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Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: People diagnosed with serious mental illness have a high risk of diabetes and are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes at ages below 60 years.Effective diabetes self‐care behaviours among people diagnosed with serious mental illness can improve glycaemic control and reduce vascular complications.Few studies have investigated diabetes self‐care behaviours and their associations with health literacy and self‐efficacy in people diagnosed with serious mental illness. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: Diabetes self‐care behaviours in people diagnosed with serious mental illness were suboptimal; the least frequently performed self‐care activities were self‐monitoring of blood glucose.Factors associated with diabetes self‐care behaviours are gender, age, communicative and critical health literacy and self‐efficacy.Self‐efficacy is the strongest predictor of self‐care behaviours among people diagnosed with comorbid serious mental illness and type 2 diabetes. What are the implications of practice?: Mental health nurses should assess diabetes‐specific health literacy of people diagnosed with serious mental illness to ensure that they possess the knowledge and skills related to diabetes self‐care.When treating young people and those with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, nurses should incorporate strategies to minimise their perceptions of diabetes‐related distress and increase their confidence in managing comorbid diabetes. Introduction: People diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI) experience greater challenges in managing their type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than do those diagnosed with T2DM alone. Aim: This study investigated diabetes self‐care activities and the factors associated with these activities in people diagnosed with SMI in a hospital setting. Methods: A cross‐sectional correlational study was conducted among 126 people diagnosed with comorbid SMI and T2DM in Taipei, Taiwan, between October 2020 and April 2021. Data were collected using self‐report questionnaires and a chart review. Three‐step hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with diabetes self‐care behaviours. Results: Diabetes self‐care behaviours in people diagnosed with SMI were suboptimal overall. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that age (β = 0.18, p =.037) and self‐efficacy (β = 0.27, p =.004) significantly associated with diabetes self‐care behaviours. Discussion: Self‐efficacy is the strongest predictor of self‐care behaviours among people diagnosed with comorbid SMI and T2DM. Implications for Practice: Mental health professionals should focus on enhancing confidence in managing comorbid diabetes in people diagnosed with comorbid SMI, especially young people and those with newly diagnosed T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenge of reduced dental treatment and education infrastructure in the Tanzanian highlands affects the oral health situation of both the general population and local healthcare workers. The aim of this study was to investigate the oral health status of healthcare workers at Ilembula Lutheran Hospital (ILH), Tanzania, during the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, 134 healthcare workers (62 women, 72 men; mean age 36.48 ± 9.56 years, range 19–59 years; median age 35.00 years) participated in this cross-sectional study, conducted from 12 February to 27 February. A dental examiner trained in oral health screening performed the oral health data collection. Data collection was performed by probability sampling using the Ilembula Data Collection Form—Oral Health (IDCF-Oral Health) questionnaire distributed in paper form. Ethical approval was obtained from the National Institute for Medical Research/Tanzania. The decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMF/T) index proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) was used with the associated caries measurement method and the simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S). Details regarding edentulism, nutritional habits, and socio-economic factors were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using linear regression (α = 0.05). The average DMF-T index was 3.33 ± 0.82, with age, gender, meal frequency, and soft drink consumption significantly influencing the index. No evidence of dental plaque was detected in 43.3% of the participants. Of the participants, 32.8% required prosthetic treatment (Kennedy Class III), while 16.4% needed it for acute malocclusions. Oral hygiene products were used in 97% of cases. A total of 35.8% of the participants had an OHI-S score of up to 1.0, with (p < 0.001) age and (p < 0.001) sex having a significant influence on the index. The current oral health situation of healthcare workers at ILH shows a moderate need for restorative and prosthetic treatment in rural Tanzania. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, there was no change in the need for dental treatment, which may be explained by the generally restricted access to dental healthcare in the investigated region. The development of an interdisciplinary oral health prophylaxis system could help to reduce the need for future treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gender dysphoria among transgender adolescents has predominantly been examined in relation to body dissatisfaction. While in adult transgender samples, body dissatisfaction is higher than in cisgender controls, this has so far rarely been investigated for adolescents. In the context of a cisnormative society, the impact of influences from the social environment on body dissatisfaction and gender dysphoria has been neglected in research. Therefore, this study aimed to (1) provide a detailed analysis of body dissatisfaction among young transgender people and (2) investigate whether body dissatisfaction and gender dysphoria are associated with experiences of minority stress such as trans hostility and poor peer relations (PPR). Methods: The paper presents a cross-sectional study among a sample of transgender adolescents, presenting at a specialized outpatient counseling clinic (N = 99; age M = 15.36, SD = 1.85). First, body dissatisfaction (assessed by the Body-Image-Scale; BIS), was explored and compared to data from a population-based control group of cisgender peers (N = 527; age M = 14.43, SD = 0.97). Second, within a clinic-referred transgender subsample (n = 74), associations between body dissatisfaction and gender dysphoria (measured by Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale; UGDS), PPR (measured by the Youth-Self-Report; YSR-R), and trans hostile experiences (assessed in clinical interview) were examined by correlations, t-tests and multivariate regression. Results: Transgender adolescents reported more body dissatisfaction than cisgender peers. The dissatisfaction with sex characteristics, non-hormonal reactive body regions and the total score for body dissatisfaction were positively related with gender dysphoria. The majority had experienced trans hostility in the present and/or past (54.1%) and PPR (63.5%). More body dissatisfaction was correlated with more PPR regarding visible body parts i.e., hair, overall appearance and muscles, whilst PPR and gender dysphoria were not associated. Transgender adolescents who experienced trans hostility showed higher gender dysphoria and PPR, but not more body dissatisfaction. In multiple regression, trans hostility predicted gender dysphoria, whilst age and PPR predicted body dissatisfaction. Discussion: Experiences of minority-stress differentially interact with body dissatisfaction and gender dysphoria among transgender adolescents. Social correlates of body dissatisfaction and gender dysphoria must be considered when working with young transgender people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the large uptake in virtual care in primary care in Canada, the care of patients with type 2 diabetes has been greatly affected. This includes decreased in-person visits, laboratory testing and in-person assessments such as blood pressure (BP). No studies have investigated if these changes persisted with pandemic progression, and it is unclear if shifts impacted patient groups uniformly. The purpose of this paper was to examine changes in diabetes care pre, early, and later pandemic across different patient groups. Methods: A repeated cross-sectional design with an open cohort was used to investigate diabetes care in adults with type 2 diabetes for a 6-month interval from March 14 to September 13 over three consecutive years: 2019 (pre-pandemic period), 2020 (early pandemic period), and 2021 (later pandemic