Significant Gender Disparities Research Articles

Body composition analysis using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in an Egyptian pediatric sickle cell disease cohort.

Growth failure is commonly encountered in sickle cell disease (SCD). Tissue compartment growth and development are subsequently likely to be altered in such patients. We aimed to analyze body composition in an Egyptian pediatric SCD cohort using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), one of the most comprehensive and noninvasive assessment methods available. Forty children with SCD ≤18years and 40 healthy youngsters age- and gender-matched were enrolled. Patients' demographic, clinical, and laboratory parameters were obtained from their archived files. All patients and controls were subjected to body composition assessment using a MedixDR-Whole Body DEXA System. In SCD patients; weight and height relative to age Z scores were significantly lower (p<.001), total body lean was significantly higher (p=.006), and total body fat percentage was lower, yet the difference was not statistically significant (p=.09). There were no statistically significant variations in bone mineral density or content, basal metabolic rate, subcutaneous adipose tissue, android/gynoid fat ratio, and visceral adipose tissue. There were no significant gender disparities between SCD patients and controls. Faltering growth in children with SCD should be addressed with a multidisciplinary approach including nutritional support, correction of anemia, and proper medical care. Body composition parameters assessed using DEXA were comparable between cases and controls apart from total body lean. Further clinical studies are needed with multicenter cooperation and a larger sample size to assess the usefulness of DEXA as an assessment tool for body composition in children with SCD.

Digital Competencies in Verifying Fake News: Assessing the Knowledge and Abilities of Journalism Students

Digital Competencies in Verifying Fake News: Assessing the Knowledge and Abilities of Journalism Students

Unraveling the Nexus: Emotional Abuse, Emotional Competence, Self-concept, and Academic Achievement Among Adolescents.

This research delves into the intricate relationship between emotional abuse, emotional competence, self-concept, and academic achievement among adolescents in Kashmir, with a specific focus on gender differences. Adolescence, marked by vulnerability, witnesses the profound impact of emotional abuse on cognitive, emotional, and psychological development. A comprehensive survey involving 300 high school students reveals significant gender disparities in emotional abuse experiences, emotional competence levels, self-concept, and academic achievement. Boys are shown to be more susceptible to emotional abuse, particularly in dimensions such as rejection, terrorizing, isolation, ignoring, and corruption. Conversely, girls exhibit higher emotional competence, self-concept, and academic achievement, emphasizing the role of societal and familial dynamics. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions recognizing gender-specific nuances, aiming to mitigate emotional abuse's adverse effects and foster a conducive environment for adolescents' emotional and academic well-being. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by adolescents in the context of emotional well-being and academic success.

Generative AI in Academic Research: A Descriptive Study on Awareness, Gender Usage, and Views among Pre-Service Teachers

This study investigated the engagement of Pre-Service Teachers (PSTs) with Generative AI (GAI) tools in their research projects, focusing on their awareness, source of awareness, usage pattern based on gender, and views of GAI tools in academic research. We adopted a descriptive survey method to collect data from one hundred and four PSTs across five institutions in Ghana using a five-point Likert-type survey instrument, which included an open-ended question. The quantitative data were analyzed using means, frequencies, percentages, standard deviations, and an independent samples t-test. The findings revealed that PSTs are familiar with GAI tools, especially ChatGPT and Google Bard. They learned about these tools through personal searches, recommendations from friends, and social media platforms. The PSTs used these tools in writing all chapters of their research projects, with the Introduction Chapter being the most common area of application, followed by the Discussion and Findings Chapter, the Literature Review Chapter, Methodology, and Summary and Conclusion. We also identified a significant gender disparity in the use of GAI tools, with male PSTs exhibiting a higher frequency of use compared to their female counterparts. Nonetheless, both genders expressed a positive attitude towards GAI tools in academic research, noting among other benefits that these tools provided them with confidence and independence in their research writing. However, they also recognized inaccuracies in the information provided by GAI tools, which led to skepticism about relying solely on these tools for their research projects. Consequently, they expressed a preference for support from their research supervisors, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach that combines the use of GAI tools with human supervision in academic research. While we recommend the integrating of GAI tools in teacher education programs, we strongly suggest that such integration should be complemented with comprehensive guidance on how these tools can be effectively used by PSTs to conduct original and advanced research.

