior. Cancer types were grouped into retinoblastoma, nonretinoblastoma (other solid tumors), and leukemia. Results There were 156 valid responses, consisting of 42 patients with retinoblastoma, 34 patients with nonretinoblastoma (other solid tumors), and 80 patients with leukemia. Pandemic-related lifestyle changes did not significantly impact emotional or behavioral problems. Children with normal total SDQ (odds ratio [OR]: 473, p = 0.001) and emotional scores (OR: 3.19, p = 0.07) had parents with normal SRQ scores (&lt;6). Leukemia patients with shorter diagnosis period had worse hyperactivity score (p = 0.01). On the contrary, leukemia inpatients had better prosocial scores than outpatients (p = 0.03). More bilateral retinoblastoma patients (p = 0.04) with longer duration of cancer diagnosis (p = 0.03) faced peer problems. Conclusions Our study revealed that lifestyle changes during early COVID-19 pandemic were not major factors impacting emotional and behavioral problems in children with cancer. However, disease-related factors pose great challenges; thus, a holistic mental health support system should be available to both children and parents.

Six-Month Deep Vein Thrombosis Outcomes by Chronicity: Analysis of the Real-World ClotTriever Outcomes Registry

PurposeTo analyze the first 250 patients from the prospective, multicenter, industry-sponsored ClotTriever Outcomes (CLOUT) registry, assessing the safety and effectiveness of mechanical thrombectomy for acute, subacute, and chronic deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Materials and MethodsReal-world patients with lower extremity DVT were treated with the ClotTriever System (Inari Medical, Irvine, California). Adjuvant venoplasty, stent placement, or both were performed at the physician’s discretion. Thrombus chronicity was determined by visual inspection of removed thrombus, categorizing patients into acute, subacute, and chronic subgroups. Serious adverse events (SAEs) were assessed through 30 days. Clinical and quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes are reported through 6 months. ResultsThrombus chronicity was designated for 244 of the 250 patients (acute, 32.8%; subacute, 34.8%; chronic, 32.4%) encompassing 254 treated limbs. Complete or near-complete (≥75%) thrombus removal was achieved in 90.8%, 81.9%, and 83.8% of the limbs with acute, subacute, and chronic thrombus, respectively. No fibrinolytics were administered, and 243 (99.6%) procedures were single sessions. One (0.4%) patient in the subacute group experienced a device-related SAE, a fatal pulmonary embolism. On comparing baseline and 6-month data, improvements were demonstrated in median Villalta scores (acute, from 10 to 1; subacute, from 9 to 1; chronic, from 10 to 3; for all, P < .0001) and mean EuroQol group 5-dimension (EQ-5D) self-report questionnaire scores (acute, 0.58 to 0.89; subacute, 0.65 to 0.87; chronic, 0.58 to 0.88; for all, P < .0001). There were no significant differences in outcomes across the subgroups. ConclusionsMechanical thrombectomy using the ClotTriever System with adjunctive venoplasty and stent placement is safe and similarly effective for acute, subacute, and chronic DVT.

Prevalence of Insomnia and Associated Factors Among Medical Students Who Recovered From Acute COVID-19 Infection (P2-13.004)

<h3>Objective:</h3> This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of insomnia in medical students who recovered from acute COVID-19 infection and to evaluate the extent of its impact. <h3>Background:</h3> One of the most important health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic is the prevalence of sleep-related issues, specifically insomnia. Under normal conditions, medical students are at high risk of problems associated with poor sleep quality. For this reason, we hypothesized that sleep disturbances have the potential to be amplified in medical students who recovered from acute COVID-19 infection. <h3>Design/Methods:</h3> A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to September 2022 among medical students who had recovered from acute COVID-19 infection. Data was collected through a survey with questions on sociodemographic aspects, health habits, and COVID-19 history. Insomnia severity and subjective sleep quality were measured using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaires. <h3>Results:</h3> A total of 117 students were included in the study. Their mean age was 21.8 ± 1.96 years (ranging from 18 to 28), and 58.1% were female. 65% of medical students demonstrated some degree of insomnia (Total ISI score ≥8) further categorized as sub-threshold or mild (39.3%), moderate (24.8%), and severe (0.9%). 78.6% of the students reported some degree of sleep difficulty (PSQI ≥5). A statistically significant association was found between students with a history of symptomatic COVID and sleep quality. The correlation coefficient between the PSQI and ISI was 0.679, <i>p</i> &lt;0.001. Significant correlations were found between self-reported physical health, emotional health, and questionnaire scores. <h3>Conclusions:</h3> The prevalence of insomnia among Ecuadorian medical students that recovered from acute COVID-19 infection is significantly high. Specific interventions should be considered to provide sleep health education, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, meditation, and wellness activities to identify and manage sleep issues in medical students. <b>Disclosure:</b> Mr. Gruezo has nothing to disclose. Miss Chango has nothing to disclose. Miss Jaramillo Castro has nothing to disclose. Mr. ROSERO BASURTO has nothing to disclose. Mr. Viñan Paucar has nothing to disclose. Mr. Paredes has nothing to disclose. Mr. Jara Escobar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bejar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Jimenez Zambrano has nothing to disclose.

