Significant Population Research Articles

Euroscepticism in the Russian-Speaking Community of Estonia: Modern Trends and Prospects

The attitude of Russian-speaking people living in the Republic of Estonia towards the processes of European integration has undergone some transformation since the restoration of Estonia’s independence in 1991 to the present day. A significant part of the representatives of national minorities in this state governed by Eurooptimistic political elites is attributed to a quite widespread Euroscepticism. This article is an attempt to analyze the features of Eurosceptic views among the modern large Russian-speaking community of Estonia, as well as to assess the extent of the spread of Eurosceptic ideas there. A typical portrait of a Eurosceptic Russian-speaking voter in Estonia is addressed, especially one who lives in areas of compact settlement of Russian speakers in this state. A circle of Eurosceptic parties in Estonia has been identified that have influenced the attitude of Russian-speaking residents of Estonia towards the EU. The content of the Eurosceptic beliefs of the Russian-speaking voter is revealed. The reasons for the traditional popularity of Eurosceptic ideas among the Russian- speaking population are determined, as well as the extent of anti-EU sentiment in the Russian-speaking community of Estonia. A number of factors have been identified that traditionally influence the sustainability of Euroscepticism in regions of Estonia with a significant Russian-speaking population. It is concluded that if in the 1990s an impressive part of the Russian-speaking residents experienced neutral or even Euro-optimistic sentiments ( largely due to their unfulfilled hopes for a qualitative improvement in their discriminatory situation after Estonia joined the EU), then while they gradually discovered that no radical transformations were expected (largely due to Brussels’ reluctance to put appropriate pressure on Tallinn), their generally pro-EU position transformed into Euroscepticism. The paper concludes that currently the Euroscepticism of the Russian-speaking population of Estonia is characterized by a trend towards a relative stabilization of the Eurosceptic sentiments of voters. The author using institutional and discursive methods makes a forecast on the future development of Eurosceptic sentiments among Russian-speaking residents in the medium term.

Assessing the impact of environmental education in a critical orangutan landscape in West Kalimantan, Indonesia.

Gunung Palung National Park (GPNP) and the surrounding region in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, host a significant population of Critically Endangered Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus wurmbii) amidst various conservation challenges, including habitat destruction, the illegal pet trade, and human-wildlife conflict. The Gunung Palung Orangutan Conservation Program (GPOCP) employs diverse strategies, including environmental education, to address these challenges. Environmental education helps to connect local students with conservation efforts, educate them about endangered endemic species, and highlight the relationship between human behavior and ecosystem health. Environmental education is critical in fostering sustainable behaviors and raising awareness about conservation issues, particularly in areas where human activities threaten primate biodiversity. Such programs can promote long-term conservation outcomes by engaging communities and empowering individuals to take action. Here, we review the effectiveness of GPOCP's environmental education initiatives, focusing on school visits conducted between 2016 and 2023 that concentrated on orangutan conservation. We analyze data from standardized pre- and post-activity surveys administered to students participating in puppet shows and lectures. Results indicate a substantial increase in knowledge and positive shifts in attitudes toward orangutan conservation among students. However, challenges remain in evaluating long-term behavioral changes and the relative contribution of different conservation interventions. Future efforts will explore tailored educational approaches and impact assessments to enhance conservation outcomes and foster community engagement in safeguarding Bornean orangutans and their habitat.

The Risk of Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever in India as a Growing Health Concern.

Every year witnesses an outbreak of some or the other zoonotic disease that causes the unparalled loss of human life. The year 2022 presented the outbreak of Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF), which brought unprecedented challenges to individuals as well as to the healthcare system all around the world, making it a serious health concern. Rising health concerns have highlighted the importance of managing and decreasing the further transmission of the CCHF virus. CCHF is one of tick-borne viral diseases, which spreads due to various reasons like changes in global warming, environmental influences, and other ecological factors. All these factors somehow impact the disease prevalence. This disease has a negative impact on both humans and livestock. The diverse climate and significant livestock population of India make it susceptible to the prevalence of CCHF. Therefore, it is the need of the hour to develop some strategies in order to tackle the challenges posed by CCHF. This article includes all the cases of CCHF that have occurred in India from the year 2011, along with the fatality rates associated with this disease. Also this study discusses the need to explore some specific drugs for the management and prevention of such diseases. In addition, the pathogenesis of the disease progression, along with some protective measures suggested by the government has been described for prevention of CCHF. Subsequently, this article attempted to draw attention towards the risk that may be posed by CCHF in the coming scenario, emphasizing the importance of taking proactive measures in anticipation of such risks.

