Sociodemographic Data Research Articles

Knowledge and Awareness of Congenital Inguinal and Umbilical Hernia and Its Complications in the Pediatric Population Among Parents in Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background Congenital umbilical and inguinal hernias are prevalent in infants and children. The exact incidence of congenital umbilical hernias remains unclear due to their typically asymptomatic nature, resulting in limited medical attention-seeking by parents. As these hernias are associated with serious complications such as incarceration, strangulation, and, rarely, obstruction, timely recognition and early medical intervention play a critical role in preventing these complications. This study aimed to investigate the level of knowledge and awareness of congenital inguinal and umbilical hernia and its complications in the pediatric population among parents in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted among parents living in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to the targeted parents using an online survey. The questionnaire included sociodemographic data (i.e., gender, marital status, education), general awareness about umbilical and inguinal hernia, and a six-item questionnaire to measure parents' knowledge regarding umbilical and inguinal hernia. Results A total of 440 parents responded to our survey (30.9% males vs. 69.1% females). Overall, 49.5% had at least four or more children. Of the study participants, 19.8% knew of both umbilical and inguinal hernias. The overall median knowledge score of six knowledge items was2.00 (interquartile range = 2.00). Most parents (64.3%) had poor knowledge, and only 2.3% of them had good knowledge. Higher education, awareness of the meaning of congenital inguinal or umbilical hernias, and having children with a previous history of umbilical or inguinal hernia symptoms were the factors associated with increased knowledge. Conclusions The parents' knowledge regarding congenital umbilical or inguinal hernia was deficient. Parents with self-knowledge of the disease were likely to demonstrate better umbilical and inguinal hernia knowledge than the rest of the groups. This study highlights the importance of awareness campaigns in bridging the knowledge gap.

Retrospective review: Factors impacting length of stay in Bipolar Disorder at a tertiary hospital.

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic, disabling mental illness that may require recurrent hospitalisation. The length of hospital stay (LOS) for BD patients is variable, and literature suggests that this is because of clinical and socio-demographic factors. To determine the average LOS for patients admitted for BD at a hospital and its relation to clinical and socio-demographic factors. A public tertiary hospital in South Africa. Clinical and socio-demographic data were obtained from a retrospective record review of patient admissions at a hospital over 1 year. Length of hospital stay, defined as the duration between admission and discharge date, and other variables were retrieved. A total of 215 patients were admitted during the study period. The mean LOS was 30 days. The mean age of the patients was 35.9 years (standard deviation [s.d.] = 12.4, range 18-72 years). There were similar numbers of males and females admitted. Significantly more patients were not married (p < 0.001), unemployed (p < 0.001), and had a history of substance use (p < 0.001). Employed patients were 2.5 times more likely to have a short stay than those unemployed (p = 0.03). There was a statistically significant association between the number of comorbidities and LOS. The study findings align with the literature's results. The median length of stay was 25 days and was impacted by socio-demographic but not clinical factors. The study provided insight into the impact of variable factors in LOS for BD patients.

Residual disease is the main, but not the only factor impacting satisfaction in psoriatic patients undergoing biological therapies.

Despite advancements in psoriasis treatment, a gap remains in aligning patient satisfaction with clinical outcomes. Our study aimed to evaluate which clinical and psychological factors may impact treatment satisfaction in psoriatic patients undergoing long-term biological therapies. We performed an observational, cross-sectional, single-center study involving adult patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis treated with biologics for at least 12 months. We collected sociodemographic characteristics and data on the course of the psoriasis. We also assessed the absolute (residual) Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), the site of the residual disease, and the severity of pruritus through the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Satisfaction was evaluated using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQMv.II). The Type D Personality Scale (DS14 questionnaire and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 assessed the psychological profile. Overall, 146 patients were included, and 82.1% were globally satisfied (global satisfaction TSQM score >75). Linear regression analysis showed a negative correlation between global satisfaction scoring and residual PASI. The multivariable analysis found a higher VAS-pruritus score (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.01-1.44; P = 0.043) and not reaching a residual PASI < 2 (OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.09-0.94, P = 0.039) as the strongest predictors of global unsatisfied patients (TSQM < 75%). Other factors unrelated to residual disease, such as gender, class of biologic agent, and type D personality, have also been found to impact patient satisfaction. Our study's findings underscore the complexity of patient satisfaction in psoriasis management and highlight the multifactorial nature of treatment success beyond traditional clinical measures.

