Formación docente para la educación inclusiva en instituciones públicas del Quindío / Teacher training for inclusive education in public institutions of Quindío

La formación docente es esencial dentro del proceso de educación inclusiva permitiendo responder a la diversidad de los estudiantes a partir de estrategias que promuevan su aprendizaje y participación. Este estudio analiza la formación en inclusión de 253 docentes de instituciones públicas mediante el Cuestionario de Valoración Docente de la Inclusión Educativa (CEFI-R). Los resultados indican niveles bajos de formación en las dimensiones concepciones, apoyos y metodologías. Lo que sugiere que no existe una preparación integral del profesorado para la inclusión y los planes de formación deben abordar desde aspectos conceptuales hasta la implementación de ajustes en el aula. (AU)

Teacher training is essential within the inclusive education process, allowing students to respond to diversity through strategies that promote their learning and participation. This study analyzes the inclusion training of 253 teachers in public institutions, through the Cuestionario de Valoración Docente de la Inclusión Educativa (CEFI-R). The results indicate low levels of training in the conceptual dimensions, supports and methodologies. This suggests that there is no comprehensive preparation of teachers for inclusion and training plans should address conceptual aspects to the implementation of adjustments in the classroom. (AU)

Formación docente para la educación inclusiva en instituciones públicas del Quindío / Teacher training for inclusive education in public institutions of Quindío

La formación docente es esencial dentro del proceso de educación inclusiva permitiendo responder a la diversidad de los estudiantes a partir de estrategias que promuevan su aprendizaje y participación. Este estudio analiza la formación en inclusión de 253 docentes de instituciones públicas mediante el Cuestionario de Valoración Docente de la Inclusión Educativa (CEFI-R). Los resultados indican niveles bajos de formación en las dimensiones concepciones, apoyos y metodologías. Lo que sugiere que no existe una preparación integral del profesorado para la inclusión y los planes de formación deben abordar desde aspectos conceptuales hasta la implementación de ajustes en el aula. (AU)

Teacher training is essential within the inclusive education process, allowing students to respond to diversity through strategies that promote their learning and participation. This study analyzes the inclusion training of 253 teachers in public institutions, through the Cuestionario de Valoración Docente de la Inclusión Educativa (CEFI-R). The results indicate low levels of training in the conceptual dimensions, supports and methodologies. This suggests that there is no comprehensive preparation of teachers for inclusion and training plans should address conceptual aspects to the implementation of adjustments in the classroom. (AU)

Mean cycloplegic refractive error in emmetropic adults – The Tehran Eye Study / Error refractivo ciclopléjico medio en adultos emétropes: estudio ocular de Teherán

Purpose: In children under 20 years, refractive development targets a cycloplegic refractive error of +0.5 to +1.5D, while presbyopes over 40 years generally have non-cycloplegic errors of ≥ +1D. Some papers suggest these periods are separated by a period of myopic refractive error (i.e., ≤ –0.50D), but this remains unclear. Hence, this work investigates the mean cycloplegic refractive error in adults aged between 20 – 40 years. Methods: In 2002 a cross-sectional study with stratified cluster sampling was performed on the population of Tehran, providing cycloplegic and non-cycloplegic refractive error data for the right eyes of 3,576 participants, aged 30.6 ± 18.6 years (range: 1–86 years). After grouping these data into age groups of 5 years, the refractive error histogram of each group was fitted to a Bigaussian function. The mean of the central, emmetropized peak was used to estimate the mean refractive error without the influence of myopia. Results: The mean cycloplegic refractive error at the emmetropized peak decreased from +1.10 ± 0.11D (95 % confidence interval) to +0.50 ± 0.04D before 20 years and remains stable at that value until the age of 50 years. The non-cycloplegic refractive error also sees a stable phase at 0.00 ± 0.04D between 15 – 45 years. After 45 – 50 years both cycloplegic and non-cycloplegic refractive error become more hypermetropic over time, +1.14 ± 0.12D at 75 years. Conclusions: The cycloplegic refractive error in adults is about +0.50D between 20 – 50 years, disproving the existence of the myopic period at those ages.(AU)

Mindfulness trait and the potential mediating role of emotional regulation strategies in bipolar disorder / Mindfulness rasgo y el potencial papel mediador de las estrategias de regulación emocional en el trastorno bipolar