PD11-12 THE EFFECT OF CLOMIPHENE CITRATE ON PATIENT REPORTED OUTCOME MEASURES

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023PD11-12 THE EFFECT OF CLOMIPHENE CITRATE ON PATIENT REPORTED OUTCOME MEASURES Jessica Schardein, Kia Fendereski, Zane Randell, Soren Keihani, Joshua Horns, and James Hotaling Jessica SchardeinJessica Schardein More articles by this author , Kia FendereskiKia Fendereski More articles by this author , Zane RandellZane Randell More articles by this author , Soren KeihaniSoren Keihani More articles by this author , Joshua HornsJoshua Horns More articles by this author , and James HotalingJames Hotaling More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003251.12AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Clomiphene Citrate (CC) is a medication that can be used in hypogonadal men in lieu of testosterone to increase testosterone levels while preserving or improving fertility. Patient reported outcome measures for this medication are limited, especially regarding sexual functioning. Our objective is to assess whether self-reported changes in androgen deficiency symptoms and erectile function are observed along with changes in hormone levels and semen parameters in men taking CC. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of all patients on CC between 2014 and 2018 for hypogonadism and/or infertility. Patient characteristics including age and body mass index (BMI) along with hormone levels, semen parameters, and self-reported questionnaire scores were obtained. Patients who completed blood work for total testosterone and bioavailable testosterone, a semen analysis, and hypogonadism and erectile function questionnaires including Androgen Deficiency in Aging Male (ADAM) and Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) before and 3 months after the initiation of CC were included in the analysis. Patients with documented exogenous testosterone, human chorionic gonadotrophin, or anastrozole use were excluded. Changes in baseline and follow-up data were analyzed using paired-sample t-tests. RESULTS: A total of 97 men were identified and included in the analysis. The mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 33.7 ± 6 years and 31.2 ± 7.3 kg/m2, respectively. All patients were followed for at least 3 months. The use of CC significantly increased both mean total and bioavailable testosterone levels by 236.5 ng/dL and 115.6 ng/dL, respectively (p<0.05). Concentration, total progressive motility and morphology all significantly improved as well (p<0.05). Clinical manifestations included a significant improvement in ADAM scores (p=0.025) and no change in SHIM scores (p=0.278). CONCLUSIONS: As more men are placed on CC for hypogonadism and/or infertility, characterizing patient reported outcomes regarding androgen deficiency symptoms and erectile function are important. The medication is able to raise testosterone levels while increasing semen parameters in addition to improving self-reported hypogonadal symptoms and maintaining erectile function scores. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e337 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Jessica Schardein More articles by this author Kia Fendereski More articles by this author Zane Randell More articles by this author Soren Keihani More articles by this author Joshua Horns More articles by this author James Hotaling More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Predicting life satisfaction based on the emotion words in self-statement texts.

Measuring people's life satisfaction in real time on a large scale is quite valuable for monitoring and promoting public mental health; however, the traditional questionnaire method cannot fully meet this need. This study utilized the emotion words in self-statement texts to train machine learning predictive models to identify an individual's life satisfaction. The SVR model was found to have the best performance, with the correlation between predicted scores and self-reported questionnaire scores achieving 0.42 and the split-half reliability achieving 0.939. This result demonstrates the possibility of identifying life satisfaction through emotional expressions and provides a method to measure the public's life satisfaction online. The word categories selected through the modeling process were happy (PA), sorrow (NB), boredom (NE), reproach (NN), glad (MH), aversion (ME), and N (negation + positive), which reveal the specific emotions in self-expression relevant to life satisfaction.