Do facilitators and barriers to community ambulation differ among stroke survivors in low resource settings? A cross-sectional study in Nigeria

ABSTRACT Purpose Stroke survivors (SSV) in many low- and middle-income countries experience frustrating participation restriction in community ambulation (CA), which impedes community life. This study assessed facilitators and barriers to CA among community-dwelling SSV in a southwest state of Nigeria. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 66 community-dwelling ambulating SSV, purposively recruited from physiotherapy out-patient clinics of selected hospitals in southwest Nigeria. Semi-structured questionnaire containing physical and social environment elements of the ICF domains was administered on respondents. Mobility status at home and community, socio-demographic and clinical data of SSV were also obtained. Responses from open-ended questions were triangulated with appropriate close ended options. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression at p < 0.05 Alpha value. Results Majority of the SSV were independent in their homes (59.1%), used mobility aids (87.9%) and assisted in CA (66.7%). They identified limited physical accessibility by crowds 25 (37.9%), lack of inclined surfaces 40 (95.2%), uneven floors 36 (87.8%), public seating arrangements 33 (78.6%), rain (73.8%) and inability to use services, systems and policies (77.3%) as barriers to CA. Built physical environment was a significant predictor of home (OR = 0.754, p = 0.001) and community mobility (OR = 0.850; p = 0.018), while post-stroke depression was a significant predictor of community mobility (OR = 1.038; p = 0.014). Conclusion Mobility aids, social attitudes and general support were identified as facilitators, whereas barriers to CA included built physical environment, services and policies, products and technology. Facilitators and barriers to CA are similar to some HIC contexts, perceived difficulties and experiences differ for infrastructural and social reasons among others.

The effect of learning styles on the academic achievement of nursing students: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundLearning in the academic setting is influenced by the dynamic interaction between students and teachers. Recognizing and adapting to diverse learning styles is essential for improving instruction, gaining knowledge, and drawing informed conclusions. Therefore, this study investigated learning styles and their effects on students’ academic achievement.MethodsIn a cross-sectional study in Iran’s Mazandaran province, 238 nursing students were surveyed between October and December 2021 using random sampling. The questionnaire included socio-demographic data, Kolb’s Experiential Learning Model, and students’ academic performance (EPT). Statistical analysis with SPSS version 22 involved descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, chi-square tests, and linear regression with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe mean age of the nursing students was 20.95 ± 1.71 years. The most common student learning styles were convergent (75.2%) and accommodator (12.2%). According to the results, convergent (148.62 ± 16.28) and accommodator learning styles (147.72 ± 8.79) with the highest average played a role in students’ academic achievement. The mean score of EPT was 147. 13 ± 15.48 (out of 240). A significant difference between the academic performance and different dimensions of learning style was found (p = 0.002).ConclusionFindings indicated that adopting a convergent and accommodator learning style can affect students’ academic achievement. Therefore, learning environments appropriate to this style, such as simulation and laboratory activities, are suggested to emphasize practical work and make students think an scrutinize.

The Correlation between Knowledge of Food Sustainability, Sustainable Eating Attitudes, and Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet among Blue- and White-Collar Employees