En este estudio transversal se investiga la asociación entre los principales síntomas del Trastorno bipolar (TB) y las dificultades asociadas a las estrategias de regulación emocional (ERE) adaptativas y desadaptativas. Además, este estudio examina los efectos mediadores de las ERE con el mindfulness rasgo y el TB. Método. Veinticuatro adultos con TB completaron la Escala de Conciencia de Atención Plena (MAAS), el Inventario de Depresión de Beck (BDI-II), la Escala de Autoevaluación de Manía de Altman (ARSM), el Inventario de Ansiedad Rasgo (STAI-R), y el Cuestionario de Regulación Emocional Cognitiva (CERQ). Resultados. El análisis de regresión múltiple mostró cómo la depresión se relacionaba significativa y positivamente con la autoculpabilización, mientras que la ansiedad rasgo estaba positivamente asociada con la autoculpabilización y el catastrofismo. En segundo lugar, el análisis de mediación mostró un efecto de mediación significativo para la autoculpabilidad en la relación entre mindfulness y depresión (a*b = -.15; ICB 95% [-.36, -.03]) y entre mindfulness y ansiedad rasgo (a*b = -.09; ICB 95% [-.27, -.01]). Conclusiones. Nuestros resultados informan del papel de la auto-culpabilidad y el catastrofismo en el TB y de cómo éstas podrían mediar significativamente entre el mindfulness rasgo y el TB. Estos resultados sugieren que una práctica de meditación enfocada en el catastrofismo y la autoculpabilidad puede ser especialmente útil para reducir los síntomas en los pacientes bipolares.(AU)

This cross-sectional study investigates the association between the main symptoms of Bipolar disorder (BD) and emotional regulation dif-ficulties in adaptive and maladaptive emotional regulation strategies (ERS). In addition, this study examines the possible mediating effects of ERS with dispositional mindfulnessand bipolar symptoms. Method.Twenty-four adults diagnosed with BD completed the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), the Altman Mania Self-Assessment Scale (ARSM), the Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-R), and the Cognitive Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ). Results. First, mul-tiple regression analysis showed how depression was significantly positively related to self-blame, whereas trait anxietywas positively associated with self-blame and catastrophizing. Second, the results of the mediation analy-sis have shown a significant mediation effect for the self-blamein the rela-tionship between mindfulnessand depression (a*b = -.15; BCI 95% [-.36, -.03]) and between mindfulnessand trait anxiety (a*b = -.09; BCI 95% [-.27, -.01]). Conclusions. Our results report the role of self-blame and catastrophiz-ing in BD and how these might significantly mediate between dispositional mindfulness and symptoms of depression and anxiety. These results suggest that a meditation practice focused on reducing catastrophizing and self-blame may be especially helpful for symptoms of depression and anxiety in bipolar patients.(AU)

Psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Chalder Fatigue Scale in clinical and general populations / Propiedades psicométricas de la versión española de la Escala de Fatiga de Chalder en población clínica y general

Objetivo: La Escala de Fatiga de Chalder (CFS) es una escala breve para evaluar fatiga que se utiliza en España, pero que no ha sido validada en su población. El objetivo del estudio fue adaptar y evaluar las propiedades psicométricas de la versión española de la CFS (Sp-CFS). Método: La muestra la conformaron 3,671 participantes (3.190 de la población general y 481 pacientes), con edades entre 18 y 86 años (M = 28.43; DT = 12.71), siendo el 67.6% mujeres. Las propiedades psicométricas de la escala se probaron en un diseño transversal utilizando validación cruzada (análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio) y estimación de la invarianza (sexo y condición clínica). Resultados: Un modelo de cuatro factores (baja energía, problemas de sueño, problemas de concentración y disfunción cognitiva subjetiva) en lugar de un modelo original de dos factores (fatiga física y mental) proporcionó mejores índices de bondad de ajuste a los datos. La consistencia interna y la estabilidad de la escala fueron excelentes. Su validez convergente se apoyó en su asociación significativa con la ansiedad, la depresión, el estrés y los síntomas positivos y negativos del espectro de la psicosis. El instrumento no mostró diferencias significativas entre sexos ni condiciones clínicas, y discriminó entre la población general y los pacientes, obteniendo estos últimos puntajes significativamente mayores. Conclusiones: Sp-CFS es una escala fiable y válida para medir la fatiga en población general y clínica española.(AU)