An Investigation of Role of Portfolio Assessment on Students’ Achievement

Portfolio assessment has emerged as an alternative technique of assessment of students due to its noteworthy role in enhancing students’ achievement. Therefore, the present study was an attempt to develop a portfolio and further investigate the role of portfolio assessment on students’ achievement at the secondary school level students. Pupils of the ninth class were considered as the population of the research study. Two groups of ninth-class students (Control Group and Experimental Group) from a public school located in Multan were treated as a sample of the study. The targeted population consisted of 73 students. The control group students (N=42) were assessed through traditional assessment techniques, whereas the experimental group (N=31) received treatment (portfolio assessment strategy). Data were collected through the results of the first-term examination, second-term examination, third-term examination and monthly tests from September to December. All tests and results were saved in their portfolios, and later on, their achievement was assessed on the basis of recorded information in a portfolio. Test scores and self-reporting questionnaire scores were used as measures of students’ academic achievements and mean The percentage of the experimental group was 67.3%, while the control group got 52.3%. There was no significant difference between the experimental and control groups for the first term and a significant difference for the third term.

Development of an integrated fatigue measurement system for construction workers: a feasibility study

BackgroundConstruction workers working in physically and mentally challenging environments experience high levels of occupational fatigue, which is the primary cause of industrial accidents and illnesses. Therefore, it is very important to measure fatigue in real time to manage the safety and health of construction workers. This study presents a novel approach for simultaneously measuring the subjective and objective fatigue of construction workers using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and smartwatches. Due to the complexity and diversity of construction site environments, it is necessary to examine whether data collection using smartwatches is suitable in actual construction sites. This study aims to examine the feasibility of the integrated fatigue measurement method.MethodsThis study comprised two phases: (1) development of an integrated fatigue measurement system for construction workers, and (2) a validation study to evaluate the method’s feasibility based on sensor data acquisition, EMA compliance, and feedback from construction workers in the field (N = 80). Three days of biometric data were collected through sensors embedded in the smartwatches for objective fatigue measurement, including heart rate, accelerometer, and gyroscope data. Two types of self-reported data regarding each worker’s fatigue were collected through a researcher-developed EMA application. The acceptability and usability of this system were examined based on the researchers’ observations and unstructured interviews.ResultsBased on the standardized self-report questionnaire scores, participants were classified into high (n = 35, 43.75%) and low (n = 45, 56.25%) fatigue groups for comparison. The quantitative outcomes did not show a statistically significant difference between the two fatigue groups. Both groups experienced positive emotions and were able to recognize their health condition at the time of self-reporting, but stated that responding to this measurement system could be burdensome.ConclusionsThis feasibility study provides a unique understanding of the applications of EMA and smartwatches for safety management in the construction workforce. The developed measurement system shows potential for monitoring fatigue based on the real-time collection of relevant data. It is expected that by expanding this integrated system through further research and onsite application, the health and safety of construction workers can be improved.

Predicting Risk Propensity Through Player Behavior in DOTA 2: A Cross-Sectional Study.

As traditional methods such as questionnaires for measuring risk propensity are not applicable in some scenarios, a nonintrusive method that could automatically identify individuals' risk propensity could be valuable. This study utilized Defense of the Ancients 2 (DOTA 2) single match data and historical statistics to train predictive models to identify risk propensity by machine learning methods. Self-reported risk propensity scores from 218 DOTA 2 players were paired with their behavioral metrics. The best-performing model occurred with Gaussian process regression. The root mean square error of this model was 1.10, the correlation between predicted scores and self-reported questionnaire scores was 0.44, the R-squared was 0.17, and the test–retest reliability was 0.67. We discussed how selected behavioral features could contribute to predicting risk propensity and how the approach could be of potential value in the application of perceiving individuals' risk propensities. Moreover, the limitations of our study were discussed, and recommendations were made for future studies in this field.