period). Data for this study were abstracted from the University of Toronto Practice-Based Research Network (UTOPIAN) Data Safe Haven, a primary care electronic medical records database in Ontario, Canada. Changes in diabetes care, which included primary care total visits, in-person visits, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing, and BP measurements were evaluated across the phases of the pandemic. Difference in diabetes care across patient groups, including age, sex, income quintile, prior HbA1c levels, and prior BP levels, were assessed. Results: A total of 39,401 adults with type 2 diabetes were included in the study. Compared to the 6-month pre-pandemic period, having any in-person visits decreased significantly early pandemic (OR = 0.079 (0.076–0.082)), with a partial recovery later pandemic (OR = 0.162 (95% CI: 0.157–0.169). Compared to the pre-pandemic period, there was a significant decrease early pandemic for total visits (OR = 0.486 (95% CI: 0.470–0.503)), HbA1c testing (OR = 0.401 (95% CI: 0.389–0.413)), and BP measurement (OR = 0.121 (95% CI: 0.116–0.125)), with partial recovery later pandemic. Conclusions: All measures of diabetes care were substantially decreased early pandemic, with a partial recovery later pandemic across all patient groups. With the increase in virtual care due to the COVID-19 pandemic, diabetes care has been negatively impacted over 1-year after pandemic onset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Road traffic accidents are preventable public health issues and are becoming more common. These accidents can be linked to a number of factors, including an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads, changes in daily life, a nasty habit of breaking traffic laws, anarchic traffic systems, and risky driving practices. Thoraco-abdominal injury in different forms is one of the major causes of mortality in the victims of fatal road traffic accidents. The aim of this study was to know the pattern of thoraco-abdominal injuries in victims of fatal road traffic accident cases. Material & Method: The present study was conducted at the tertiary healthcare centre in southern Haryana. Total of 75 cases of fatal road traffic accident cases were enrolled during one year of study period. The basic information about the deceased like age, gender, mode of travel of the victim was obtained from investigating officer narration and inquest papers. During autopsy, detailed examination of injuries was carried out and the autopsy findings were recorded and analyzed. Results: It was observed that out of 75 cases male outnumbered females in ratio 5.25:1. Majority of the victims belonged to the age group 21-30 years. The commonest injury of the thoracic region was rib fracture (41.3%). It was also observed that 17.3% of victims had pelvic fracture. Conclusion: Human error is a major contributing factor to fatal RTAs, which can be avoided in many cases. A more stringent licensing policy, particularly for four-wheelers, increased knowledge of traffic laws, the reduction of drug abuse and an appropriate road network that is in line with traffic volume can help to reduce the number of fatal road traffic accidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine age-related risk factors for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with asthma. Methods: Data were obtained from a national survey of non-hospitalized civilians conducted by the Korean Center for Disease Control and Prevention. CRS diagnosis was based on the guidelines of the European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps 2020. Asthma was judged based on whether the patient had been diagnosed with asthma in the past. Of the 45,811 survey participants, 26,335 were included in the cross-sectional study. Participants included in the study were divided into the control, CRS, and CRS with asthma groups. Age-related risk factors were analyzed in patients aged < 60 or > 60 years. Univariate logistic analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between groups. Risk factors included age, sex, household income, residence, education level, occupation, and body mass index (BMI). Results: Education level (Odds Ratio [OR]: 0.342, P =.0003), BMI (OR: 1.09, P =.0082), and total IgE (TIgE) levels (OR: 5.582, P =.003) were significantly different between the control and the CRS with asthma group. Education level (OR: 0.478, P =.0016) and TIgE levels (OR: 4, P =.0218) were significantly different between the CRS and CRS with asthma groups under 60 years of age. BMI (OR: 1.087, P =.0443; OR: 1.104, P =.0224) showed a significant difference between all three groups with age > 60 years. Conclusion: Progression to CRS with asthma is influenced by education level, occupation, and TIgE levels in patients under 60 years of age. BMI was the only influencing factor associated with the progression to CRS with asthma in those aged > 60 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Systematic reviews are considered the highest level of evidence that can help guide evidence‐informed decisions in nursing practice, education, and even health policy. Systematic review publications have increased from a sporadic few in 1980s to more than 10,000 systematic reviews published every year and around 30,000 registered in prospective registries. Methods: A cross‐sectional design and a variety of data sources were triangulated to identify the journals from which systematic reviews would be evaluated for adherence to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 reporting guidelines and scope. Specifically, this study used the PRISMA 2020 reporting guidelines to assess the reporting of the introduction, methods, information sources and search strategy, study selection process, quality/bias assessments, and results and discussion aspects of the included systematic reviews. Results: Upon review of the 215 systematic reviews published in 10 top‐tier journals in the field of nursing in 2019 and 2020, this study identified several opportunities to improve the reporting of systematic reviews in the context of the 2020 PRISMA statement. Areas of priority for reporting include the following key areas: (1) information sources, (2) search strategies, (3) study selection process, (4) bias reporting, (5) explicit discussion of the implications to policy, and lastly, the need for (6) prospective protocol registration. Discussion: The use of the PRISMA 2020 guidelines by authors, peer reviewers, and editors can help to ensure the transparent and detailed reporting of systematic reviews published in the nursing literature. Clinical Relevance: Systematic reviews are considered strong research evidence that can guide evidence‐based practice and even clinical decision‐making. This paper addresses some common methodological and process issues among systematic reviews that can guide clinicians and practitioners to be more critical in appraising research evidence that can shape nursing practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examined gender (N = 1406;77.7% women) patterns of religious coping and psychological impact following the devastating 2023 Syrian earthquakes. Measures in this nation-wide convenience sample study included positive religious coping (PRC) and negative religious coping (NRC) using the Brief Religious Coping Scale (RCOPE), and probable PTSD, depression, and anxiety, using the PCL-5, PHQ-9, and GAD-7, respectively. Women reported higher endorsement of PRC items while men higher endorsement of NRC items. Within the women only sample, lower education and lower income, education and younger age predicted PRC and NRC, respectively. NRC was strongly positively associated with PTSD, depression and anxiety; while, PRC was positively associated only with PTSD. These vulnerable women require targeted support to adopt more adaptive religious coping strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION The underlying factors of oral squamous cell cancers (OSCC) have been elucidated, but studies have focused little on etiological differences in affected oral cavity sites. The aim of this retrospective study was to clarify the role of carcinogen exposure in OSCC of different oral cavity areas. METHODS A cross-sectional study of patients with primary OSCC was conducted retrospectively, based on patient records from Helsinki University Hospital, Finland, between January 2016 and December 2020. The patients' self-reported history of tobacco smoking and alcohol use was explained by tumor site, age, sex, tumor size, and lymph node status in a logistic regression model. The information on smoking and alcohol use was compiled from a patient background form. RESULTS In 519 patients, tumors occurred most often in the tongue (51%), gingiva (21%), or floor of the mouth (FOM; 15%). FOM