To enhance and advance both human and planetary health, it is imperative to transition towards more sustainable nutrition approaches. This study aimed to assess the correlation between the levels of sustainability and sustainable nutrition knowledge, attitudes towards sustainable nutrition, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) among blue- and white-collar employees. This study included 210 adults, half of whom were white-collar employees, with the other half being blue-collar employees. Sociodemographic data were collected, and anthropometric measurements were performed. The Questionnaire on Food Sustainability Knowledge and Attitudes to Sustainable Eating and the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Scale (MEDAS) were also included in the applied survey. Dietary intake was assessed using 24 h dietary records. The mean age was 41.9 ± 10.87 years. Of the participants, 56.2% were classified as being overweight or obese. The level of knowledge on the concept of “food sustainability” among all participants was 30.5%. The mean MEDAS score of all the participants was 5.4 ± 1.90, and 74.8% of all the participants did not follow the MD. Positive correlations were found between the MEDAS score and the Sustainable Diet Definition score (r = 0.174) (p ˂ 0.05) and Sustainable Eating Attitude score (r = 0.312) (p ˂ 0.001). Negative correlations were found between the MEDAS score and body weight (r = −0.320; p ˂ 0.001), BMI (r = −0.249; p ˂ 0.001), waist circumference (r = −0.278; p ˂ 0.001), and PBF (r = −0.177; p ˂ 0.05). We found that, as the level of sustainable nutrition knowledge increased, sustainable nutrition behaviors improved, and as adherence to the MD increased, the incidence of obesity decreased.

Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers in Predicting Coronary Complexity: Insights from the SYNTAX II Score in NSTEMI Patients.

Objectives: Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is characterized by the absence of pathological ST segment elevation but an increase in biological markers. The SYNTAX II score (SS-II) is calculated to evaluate the complexity of coronary artery disease and to guide treatment decisions between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship of socio-demographic data and biochemical markers with SS-II in NSTEMI patients. Materials and Methods: Six hundred patients who were admitted to the private Aktif International Hospital cardiology clinic between January 2020 and January 2024 and were diagnosed with NSTEMI were included in the study. Severity, extent, and clinical evaluation of atherosclerosis were determined using risk factors, laboratory tests, and coronary angiography. Patients were divided into two groups according to their SS-II score: low (≤ 22) and high SS-II (> 32). Socio-demographic data, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and monocyte-to-HDL-C ratio (MHR) were compared between the two groups. Results: Group 1 (SS-II ≤ 22) included 380 patients, and group 2 (SS-II > 32) included 220 patients. There was a statistically significant difference in HDL, creatine value, white blood cell, troponin I, hs-TnT, and monocyte values in group 2 compared with group 1 (p = 0.001, p = 0.018, p = 0.031, and p = 0.001, respectively). NLR, MLR, MHR, and SS values were statistically significantly higher in group 2 compared with group 1 (p = 0.015, p = 0.002, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively). The risk factors were found to be significantly associated with high-risk NSTEMI (SS-II > 32) in a logistic regression analysis and included peripheral artery disease (PAD) (OR: 3.028, p = 0.040), troponin I (OR: 3.575, p = 0.015), hs-TnT (OR: 4.221, p = 0.010), NLR (OR: 1.528, p = 0.024). MLR (OR: 5.248, p = 0.012), and MHR (OR: 7.122, p = 0.010). ROC analysis revealed that NLR (AUC: 0.691, p = 0.016), MLR (AUC: 0.731, p = 0.004), and MHR (AUC: 0.824, p = 0.003) had higher predictive power than other parameters in patients with high-risk NSTEMI (SS-II > 32). Conclusions: We found that NLR, MLR, and MHR levels are associated with the severity of coronary artery disease. We think that adding these easily and quickly measurable parameters to routine laboratory results may support the clinician in evaluating the complexity of coronary artery disease and guiding treatment decisions in NSTEMI patients.

Attitudes towards Maternal Immunisation of Polish Mothers: A Cross-Sectional, Non-Representative Study.