THE EFFECT OF POST-HARVEST HANDLING PRACTICES ON THE QUALITY AND MARKETABILITY OF HARVESTED ONIONS IN JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the effects of post-harvest handling practices on the quality and marketability of onion in Jere Local Government Area. A total of 40 respondents who are into onion storage were selected for the study using a multi-stage sampling approach. A structured questionnaire served as the main instrument for the primary data was used while secondary data were also obtained. The analysis of the socio-economic characteristics revealed that; majority of the respondents (57.5%) fall within the age group of 36 - 45 years, emphasizing the predominance of economically active traders with an average age of 36.4 years. About 95% of respondents are males, reflecting a significant gender disparity in the onion storage sector. While education levels vary, a significant portion of respondents possess some formal education with majority 47.5% of respondents had non-formal education, this diversity highlights the potential influence of education on storage strategies and income diversification. The study reveals that most respondents (57.5%) have been involved in onion storage for 1 - 5 years, with an average of 6 years, indicating relatively low levels of experience. Challenges such as limited resources, traditional practices, and cultural factors contribute to this lack of experience. Traditional storage structures are the predominant choice, with 90% of respondents utilizing them, accompanied by a strong preference for woven sacks as packaging materials for onion storage due to their protective attributes. Various methods are employed to preserve onion freshness during storage, including floor spreading, enhanced ventilation, utilization of local stores, and other techniques. Statistical analysis reveals that onion size, proper storage, colour and firmness are found to positively influence quality of onion. Stocking size, price, packaging materials, experience and duration are found to positively influence marketability of onion. Moreover, the study underscores overwhelming support with majority 95% of respondents that support the adoption of improved post-harvest handling practices to reduce spoilage and elevate onion quality. The study concludes that the onion marketers practice on a small scale by storing onions in smaller quantity in traditional structures, using woven sacks for packaging. Size of onion, color, firmness significantly influences onion quality. Stocking size, quantity, duration significantly influence onion marketability. While the major constraints include poor handling, inadequate storage facilities and pest infestation.Key words: Post-harvest handling practices, onion, quality, marketability, Jere LGA, Borno.

Effect of blended learning approach on secondary school learners’ mathematics achievement and retention

AbstractThe study investigated how blended learning affected secondary school students’ achievement and retention in mathematics. The study used a non-equivalent control group pre-test-post-test quasi-experimental design. The participants in the study were learners drawn from two secondary schools purposively chosen. Using a simple random sampling technique, the SS 1 classes from each school were then divided into experimental and control groups. Learners in the experimental group utilised the blended learning approach, whereas those in the control group utilized the conventional method. The groups received a pretest in week 1, followed by a 4-week intervention period. A posttest was administered in week 6, and a retention test (post-post-test) occurred 4 weeks after the posttest. The Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT), which has a reliability score of 0.86, was used for data collection. Data were analysed and the study questions were reported using the mean and standard deviation, and the hypotheses were tested using analysis of covariance. Results revealed that learners tutored mathematics utilising blended learning improved their mathematics achievement and retention scores more than learners tutored utilising the conventional means. Results indicated no significant gender disparity in the mean achievement scores of learners tutored mathematics utilising blended learning. Results also showed a significant gender difference in the mean retention scores of learners who learnt mathematics using blended learning, favouring female students. Based on the findings, recommendations were made.

The effect of gender on growth performance, live weight gain, growth pattern modeling and, survival rate in Turkish native geese of the Kars region

Objective: This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the impact of gender on various aspects of growth performance in Turkish native geese, specifically in the Kars region.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: A total of 62 goslings, comprising 25 males and 37 females, were monitored over 12 weeks. The study focused on growth performance, live weight gain, survival rates, and growth pattern modeling.&#x0D; Results: The results from the two-way analysis of variance highlighted a statistically significant gender effect on growth performance (P &lt; 0.05), with males consistently exhibiting notably higher live weights during weigh-ins. Significant gender disparities were evident in growth performance both on the hatching day (P &lt; 0.01) and during weeks 6 to 12 (P &lt; 0.05). Remarkably, male geese displayed significantly higher daily live weight gains during weeks 5 to 6 (P &lt; 0.05). Linear regression analyses emphasized gender's influence on live weight gain, with female geese demonstrating an R² value of 0.9044 (P &lt; 0.001) and male geese showing an R² value of 0.8912 (P &lt; 0.001). Gompertz growth models unveiled distinctive growth patterns. In females, an R² value of 0.9300 highlighted their growth trajectory, while males exhibited an R² value of 0.9194. Survival rates after a 12-week period were 81.7% for females and 80.0% for males.&#x0D; Conclusion: In conclusion, this meticulous exploration of the impact of gender on growth trajectories underscores the significant role it plays.