Objective:The Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS) is a brief self-report screening scale for fatigue that is used in Spain but has not been validated for the Spanish population. The aim of this study was to adapt and evalu-ate the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the CFS (Sp-CFS). Method:The sample consisted of 3,671 participants (3,190 from the general population and 481 patients), aged 18 to 86 years (M=28.43; DT=12.71), 67.6% of whom were women. Psychometric properties of the scale were tested in a cross-sectional design using cross-validation (explora-tory and confirmatory factor analysis) and estimation of invariance (sex and clinical condition). Results:A four-factor model (low energy, sleep problems, concentration problems and subjective cognitive dysfunction) rather than an original two-factor model (physical and mental fatigue) pro-vided better indices of goodness of fit to the data. The internal consistencyand stability of the scale were excellent. Its convergent validity was sup-ported by its significant association with anxiety, depression, stress, and the positive and negative symptoms of the psychosis spectrum. The instru-ment did not show significant differences between sexes or clinical condi-tions, and it discriminated between the general population and the patients, with the latter obtaining significantly greater scores. Conclusions: Sp-CFS is a reliable and valid scale for measuring a transdiagnostic construct such as fatigue in Spanish general and clinical populations.(AU)

Time-dependent association between the economic activity restriction due to health condition and mental illness: Finding from 15-year prospective cohort study

Background and Objectives The Economic Activity Restriction (EAR) due to health conditions is being utilized as a foundational measure for the European indicator Healthy Life Years (HLY). The EAR group is experiencing limitations not only in economic activities but also in overall activities, and it is a population with a high likelihood of transitioning to mental illness due to health condition. However, few studies have investigated the relationship between EAR and mental illness. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the association between EAR due to health conditions and mental illness for those aged 45 and older in South Korea. Methods We obtained data from the 2006–2020 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging. EAR was assessed using self-reported questionnaires based on the Global Activity Limitation Indicator. mental illness was assessed based on the diagnosis data for participants who had been diagnosed. After excluding missing values, the data of 9,574 participants were analyzed using the chi-square test, log-rank tests, and time-dependent Cox proportional hazard model to evaluate the association between EAR and mental illness. Results Out of the 9,574 participants gathered at baseline, the mental illness rate was 4.8 %. The hazard ratio (HR) of mental illness in those in the “very probable” of EAR was 2.351 times higher (p-value <0.0001) compared with “not at all” of EAR. In model 1 which includes under 64 years, HR of mental illness in “very probable” of EAR was 3.679 times higher (p-value: 0.000) and in “probable” of EAR was 2.535 time higher (p-value: 0.001) compared with “not at all” of EAR. Conclusion If we provide opportunities to participate in community activities or provide the mental health promotion programs for middle-aged population who are experiencing EAR due to health condition... (AU)

Miopatías RYR1 en la infancia: correlación fenotipo-genotipo e incidencia / RYR1 myopathies in childhood: phenotype-genotype correlation and incidence

Introducción: Las miopatías relacionadas con el receptor de rianodina de tipo 1 (RYR1-RM) constituyen la categoría más frecuente de miopatías congénitas. La introducción de técnicas genéticas ha cambiado el paradigma diagnóstico y sugiere la prioridad de estudios moleculares sobre biopsias. Este estudio busca explorar las características clinicoepidemiológicas de pacientes con variantes del gen RYR1 en un hospital pediátrico de tercer nivel con el objetivo de ampliar la comprensión de la correlación genotipo-fenotipo en las RYR1-RM. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal, de pacientes menores de 14 años con síntomas miopáticos y variantes potencialmente patógenas del gen RYR1 entre enero de 2013 y diciembre de 2023, considerando variables como sexo, edad, desarrollo motor, variantes genéticas, patrón de herencia y otras manifestaciones. Todas las variables fueron tabuladas frente a la variante genética. Resultados: De los nueve pacientes incluidos, la incidencia estimada fue de aproximadamente 1/10.000 nacidos vivos. La mediana en el momento del diagnóstico fue de 6 años, con una variabilidad fenotípica significativa. Se observaron síntomas comunes, como debilidad y retraso del desarrollo motor. Las variantes genéticas afectaron al gen RYR1 de manera diversa, y hubo cinco variantes previamente no descritas. La biopsia muscular se realizó en cinco pacientes, en dos de ellos de tipo miopatía central core; en uno, multiminicore; en uno, desproporción congénita de fibras; y en otro, de patrón inespecífico. Conclusiones: Las RYR1-MR de nuestra serie ofrecieron variabilidad fenotípica y de afectación, con una incidencia en nuestra área de en torno a 1/10.000 recién nacidos. La mayoría de los casos fueron varones, de variantes missense dominantes. Aportamos cinco variantes genéticas no descritas con anterioridad.(AU)