Vaccination protects pregnant women against dangerous infectious diseases and contributes to disease prevention for the child until their vaccination schedule begins. Vaccination behaviour is related to attitudes concerning vaccine prevention. This cross-sectional, non-representative study was conducted among Polish mothers using a diagnostic survey. We used the Vaccination Attitudes Examination (VAX) Scale. The author's questionnaire included questions concerning experiences with adult and maternal vaccinations, as well as sociodemographic data. Among the 375 respondents, more than half (n = 208, 55.47%) received at least one vaccine during pregnancy. The majority of respondents had a university education (n = 356, 94.93%). There was no statistically significant difference in terms of receiving vaccines during pregnancy between respondents with and without a healthcare education (p = 0.230). A logistic regression model indicated that women who were vaccinated outside pregnancy for COVID-19 (OR 4.61, 2.60-8.22) and influenza (OR 7.14, 3.58-14.25) were statistically significantly more likely to be vaccinated during pregnancy. There were statistically significant differences between women who were vaccinated during pregnancy and those who did not receive maternal immunisation in three subscales of the VAX Scale: Mistrust of Vaccine Benefit, Concerns about Commercial Profiteering, and Preference for Natural Immunity (p < 0.001). The most frequently indicated reason for a woman's decision to be vaccinated was concern for the health and safety of the unborn child (n = 196, 94.23%). In contrast, women who were not vaccinated reported fear for the health and safety of the unborn child (n = 88, 52.69%). A key point may be to contribute to the vaccinology education of healthcare professionals, who play an important role in pregnant women's decision to be vaccinated. However, our results may be disrupted because the majority of the women in our study had a university education.

EVs meet health: A complex-systems policy integration approach for electric vehicle adoption and its impact on respiratory and cardiovascular disease

The transition from gasoline-combustion to zero-emission vehicles represents one of the most ambitious public and private enterprises around the globe to mitigate air pollution and its subsequent effects on climate change. The present study uses the rapid transition in the state of California to analyze the connections between the increasing utilization of electric vehicles (EVs) and two critical health outcomes: Asthma and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) emergency department (ED) visits. We fit simultaneous quantile and interquartile-range regression models to health and sociodemographic data from the California Office of Health and Hazard Assessment and electric vehicles registration data, 2011–2017. Results show that changes in EV utilization, from 2011 to 2013 to 2015–2017, have larger and more favorable effects as asthma and AMI deteriorate across zip codes. Looking at zip codes located at the 75th and 25th percentiles of the change in the asthma- and AMI-related ED visits distribution, a 5-percentage points change in the EV-to-gasoline combustion utilization ratio is associated with a 25-percentage points (p<.01) and 12.5-percentage points (p<.01) decline in asthma- and AMI-related ED visits, respectively. Our findings also suggest that, should the U.S. meet the goals of Executive Order N-79-20 by 2035, we could observe about 37,000 fewer asthma-related ED visits (95% CI: 16,154–59,280) per year, with an overall possible annual savings of about $65.5 million dollars (95% CI: $29.1M – $106.7M), and a possible decline of about 19,292 AMI-related hospitalizations, with possible annual savings of about $425 million dollars (95% CI: $365M – $509M). Our findings are optimistic in that spillover effects from increasing EV utilization can reduce healthcare costs while improving population health. Research should point toward the development of public-private coalitional strategies to effectively bridge usually disparate sectors of the economy and policy-making like energy and health.

Genomic analysis of Enterobacteriaceae from colorectal cancer patients at a tertiary hospital in Ghana: a case-control study.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a severe gastrointestinal cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Ghana. The potential role of gut Enterobacteriaceae in the increasing incidence of CRC in Ghana is yet to be thoroughly investigated. In this study, Enterobacteriaceae from CRC patients and healthy control participants were analyzed by whole genome sequencing to identify genomic features that are associated with CRC. Socio-demographic data showed a significant association between age and alcohol consumption and CRC. Escherichia coli was the most abundant Enterobacteriaceae isolated from the study participants and they were predominantly intestinal commensals. Escherichia coli isolates belonging to phylogroup D encoded the highest number of virulence genes. The agn43 and int genes were widespread in Escherichia coli isolates from the CRC patients. Multilocus sequence types of potentially pathogenic Escherichia coli from the CRC patients also encoded genes involved in aggregation, adherence and biofilm formation. The ampC2 and ampH antimicrobial resistance genes were also widespread in the genome of the Escherichia coli isolates. This study highlights the virulence tendencies of Escherichia coli from CRC patients and their ability to transfer virulence determinants to other Enterobacteriaceae residing in the gut.