Pasture and diurnal temperature are key predictors of regional Plains Spotted Skunk (Spilogale interrupta) distribution.

The Plains Spotted Skunk (Spilogale interrupta) is a small carnivore native to central North America that has experienced significant population reductions, and there is a lack of information about the species that could inform conservation. Our study aimed to address knowledge gaps about the distribution and habitat associations of the species in South Dakota using species distribution modeling. We used species location data collected from state natural resource managers, trappers, and members of online social media groups dedicated to hunting and wildlife conservation; environmental predictors; and 6 predictive modeling algorithms (i.e., artificial neural networks, artificial classification tree analysis, generalized boosting models, maximum entropy, multivariate adaptive regression splines, and random forests) to develop climate and landcover ensemble distribution models. The most important climate and landcover predictors were mean temperature diurnal range (i.e., average monthly differences between daily high and low temperatures) and proportion of area classified as pasture. Ensemble model concordance identified approximately 31,300 km2 of potential Plains Spotted Skunk habitat primarily in eastern South Dakota and between the watersheds of the Missouri and James rivers. Our results offer insights that can guide conservation and inform effective management strategies for conserving Plains Spotted Skunk populations in the northern Great Plains. The promotion of low-intensity agricultural practices such as maintaining pastures, farm buildings, fences rows, and the management of woodland encroachment may improve habitat suitability and facilitate the recovery of plains spotted skunks in the region.

COVID-19 Vaccines: A Comprehensive Review of Development, Action Mechanisms, and Global Implications

: The fast spread of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus pandemic virus, across the world presents a significant population health dilemma. Various protective measures were adopted to address this worldwide health crisis, and among those, the production of vaccines is of paramount importance. This review focuses on the prominent vaccines developed against the pandemic virus during the ongoing worldwide outbreak. The mechanisms of action for each vaccine resemble that of Pfizer's comirnaty in the United States of America, Moderna vaccine in the United States of America, and AstraZeneca's adenovirus-based vaccine developed by the UK's Oxford-based university. The demand for vaccines to counter pandemic corona virus, the pathogen behind COVID-19, is imperative. These vaccines, including those from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and AstraZeneca, are poised to play a pivotal role in addressing the urgent global need. This review seeks to offer an allencompassing perspective of the COVID-19 pandemic, including its epidemiology, transmission, advancements in treatment, vaccines, as well as the genetic variability and life cycle of the pandemic coronavirus, relying on the latest research in conjunction with available data.

Asymmetrical distribution of 1–20 km craters on the Moon

Previous studies have provided evidence for the synchronous rotation induced cratering asymmetry on lunar surface through numerical simulations and statistical analysis of a limited number of fresh craters. In this study, we reevaluated cratering asymmetry in lunar highland from (70°W, 60°N) to (70°E, 60°S) region using a new crater catalogue with diameters (D) ranging from 1 to 20 km. By utilizing a depth-to-diameter (d/D) ratio constraint to exclude the interference of degraded and secondary craters, we observed significant asymmetry in craters with d/D > 0.15. Moreover, leveraging the characteristic that larger diameter craters (D > 7 km) are less susceptible to degradation, we observed a more pronounced asymmetry with increasing diameter. Particularly, impact craters with larger D and d/D ratios (D > 7 km, d/D > 0.15) displayed an asymmetrical longitudinal distribution, aligning with predictions from the theoretical model. In the diameter range of 10 km–20km, for craters with d/D > 0.15, we observed that new crater influx occurring after 4.0 Ga years ago contributed little to this particular crater population. Therefore, we suggest that the cratering asymmetry was already present before 4.0 Ga. Due to the non-uniform ejecta from the Orientale Basin onto the highland regions, a significant number of smaller impact craters (1–5 km) have degraded or disappeared in the leading region, thereby diminishing the manifestation of the cratering asymmetry. The pronounced asymmetry exhibited in our statistical results might suggest the existence of a significant population of low-velocity impactors in early impact period (>4Ga) around the cis-lunar space.

A Scoping Review of Observational Research on Cannabis Use for Symptom Management in HIV and Cancer: Implications for Cannabis Nursing.