Mobilizing digital technology to implement a population-based psychological support response during the COVID-19 pandemic in Lima, Peru.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused considerable burden on mental health worldwide. To address this emergency in Peru, Socios en Salud (SES) implemented an innovative digital system for the diagnosis and psychological therapy in vulnerable populations. We describe the development, implementation, and participant outcomes of this intervention. We conducted an intervention in a general population of Lima, Peru using a digital tool, ChatBot-Juntos, incorporating the abbreviated Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ) to screen psychological distress. Participants positive for psychological distress received remote Psychological First Aid (PFA) and grief therapy if needed. Participants with a mental health condition or safety concern were referred to mental health services. SRQ scores were collected 3 months after PFA sessions. Differences between screening and follow-up scores were compared using Wilcoxon sign-rank test. In total, 2027 people were screened; 1581 (77.9%) screened positive for psychological distress. Nine hundred ninety-seven (63%) people with psychological distress received PFA, and 320 (32.1%) of those were also referred for mental health care. At 3 months after follow-up, SRQ scores were collected for 579 (58%) participants. Significant reduction in SRQ scores was observed 3 months after PFA [median SRQ score changed from 9 to 5 (p < 0.001)], and after PFA plus referral to mental health services [median SRQ score changed from 11 to 6 (p < 0.001)]. Digital technology can be used to screen for psychological distress and deliver mental health support for populations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. More research is needed to determine whether technology contributes to improved mental health outcomes.

Socioeconomic Deprivation Index Is Associated With Psychiatric Disorders: An Observational and Genome-wide Gene-by-Environment Interaction Analysis in the UK Biobank Cohort

BackgroundPsychiatric disorders are among the largest and fastest-growing categories of the global disease burden. However, limited effort has been made to further elucidate associations between socioeconomic factors and psychiatric disorders from a genetic perspective. MethodsWe randomly divided 501,882 participants in the UK Biobank cohort with socioeconomic Townsend deprivation index (TDI) data into a discovery cohort and a replication cohort. For both cohorts, we first conducted regression analyses to evaluate the associations between the TDI and common psychiatric disorders or traits, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-harm, and depression (based on self-reported depression and Patient Health Questionnaire scores). We then performed a genome-wide gene-by-environment interaction study using PLINK 2.0 with the TDI as an environmental factor to explore interaction effects. ResultsIn the discovery cohort, significant associations were observed between the TDI and psychiatric disorders (p < 4.00 × 10−16), including anxiety (odds ratio [OR] = 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07–1.10), bipolar disorder (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.36–1.48), self-harm (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.19–1.23), self-reported depression (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.20–1.24), and Patient Health Questionnaire scores (β = .07, SE = 0.004). We observed similar significant associations in the replication cohort. In addition, multiple candidate loci were identified by the genome-wide gene-by-environment interaction study, including rs10886438 at 10q26.11 (GRK5) (p = 5.72 × 10−11) for Patient Health Questionnaire scores and rs162553 at 2p22.2 (CYP1B1) (p = 2.25 × 10−9) for self-harm. ConclusionsOur findings suggest the relevance of the TDI to psychiatric disorders. The genome-wide gene-by-environment interaction study identified several candidate genes interacting with the TDI, providing novel clues for understanding the biological mechanism of associations between the TDI and psychiatric disorders.

Seasonality, Food Insecurity, and Clinical Depression in Post-Partum Women in a Rural Malawi Setting.

We evaluate the association between food insecurity (FI) and clinical depression, and the modifying effects of seasonality on this association. Food insecurity is assessed from 175 post-partum women in the rural Ntcheu District of central Malawi using the USAID's Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS). Clinical depression is measured using a validated Chichewa version of the Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ). Interviews were conducted from October 2016 to June 2017 and spanned 5 months of the dry season (April-November) and the 4 months of rainy season (December-March). After adjusting for age and parity, participants who reported high FI (HFIAS score ≥ 9) had 4.6 (95%CI 1.8-11.4) times the odds of meeting the cut-off for clinical depression (SRQ score ≥ 8). The effect was greater during the dry season (OR 9.9; 95%CI 2.0-48.6), than in the rainy season (OR 2.6; 95%CI 0.8-8.3) though the interaction term was not statistically significant (p = 0.18) CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE: High FI is associated with diagnostic markers of clinical depression.