had 26-fold greater odds for a history of smoking and alcohol use than other tumor sites (OR=25.78; 95% CI: 8.02-82.95; p<0.001). Gingival and buccal sites were associated significantly less with smoking and alcohol use (OR=0.43, 95% CI: 0.28-0.67; p<0.001 and OR=0.47; 95% CI: 0.25-0.92; p<0.026, respectively). Patients of older age were less likely to have a history of smoking and alcohol use (AOR=0.95; 95% CI: 0.94-0.97; p<0.001) than younger patients. Tumor size (T3-4) and FOM increased the odds for history of smoking and alcohol use (AOR=1.73; 95% CI: 1.15-2.60; p=0.009 and AOR=26.15; 95% CI: 8.01-84.84; p<0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS OSCC of oral cavity sites has notable differences in etiology. FOM seems to be related almost exclusively to conventional smoking and heavy alcohol use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To analyze the level of knowledge, attitudes, practices, and risk perception regarding COVID-19 among Chinese residents 1.5 years after the pandemic. Subject and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with both online and paper questionnaires. We included a variety of covariates that were characteristic-related factors such as age, gender, education level, and retirement status, as well as those closely associated with risk perception regarding COVID-19. Results: Participants (n = 3588), 53.49 ± 18.88 years old, from two provinces of China, of which 44.7% were male and 52.03% had a high school or greater level of education, answered the questions. More than 90% of participants had adequate background knowledge about COVID-19 and agreed or even strongly agreed with many attitude items related to the government's role in diagnosis, treatment, and dealing with COVID-19 infections. About three fifths of the participants reported fear of contracting COVID-19, but only a minority (18.63%) felt they were more susceptible than others. Respondents aged 45 years or younger were more likely to fear contracting the virus than those older than 45 years (adjusted OR = 1.464, 95% CI 1.196 to 1.794, P = 0.0002). High education level (adjusted OR = 1.503, 95% CI 1.187 to 1.904, P = 0.0007) and non-retired status (adjusted OR = 1.679, 95% CI 1.354 to 2.083, P < 0.0001) were associated with a higher perception of susceptibility to infection than others. Moreover, respondents who were not retired had a significantly reduced practice score (adjusted OR = 1.554, 95% CI 1.261 to 1.916, P < 0.0001). Age, retirement status, and education level were also associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice level. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the public generally has trust in the COVID-19 vaccine and the government with regard to COVID-19 in China. We recommend that high-risk groups of communities, such as elders and patients with chronic diseases, be given greater consideration in the outbreaks. Health education campaigns combined with workplace preventive intervention should be aimed at improving COVID-19 knowledge and beliefs in order to encourage more optimistic attitudes and to maintain safe practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Electronic Personal Health Record (EPHR) provides an innovative service for citizens and professionals to manage health data, promoting patient-centred care. It enhances communication between patients and physicians and improves accessibility to documents for remote medical information management. The study aims to assess the prevalence of awareness and acceptance of the EPHR in northern Italy and define determinants and barriers to its implementation. In 2022, a region-wide cross-sectional study was carried out through a paper-based and online survey shared among adult citizens. Univariable and multivariable regression models analysed the association between the outcome variables (knowledge and attitudes toward the EPHR) and selected independent variables. Overall, 1634 people were surveyed, and two-thirds were aware of the EPHR. Among those unaware of the EPHR, a high prevalence of specific socio-demographic groups, such as foreign-born individuals and those with lower educational levels, was highlighted. Multivariable regression models showed a positive association between being aware of the EPHR and educational level, health literacy, and perceived poor health status, whereas age was negatively associated. A higher knowledge of the EPHR was associated with a higher attitude towards the EPHR. The current analysis confirms a lack of awareness regarding the existence of the EPHR, especially among certain disadvantaged demographic groups. This should serve as a driving force for a powerful campaign tailored to specific categories of citizens for enhancing knowledge and usage of the EPHR. Involving professionals in promoting this tool is crucial for helping patients and managing health data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cancer-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaire of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), the EORTC QLQ-C30, is a frequently applied questionnaire to assess cancer patients' self-reported health used as part of research and clinical practice. Normative data obtained from the general population can facilitate the interpretation of these data. Despite its frequent application, no detailed EORTC QLQ-C30 normative data have yet been published for the United Kingdom (UK). This study presents detailed EORTC QLQ-C30 normative data for the United Kingdom overall and by sex and age. The data are drawn from a larger published, international, cross-sectional online survey. For the recruitment, the sample was stratified by sex (males, females) and age in five age groups with a sample size of n = 100 per subgroup. A total of N = 1026 UK respondents completed the survey (n = 517 females, n = 509 males). There were no clear subgroup patterns by sex or age; however, older patients tended to show higher (i.e., better) scores in emotional and social functioning; they also reported some of the lowest (i.e., best) scores for symptoms, such as insomnia, appetite loss, diarrhoea, nausea/vomiting or financial difficulties. This paper provides EORTC QLQ-C30 general population normative data for the UK, further stratified by sex and age. These data will greatly support the interpretation of EORTC QLQ-C30 scale scores obtained from UK cancer patients, and also enable comparison with other detailed national normative datasets collected in the same project, across several other European countries and the US. • EORTC QLQ-C30 is a cancer quality of life (QoL) tool for functioning and symptoms. • Normative QoL data collected from 1026 respondents in UK general population. • No clear patterns, generally oldest had better functioning and fewer symptoms. • Look-up tables for EORTC QLQ-C30 scales for the UK general population. • Interpretation aid for data from individual and groups of UK cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 is a frequently used cancer-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaire. To aid interpretation of data obtained via EORTC QLQ-C30, general population norm data have been published for many countries. However, despite its frequent use in the United States, no normative data by sex and age exist to date. Therefore, this study aimed to generate sex- and age-specific EORTC QLQ-C30 normative data for the United States. Recruitment and data collection were carried out via online panels as part of a larger cross-sectional study. For the recruitment, the sample was stratified by sex and age (18–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, ≥ 70 years) to achieve a balanced distribution, with n = 100 per subgroup. Descriptive statistics are presented by age and age/sex. A total of N = 1009 respondents completed the survey (n = 508 females, n = 501 males). More than two thirds of participants (72.5%) reported at least one health condition, e.g., arthritis (26%). Across EORTC QLQ-C30 scales, women and men 60 years and older reported generally better/higher functioning and better/lower symptom scores compared to the younger age groups. To date, no specific EORTC QLQ-C30 general population normative data have been published for the United States. This paper provides these important normative data, which will greatly support the interpretation of EORTC QLQ-C30 scale scores obtained from US cancer patients, and also enable comparison with European norms. • EORTC QLQ-C30 is a cancer-specific health related quality of life (HRQoL) measure. • HRQoL normative data from US general population was collected (1009 respondents). • EORTC QLQ-C30 look-up tables for the US general population by sex/age are presented. • Participants ≥ 60 years reported overall better functioning than younger age