People with HIV have a higher risk of developing non-AIDS-defining cancers in older age, leading to a significant population living with two conditions, HIV and cancer. There is an increasing interest in cannabis use for symptom management in people with chronic conditions; in 2023, the American Nurses Association officially recognised cannabis nursing as a specialty nursing practice focusing on the care of individuals seeking education/guidance in the therapeutic use of cannabis, supporting the urgency of its research. However, the scientific literature lacks a synthesised review in the focused populations. To explore observational research on cannabis use for symptom management among people with HIV and/or cancer and identify gaps in current knowledge to inform future research and policy development. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist, a literature search of relevant articles was conducted in the databases PubMed (n = 552), PsycInfo (n = 204), CINAHL (n = 164) and Embase (n = 976). Upon screening 1738 articles, 142 were identified for full-text review and 51 were retained for data extraction. There were more studies evaluating cannabis use among people with cancer than with HIV and no studies among people living with comorbid HIV and cancer. Most studies were cross-sectional with limited metrics on the perceived effectiveness and safety of cannabis use for symptom management and its dosing/mode of delivery for reducing symptoms. While studies focused on cannabis therapy under the provision of healthcare providers, individuals reported obtaining information about cannabis from friends/family/the Internet. This body of research could be strengthened by rigorous longitudinal study designs to build causal relationships on the therapeutic effects of cannabis use and the inclusion of reliable and valid symptom assessment measures over time, which facilitates developing clinical practice guidance and policymaking in cannabis nursing. No patient or public contribution.

Novel polyomavirus in the endangered garden dormouse Eliomys quercinus

BackgroundThe garden dormouse (Eliomys quercinus) has experienced a significant population decline across Europe in recent decades. While habitat loss and climate change are often cited as primary factors, pathogen exposure, either to novel or to previously known, may play a role in such a decline. This study aimed to investigate the presence of polyomaviruses in garden dormice, given that these viruses are highly prevalent and can cause disease, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.MethodsThe carcasses of garden dormice (n = 89) were collected throughout Germany. Kidney samples were tested for the presence of polyomavirus DNA using nested degenerate and specific diagnostic PCRs. Seroprevalence was assessed from chest cavity fluid samples through an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using polyomavirus VP1 virus-like particles produced in yeast.ResultsA new polyomavirus, related to chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) polyomaviruses 4 and 5 and human Merkel cell polyomavirus, was identified in the garden dormouse. Two 5,380 bp-length complete viral genomes were sequenced from dormice kidney samples (sequences PQ246041 and PQ246042). Genes encoding the putative structural proteins VP1, VP2, and VP3, as well as the Large, Middle, and small T antigens, containing conserved functional domains were identified. Polyomavirus DNA was detected in 2 of 74 dormice (2.7%, 95% confidence interval: 0-6.4%) through PCR, while 12 of 69 animals (17.4%, 95% confidence interval: 8.4-26.3%) tested positive for polyomavirus-specific antibodies.ConclusionsIn conclusion, here we describe a novel polyomavirus in the garden dormouse with molecular and serological detection. Pairwise sequence comparison and phylogenetic analysis suggest that this novel virus may represent a novel species within the genus Alphapolyomavirus. Future work should examine if this virus is garden dormouse-specific and whether it is associated with disease in dormice.

Topological Frustration Triggers Ultrafast Dynamics of Monolayer Water Confined in Graphene Slit Pores.

Nanoconfined water exhibits astonishing properties that offer new opportunities in physics, biology and technology like energy-storage applications. Here we study such nanoconfined water using ab initio molecular dynamics simulations to elucidate the structure and dynamics of water monolayers in graphene-based slit pores. The significant population of dangling (or free) O-H bonds pointing toward the two confining walls, leads to topological frustration in the hydrogen bond network. This provides a novel channel for ultrafast diffusion distinct from what has been observed in bulk or interfacial water.

Monitoring the Mental State of the Elderly in the Community Based on Machine Learning

The rapid aging of the population has brought increasing attention to the mental health of elderly individuals. This study focuses on the mental well-being of elderly residents in several communities in Beijing. Through comprehensive surveys conducted in key communities with significant elderly populations, this paper gathered data to assess their mental health status. Subsequently, this paper employed various machine learning models, including Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, and XGBoost, to classify and predict mental health outcomes. The findings of this paper indicate that the Random Forest model outperformed the other models in accurately identifying mental health issues. Key predictors included factors such as whether the individual had received psychological counseling, age, social support, physical health status, and frequency of social interactions. This study provides empirical evidence that can guide healthcare providers and policymakers in developing more effective mental health management strategies for the elderly.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) towards pulmonary nodules among Chinese adults: a mediation analysis