Introduction: Ryanodine receptor type 1-related myopathies (RYR1-RM) represent the most prevalent category of congenital myopathies. The introduction of genetic techniques has shifted the diagnostic paradigm, suggesting the prioritization of molecular studies over biopsies. This study aims to explore the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with RYR1 gene variants in a tertiary pediatric hospital, intending to enhance the understanding of the genotype-phenotype correlation in RYR1-RM. Patients and methods: An observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was conducted on patients under 14 years old with myopathic symptoms and potentially pathogenic RYR1 gene variants from January 2013 to December 2023. Variables such as gender, age, motor development, genetic variants, inheritance pattern, and other manifestations were considered. All variables were tabulated against the genetic variant. Results: Of the nine included patients, the estimated incidence was approximately 1 in 10,000 live births. The median age at diagnosis was six years, with significant phenotypic variability. Common symptoms such as weakness and delayed motor development were observed. Genetic variants affected the RYR1 gene diversely, including five previously undescribed variants. Muscle biopsy was performed in five patients, revealing central core myopathy in two, multiminicore in one, congenital fiber-type disproportion in one, and a nonspecific pattern in another.(AU)

Type 2 diabetes patients requiring empagliflozin in Southeast of Iran: Frequency and guideline adherence (2022–2023) / Pacientes con diabetes tipo 2 que requieren empagliflozina en el sureste de Irán: frecuencia y cumplimiento de las directrices (2022-2023)

Introduction: Empagliflozin plays a beneficial role in individuals with type 2 diabetes at high risk of cardiovascular complications. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of individuals with type 2 diabetes who required empagliflozin based on clinical guidelines between the years 2022 and 2023. Material and methods: This study was a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study conducted on a target population of patients with type 2 diabetes. Patient data, including demographic characteristics, smoking status, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, renal insufficiency, retinopathy, and proteinuria, were collected. The indication for prescribing empagliflozin was determined based on the risk of cardiovascular complications. Results: A total of 398 individuals with type 2 diabetes with a mean age of 58.4 years were examined. Overall, 87.4% of the patients had an indication for empagliflozin prescription. The indication for empagliflozin prescription was significantly higher in men, individuals with hyperlipidemia, those over 55 years of age, obese individuals, and smokers. The mean age, body mass index, and triglyceride levels were higher in candidates for empagliflozin prescription. Male candidates for empagliflozin had significantly higher rates of smoking and systolic blood pressure compared to females. Conclusions: The findings of this study demonstrated that a significant percentage of individuals with type 2 diabetes had an indication for empagliflozin prescription based on clinical and laboratory criteria. (AU)

Introducción: La empagliflozina tiene un papel beneficioso en las personas con diabetes tipo 2 con alto riesgo de complicaciones cardiovasculares. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la prevalencia de pacientes con este padecimiento que requerían empagliflozina según las guías clínicas entre los años 2022 y 2023. Material y métodos: Se trata de un estudio transversal descriptivo-analítico realizado en una población objetivo de personas con diabetes tipo 2. Se recogieron los datos de los pacientes, incluyendo las características demográficas, el hábito tabáquico, la hipertensión, la hiperlipidemia, la insuficiencia renal, la retinopatía y la proteinuria. La indicación para prescribir empagliflozina se determinó en función del riesgo de complicaciones cardiovasculares. Resultados: Se examinaron un total de 398 individuos con diabetes tipo 2 con una edad media de 58,4 años. En general, 87,4% de estos tenía una indicación para la prescripción de empagliflozina, la cual fue significativamente mayor en los hombres, aquellos con hiperlipidemia, obesidad, los mayores de 55 años y los fumadores. La edad media, el índice de masa corporal y los niveles de triglicéridos fueron mayores en los candidatos a la prescripción de este medicamento. Los candidatos masculinos a este fármaco tenían tasas significativamente más altas de tabaquismo y presión arterial sistólica, en comparación con las mujeres. Conclusiones: Los resultados de este estudio demostraron que un porcentaje significativo de personas con diabetes tipo 2 tenía una indicación para la prescripción de empagliflozina según los criterios clínicos y de laboratorio. (AU)

Job satisfaction of Spanish and Portuguese optometrists / Satisfacción laboral de los optometristas españoles y portugueses