Impact of COVID-19 health precautions on asymptomatic Streptococcus pyogenes carriage in palestinian children: a pre- and post-pandemic study

BackgroundStreptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS) is a significant pathogen that causes diverse infections, ranging from pharyngitis to severe invasive diseases. Asymptomatic carriage in children is pivotal for transmission. The COVID-19 pandemic’s health measures, including mask wearing and enhanced hand hygiene, likely influenced GAS transmission dynamics. This study evaluated the impact of these precautions on the prevalence of asymptomatic pharyngeal GAS carriage among schoolchildren in the southern West Bank, Palestine.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in two phases: pre-COVID-19 (November 2019–January 2020) and post-COVID-19 (November 2023–April 2024). Throat swabs were collected from 701 children (345 pre-COVID-19, 356 post-COVID-19) via cluster sampling. The samples were tested with the ABON Strep A rapid test and confirmed by culture. Sociodemographic, health, and household data were also collected. The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression.ResultsThe prevalence of asymptomatic pharyngeal GAS carriage declined from 15.7% pre-COVID-19 to 10.4% post-COVID-19 (p = 0.038). Significant reductions were observed among urban residents (23.5–10.1%, p = 0.003) and those from medium socioeconomic backgrounds (16.0–9.1%, p = 0.008). Compared with urban residents, rural residents had lower GAS carriage rates (adjusted OR = 0.505, p = 0.023). Carriage rates also decreased among children with frequent sore throats (17.6–7.3%, p = 0.007) and those using private wells (52.5–14.9%, p < 0.001). Higher BMI was a significant risk factor (adjusted OR = 17.68, p < 0.001), whereas frequent tooth brushing (adjusted OR = 0.055, p < 0.001) and hand washing (adjusted OR = 0.367, p < 0.001) were protective factors.ConclusionsCOVID-19-related health precautions were correlated with a significant reduction in asymptomatic GAS carriage among Palestinian children. These findings suggest that public health measures, such as mask wearing and hand hygiene, can influence the transmission of respiratory pathogens. Ongoing surveillance and targeted interventions are essential for managing GAS infections, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Parasitological prevalence of scabies and secondary bacterial infections among scabies suspected patients at Borumeda General Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia

BackgroundScabies disproportionately affects people in resource-poor areas. Clinical diagnosis risks misdiagnosis due to resemblance to other skin diseases, but laboratory confirmation improves accuracy. Scabies allow for secondary bacterial infections. Associated bacteria exacerbate scabies and antibiotic resistance. Ethiopian scabies diagnosis relies solely on clinical exams without confirming parasites or investigating secondary bacterial infections. This study aims to identify parasites via scraping, isolate secondary bacteria, and evaluate their antibiotic susceptibility profiles.MethodsA hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2022 to July 2023 among scabies suspected patients who visited the dermatology clinic at Borumeda General Hospital in Northeast Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 422 study participants. Socio-demographic, hygiene, and clinical characteristics data were collected via face-to-face interviews and observation. Skin scrapings for parasitological investigations and swab samples for microbiological investigations were collected and transported for analysis and drug susceptibility testing. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were employed to assess risk factors.ResultAmong 422 skin scraping samples, 156 (37.0%) cases of scabies were microscopically confirmed. Bed-sharing and having contact history were independent predictors of microscopically confirmed scabies. The prevalence of secondary bacterial infections among scabies-confirmed patients was 35.9% (56/156). The most prevalent bacterial species were Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Tetracycline for Gram-positive bacteria and ampicillin for Gram-negative bacteria showed the highest rate of resistance. In both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, multidrug resistance was also observed.ConclusionThis study found that over one-third of skin scrapings tested positive for scabies. Additionally, more than one-third of scabies cases were complicated by secondary bacterial infections. Improved scabies diagnosis and consideration of secondary bacterial infections are important for better controlling this neglected tropical disease.