The management of pulmonary nodules involves self-management. This study, conducted in China between September and October 2022, explored the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) towards pulmonary nodules among Chinese adults. The participants were enrolled through convenience sampling when they visited the hospital. The KAP questionnaire was developed by the investigators. Participants who received scores of ≥ 75% of the total score for each dimension were defined as good or positive, 50–75% as moderate, and ≤ 50% as poor or negative. A total of 1209 participants, with an average age of 38.7 years, completed a self-administered online questionnaire. The knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 5.95 ± 3.54/12, 29.05 ± 4.04/40, and 23.72 ± 6.08/45, respectively, indicating poor knowledge, moderate attitude, and moderate practice regarding pulmonary nodules. The multivariable analyses showed significant associations among knowledge, attitudes, and practice. The mediation analysis indicated that knowledge, education, income, smoking habits, and awareness of pulmonary nodules influenced participants’ practices. In conclusion, a significant population of adults in China had inadequate knowledge, attitude, and practice towards pulmonary nodules. Sufficient knowledge was associated with appropriate practices toward pulmonary nodules. Therefore, health education programs aimed at improving knowledge about pulmonary nodules may be helpful for encouraging appropriate attitudes and maintaining healthy practices.

SNIPEFISH (MACRORAMPHOSUS SPP.) ABUNDANCE AND TROPHIC DYNAMICS IN RESPONSE TO UPWELLING REGIME IN THE ATLANTIC REGION FROM CAPE BLANC TO CAPE BOUJDOR (20°50 N TO 26°00 N)

Purpose: The objective of this study is to to deepen the understanding of the trophic behavior of the snipefish through an analysis of its diet in relation to the pelagic ecosystem's parameters. Theoretical Framework: Two sympatric species of snipefish have shown significant population increases on the continental shelf of the northern sub-region of the Canary Current upwelling system during intermittent periods in the 1970s, 1990s, and again over the past five years. Method: Between 2018 and 2021, we collected samples to analyze the stomach contents of snipefish and measure zooplankton size. Trophic indices were calculated to characterize the feeding habits of the species. To examine potential affinities between hydrological and biological parameters in snipefish distribution areas, we applied Principal Component Analysis (PCA), a statistical method that clarifies relationships between these two data matrices. Results and Discussion: The results obtained reveal a significant correlation between the range of engulfed prey through the snout of the snipefish and the size of zooplankton available and accessible on the continental shelf. The trophic strategy of the snipefish seems attesting to a case of a species responding to a marine ecosystem subject to hydrological disturbances generated by the level of the upwelling’s intensity. Research Implications: this research will contribute to the current understanding regarding the resurgence of snipefish in the northern sub-region of the Canary Current upwelling ecosystem. Originality/Value: This study contributes to understanding the snipefish's trophic strategy and its responses within a marine ecosystem affected by hydrological disturbances caused by the intensity of upwelling.

Molecular and In Silico Analysis of the CHEK2 Gene in Individuals with High Risk of Cancer Predisposition from Türkiye.

Background and Objectives:Checkpoint kinase 2 (CHEK2) is a tumor suppressor gene involved in DNA repair and cell cycle regulation. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in CHEK2 are associated with increased cancer risk. Conversely, recent large cohort studies have identified certain variants that, despite being classified as P/LP by in silico analysis, are considered low risk. Thus, the genotype-phenotype correlations of CHEK2 require a better understanding. In this study, we aimed to characterize germline CHEK2 variants from a group of individuals who applied to cancer genetic clinics in the Marmara Region of Türkiye. We also aimed to assess the phenotypic impacts of these variants by using a new score of statistically significant in silico predictors (SSIPs). Methods: We analyzed 1707 individuals with high risk cancer predisposition, focusing on germline CHEK2 variants, using SSIP scores and population-specific data. Results:CHEK2 variants appeared in approximately 8% of cases. The SSIP scores indicated that the missense mutation, p.Arg117Gly, significantly impairs DNA repair. Almost half of the variants had higher allele frequencies than the variants listed in the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD), and three variants had significantly higher frequencies compared to the variants listed on the Turkish Variome database (p.Thr476Met, p.Arg137Gln, c.592+3A>T), emphasizing the importance of population-specific data. Conclusions: This comprehensive analysis of CHEK2 variants in the Turkish population provides crucial insights for cancer geneticists and oncologists. Our findings will help to enhance the evaluation and management of cancer predisposition associated with CHEK2 in Türkiye and other regions that have significant Turkish populations.