Purpose: Given the increase in demand for optometry services by society and the importance of the Optometry profession in Portugal and Spain, the objective of this study was to determine job satisfaction and important factors related to this satisfaction in a sample of Portuguese and Spanish optometrists. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional, and observational study was carried out from June to December 2021. An adaptation of the 15-item job satisfaction in eye-care personnel (JSEP) questionnaire validated by Paudel et al. was administered to Portuguese and Spanish optometrists. The questionnaire was shared through different social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, etc.) in a Google form during the months of June to December 2021 in Portugal and Spain. Results: A total of 530 surveys were collected in Portugal (42.3%; n = 224) and Spain (57.7%; n = 306). The factors that most influence overall job satisfaction are salary, career development opportunities, recognition/prestige in society, good work-life balance (all p<0.001), workplace equipment and facilities, and encouragement reward positive feedback (both p = 0.002). When comparing the determinants of job satisfaction of optometrists, it was found that Portuguese professionals were generally more satisfied than Spanish ones (p<0.001). However, Spanish optometrists reported feeling more supported by their colleagues (p<0.001). Conclusion: This study has shown that the level of job satisfaction was higher in Portugal than in Spain. The most important factors influencing job satisfaction were salary, job stability, and support from colleagues.(AU)

The invisibility of the cognitive cost of military police work.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the cognitive cost of work for military police officers in the state of Rio de Janeiro. METHOD: This is a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, carried out with 446 military police officers, of both sexes, distributed between non-commissioned officers and officers, in the 7th, 15th, 20th, 24th and 41st Military Police Battalions. An instrument was used to depict sociodemographic, work, lifestyle and health conditions and a scale for assessing the human cost of work, which analyses the demands of the job through physical, cognitive and affective costs. The data was organized, processed and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 13.1. RESULTS: The cognitive cost had the highest means, with severe results (µ = 3.86; SD = 0.86), representing greater demands in relation to the human cost of work among military police officers in the state of Rio de Janeiro and significant associations in relation to obesity, cognitive alterations in attention and memory, age and hours of sleep. CONCLUSION: In assessing the human cost of work, the cognitive cost was the most demanding in the work context of the military police officers surveyed, presenting a serious risk of illness.

Association between red cell distribution width and hypertension: Results from NHANES 1999-2018.

The relationship between red cell distribution width (RDW) and hypertension remains a contentious topic, with a lack of large-scale studies focusing on the adults in the United States. This study aimed to investigate the association between RDW and hypertension among US adults from 1999 to 2018. METHODS: Data were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2018. RDW values were obtained from the Laboratory Data's Complete Blood Count with 5-part Differential-Whole Blood module. Hypertension data were obtained through hypertension questionnaires and blood pressure measurements. Multivariable weighted logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between RDW and hypertension, followed by subgroup and smooth curve analyses. RESULTS: Compared to the non-hypertensive group, the hypertensive group exhibited higher RDW values (13.33±1.38 vs. 12.95±1.27, P <0.001). After adjusting for covariates, weighted multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between RDW and hypertension prevalence (OR: 1.17, 95% CI 1.13, 1.21, P <0.001). When RDW was included as a categorical variable, participants in the fourth quartile had the highest risk of hypertension (OR: 1.86, 95% CI 1.70, 2.03, P <0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that, except for age, BMI and weak/failing kidneys, gender, race, education level, smoking, alcohol use, congestive heart failure, and stroke did not significantly influence this correlation (all P-values for interaction >0.05).Smooth curve fitting analysis revealed a reverse J-shaped relationship between RDW and hypertension prevalence, with an inflection point at 12.93%. CONCLUSION: We first explored the relationship between RDW and hypertension among US adults and discovered a reverse J-shaped association, providing further insights into the relationship between blood cell counts and hypertension and offering a new foundation for hypertension prevention and control.

Role of food choice motives in the socio-economic disparities in diet diversity and obesity outcomes in Kenya.