Unpacking the Role of YouTube Influencers in Shaping Healthy Attitudes and Behaviors in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Social media, notably YouTube (Google LLC, Mountain View, California, United States), has transformed global communication and access to information. In Saudi Arabia, with high internet usage, YouTube influencers play a significant role in shaping health attitudes and behaviors. This study investigates the impact of YouTube influencers on health behaviors among Saudi Arabian residents, considering the unique cultural and socio-demographic context. Methods We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia. We surveyed a convenience sample of 703 young Saudi participants from September 2022 to March 2023. Data collection utilized an anonymous online questionnaire distributed via popular social media platforms. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic information, health habits, perceptions of influencers, and their impact on health attitudes. Descriptive statistics, including percentages, frequencies, means, and standard deviations, were employed to summarize participant characteristics and health-related variables. Pearson's chi-square test was utilized to compare response variables among different groups. Results Findings show significant gender disparities in health habits, with males more likely to smoke but females less physically active (p<0.01). Influencers were perceived as encouraging healthy habits by 71.7% of participants, yet 55.6% also believed they promoted unhealthy habits. Positive outcomes included dietary improvements (62.6%) and smoking cessation (20.5%). People preferred healthcare influencers the most (66.8%), followed by sports and fashion influencers. Conclusions This study highlights YouTube influencers' substantial influence on health behaviors in Saudi Arabia. It suggests the potential for influencers, especially in healthcare, to contribute positively to public health. Viewer discernment is essential due to varying influencer impacts. These findings underscore the complex role of YouTube influencers in shaping health behaviors and suggest avenues for targeted health interventions.

Assessing tobacco-related ischemic stroke in Pakistan (1990-2019): Insights from the Global Burden of Disease Study.

This study analyzes the impact of active smoking and secondhand smoke on the ischemic stroke burden of Pakistan, 1990-2019. We used data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of ischemic stroke-related indicators in Pakistan, including the number of deaths, mortality rates, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), DALY rates, and the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC). Joinpoint analysis was applied to assess sex-specific temporal trends in the burden of active smoking and secondhand smoke in Pakistan and regions of Pakistan. These assessments incorporated the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) and we have made comparative analyses of epidemiological differences between active smoking and secondhand smoke exposure. The burden of ischemic stroke related to tobacco use is presented in terms of the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and the age-standardized disability-adjusted life year rate (ASDR) per 100000 population. The results (ASMR/ASDR) for Pakistan were 6.04/130.81, in the middle SDI region 7.69/176.54, and low-middle SDI region 5.64/124.22. Pakistan's ASMR is higher than the global average of 5.85, while ASDR is lower than the global average of 140.23. From 1990 to 2019, a downward trend in both ASMR and ASDR was observed, indicating progress in controlling tobacco-related stroke burdens. Individuals aged ≥70 years experienced the highest rates of stroke (ASMR: 66.31; ASDR: 1091.20). Gender disparities were evident: men were more affected by active smoking (ASMR: 3.08; ASDR: 78.47) than women (ASMR: 0.79; ASDR: 20.76), while women faced a higher burden from secondhand smoke (ASMR: 0.66; ASDR: 16.33) compared to men (ASMR: 0.79; ASDR: 9.93). Regional differences within Pakistan show fluctuating death and DALY rates. Notably, an increasing trend in female ASDR due to secondhand smoke in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Region (annual percentage change, APC=0.17 from 2010 to 2019) calls for focused health interventions. The study finds ASMR for tobacco-related ischemic stroke in Pakistan exceeds global averages, with significant gender and age disparities in exposure to smoke, highlighting the need for targeted health interventions.