Burden of gastrointestinal cancers among adolescent and young adults in Asia-Pacific region: trends from 1990 to 2019 and future predictions to 2044

Background Gastrointestinal cancer is a significant cause of cancer incidence and mortality. Nevertheless, the epidemiology of the burden among adolescents and young adults (AYAs, aged 15–39 years) remains limited in the Asia-Pacific region, despite the region’s significant population. This study aims to explore the gastrointestinal cancer burden among AYAs in the Asia-Pacific region for the year 2019, while also analysing trends from 1990 to 2019 and projecting future trends up to 2044. Methods Annual case numbers, age-standardized rates of incidence, death, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) and their estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) for gastrointestinal cancers were derived from the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019. Trends over the next 25 years have also been predicted. Results In 2019, there were 117,714 incident cases, 61,578 deaths and 3,483,053 DALYs due to gastrointestinal cancers in the Asia-Pacific region, accounting for 68.5%, 67.6% and 72.4%, respectively, of global gastrointestinal cancers in this population. The highest age­standardized rates occurred in countries with a middle Socio-demographic Index. From 1990 to 2019, there was a decline in the age-standardized rates of incidence, death and DALY attributed to gastrointestinal cancers, with EAPC of −1.10, −2.48 and −2.44, respectively. These rates are expected to stabilize over 25 years, with notable variations in individual gastrointestinal cancers. Conclusions Gastrointestinal cancers among AYAs in the Asia-Pacific region have posed a significant burden over the past 30 years and are expected to persist in the coming years.

Microsatellite based molecular characterization of Nattukuttai- a unique short statured Bos indicus cattle population of southern India.

Molecular characterization was conducted to characterise 'Nattukuttai', a native cattle population of the north-eastern agro-climatic zone of Tamil Nadu (India), using thirty microsatellite markers. The analyses revealed a high level of genetic diversity, with a total of 294 alleles observed across all the loci, averaging 9.8 alleles per locus. The allele sizes ranged from 83bp to 302bp, with frequencies ranging from 0.010 to 0.875. The microsatellite markers demonstrated high polymorphism, as indicated by an average polymorphic information content (PIC) of 0.763. Deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed in a significant number of loci, indicating possible genetic influences such as selection or population structure. Bottleneck analysis suggested that the Nattukuttai population did not undergo any recent significant population contraction. Comparative analyses with three other cattle populations (Kangayam, Malai Madu, and Malnad Gidda) revealed varying genetic distances. Nattukuttai showed a distinct genetic profile, diverging from a common source that also gave rise to the Kangayam and Malai Madu clusters. Multivariate statistical analyses and phylogenetic reconstruction supported the genetic differentiation of Nattukuttai from the other populations, while Malai Madu and Kangayam were found to be genetically closer to each other. Overall, these findings provide insights into the genetic structure and relationships of the Nattukuttai cattle population, highlighting its distinct genetic identity and potential conservation significance.

Exploring the attitudes and experiences of Hungarian primary care physicians on the utilisation of digital health solutions

BackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, digital health solutions ensured the continuity of care especially in primary healthcare practices. COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of digital health solutions. The aim of this study is to describe the digital health-related attitudes and experiences of Hungarian Primary Care Physicians (PCPs) and also analyse the socio-demographic effects on digital health attitudes among PCPs.MethodsThis study used a quantitative and qualitative mixed methodological approach to examine the digital health-related attitudes and experience of Hungarian PCPs. As part of the "E-physicians and E-patients in Hungary" survey, we conducted an online survey among medical doctors working in Hungary between July 2021 to May 2022. A total of 1,774 questionnaires were received, consisting of 1,576 medical doctors and 198 dentists. Among the medical doctors there were 415 primary care physicians (PCPs). In addition to the online questionnaire survey, qualitative research in the form of semi-structured interviews with doctors was also conducted. These interviews took place between October 2021 and June 2022. A total of 62 interviews were conducted,19 with PCPs.ResultsPrimary care physicians are more open to technologies that facilitate communication and collaboration with patients, while showing less interest in technologies that support clinical work. Of the demographic variables (age, gender, type of settlement), age was found to have the most significant effect on digital health knowledge, use and intended use. Both the interviews and the multivariate analysis indicate that individuals with greater knowledge, expertise, and experience are more likely to perceive the advantages of digital solutions. This highlights the importance of training, especially given the significant aging population among Hungarian primary care physicians, who may not be accustomed to using these tools naturally. The way PCPs perceive patient expectations regarding the use of digital health tools has a significant impact on the PCPs’ use and intended use of digital tools. When looking at perceived patient needs among PCPs the effect of age and municipality type of PCPs is significant. As age increases, the perception of patient needs decreases (from 5.02 to 4.47), and by municipality type, the average number of perceived needs decreases as one moves from larger cities to smaller municipalities (from 4.85 to 4.14).ConclusionsDigital health solutions have the potential to enhance the work of PCPs, but successful implementation requires addressing specific needs, demographic differences, and challenges faced by PCPs. Development of infrastructure, education, and institutional support is necessary to ensure more efficient and higher-quality healthcare delivery through the use of digital technologies.