groups. • Results will enhance interpretation and validity from EORTC QLQ-C30 data in the US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, Indonesia contains over 25,000 plant species, including unconventional food plants (UFPs). These plants are integral to the dietary practices of rural communities, providing essential nutrients often overlooked in modern diets. However, the use of UFP is declining, with both their dietary and cultural values being undermined. In rural West Java, this decline in UFP biodiversity coincides with public health challenges related to malnutrition. This study aims to document the diversity of UFPs used by local communities in rural West Java, assess their nutritional value, and explore their consumption practices. Methods: Data were collected using mixed methods, including interviews with 20 key informants and food frequency questionnaire administered to 107 women in three villages in the area. The nutritional compositions of documented UFPs were obtained from literature and analysis. Bivariate correlation was used to analyze the relationships between UFP consumption frequency and potential correlates. Results: The study documented 52 species of UFPs from 29 families, many of which are rich in nutritional value. About half of respondents (56%) consumed UFPs moderately (2–3 times a week). UFP consumption frequency had a strong correlation (r = 0.70) with associated knowledge (r = 0.70, p < 0.01) and a weak correlation with age (r = 0.240, p = 0.015), livestock possession (r = 0.260, p = 0.008), and family size (r = − 0.220, p = 0.02). Motivations for UFP consumption included availability as free food (33%), medicinal value (26%), nostalgic value (23%), and preferred taste (18%). Most respondents (92%) agreed that consumption has declined compared to the past, with perceived reduced availability and lack of knowledge cited as the primary reasons for the declining trend. Conclusions: UFP use is common in the study area, where local communities value these plants for their critical roles in diet, medicine, and culture. Given their significant potential to meet dietary needs, educating and raising awareness about UFPs can enhance their consumption and contribute to food and nutrition security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The nursing profession is undergoing rapid transformation, requiring innovation in management approaches and proactive behaviors among staff. Nurse Managers play a vital role through managerial innovation, but its impacts on intensive care nurses' proactivity and locus of control remain underexplored. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the levels of Nurse Managers' managerial innovation and relate it to proactivity behaviors and locus of control orientations among intensive care nurses. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational design was adopted, recruiting 242 intensive care nurses from Tanta University Hospital, Egypt. Participants completed standardized questionnaires measuring perceived managerial innovation, proactivity behavior, and locus of control. Results: Nurse Managers demonstrated moderately high innovation across all dimensions, especially in continuous learning and development (mean = 4.65) and advanced technology use (mean = 4.56). Nurses exhibited sound proactivity levels, particularly in adaptability (mean = 4.40) and planning (mean = 4.35). The majority of nurses showed an internal locus of control (64.5%). Managerial innovation had significant positive correlations with nurses' proactivity (r = 0.45, p < 0.001) and internal locus of control (r = 0.42, p < 0.001). Regression analysis revealed age, gender, experience, education, and ICU type as significant predictors of proactivity and locus of control. Conclusion: Innovative nursing leadership positively influences staff's proactivity levels and perceived control over their practice. This underscores the vital role of nurse managers in creating empowering environments in intensive care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The objective of this study is to explore the various latent categories within the sleep quality of night shift nurses and to investigate whether shift‐related factors predispose nurses to higher levels of occupational stress and anxiety. Design: This is a cross‐sectional study. Methods: From November to December 2020, registered nurses from 18 tertiary hospitals and 16 secondary hospitals in Chongqing were selected through convenience sampling for this study. Latent class analysis was used to investigate the sleep quality of nurses working night shifts. Furthermore, univariate analysis and logistic multivariate analysis were utilized to identify the contributing factors to occupational stress and anxiety. Results: The four latent categories of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index for night shift nurses were identified as 'Low Sleep Disorder Group' (56.34%), 'Moderate Sleep Disorder Group' (37.27%), 'High Sleep Disorder Non‐Reliant on Sleeping medication Group' (4.89%) and 'High Sleep Disorder Reliant on Sleeping medication Group' (1.50%). The results showed that having a night‐shift frequency of 3–4 times per month, night‐shift durations of 9–12 h, sleep time delay after night shift (≥2 h), total sleep time after night shift less than 4 h were shift‐related factors that increased the levels of occupational stress and anxiety. Conclusion: The sleep quality of night shift nurses demonstrates heterogeneity and can be classified into four latent categories. Higher frequency of night shifts, extended work hours and insufficient rest time are all associated with increased levels of occupational stress and anxiety. Impact: By identifying the four latent categories of sleep quality among night shift nurses, this study sheds light on the relationship between sleep patterns and levels of occupational stress and anxiety. These findings have important implications for healthcare institutions in the management of nurse well‐being and work schedules. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute malnutrition affects not only the growth and development but also the body composition of children. However, its specific effects have not yet been characterized. This study aims to compare the body composition of 5–7‐year‐old children with moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) to that of their well‐nourished (WN) peers and identify associated factors. A school‐based comparative cross‐sectional study was conducted from June to July 2022 in Jimma town, southwest Ethiopia. The study participants were selected from eight kindergartens and eight primary schools using a simple random sampling technique based on the proportional allocation of the sample to the size of the population in the respective school. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to assess the mean differences and associations between variables and isolate independent predictors of body composition, respectively. The statistical significance was determined using ß‐coefficients with 95% confidence intervals and a p value of ≤ 0.05. Data were captured from 388 (194 MAM and 194 WN) children with a response rate of 97.9%. The mean fat‐free mass of WN children was significantly higher compared with those with MAM (p < 0.001). The mean (SD) of fat mass of MAM children was 4.23 ± 0.72 kg, 4.36 ± 0.88 kg and 4.08 ± 0.89 kg for 5, 6 and 7‐year‐olds, respectively. For WN children, the mean (SD) of fat mass was 4.92 ± 0.88 kg for 5 years old, 5.64 ± 1.01 kg for 6 years old and 5.75 ± 1.26 kg for 7 years old (p < 0.001). On the multivariable linear regression analysis after controlling for background variables, WN children exhibited 1.51 times higher fat‐free mass compared with MAM children (β = 1.51, p = 0.003). A unit increase in age of the study participants was associated with a 1.37 increment in fat‐free mass (β = 1.37, p < 0.001). WN children had 1.07 times higher fat mass compared with children with MAM (β = 1.07, p < 0.001). A unit increase in the age of the child resulted in 0.15 times increment in fat mass (β = 0.15, p = 0.020), and being female was associated with a 0.37 increase in fat mass (β = 0.37, p < 0.001). The results showed that the mean fat mass and fat‐free mass were significantly lower among moderately acute malnourished children than in WN children showing the loss of both body compartments due to malnutrition. The body mass index for age, age of the child and sex of the child were significantly linked to both fat‐free mass and fat mass. Key messages: This study demonstrated that children aged 5–7 years suffering from moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) have lower mean body fat mass (FM) and fat‐free mass (FFM) as compared with well‐nourished (WN) children.The