The relationship between prodromal symptom levels and affective temperament features and emotional dysregulation in patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder and their first-degree relatives: A controlled study

BackgroundThe frequency of developing psychiatric symptoms is higher in the first-degree relatives of bipolar patients compared to the healthy population. This study aims to determine the possible diagnosis of bipolarity by revealing the bipolar prodromal features, temperament changes, and emotional disregulation in the first-degree relatives of bipolar patients and their interrelationships. MethodsA total of 150 patients, including bipolar disorder patients, their first-degree relatives, and a healthy control group, aged 18–65 who met the study inclusion criteria, were included in the study. Sociodemographic data form, Bipolar Prodromal Symptom Scale (BPSS), Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A), and Difficulty in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) were administered to all participants. ResultsSignificant differences were found between the BPSS, TEMPS-A, and DERS total and subscale scores of the bipolar patient group, first-degree relatives, and healthy control group (p < 0.001). There were significant differences in BPSS frequency and severity subscale scores, TEMPS-A hyperthymic and cyclothymic subscale scores, and DERS strategy, goal-oriented, and awareness subscale scores between patients and their first-degree relatives (p < 0.001). Additionally, all scale scores of the patient relatives were significantly different from the healthy control group (p < 0.001). A significant relationship was found between the prodromal scores and temperament scores of the patient relatives, and between the temperament scores and DERS scores (p < 0.001). ConclusionIt has been observed that the severity and frequency of bipolar prodromal symptoms, temperament changes, and difficulty in mood regulation are higher in bipolar patients and their first-degree relatives compared to the healthy population. Differences were found in hyperthymic and cyclothymic temperament features and difficulty in mood regulation scores between bipolar patients and their first-degree relatives. Patient relatives showed significant changes in all parameters compared to the healthy group. The severity of bipolar prodromal symptoms in patient relatives was associated with cyclothymic and anxious temperament features, while the frequency of bipolar symptoms was associated with anxious temperament. Relationships were found between some temperament and mood regulation difficulty sub-scores. In light of these findings, evaluating clinical variables such as the frequency and severity of prodromal symptoms, temperament features, and difficulty in mood regulation in the first-degree relatives of bipolar patients may be an appropriate approach for diagnosing mood disorders.

The importance of the feeling of isolation and loneliness among French Holocaust survivors after the 7 October terrorist attack

IntroductionThe 7 October terrorist attack in southern Israel and the increase in anti-Semitic acts have had a significant impact on the mental health of Holocaust survivors (HS), with some experiencing feelings of isolation and loneliness associated with an increased risk of mortality. The main objective of our work was to assess the incidence and intensity of perceived stress among French HS suffering from feelings of isolation and loneliness following the 7 October attack. The secondary objective was to determine the impact on health and to establish a link with the Holocaust period. Materials and methodsThe study was conducted between 30 October and 15 December 2023 among HS living in France who were contacted by mail through HS support organisations. They completed a questionnaire that included sociodemographic data and experiences during the Holocaust, an assessment of perceived stress using the PSS-10 scale, the presence or absence of feelings of isolation and loneliness, and health consequences and reactions to the 7 October attacks. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0, with Mann-Whitney tests, chi-squared and Student's t-tests used to compare HS experiencing loneliness and isolation with those not experiencing loneliness and isolation, with a p-value of < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results94 respondents completed the questionnaire, of whom 29 (30.5 %) were men. The HS had a mean PSS-10 score of 17.7 ± 6.0 (min 5 - max 35). Thirty (31.6 %) reported feeling isolated or alone after the 7 October massacre. Those who felt isolated or alone were more likely to feel that they had no support from those around them (73.3 % vs. 19.7 % p < 0.05). The PSS10 scores of HS suffering from isolation and loneliness were significantly higher than those of other HS (21.2 ± 5.2 vs. 16.0 ± 6.2, p ≤ 0.05). After the 7 October massacre, 93.3 % of HS suffering from loneliness and isolation felt that their Holocaust experience had reawakened their vulnerability, especially aggravated health problems (34 %). They tend to think about the Holocaust period more often (96.7 % vs. 80.3 %, p ≤ 0.05) and are significantly more worried about the future of their children and grandchildren as Jews (93.3 % vs. 77.0 %, p ≤ 0.05). ConclusionThis is the first study to assess the importance of stress among HS, particularly those suffering from loneliness and isolation, following the 7 October terrorist attack. It highlights the importance of implementing intervention programmes to support the last eyewitnesses of the Holocaust period.