Gender Differences in Risk Preferences and Insurance Choices

Purpose: The general purpose of the study was to examine gender differences in risk preferences and insurance choices.&#x0D; Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.&#x0D; Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to gender differences in risk preferences and insurance choices. The study provided valuable insights into the complex dynamics shaping individuals' attitudes towards risk and insurance decisions. Through comprehensive analysis, it confirmed significant gender disparities in risk preferences, with men generally exhibiting higher levels of risk tolerance compared to women. Additionally, it revealed that women demonstrated a greater propensity to purchase insurance coverage, contrary to traditional stereotypes. The study emphasized the importance of considering intersectionality in understanding gender disparities in insurance access and highlighted the role of behavioral economics in influencing decision-making processes. Overall, the findings underscored the need for targeted interventions and policy initiatives to address gender-based disparities in insurance access and promote financial well-being across diverse populations.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social Role theory, Behavioural Economics and Feminist theory may be used to anchor future studies on risk preferences and insurance choices. The study made several recommendations to address gender disparities in risk management and insurance access. It suggested the development of targeted financial education programs, gender-sensitive insurance products, and regulatory measures to promote gender equality in insurance coverage. Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion within the insurance industry and continuing research to monitor progress over time. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders aimed to create more inclusive and equitable insurance markets, enhancing financial security and well-being for all individuals.&#x0D; Keywords: Gender Differences, Risk Preferences, Insurance Choices, Financial Education, Gender-Sensitive, Regulatory Measures, Diversity, Inclusion, Equity

Abstract 4799: Hidden epidemics: The gender divide in HCV and cancer screenings among the unhoused

Abstract Background &amp; Methodology: In the United States, the unhoused population experiences disproportionately higher rates of cancer incidence and mortality—double that of the general populace. Despite these startling statistics, there is a notable dearth of research on this topic within medical literature. Our medical student-led pilot study aimed to bridge this knowledge gap by evaluating the uptake of cancer screenings and identifying the barriers faced by the unhoused in Southwest Michigan. Our objective was to enhance the understanding of cancer care disparities and identify factors that hinder access to cancer screenings for this marginalized group. Utilizing questionnaires distributed in homeless shelters, we collected data on the prevalence and impediments to screenings for hepatitis C virus (HCV), and lung, breast, colon, and cervical cancers in a local community. Results: The study encompassed 143 participants, revealing that women reported a shorter median duration of homelessness (5 months) than men (18 months). The primary barriers to cancer screening were access to services and lack of awareness, rather than insurance coverage. Gender disparities were evident in HCV screening, with an overall rate of 55%; however, willingness to screen was higher among women (83%) compared to men (49%). Colon cancer screening showed no significant gender disparity, standing at 45% uptake. The prevalence of smoking was high at 78%, yet a higher proportion of men were amenable to lung cancer screening. Interestingly, Pap smear uptake surpassed national averages, while mammogram rates were below expected at 40%. Discussion &amp; Conclusion: While the discrepancies between genders may not be immediately apparent, our data shows that developing targeted interventions and tailoring the delivery of adequate cancer screenings to the unhoused require consideration of gender as a key factor. Women’s perceived barriers differ slightly from men’s, and generally-speaking, they undergo more cancer screenings per year compared with men. The reluctance among male participants to engage in HCV screening has been observed in other studies as well and as our study demonstrates, it may be related to informational barriers. Although preliminary, our findings shed light on the critical health care issues faced by the unhoused and serves as a steppingstone towards improving our understanding on their challenges in hopes of improving their health outcomes. Comprehensive research is imperative to unravel the complex causes of these gender-based discrepancies. In the interim, the implementation of a navigator social worker system could prove beneficial in facilitating the unhoused with the logistics of screening processes, overcoming transportation hurdles, and reinforcing the importance of ongoing health management. Citation Format: Talal Al-Assil, Claire Kalina, Madison Laird, Nataly Dawood, Raven Riordan, Neya Suresh Kumar, Ryan Olivier, Cheryl Dickson, Gitonga Munene. Hidden epidemics: The gender divide in HCV and cancer screenings among the unhoused [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4799.