substantial difference observed between MAM and WN children in body FM and FFM calls for the integration of MAM treatment into the routine health services to prevent their sliding down to SAM and associated mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This article explored Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) beliefs, attitudes, and knowledge of Complementary and Alternative Interventions (CAI). Method: We utilized a cross-sectional online survey among a sample of 193 LCSWs. Results: Approximately 60% of LCSWs assessed for and utilized CAI professionally, and 90% personally utilized CAI. LCSWs had moderately positive beliefs, neutral attitudes, and high baseline knowledge of CAI. Age and years of practice were the only significant correlates, and the only significant predictor for assessment and utilization of CAI was positive attitudes. Discussion: As the largest group of mental health providers, we found that it is vital for LCSWs to have a solid understanding of CAI to provide effective and safe services to the clients they serve. It is hoped that the results of this study will serve as a starting point for future research on CAI among social workers, with the goal of enhancing client-centered practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parent-child separation due to internal migration is prevalent in China. However, few studies have focused on the associations between different characteristics of parent-child separation and children's involvement in bullying. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 2,355 fifth-to eighth-grade students in China, using self-reported questionnaires to investigate the associations between children's bullying involvement (i.e., bullies, victims, bully-victims) and different characteristics of parent-child separation resulting from parental migration. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to explore these associations. Among all respondents, 17.3% reported being victims of bullying, 3.8% reported being bullies, and 2.7% reported being bully-victims. Compared to children with no left-behind experiences, those with current left-behind experiences were more likely to be victims and bully-victims. Children left behind by parent(s) at the age of three years or younger were more likely to be victims (aOR = 1.66, 95% CI [1.22, 2.25], p =.001), bullies (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI [1.02, 3.52]), and bully-victims (aOR = 2.17, 95% CI [1.04, 4.71]). Children left behind for seven years or longer were more likely to be victims (aOR = 1.49, 95% CI [1.12, 2.00], p =.007), bullies (aOR = 2.03, 95% CI [1.15, 3.69]), and bully-victims (aOR = 2.13, 95% CI [1.06, 4.50]). The identified characteristics of parent-child separation associated with bullying involvement hold implications for parental decisions regarding internal migration, interventions, and policymaking for preventing bullying among left-behind children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The word-in-noise discrimination test evaluates the phonological aspect of speech based on the detection of the vowels. While word-in-noise perception (WINP) test is one of the speech perception exams and evaluates the ability to understand the meaning of words by discovering the consonants. Until now, all word-in-noise tests have assessed speech discrimination performance, and for the first time, the normal values of the WINP test for adults have been determined. Since the normal values of WINP scores in children have not been reported, our research aimed to determine the normal values of the WINP test in children aged 5 to 13 years. In this cross-sectional study, 120 Persian speaking Iranain children with normal hearing thresholds were evaluated from the beginning to the end of spring 2023. We divided them into 4 age groups (A = 5–7 < years, B = 7–9 < years, C = 9–11 < years, D = 11–13 < years). The evaluations included general audiology tests and WINP tests using homtonic-monosyllabic words (HMWs) at a signal-to-noise ratio of 5 dB. Results: Significant difference was observed between the mean scores of the WINP test in age group A (54%) compared to age group B (66%), (Pv = 0.04). Also, the differences between the mean scores of age group A compared to age groups C (70%) and D (69%) were significant (Pv = 0.01, Pv = 0.03). Conclusions: This article presented the norm values of WINP test scores for Persian speaking Iranian children aged 5 to 13 years. The norm values of WINP test scores in the age group of 5–7 years were lower than in the age groups of 7–13 years. The biggest change in the performance of speech perception in noise was observed in the age range of 7–9 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study aims to explore the dietary patterns and associated factors of adolescents, which are often overlooked in nutrition data systems. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 304 participants aged 10 to 19 in rural northern Thailand, utilizing both open recall and list-based 24 h recall techniques, with the data recorded online. Dietary diversity (DD) was assessed using ten food groups as per the Food and Agricultural Organization guidelines. We employed binary logistic regression and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Most participants consumed items from the grains, white roots, and tubers food group, while the nuts, seeds, and pulses food group was the least consumed. The mean number of food groups consumed was 5.23 ± 0.12, with no significant differences across gender and age groups, and participants reporting no influence of mass media on food choices were more likely to have inadequate DD (AOR = 2.94; 95% CI 1.38–6.28). Conversely, those not influenced by social media when choosing food (AOR = 0.45; 95% CI 0.21–0.96), who felt relaxed during meals (AOR = 0.33; 95% CI 0.19–0.59), and with no role in family meal decisions (AOR = 0.55; 95% CI 0.31–0.95) were less likely to have inadequate dietary diversity. We suggest that assisting adolescents with mealtime management and involving them in selecting healthy menus could improve their dietary variety. Moreover, future research should further investigate these mechanisms to inform strategies for improving DD in this age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a disease characterized by long-term and troublesome symptoms that affect the patient's life. This study aimed to assess and compare the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of Polish CF patients and identify factors influencing it. The study group consisted of 79 patients (6 to 42 years old), who filled in an age-appropriate Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised. Medical data were collected from each patient's medical records. The domains with the highest HRQoL median were eating problems (88.89), digestive symptoms (77.78) and physical functioning (75.00). The lowest-rated domain was social functioning (61.90). Age negatively correlated with eight domains, and most strongly with treatment burden (rho = −0.474). Physical functioning positively correlated with all spirometry parameters, and most strongly with FEV1% (rho = 0.588). Treatment burden, body image and respiratory symptoms were positively correlated with all spirometry parameters except PEF%. Present exacerbations reduced scores in almost all domains, and in the MANCOVA model they were a significant factor differentiating patients' HRQoL. The univariate analysis of MANCOVA showed the significant effects of both health condition (F = 8.32, p = 0.005) and the COVID-19 pandemic (F = 5.89, p = 0.018) on social functioning domain, and of the place of residence on body image (F = 5.60, p = 0.21). A decreasing HRQoL with increasing age and during exacerbations indicates that it is important to focus on these aspects of patients' lives and ensure they received the necessary support from their healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Family caregivers are family members or friends of care recipients who assist with activities of daily living, medication management, transportation, and help with finances among other activities. As a result of their caregiving, family caregivers are often considered a population at risk of experiencing increased stress, isolation, and loneliness. During the COVID-19 pandemic in the US, social isolation and decrease in social activities were a top concern among older adults and their family caregivers. Using secondary analysis of survey data as part of a multi-site implementation trial of a caregiver skills training program, we describe differences in caregiver experiences of loneliness before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Health and wellbeing surveys of family caregivers were collected on 422 family