Not Indian, Not African: Classifying the East African Asian Population in Aotearoa New Zealand

This paper explores the challenges of measuring and classifying the East African Asian population in Aotearoa New Zealand. As a particularly diverse country, New Zealand has a significant and varied population of immigrants from South Asia, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, along with immigrants of South Asian origin, from Fiji, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and East Africa. New Zealand’s system of ethnic classification relies on self-identification, with a broad definition of ethnicity encompassing heritage, ancestry, culture, language and feelings of belonging. However, the collection of this information at a granularity that enables detailed analysis is constrained for the South Asian population, regardless of origin or identification. People are typically presented with the choice of selecting “Indian” ethnicity as a tick box, or providing ethnicities under “Other” as write-in descriptors, which in turn are coded to a limited set of categories within the classification being used. This practice potentially conceals a diversity of ethnicities, which can only partially be hinted at by responses to questions relating to religions, languages and birthplaces, especially for second or third-generation descendants of migrants. Ethnic classification at the highest level, moreover, includes East African Indians as Asian, rather than African, reflecting diasporic heritage as a shorthand for ancestry and overlooking the relevance of layers of identity associated with the double diaspora. Drawing on Peter J. Aspinall’s work on collective terminology in ethnic data collection and categorizing the “Asian” ethnic group in the UK, this paper looks at the overlaps and disconnects between heritage, ethnicity and national belonging in classifying less clearcut identities. We explore the strengths and limitations of New Zealand’s self-identification approach to ethnic identity, and query what exactly is being asked of groups on the margins: when self-identification does not match external perception, are we looking for geographic, cultural, or genetic origins? A focus on the East African Asian population in Aotearoa highlights the complexity of identity for diasporic groups with distant ancestral links with India, as lived experience of cultural connection extends far beyond the bounds of ethnicity, language and even ancestry.

Social aspects of rehabilitation of the Bryansk region settlements affected by the Chernobyl NPP accident

Relevance. Currently, in the south-west of the Bryansk region, the settlements most affected by the Chernobyl NPP accident show the radiation exposure of about 30 % of the natural level without causing any negative impact on health. However, the settlements are still facing severe social challenges. Throughout the timespan after the Chernobyl accident, significant population decline has been observed in these settlements. Over the past 20 years, the number of residential settlements in the south-west districts of the Bryansk region has decreased by 22 % and the number of residents by 16%. Considering the long-lasting consequences of the Chernobyl disaster, social protection of the accident affected population and the development of radioactively contaminated areas remains relevant so far.The objective is to assess the current demographic situation in the Bryansk region southwestern settlements, most affected by the Chernobyl NPP accident, as well as to justify the shortage of social infrastructure required to ensure the settlements return back to normal conditions.Methods. The study analyses current social problems, including demographics and infrastructure in the five southwestern districts of the Bryansk region, most affected by the Chernobyl NPP accident.Results and discussion. In 2023, the southwestern districts of the Bryansk region included 72 residential settlements (71 rural and the town of Novozybkov) with an average annual effective radiation dose of population exposure above 1 mSv. The total registered population of the settlements is 63,869 people. The share of rural and urban population is 39 and 61 %, respectively. A difficult demographic situation was noted in the populated areas of the Chernobyl accident zone. Thus, the share of persons under working age (0–15 years) does not exceed 17 % of the total population. Social infrastructure demands were assessed to ensure wellbeing of the population in the Bryansk region districts, most affected by the Chernobyl NPP accident.Conclusion. In the rural settlements where the population is exposed to an average annual effective radiation dose above 1 mS, assessment and audit of the existing social infrastructure is required with follow-up efforts to eliminate the shortages, if any, to comply with modern norms and standards.