THE MENTAL HEALTH OF FIRST- AND FINAL-YEAR PRECLINICAL MEDICAL STUDENTS

Background: Medical students consistently have higher rates of mental health problems, these include higher levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, alongside low levels of overall health, and energy. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and the factors influencing the mental health of first- and final-year preclinical students in Unika Atma Jaya.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on all first-year preclinical students (196 respondents) and all final-year preclinical students (115 respondents) using Self Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ). Data were then analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test, chi square, and Fisher’s exact test.Results: 95 out of 196 (48.5%) of first-year students and 22 out of 115 (19.1%) of final-year students have SRQ score of ³6. Mental health of first-year students were found to be related to their religion and personal life events. Meanwhile factors affecting the mental health of final-year students were their motivation in enrolling to medical school and personal life events.Conclusion: There is a significant difference of mental health in first- and final-year students (48.5% and 19.1%). This may be related to their religion, personal life events, and their motivation in enrolling to medical school. Keywords: mental health, medical students, self reporting questionnaire

Results of an Online Survey about Food Insecurity and Eating Disorder Behaviors Administered to a Volunteer Sample of Self-Described LGBTQ+ Young Adults Aged 18 to 35 Years

BackgroundThere are few published studies addressing food insecurity and eating disorders in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning (LGBTQ+) individuals. ObjectiveThe primary objective of this study was to describe the proportion of food insecurity and eating disorder behaviors in a volunteer sample of LGBTQ+ individuals aged 18 to 35 years. DesignThis study was a cross-sectional analysis of questionnaire data collected from 253 participants between March 2018 and March 2019. Participants and settingTo be included in the study, participants had to be aged 18 to 35 years and identify as being LGBTQ+. Main outcome measuresFood security score, Eating Attitudes Test score, Eating Disorder Examination Self-Report Questionnaire score, anxiety score (Beck), and depressive symptoms score. Statistical analyses performedThe χ2 test was used to analyze the categorical outcomes. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare continuous variables across gender identity groups. All P values < 0.05 were taken as statistically significant. ResultsThe proportion of participants identifying as a woman, trans male, gender nonconforming, and a man were 39%, 24%, 24%, and 13%, respectively. Food insecurity was reported by 54.4% of respondents with trans males reporting the highest proportions (64.8%). High levels of depressive symptoms were reported by 68.2% of men, 89.8% of women, 91.4% of trans males, and 95.5% of gender-nonconforming respondents (P = 0.009). High anxiety was reported by 20.5%. Eating Disorder Examination Self-Report Questionnaire scores were significantly higher (P < 0.001) compared with a community-based sample. The eating disorder behavior most frequently reported by respondents was binge eating. Only 4.3% reported having sought treatment for an eating disorder. ConclusionsMembers of the LGBTQ+ community are at greater risk for food insecurity, eating disorders, and depression, particularly those who identify as trans males. These findings denote the need to focus future research efforts on effective prevention and treatment strategies that are specific to sexual and gender identity groups within the LGBTQ+ community.

Identifying Big Five Personality Traits through Controller Area Network Bus Data

As adapting vehicles to drivers’ preferences has become an important focus point in the automotive sector, a more convenient, objective, real-time method for identifying drivers’ personality traits is increasingly important. Only recently has increased availability of driving signals obtained via controller area network (CAN) bus provided new perspectives for investigating personality differences. This study proposes a new methodology for identifying drivers’ Big Five personality traits through driving signals, specifically accelerator pedal angle, frontal acceleration, steering wheel angle, lateral acceleration, and speed. Data were collected from 92 participants who were asked to drive a car along a pre-defined 15 km route. Using statistical methods and the discrete Fourier transform, some time-frequency features related to driving were extracted to establish models for identifying participants’ Big Five personality traits. For these five personality trait dimensions, the coefficients of determination of effective predictive models were between 0.19 and 0.74, the root mean squared errors were between 2.47 and 4.23, and the correlations between predicted scores and self-reported questionnaire scores were considered medium to strong (0.56–0.88). The results showed that personality traits can be revealed through driving signals, and time-frequency features extracted from driving signals are effective in characterizing and identifying Big Five personality traits. This approach could be of potential value in the development of in-car integration or driver assistance systems and indicates a possible direction for further research on convenient psychometric methods.