caregivers of veterans before and during COVID-19. Logistic regression modeling examined whether the loneliness differed between caregiver groups pre vs during COVID-19, using the UCLA 3-item loneliness measure. Rapid directed qualitative content analysis of open-ended survey questions was used to explore the context of how survey responses were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: There were no significant differences in loneliness between caregivers pre vs during COVID-19. In open-ended responses regarding effects of COVID-19, caregivers described experiencing loneliness and social isolation; why they were unaffected by the pandemic; and how caregiving equipped them with coping strategies to manage negative pandemic-related effects. Conclusion: Loneliness did not differ significantly between pre vs during COVID-19 caregivers. Future research could assess what specific characteristics are associated with caregivers who have resiliency, and identify caregivers who are more susceptible to experiencing loneliness. Understanding caregiver loneliness could assist other healthcare systems in developing and implementing caregiver support interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to examine time trends in physical working conditions across and within occupational groups in Germany between 2006 and 2018. Methods: Logistic regression analyses were conducted using data from the BIBB/BAuA Employment Surveys in 2006, 2012, and 2018, with a total sample size of 59,006 participants. The study investigated changes in various self-reported occupational exposure measures over time, along with demographic shifts in the workforce. Results: The results showed overall improvements in most occupational exposure measures during the study period, alongside an aging and upskilling workforce. However, exposure to awkward postures, microorganisms, and, to a lesser extent, noise increased. Substantial variation was observed between occupational groups, with more favourable trends among white-collar high-skilled and blue-collar low-skilled workers, and less favourable trends among white-collar low-skilled and blue-collar high-skilled workers. Conclusions: While trends in physical working conditions in Germany are partly promising, some exposures are worsening, and substantial inequalities between occupations persist. As occupational exposures remain common, there is still a need for targeted interventions to improve working conditions, particularly in higher-risk occupations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Age-related decline in cognitive function is often linked to changed prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity and heart rate variability (HRV). Mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia, might have further degeneration beyond aging. This study aimed to investigate the differences between young and older adults with or without MCI in cognitive functions, task-induced PFC activation and HRV changes. Methods: Thirty-one healthy young adults (YA), 44 older adults (OA), and 28 older adults with MCI (OA-MCI) were enrolled and compared in this crosssectional study. Each participant received a one-time assessment including cognitive and executive functions, as well as the simultaneous recording of PFC activity and HRV during a cognitive task paradigm. Results: We observed age-related decrease in global cognitive functions, executive functions, HRV, and increase in PFC activity. The MCI further deteriorated the global cognitive and executive performances, but not the HRV or the prefrontal activation. Conclusion: Older people showed lower performances in general cognitive function and executive function, compensatory increase of PFC activity, and reduced HRV. Older people with MCI had further deterioration in cognitive performance, but not in PFC activation and HRV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A negative attitude towards abortion among health care providers providing abortion services could be an obstacle even under a law, which permits abortion on request. Healthcare providers are expected to perform and be change agents of abortion services. However, little information is known about the attitude toward safe abortion among healthcare providers in Ethiopia. Objective: This study aimed to assess health care provider's attitudes towards safe abortion care and its associated factors at the public health facilities of Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A health facility-based cross-sectional study was employed from March 1 to 30/2021 among 416 health-care providers. The data were collected by computer-based generated simple random sampling technique, entered, coded, and cleaned using Epi data version 4.2 and analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences version 25.0. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to estimate the crude and adjusted odds ratio with a confidence interval of 95% and a P-value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The response rate of the study was 99.3%, and 70.2% [95% CI: 65.6–74.6] of health-care providers had a favorable attitude towards safe abortion care. Multivariable analysis indicated that health care providers who are found in the age group of 25–29, 30–34, and ≥ 35 years [AOR = 3.34, 95% CI = 1.03–10.85], [AOR = 4.58, 95% CI = 1.33- 15.83] and [AOR = 5.30, 95% CI = 1.43–19.66] respectively, male health care providers [AOR = 3.20, 95% CI = 1.55–6.60], midwives [AOR = 6.50, 95% CI = 2.40–17.44], working at hospital [AOR = 4.77, 95% CI = 1.53–14.91], ever trained on safe abortion [AOR = 5.09, 95% CI = 2.29–11.32], practicing of an abortion procedure [AOR = 2.52, 95%, CI = 1.13–5.60], knowledge of abortion [AOR = 7.35, 95% CI = 3.23–16.71], awareness on revised abortion law [AOR = 6.44, 95% CI = 3.15–13.17] and need further legalization of abortion law [AOR = 11.78, 95% CI = 5.52–24.26] were associated with a favorable attitude towards safe abortion care. Conclusions: Healthcare providers who had a favorable attitude toward safe abortion care were relatively high compared to the previous studies. Age, sex, profession, workplace, training, knowledge, and practice-related factors were associated with a favorable attitude toward safe abortion. This study indicated that, a need for intervention to help improve the attitude of healthcare providers toward safe abortion care, especially for those working in the maternity care units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a lack of quantitative studies that specifically measure the association between the experience of pregnancy and unintended pregnancy. The present study aims to address the prevalence of unintended pregnancy and identify its predictors. Additionally, the study explores whether unintended pregnancy is associated with pregnancy uplifts and hassles. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 488 pregnant women between 20 to 40 weeks' gestation at the comprehensive health center in Tabriz City from February 2022 to January 2023. A cluster sampling method was used for sampling, and data were collected using socio-demographic questionnaires and the Pregnancy Experience Scale (PES). Descriptive statistics were used to describe the socio-demographic characteristics and the prevalence of unintended pregnancy. Binary logistic regression was employed to identify the predictors of pregnancy desirability. To examine the relationship between unintended pregnancy and pregnancy experience, an independent t-test was used for bivariate analysis, and a general linear model (GLM) was utilized for multivariate analysis, with control for potential confounding variables. Results: The prevalence of unintended pregnancies was 30.7% (24.3% unwanted pregnancies, and 6.4% mistimed pregnancies). The results of the binary logistic regression indicated that the lower age of both the woman and her spouse were significant predictors for unintended pregnancy (P < 0.05). Based on an independent t-test, the mean score for uplifts in women with unintended pregnancy was significantly lower than in women with intended pregnancy (mean difference (MD): -4.99; 95% confidence interval (CI): -5.96 to -4.02; p < 0.001), While the mean score of hassles in women with unintended pregnancy was significantly higher than women with intended pregnancy (MD: 2.92; 95% CI: 2.03 to 3.80; p < 0.001). The results of GLM showed that women who had unintended pregnancies had significantly lower scores for uplifts (B = -4.99; 95% CI: -5.96 to -4.03; P < 0.001) and higher scores for hassles (B = 2.92; 95% CI: 2.06 to 3.78; P < 0.001). Conclusions: The high prevalence of unintended pregnancies in Tabriz highlights the importance of targeted interventions to address this issue, considering the policy framework and unique