Associations between dyadic coping, marital satisfaction, and prenatal depression symptoms among couples with gestational diabetes mellitus

ABSTRACT Aims/Background Coping with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) presents significant challenges for pregnant women and their partners, which may result in elevated prenatal depression symptoms. However, research has predominantly centred on pregnant women with GDM, with little involvement of their partners. To understand their dyadic interactions, it is imperative to involve GDM couples in the study. This study aims to examine the interplay between dyadic coping and prenatal depression symptoms among GDM couples and to explore the possible mediating role of marital satisfaction. Design/Method A cross-sectional study was conducted in Guangzhou, China. A total of 400 couples completed the Dyadic Coping Inventory, Locke-Wallace Marital Adjustment Scale, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and sociodemographic data sheet. The actor-partner interdependence mediation model was utilised for dyadic data analysis. Results Overall, 13.0% of pregnant women with GDM and 8.3% of partners experienced elevated prenatal depression symptoms. Dyadic coping was directly or indirectly related to their own and partners’ prenatal depression symptoms in GDM couples, with marital satisfaction acting as a mediator. Specifically, positive dyadic coping was associated with lower prenatal depression symptoms, while negative dyadic coping exhibited an opposite relationship. Conclusion The prevalence of elevated prenatal depression symptoms was high in GDM couples. It is important to view pregnant women with GDM and their partners as a dyad of a transactional system in prenatal clinical care. Couple-centred interventions targeting to enhance positive dyadic coping and mitigate negative dyadic coping might be beneficial to prevent and alleviate prenatal depression symptoms.

Relationship between dietary sialic acid intake and serum HbA1c: a population-based study in Xiamen, China

This study investigates the correlation between dietary sialic acid intake which mainly come from eggs, red meat, and dairy products and serum HbA1c levels. A survey among Xiamen’s general population, China, collected dietary data from 2,908 participants over the past year. A semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was employed. Sialic acid intake was calculated, along with measurements of biochemical indicators, including fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, blood lipids, and insulin. Sociodemographic and physical data were also collected. Logistic regression models evaluated the relationship between dietary sialic acid and HbA1c levels. The daily sialic acid intake in Xiamen’s general population was 48.55 (21.68, 65.23) mg/1000Kcal, accompanied by a 1.96% rate of high HbA1c. A significant negative correlation between dietary sialic acid and HbA1c was observed. Individuals in the highest quartile of sialic acid intake (> 65.48 mg/1000 kcal) had a lower risk of high HbA1c compared to those in the lowest quartile (< 23.63 mg/1000 kcal) [OR: 0.123 (0.022, 0.689)]. A high dietary sialic acid intake within a specific range may reduce the risk of elevated HbA1c levels, suggesting a potential preventive effect. Note that this effect is limited to specific intake ranges.

National Experience of Technology-based Eye Care Services (TECS): A Comprehensive Ophthalmology Telemedicine Initiative

Technology-Based Eye Care Services (TECS) is a tele-ophthalmology program operating in the Veterans' Administration since 2015. This study explores characteristics of the national TECS population, evaluates implementation and sustainability of TECS, and analyzes possible associations and effects of demographic characteristics and social determinants of health (SDOH) on being diagnosed with a vision threatening (VT) disease. Implementation and sustainability of TECS from 2015-2022 was examined along with the sociodemographic characteristics of Veterans served through TECS in 2021. Veteran patients seen in TECS nationwide. Characteristics, disease prevalence and diagnoses, implementation success rate, sustainability rate, preliminary analysis of outcomes and disparity. Per quarter from 2015-2022, TECS sites were classified as implementing, active, or sustained. Standard Query Language (SQL) was used to determine sociodemographic data and logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors associated with VT eye diagnosis. 21,712 Veterans, 52.1% rural or highly rural, were served by TECS in 2021. The average age was 64.7 years, with females comprising 10.9% of the population served. From 2015-2022, of the 67 TECS sites initiated, 6 were implementing with 51 of 61 initiated sites still operational in the first quarter (Q1) of 2022 (83.6% success rate).Macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts were more prevalent in rural and highly rural populations (7.6% and 11.3%, and 48.8% and 55.0%, respectively) vs. urban populations; glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy (DR) had the opposite association. The prevalence of any type of VT eye disease was lowest in the Mountains/Central region (0.54%) and highest in the Southeast region (3.2%) of the US. Rural and highly rural residents were 1.3 and 2.5 times as likely, respectively, to be diagnosed with a VT eye disease than urban residents. Implementation and sustainability of TECS has been promising. The data provides key information that can be utilized to improve the deployment of TECS and similar programs, along with the possible future direction of TECS services. Moreover, experience from one national ocular telehealth program clearly illustrates that telemedicine can address eye care disparities in the Veteran population and may be utilized for other vulnerable groups as well.