BACKGROUND: The increased prevalence of overweight and obesity, along with high diet diversity, is observed among higher socio-economic groups in Sub-Saharan Africa. One contributing factor to these observed variations is food choice motives. However, the role of these motives in explaining the observed differences has not been thoroughly explored in this context. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates whether there are significant differences in food choice motives among socio-economic groups and whether these variations can partly explain the socio-economic disparities in diet diversity and overweight and obesity outcomes. METHODS: This study utilizes cross-sectional data from four counties in Kenya: Kiambu, Murang'a, Uasin Gishu, and Nakuru. The survey employed a three-stage cluster sample design to gather data using structured questionnaires on food choice motives, diet diversity, and anthropometrics from 381 adults in 2022. The mediating effects of 8 food choice motives (health, mood, convenience, sensory appeal, natural content, price, weight control, and familiarity) were analyzed using the Karlson-Holm-Breen method. RESULTS: The results show that individuals with higher household incomes place greater importance on health, mood, sensory, and weight concerns. The probability of an overweight and obesity outcome increases by 19% for a standard deviation change in the asset score, and by 8% for a standard deviation change in the years of schooling. Sensory motives significantly mediated these relationships. Sensory motives explained 29% of the income-BMI association and 30% of the education-BMI relationship. Higher education was also associated with increased diet diversity (ß = 0.36, P < 0.001) mediated by higher health and sensory concerns. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest significant differences in food choice motives among socio-economic groups, which contribute to outcomes such as overweight and obesity. Therefore, educational and other policies aimed at reducing obesity should also address food choice motives, while considering the disparities among socio-economic segments within populations.

Association of menopausal status with body composition and anthropometric indices in Korean women.

BACKGROUND: Menopause induces various health problems and is associated with obesity, but the association between menopausal status and obesity is unclear due to several confounding factors, such as aging and reduced physical activity. The objective of this study was to examine the association of menopausal status with anthropometric indices and body composition indices in South Korean women. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 734 subjects (297 postmenopausal women, 437 premenopausal women) from five university hospitals in South Korea were included. A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the association of menopause with anthropometric indices and body composition indices. RESULTS: Height, body mass index, waist-to-height ratio, waist-to-hip ratio, and neck, armpit, chest, rib, waist, iliac, and hip circumferences were associated with menopausal status in the crude analysis, but these associations disappeared in the adjusted models. Among the body composition indices, menopausal status was strongly associated with total body water, skeletal muscle mass, body fat mass, and body fat percentage in the crude analysis. However, the associations with body fat mass and body fat percentage disappeared in the adjusted models. Only the associations with total body water and skeletal muscle mass remained in the adjusted models. CONCLUSION: Most of the anthropometric indices and body composition indices were not associated with menopausal status, but total body water and skeletal muscle mass were significantly lower in postmenopausal women than in premenopausal women.

Epidemiology of an overlapping and parallel infection of Sexually Transmitted Infections among pregnant women in North-east Ethiopia: Its implication for prevention of mother to child transmission.

BACKGROUND: The burden of parallel and overlapping infections of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), particularly HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are disproportionately higher among pregnant women globally, leading to unwanted consequences. These infections pose significant public health challenges as they can be transmitted vertically to the offspring. This study aimed to determine the sero-epidemiological patterns and predictors of STIs (HIV, syphilis, HBV, and HCV) among pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics at ten health facilities in North-eastern Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted from May to November 2022 among 422 pregnant women selected using simple random sampling technique. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic characteristics and predictor variables of STIs through face-to-face interviews. Venous blood was collected and it was tested for anti-HIV, HBsAg, anti-HCV, and anti-Treponemal antibodies using immunochromatographic test kits. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to identify associated factors of STIs. Variables with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and a p-value <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of STIs was 23.9% (95% CI = 20.08-28.25). The prevalence of parallel infections of HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and syphilis were 6.4%, 9%, 1.7%, and 6.9%, respectively. The overlapping infections for HIV-HBV was 4% but HIV-HCV overlapping infection wasn't found. Increased age, tattooing, multiple sexual partners, exposure to unsafe sex, and RH status were independent factors of HBV. Likewise, increased age, rural residence, illiteracy, and tattooing were independently associated with HCV. Moreover, rural residence and a history of tattooing were independent predictors for the acquisition of HIV, whereas multiple sexual partners and RH status were found to be significant predictors of syphilis infection among pregnant women. CONCLUSION: The magnitude of overlapping and parallel STD infections is still continued to be a problem among pregnant women. Moreover, there were overlapping infections of HBV-HIV. Therefore, continuous screening of pregnant women for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and C infections should be performed, and special attention should be given to pregnant women who have co-infections.