Abstract 4136995: Veterans Affairs (VA) Lipid Optimization Reimagined Quality Improvement Program (VALOR-QI) in Veterans with Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) at the San Juan VA

ASCVD is the principal cause of morbidity and mortality for Veterans in the VA Healthcare System. San Juan VA is one of 50 VA sites participating in a national quality improvement initiative called the VALOR QI: VA Lipid Optimization Reimagined Quality Improvement Project. Is a collaborative project between the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the American Heart Association (AHA) with the goal of positively impacting Veterans’ cardiovascular (CV) health. VA sites work with an AHA QI consultant to develop and deploy a local quality improvement plan to help overcome site specific barriers preventing Veterans from achieving optimal cholesterol levels. The program’s objectives include improving clinical pathways and processes to impact ASCVD management through a Learning Healthcare System model of quality improvement designed to improve the management of dyslipidemia among those with high-risk ASCVD. The hypothesis is that patients who are part of the VALOR QI program will be more successful in reaching LDL-C target. This will help to reduce the risk of ASCVD and mortality for the patients, promoting better management of lipid levels through medications, diet and regular monitoring. As part of the methodology, the patients are enrolled to the program using the criteria of Veterans > 18 years of age with diagnosis of ASCVD and LDL-C > 70 mg/dl or non-HDL > 100 mg/dl. The Healthcare Coach has a full track of their lipid medications, assists the patients with refills, provides educational materials, follows up with their clinical appointments, and emphasizes the importance of having a good compliance with therapy, appointments and diets to maintain the target of LDL-C. Once the patient starts with a new lipid medication, they are followed in 3 months with labs. After reaching the target the patient is followed up closely in 6 months with labs to prevent relapse. The VALOR QI Program started at VA San Juan in June 2023 and, as of May 30, 2024, had directly engaged 282 Hispanic patients. 111 (39.4%) achieved target LDL-C; 268 (95%) have any statin use; 117 (41.5%) are on any non-statin lipid-lowering therapy (LLT); 116 (41%) are on statin plus LLT; 25 (8.9%) are on PCSK9, and 133 (47.2%) received educational materials. In conclusion, this initiative led to target LDL levels in 39% of patients which represents a significant population. As this program is further implemented in our institution, we expect improvement in patient outcomes and prognosis.

Assessing the Adoption and Utilization of Drip Irrigation Technology among Tapioca Farmers in Thuraiyur Taluk, Tiruchirappalli District, Tamil Nadu, India

Aims: The study examines the adoption and utilization of drip irrigation technology among tapioca farmers in Thuraiyur taluk, Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu. Study Design: An ex-post-facto research design is used to collect data from 90 farmers across four villages. Place and Duration of Study: Thuraiyur taluk, Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu. The study has been conducted for a period of six months (April – September, 2024) Methodology: Out of the district’s eleven taluks, Thuraiyur had the highest number of tapioca farmers, making it ideal for this study. Four villages—Naganallur, Settikadu, Sobanapuram and Koppampatti—were chosen from Thuraiyur taluk for their significant tapioca cultivation and large farmer populations. A stratified random sampling method is used to select participants. The primary data are collected through structured questionnaires and personal interviews with farmers. Secondary data are obtained from relevant literature, reports and government records. The dependent variables are the adoption level of drip irrigation and the extent to which the farmers use the drip irrigation technology. Descriptive statistics mean, percentage and frequency distribution are used in the study. Results: Findings reveal that the majority of farmers (82.22%) demonstrated medium to high adoption of drip irrigation technology. Key practices like checking the workability of the foot valve and maintaining pipeline fittings are widely adopted, while more advanced techniques such as fertigation showed lower adoption levels. Drip irrigation was used universally for water management, with 87.80% of farmers acknowledging its role in reducing water usage and 83.30% citing reduced labor needs. Conclusion: However, only 46.70% of respondents reported increased yields, indicating potential gaps in system optimization. The study suggests the need for greater technical training, financial assistance and improved extension services to enhance the adoption of advanced drip irrigation practices. Policy measures, such as increased awareness of government schemes like PMKSY and accessible training programs, are recommended to maximize the benefits of drip irrigation in improving water efficiency, crop yield and sustainable farming practices.