Fragilidade diagnosticada em idosos da cidade de Santa Maria - caracterização sociodemográfica e clínica

Introduction: The characterization of fragility in the elderly is essential for guiding specific interventions, ultimately improving the effectiveness of care and fostering preventive strategies. Objective: This study aimed to characterize a community of elderly residents in Santa Maria, RS, regarding their fragility. Materials and Methods: A non-probabilistic intentional sampling method was used, selecting participants served by the geriatrics department at the Santa Maria University Hospital and those residing in long-term care institutions in the city. Inclusion criteria considered age, preserved gait, and verbal comprehension, excluding individuals with physical limitations. A questionnaire was utilized to gather sociodemographic data, and the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI) was employed to assess fragility during the period from August to September 2023, following the approval of the Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Santa Maria. Descriptive statistics and comparisons between groups were tested using the Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, or chi-square test (p &lt; 0.05). Results: The results indicated significant differences in the physical, psychological, and social domains between fragile (n=26) and non-fragile (n=23) groups, as well as variations in age, marital status, polypharmacy, and use of walking aids. Conclusion: The differences identified highlight the comprehensive influence of fragility on the lives of the elderly, emphasizing the importance of early detection to enhance quality of life. It underscores the necessity for integrated approaches to address the challenges associated with aging.

Overall and race-specific associations between state-level minimum wage policy and food insecurity in the United States

BackgroundIn the USA, states can set higher minimum wages than the federal government. We investigated the association between state minimum wages and racial/ethnic inequities in food insecurity.MethodsHousehold-level food insecurity and...

10-year risk scale of cardiovascular events for middle-aged and elderly people with type 2 diabetes mellitus

The purpose of this study was to create a scoring scale for assessing the 10-year risk of cardiovascular events for middle-aged and elderly people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).Material and methods. The analysis included data from 314 people with T2DM: 142 men, 242 women, the average age for both sexes was 60.81 ± 6.38 years. The baseline survey was carried out within the framework of the HAPIEE project; the observation period lasted from 2003–2005. to December 31, 2013 and averaged 10 years. Persons who had myocardial infarction and/or cerebral stroke before the examination were excluded from the analysis. Non-fatal cardiovascular (CV) diseases and CV death were established in accordance with the codes of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision. As part of the study, two groups were formed: the main group, which included people with T2DM who “developed CV events” over 10 years of observation – 50 (15.9 %) people, and a comparison group – people with T2DM who “did not develop CV events” during the observation period (264 people). Anthropometric indicators, blood pressure, socio-demographic data, and some biochemical parameters were determined. To analyze the association of the studied factors with the risk of CV events, multivariate stepwise Cox regression analysis was used.Results. As a result of multivariate Cox regression analysis, associations with the risk of developing CV diseases were obtained for the following factors: gender (men), age (≥ 55 years), heart rate (≥ 80 beats/min), SBP (≥ 150 mmHg), marital status single, education (not higher). Individuals with a score above 9 are considered to be at high 10-year risk of cardiovascular events.Conclusions. A model has been created that predicts the risk of developing CV events in relation to individuals with T2DM living in a large industrial city in Western Siberia. Based on the data obtained, it will be possible to select priority preventive areas and therapeutic interventions.