Seroepidemiology of pertussis in Huzhou: A population-based, cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: The resurgence of pertussis has occurred around the world. However, the epidemiological profiles of pertussis cannot be well understood by current diseases surveillance. This study was designed to understand the seroepidemiological characteristics of pertussis infection in the general population of Huzhou City, evaluate the prevalence infection of pertussis in the population, and offer insights to inform adjustments in pertussis prevention and control strategies. METHODS: From September to October 2023, a cross-sectional serosurvey was conducted in Huzhou City, involving 1015 permanent residents. Serum samples were collected from the study subjects, and pertussis toxin IgG antibodies (Anti-PT-IgG) were quantitatively measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The analysis included the geometric mean concentration (GMC) of Anti-PT-IgG, rates of GMC≥40IU/mL, ≥100IU/mL, and <5IU/mL. Stratified comparisons were made based on age, vaccination history, and human categories. RESULTS: Among the 1015 surveyed individuals, the geometric mean concentration (GMC) of Anti-PT-IgG was 10.52 (95% CI: 9.96-11.11) IU/mL, with a recent infection rate of 1.58%, a serum positivity rate of 11.43%, and a proportion with <5IU/mL of 40.49%. Among 357 children with clear vaccination history, susceptibility decreased with an increasing number of vaccine doses (Z = -6.793, P < 0.001). The concentration of Anti-PT-IgG exhibited a significant post-vaccination decline over time (Z = -5.143, P < 0.001). In women of childbearing age, the GMC of Anti-PT-IgG was 7.71 (95% CI: 6.90-8.62) IU/mL, with no significant difference in susceptibility among different age groups (χ2 = 0.545, P = 0.909). The annual pertussis infection rate in individuals aged ≥3 years was 9321 (95%CI: 3336-16039) per 100,000, with peak infection rates in the 20-29, 40-49, and 5-9 age groups at 34363 (95%CI: 6327-66918) per 100,000, 22307.72 (95%CI: 1380-47442) per 100,000, and 18020(95%CI: 1093-37266) per 100,000, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In 2023, the actual pertussis infection rate in the population of Huzhou City was relatively high. Vaccine-induced antibodies exhibit a rapid decay, and the estimated serum infection rate increases rapidly from post-school age, peaking in the 20-29 age group. It is recommended to enhance pertussis monitoring in adolescents and adults and refine vaccine immunization strategies.

Factors associated with oral health care behavior of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A hospital-based, cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Oral healthcare behavior determines oral health status and the incidence of oral diseases. People with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at-risk of having low oral healthcare behavior and disease-related oral health. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the oral health status and factors associated with oral healthcare behavior among people with T2DM in Thailand. METHODS: In total, 401 people with T2DM participated in the study based on their attendance at a non-communicable disease clinic at sub-district health promotion hospitals in Bueng Kan, a north-eastern province in Thailand. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain variables of interest. Linear regression analysis at the 95% confidence interval (CI) was applied. RESULTS: The majority of participants were female (73.8%). More than three-quarters had more than 20 permanent teeth (77.6%), a decay missing filling tooth index was 10.6 teeth/person. Many participants had four permanent occlusal pairs (69.6%), had tooth decay (74.6%), and some participants had tooth filling (32.2%). Statistically significant factors associated with oral healthcare behavior were: having complications associated with diabetes mellitus (Beta = -0.097, 95%CI = -1.653, -0.046), oral health literacy (Beta = 0.119, 95%CI = 0.009, 0.150), educational level (Beta = 0.123, 95%CI = 0.103, 0.949), oral healthcare attitude (Beta = 0.258, 95%CI = 0.143, 0.333), and oral health services (Beta = 0.430, 95%CI = 0.298, 1.408). CONCLUSIONS: People with T2DM had good oral health status. People with T2DM with low oral health literacy, low attitude, and low level of oral health services were at a higher risk of poor oral healthcare behavior.

Association between family income to poverty ratio and nocturia in adults aged 20 years and older: A study from NHANES 2005-2010.

BACKGROUND: Nocturia, the most common lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS), significantly impacts socioeconomic factors and individuals' quality of life and is closely related to many diseases. This study utilized data from NHANES 2005-2010 to explore the relationship between family income to poverty ratio (PIR) and the presence of nocturia symptoms in adults aged 20 or older in the United States. METHODS: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in 2005-2010, including 6,662 adults aged 20 or older, were utilized for this cross-sectional study. The baseline data was used to display the distribution of each characteristic visually. Multiple linear regression and smooth curve fitting were used to study the linear and non-linear correlations between PIR and nocturia. Subgroup analysis and interaction tests were conducted to examine the stability of intergroup relationships. RESULTS: Out of the 6,662 adult participants aged 20 or older, 1,300 households were categorized as living in poverty, 3,671 households had a moderate income, and 1,691 households were classified as affluent. Among these participants, 3,139 individuals experienced nocturia, representing 47.12% of the total, while 3,523 individuals were nocturia-free, constituting 52.88% of the total population. After adjusting for all other covariates, it was found that PIR was significantly negatively correlated with nocturia (OR: 0.875, 95%CI: 0.836-0.916 P<0.0001). This trend persisted when PIR was divided into three groups (PIR <1, PIR 1-4, PIR > 4) or quartiles. There was a non-linear negative correlation between PIR and nocturia. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicated that lower PlR was associated with a higher risk of nocturia in adults aged 20 or older in the United States. These findings highlight the importance of considering socioeconomic factors in preventing and managing nocturia. Nonetheless, further exploration of the causal nexus between these factors was precluded due to the constraints of a cross-sectional design.