Gender disparities and predictors of in-hospital mortality with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy

BackgroundTakotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is classically associated with significant gender disparities, such that it is more prevalent in females, but the clinical outcomes are worse for male patients. The goal of this study was to assess contemporary gender disparities in clinical outcomes of TCM hospitalizations and to determine predictors of male in-hospital mortality. MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis involving adult hospitalizations for TCM in the U.S between 2016 and 2020. Multivariable Logistic regression was used to estimate Odds Ratio (OR) for in-hospital mortality between the two genders. Univariable Cox regression was performed to identify predictors associated with in-hospital mortality for male hospitalizations. All factors from the univariable analysis with p < 0.20 were included in a multivariable Cox regression model. ResultsA total of 199,920 patients with TCM were identified. Female patients with TCM had 50% lower risk of in-hospital mortality compared to male patients (Adjusted OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.46–0.55, p < 0.001). Older age, higher Charlson comorbidity index, history of intracranial hemorrhage, cardiac arrest, need for vasopressor agents, mechanical intubation, and cardiogenic shock without the use of temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) were associated with higher in-hospital male mortality. ConclusionsAlthough TCM is more prevalent among females, gender disparities exist in the clinical outcomes of TCM patients. Cardiac arrest and cardiogenic shock without the use of temporary MCS were found to be the most significant predictors of male in-hospital mortality. Cardiogenic shock with use of temporary MCS did not lead to higher male in-hospital mortality.

Post-Operative Complications Among Patients Treated with Cystogastrostomy for Pancreatic Pseudocyst

Background: Pancreatic pseudocysts represent a clinical challenge, often resulting from pancreatitis, trauma, or surgery. Traditional management strategies have ranged from conservative treatments to surgical interventions, with varying degrees of invasiveness and associated complications. The evolution of minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic cystogastrostomy (LCG), has offered new avenues for treatment, albeit with an imperative need for a thorough understanding of their outcomes and efficacy. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the post-operative complications among patients undergoing LCG for pancreatic pseudocysts, contributing to the body of knowledge on patient outcomes and informing clinical practice. Methods: A descriptive case series was conducted at the Department of General Surgery, Lady Reading Hospital, from April 2023 to October 2023. Seventy patients with pancreatic pseudocysts, confirmed via imaging, were included. Those with previous surgeries for pseudocysts were excluded. All procedures were performed by a single experienced consultant. Post-operative complications were monitored within 24-48 hours, including anastomosis leakage, pneumoperitoneum, bleeding, and perforation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing mean and standard deviation for continuous variables, and frequencies and percentages for categorical ones. Chi-square tests were used to explore the association between gender and complications, with significance set at p&lt;0.05. Results: Among the patients, 55.7% were female, and 44.3% were male. Post-operative complications included anastomosis leakage (11.4%), pneumoperitoneum (7.1%), bleeding (18.6%), and perforation (4.3%). No significant association was found between gender and any complication (anastomosis leakage p=0.68, pneumoperitoneum p=0.25, bleeding p=0.63, perforation p=0.42). Conclusion: LCG for pancreatic pseudocysts is associated with a notable incidence of complications, including bleeding as the most common. The lack of significant gender disparity in complication rates underscores the procedure's applicability across a diverse patient demographic. These findings advocate for refined surgical techniques and patient management strategies to minimize post-operative risks, contributing to the advancement of care for individuals with pancreatic pseudocysts.

Liver Insights: Probing Molecular Signatures of Hepatitis C Patients in Hospitals of Lahore- Navigating the Clinical Landscape of Viral Infection and Organ Profiling

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health problem, leading to chronic liver diseases, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The disease burden is particularly high in developing countries, with significant gender disparities and varied outcomes across different clinical settings. Objective: The study aimed to assess the prevalence of HCV infections, analyze the clinical correlation of demographic factors with patient outcomes, and examine the age-related duration of hospital stays in a Pakistani cohort. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted on 230 symptomatic liver patients from three major hospitals in Lahore. Inclusion criteria were based on HCV-related liver conditions, excluding post-liver transplant patients. Data on viral load detections were obtained via semi-automated RT-PCR with commercially available kits. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25 and GraphPad Prism 9.0 to determine frequency distributions, cross-tabulation analyses, and Pearson correlation coefficients. Results: Out of the 230 patients, 69% (158) were male, and 31% (72) were female. Age distribution showed 36.7% (58) of males were over 60 years, and 63.3% (100) under 60 years; 55.6% (40) of females were over 45 years, with 44.4% (32) under 45 years. Most referrals came from the Pulmonary ward (35%), followed by the Surgery (30%) and Gastroenterology (20%) wards. HCV RNA detection was positive in 67% (154) of the patients. Cross-tabulation analysis indicated a mortality rate of 39% in the Pulmonary ward. A significant positive correlation (r=0.494, p&lt;0.000) was observed between patient age and days of hospital stay. Conclusion: The study demonstrates a higher prevalence of HCV in males and a notable age-related impact on the duration of hospitalization. Interdisciplinary approaches and gender-sensitive healthcare interventions are essential for effective HCV management.