The Experience of Embodiment Scale: An examination of its psychometric properties in women from the Republic of Cyprus.

The Experience of Embodiment Scale (EES) is a recently developed instrument that assesses experiences of living in the body. Here, we prepared a novel Greek translation of the EES and examined its psychometric properties. We initially prepared a Greek translation of the EES using a 5-step procedure recommended for test adaptation studies. Next, in a cross-sectional study, we asked a sample of 933 women from Cyprus to complete the Greek EES, alongside additional, previously validated measures assessing body appreciation, psychological well-being (self-esteem, life satisfaction), eating restriction, perfectionism, and internalisation of appearance ideals. Our analyses showed that EES factorial models based on confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) roundly had poor fit. Conversely, models based on exploratory structural equation modelling (ESEM)-which accounts for the fact that EES items cross-load across factors-had adequate fit to the data. Additionally, we found that both higher-order and bifactor-ESEM models that controlled for the uniqueness of negatively worded items had adequate fit. The bifactor-ESEM model had the best fit of all the models tested, and was invariant across ethnicity (Greeks and Greek-Cypriots) and was unaffected by differential item functioning based on age and body mass index. Additionally, construct validity of the final, optimal model was adequate, especially for its G-factor, as indicated by significant associations with additional constructs in expected directions. These results suggest that a bifactor-ESEM model of the Greek EES has adequate psychometric properties. Our work highlights important psychometric issues relating to the manner in which the EES should (or could) be conceptualised and modelled, which should be considered more fully in future work.

Open innovation and confidentiality agreements as key factors of innovative performance in the manufacturing and service industries.

The innovative performance of manufacturing and service companies can be impacted by the existing relationship between open innovation (OI) and the generation of confidentiality agreements (NDAs) as a tool for the protection of intellectual property. Based on the analysis of a cross-sectional sample of 6,798 industrial companies (2019-2020) and 9,304 companies in the service sector (2017-2019) that are part of the directory of the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE) in its Technological Innovation and Development Survey (EDIT and EDITS), it can be suggested that the interaction of these two variables (OI and NDAs) generate positive effects for the manufacturing industry but negative ones for the service sector. It could be deduced that the positive effect is due to the greater tradition of OI in the manufacturing industry and the negative effect to the caution that the service sector presents when collaborating with external actors.

A cross-sectional study on adult lifestyle habits during the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 has spread and developed into a pandemic disease, forcing countries to impose challenging protocols and lockdowns. This study assessed shopping, food consumption behavior, and feelings in Jordan and several Arab countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional web-based survey among the Middle East population was conducted using an online questionnaire between July and September 2022. Participants were requested to answer a standardized and validated structured questionnaire. Demographic information, shopping behavior information, and mental health data were requested. A total of 542 respondents were included in the study. During COVID-19 quarantine, participants (68.6%) reported decreased shopping frequency and buying more food than usual (37.5%). Cereals and legumes were the primary food types stored by participants (76.9%). Multiple logistic regression revealed the age of the participant as a significant factor affecting storing of food (being ≤ 25 years old (OR = 0.456, p value = 0.038)). 75.7% of female participants eat less frequently in restaurants than usual. In contrast, among males, 48.5% reported that they eat at restaurants less frequently than usual. The country of residency and gender were the significant factors affecting negative feelings and emotions. Participants in countries other than Jordan had a higher negative feeling score (Beta = 0.086, p value = 0.042). Furthermore, females had a higher negative feeling score (Beta = -0.128, p value = 0.003) as the negative feelings score for females was 3.58 (SD = 5.443). On the other hand, it was 2.10 (SD = 5.091) for males. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered Jordanians' attitudes, shopping, and food consumption habits. Although positive behaviors have improved, such as shopping less frequently, eating home-cooked meals, and dining with family, frequent snacking and food storage have increased. Finally, public awareness of shopping and food consumption habits should be promoted.