Gender differences in alcohol drinking among adolescents: a school-based survey in China

BackgroundAlcohol drinking among adolescents is associated with their health development. However, the prevalence of alcohol drinking among adolescents in Southwestern China remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the...

The relationship between physical activity and the health of primary and secondary school teachers: the chain mediating effects of body image and self-efficacy

BackgroundActive health is a new concept, model, and system to maintain the state of whole-person health. In the context of the increasingly serious health problems of primary and secondary school teachers, it is of great significance to explore the relationship between physical activity and primary and secondary school teachers’ health based on the active health perspective.MethodsThe survey involving 741 primary and secondary school teachers across representative provinces in China utilized the International Physical Activity Scale, Body Imagery State Scale, and General Self-Efficacy Scale. Data analysis employed SPSS 25.0 and Amos 24.0 software.ResultsWhile no significant gender disparities were observed in body image and self-efficacy, age groups exhibited a bipartite and “V” shaped distribution. Female teachers demonstrated higher physical activity levels (2456.46) and superior physical fitness compared to males (2297.86). A positive correlation emerged between physical activity, body image, self-efficacy, and health status. Importantly, body image and self-efficacy partially mediated the relationship between physical activity and health status, accounting for 82.31% of the total effect.ConclusionsPrimary and secondary school teachers have real problems such as teachers’ physical activity is generally insufficient, teachers’ body image status is generally poor, and teachers’ self-efficacy is low; physical activity is an important factor in promoting primary and secondary school teachers’ health status, and low, medium, and high levels of activity all have a promoting effect on the health of primary and secondary school teachers, and the more active primary and secondary school teachers are in terms of physical activity, the better their body image, self-efficacy, and health status are, and the more active primary and secondary school teachers are in terms of physical activity, the more positive the physical activity, self-efficacy, and health status are. The more physically active primary and secondary school teachers are, the better their physical intention, self-efficacy and health status are.Suggestionsimprove the quality and effectiveness, promote the concept of active health among teachers; empower teachers, strengthen the institutional protection of teachers’ health; reduce the burden and increase the quantity,and optimise the supply of health services for teachers.

Evaluation of Research Productivity Among Academic Cornea, External Diseases, and Refractive Surgery Ophthalmologists Using the Relative Citation Ratio.

The purpose of this study was to provide relative citation ratio (RCR) benchmark data for cornea and external diseases specialists. This is a cross-sectional bibliometric analysis. Subjects included were fellowship-trained cornea and external diseases faculty at Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited institutions in the United States. Academic specialists were indexed using the National Institutes of Health iCite Web site. Publication count, mean RCR score, and weighted RCR score were obtained between October 2022 and January 2023 by examining PubMed-listed publications from 1980 to 2022. Data were compared by sex, career duration, academic rank, and acquisition of a Doctor of Philosophy. The main outcome measures were publication count, mean RCR value, and weighted RCR value. The cohort included 602 specialists from 112 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited institutions. These clinician-scientists produced highly impactful research with a median publication count of 15 (interquartile ranges 4-41), median RCR of 1.4 (interquartile ranges 0.91-1.88), and median-weighted RCR of 20.28 (5.3-66.69). Both academic rank and career length were associated with greater publication count and RCR values. Male sex was also associated with greater publications counts and RCR scores compared with female faculty. Acquisition of a Doctor of Philosophy was associated with greater publication counts and weighted RCR scores but no difference in mean RCR scores. Academic cornea and external diseases specialists conduct high-impact research, with a median RCR of 1.4, exceeding the NIH standard value of 1. These data provide RCR benchmark data for the field to inform self, institutional, and departmental evaluations. These results also highlight a significant gender disparity in the field necessitating efforts to increase female representation and ensure equal opportunities.

Orthopedic Team Surgeons in Major Professional Sports: An Analysis of Affiliation With the Top 10 Sports Medicine Fellowship Programs and Implications for Leadership and Diversity.

This paper examines the correlation between orthopedic team surgeons in major professional sports and their affiliation with the top 10 sports medicine fellowship programs. With a growing trend in post-residency fellowship training, particularly in sports medicine, the study focuses on the implications of fellowship program choice for aspiring major professional sports team physicians. By analyzing data from Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Football League (NFL), and the National Hockey League (NHL), the research reveals that 61 of 124 (49.19%) team surgeons graduated from the top 10 sports medicine fellowship programs. The results identify a noticeable pipeline effect in professional sports, where teams often hire graduates from a select number of esteemed fellowship programs. The study suggests that choosing a fellowship program from the top 10 list may enhance the prospects of becoming a major league team surgeon. Additionally, our results found a significant gender disparity among team surgeons, with only two (1.6%) of all major professional team physicians being women. Thisemphasizes the imperative for diversity improvement in orthopedic sports medicine. In conclusion, the research underscores the impact of top-tier fellowship programs on professional team surgeons, with implications for aspiring sports medicine physicians and a call for addressing gender disparities.

Demographic Dynamics in Investment Behavior: A Comprehensive Study on Gender, Occupation, and Financial Decision-Making Patterns

This study explores the intricate interplay between demographic factors, specifically gender and occupation, and various dimensions of investment behavior. A significant gender disparity in participation is acknowledged, emphasizing the need for equitable representation in financial research. The majority of participants perceive their investment knowledge as "Intermediate," underscoring a moderate level of confidence. The study investigates information sources, decision-making preferences, portfolio review frequencies, financial goals, and preferred investment types, unraveling nuanced patterns across genders and occupations. Findings reveal a shared reliance on "Financial News" and "Professional Advice" for investment decisions, with notable gender-based differences. Preferences for independent decision-making or financial advisor assistance exhibit balanced distributions. Weekly portfolio reviews emerge as a common practice, particularly in service occupations. "Wealth Accumulation" stands out as the dominant financial goal, though gender and occupation nuances surface. The most prevalent investment type is "Stock &amp; Mutual Funds," with variations by gender and occupation. The study concludes by offering recommendations for tailoring communication strategies, enhancing educational initiatives, adopting client-centric approaches, and aligning products and services with diverse investor goals and preferences. By shedding light on these demographic dynamics, the study provides actionable insights for financial institutions, advisors, and policymakers seeking to better understand and serve the diverse needs of investors in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

Global, regional, and national burden and quality of care index (QCI) of oral disorders: a systematic analysis of the global burden of disease study 1990–2017

BackgroundOral disorders are still a major global public health challenge, considering their perpetuating and chronic nature. Currently, there is no direct index to measure the quality of care on a population scale. Hence, we aim to propose a new index to measure the quality of care for oral disorders worldwide.MethodsWe generated our database using the data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2017. Among different variables such as prevalence, incidence, years lived with disability, and disability-adjusted life years, we utilised principal component analysis (PCA) to determine the component that bears the greatest proportion of information to generate the novel quality of care index (QCI) for oral disorders.ResultsGlobal QCI for oral disorders gradually increased from 1990 to 2017 (from 70.5 to 74.6). No significant gender disparity was observed during this period, and the gender disparity ratio (GDR) was considered optimal in 1990 and 2017. Between 1990 and 2017, the age-standardised QCI for all oral disorders increased in all the SDI regions. The highest QCI for all oral disorders in 2017 belonged to high-middle SDI countries (=80.24), and the lowest YLDs rate was seen in the low SDI quintile. In 1990, the quality of care in European, Central Asian, and Central and South American countries was in the lowest quintiles, whereas the North American, East Asian, Middle Eastern, and some African countries had the highest quality of dental care. Maynmar (=100), Uganda (=92.5), Taiwan (=92.0), China (=92.5), and the United States (=89.2) were the five countries with the highest age-standardised QCI. Nicaragua (=41.3), Belgium (=40.2), Venezuela (=38.4), Sierra Leone (=30.5), and the Gambia (=30.3) were the five countries with the least age-standardised QCI values.ConclusionThe quality of care for all oral disorders showed an increasing trend on a global scale from 1990 to 2017. However, the QCI distribution was not homogenous among various regions. To prevent the exacerbation of imminent disparities in this regard, better attention to total tooth loss in high-income countries and prioritising primary healthcare provision in low-income countries are recommended for oral disorders.