challenges faced by women. Future studies should focus on developing context-specific interventions that effectively meet the needs of women with unintended pregnancies. Plain Language Summary: An unintended pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs either when the woman did not intend to get pregnant at all or when she intended to get pregnant but became pregnant at an inappropriate time. This type of pregnancy can have negative effects on the physical and mental health of women during pregnancy and after delivery. So far, no study has investigated the relationship between the experience of pregnancy and unintended pregnancy, and the existing studies, which are qualitative and based on interviews, have examined women's experiences of unintended pregnancy. For the first time, our study examined the relationship between pregnancy experience and unintended pregnancy in 488 women using a valid questionnaire, the Pregnancy Experience Scale, which includes two parts: uplifts and hassles specific to pregnancy. Our findings showed that women who have an unintended pregnancy have a worse pregnancy experience in both uplifts and hassles specific to pregnancy. Also, limited studies have investigated the prevalence of unintended pregnancy in Iran, especially in the city of Tabriz in recent years. Our study, found this prevalence to be 30.7% in Tabriz, with 24.3% of women having no intention of getting pregnant and 6.4% of women experiencing pregnancy at an inappropriate time. The recommendation is to implement strategies to reduce unintended pregnancy rates and improve women's knowledge of fertility, sexuality, and contraception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hypertension is a serious public health issue. It is a significant but controllable factor in the emergence of cardiovascular disease. Controlling hypertension is a main target for individuals to prevent further illness. Objective: This study aims to explore the level of self-care behaviors, motivation, and self-efficacy among individuals with hypertension. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational design was used to recruit (n = 121) participants utilizing the Hypertension Self-Care Profile (HTN-SCP) questionnaire. Results: The analysis revealed that the mean score of self-care behavior was 49.7 (SD = 10.0) out of 20–80, which indicates that they are likely to have good self-care behavior. The mean score of motivation for self-care was 59.7 (SD = 11.8) out of 20–80, reflecting that individuals with hypertension have a good level of motivation for self-care, and the mean score of self-efficacy was 70.0 (SD = 9.8) out of 20–80, which means that individuals with hypertension have a high level of self-efficacy. Also, there was a significant positive correlation between self-care behavior and motivation for self-care (r =.527, p <.001), between motivation for self-care and self-efficacy (r =.554, p <.001), and between self-efficacy and self-care behavior (r =.572, p <.001). Conclusion: The study revealed that Jordanian patients with hypertension have good self-care practices, motivation, and high self-efficacy. Patients should therefore be strongly recommended to be compliant with self-care practices. The government should prioritize hypertensive patients by making it easier for them to receive information about self-management practices to improve their quality of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the readiness of our patient population for the transfer to adult care and the applicability of the TRANSITION-Q and STARx scales to the Turkish adolescent patient population. Patients and methods: A total of 153 patients (92 males, 61 females; mean age: 15.5±1.9 years; range, 12 to 18 years) were included in the study between September 15, 2021, and December 15, 2021. The patients were divided into two groups according to age groups: 12 to 15 years old and 16 to 18 years old. The patients were also divided into four groups according to their diagnosis: connective tissue diseases, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, vasculitis, and autoinflammatory diseases. The TRANSITION-Q and STARx scales were administered face-to-face by a nurse and a doctor. The transition readiness of the patients was evaluated according to their scores. Results: Sixty-nine (45%) patients were in the 12 to 15 age group, and 84 (55%) were in the 16 to 18 age group. Eight-four (54.9%) patients had juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 47 (30.7%) patients had an autoinflammatory disease, 14 (9.2%) patients had vasculitis, and eight (5.2%) patients had a connective tissue disease. There was no significant difference in the scale scores according to disease groups and sexes in both scales. Considering the age of the patients, the mean scores of the patients in the 16 to 18 age group were found to be significantly higher compared to the 12 to 15 age group for both the TRANSITION-Q (74.3±13.3 vs. 65.4±9.6, p<0.001) and STARx scales (51.8±8.1 vs. 44.8±9.1, p<0.001). Cronbach's alpha score was 0.71 for the STARx scale and 0.79 for the TRANSITION-Q scale. Conclusion: TRANSITION-Q and STARx scales could guide the Turkish patient population in determining the pretransition needs of patients in planning individualized transition processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination rates and factors affecting vaccination in children with rheumatic diseases. Patients and methods: This multicenter cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted between July 2022 and September 2022. Four hundred seventy-four patients (256 females, 218 males; median age: 15 years; interquartile range, 13 to 16 years) were included in the patient group, and 211 healthy children (124 females, 87 males; median age: 15 years; interquartile range, 13 to 16 years) were included in the control group. A questionnaire was administered to the parents face-to-face during routine outpatient visits. Results: Of the patients, 220 were followed up with the diagnosis of autoinflammatory disease, 174 with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 48 with connective tissue disease, 23 with vasculitis, eight with uveitis, and one with sarcoidosis. In the study group, 256 (54%) patients and 115 (54.5%) healthy children received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Parents' concern regarding potential side effects of the vaccine was the most common reason for COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in both groups. The median patient age, follow-up period, colchicine treatment rates, childhood vaccination and influenza vaccination rates, median parental age, parental vaccination rate, and parental education level were higher in vaccinated patients (p<0.05 for all). In addition, vaccination rates were high in patients who shared their concerns about vaccination with the rheumatology team (p<0.001). Conclusion: Parents' concerns about safety and side effects were found to be the most important factors affecting vaccination success. Identification of the underlying causes of parental vaccine hesitancy will facilitate the development of effective vaccination strategies for potential future outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the clinical outcomes and risk factors for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in patients with inflammatory rheumatic disease (IRD) of a national cohort. Patients and methods: The multicenter cross-sectional study was carried out between July 15, 2020, and February 28, 2021. Data collection was provided from a national network database system, and 3,532 IRD patients (2,359 males, 1,173 females; mean age: 48.7±13.9 years; range; 18 to 90 years) were analyzed. Demographics, clinics about rheumatic disease, comorbidities, smoking status, being infected with COVID-19, and the course of the infection were questioned by rheumatology specialists. Results: One hundred seventeen patients were infected with COVID-19, the hospitalization rate due to COVID-19 was 58.9%, and the mortality rate was 1.7%. There was no difference between the COVID-19 positive and negative groups in terms of rheumatic disease activities and receiving drugs. It was observed that patients with COVID-19 had worse compliance with isolation rules, and bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination was less common. The mean age and the rate of smoking of hospitalized COVID-19 patients were higher than those without hospitalization. Conclusion: In this cohort, in which real-life data were analyzed, COVID-19 rates in IRD patients were similar to the general population for the same period. Compliance with the isolation rules and BCG vaccination attracted attention as components that reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection. The risk factors for hospitalization were older age and smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prescription drug misuse has been identified as a global issue of concern. Nurses' prescription drug misuse is linked to personal health problems and impaired nursing care. This study explored the level of South Korean hospital nurses' prescription drug misuse and examined associations with workplace access and burnout. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from 1142 nurses working in South Korean hospital settings. Nurses completed the online survey anonymously. Descriptive analysis, logistic regression, and Shapley value assessment were conducted. Results: Pain relievers (44.2%), IV drips (26.8%), and antibiotics (13.5%) were the most commonly misused drugs among hospital nurses. Accessibility in the workplace was high, with nurses reporting frequent administration of IV drips, pain relievers, and antibiotics and perceiving these drugs as easily accessible. Logistic regression demonstrated that perceived availability was significantly related to misuse across all drug types. Burnout was associated with IV drips, sleeping pills, and steroids, increasing the likelihood of misuse. Shapley feature importance analysis highlighted perceived availability as the most influential factor for IV drips, pain relievers, and steroids, while burnout emerged as crucial for antibiotics and sleeping pills. Notably, age played a significant role in appetite suppressant misuse, distinguishing it from other drugs. Conclusion: Our results revealed that workplace access and burnout are associated with nurses' prescription drug misuse. Effective educational strategies are essential for enhancing nurses' willingness to seek help for personal health issues. Hospital organizations play a crucial role in facilitating access to healthcare and fostering a supportive environment for nurses to seek treatment when necessary. Additionally, governmental policies should prioritize the implementation of active surveillance systems to monitor medication usage in healthcare settings, thereby mitigating drug misuse among healthcare professionals. By addressing these issues, we can ensure the well-being of nurses and promote a safer healthcare environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study explores the lasting mental health impact of the Syria-Turkey earthquakes in 2023 on a population affected by conflict and trauma. It analyzes pre- and post-event mental health and sleep quality differences, identifying predictors of outcomes. Aims: Studying the 2023 Syria-Turkey earthquakes' enduring mental health impact on conflict-affected individuals, this research informs better support and interventions for disaster survivors. Methods: This longitudinal, cross-sectional study examined the enduring mental health impact of the Syria-Turkey earthquakes. The present study involved N = 1,413 Syrian survivors, aged 18 years or older, who actively participated by contributing both pre- and post-earthquake data. A meticulously designed digital questionnaire with established metrics assessed sleep disturbances, depressive symptoms, and anxiety levels. Stratification variables (age, gender, education, marital status) were used for subgroup analysis. Arabic versions of PHQ-9, PSQI, and GAD-2 proved reliable for measuring depression, sleep quality, and anxiety. Results: The majority of participants were female (73.6%) with tertiary education (83.3%). Post-earthquake, a higher percentage reported poor sleep quality (67.7% vs. 59.7%, p <.001) and increased prevalence of MDE (66.1% vs. 56%, p <.001). GAD did not differ significantly. Post-earthquake, women had a higher likelihood of poor sleep quality (OR: 1.58, 95% CI [1.19, 2.10], p <.001) and MDE (OR: 1.55, 95% CI [1.18 to 2.04], p =.003). Predictors varied before and after earthquakes; age and education were significant predictors of poor sleep quality, MDE, and GAD. Conclusion: This study reveals higher rates of poor sleep quality and major depressive episodes among earthquake-affected individuals, especially women. Age, education, and gender contribute to these outcomes. Targeted interventions and comprehensive mental health support are crucial for post-earthquake recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Telerehabilitation is an appealing service delivery option for optimising recovery. Internationally, the equity of telerehabilitation services for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds has been questioned. Using a 31-item survey, our study explored the access, readiness and willingness of 260 patients receiving allied health services from a large tertiary health service located in Sydney, Australia, to use telerehabilitation for adults. Overall, 72% patients reported having access to technology, 38% met our readiness criteria and 53% reported willingness to engage in telerehabilitation. There were no differences in access, readiness and willingness to engage in telerehabilitation between patients from CALD and non-CALD backgrounds. Age was the only factor that influenced access (OR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.97), readiness (OR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.92 to 0.98) and willingness (OR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.00) to engage in telerehabilitation. Past experience of telerehabilitation was related to willingness (OR = 2.73, 95% CI 1.55–4.79) but not access (OR = 1.79, 95% CI 0.87 to 3.68) or readiness (OR = 1.90, 95% CI 0.93 to 3.87). Our findings highlight the importance of ensuring positive patient experiences to promote ongoing willingness to use telerehabilitation. Efforts are needed to improve patients' digital health literacy, especially patients from older age groups, to ensure equitable engagement in telerehabilitation services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the lives of those who are the target of community health nursing, it is important to collaborate with individuals and communities to improve their quality of life. Herein, we aimed to determine the association between Internet use among older individuals and locomotive syndrome (LS), frailty, and sarcopenia. In this cross-sectional study conducted between July 2022 and March 2023, we recruited 105 community-dwelling older Japanese adults who participated in a care prevention project called "Kayoi-no-ba". All participants were divided into Internet and non-Internet user groups according to the classification of a previous study. We assessed LS (standing test, two-step test, and five-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale), frailty (through the Questionnaire for Medical Checkup of Old-Old), and sarcopenia (grip strength, normal walking speed, and skeletal muscle mass index) and made group comparisons between Internet users and non-users. Binomial logistic regression analyses were performed with Internet use as the independent variable and sarcopenia or LS as the dependent variables. The Internet and non-Internet user groups had 69 and 36 participants, respectively. The Internet user group comprised 65.7% of all participants, which was similar to that reported in a previous study of the same age group. Between-group comparisons showed significant differences in sarcopenia and LS items, whereas adjusted binomial logistic analysis showed a significant association between sarcopenia and Internet use. In summary, among LS, frailty, and sarcopenia, sarcopenia showed the highest association with Internet use. Older adults without sarcopenia having good physical functions, such as grip strength, walking speed, and skeletal muscle index, more likely used the Internet; while older adults with sarcopenia were less likely to use the Internet. This implied that Internet use may be associated with physical function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from school to university brings significant adjustments in lifestyle, body weight, and living environment for young adults, potentially impacting their quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may have exacerbated these changes. This cross-sectional study involved 361 young adults (18–25 years) from Malaysian tertiary institutions, aiming to identify factors associated with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) post-COVID-19 restrictions. Data were collected online between April and July 2022, utilizing the WHOQOL-BREF for HRQOL assessment. Participants, with a median age of 23, scored highest in the physical health domain (mean: 63.2, SD = 16.2) and lowest in psychological health (mean: 58.2, SD = 16.9). Physical health domain scores varied by ethnicity, the field of study, weight category, and prescription medicine usage; environmental health scores by ethnicity and household income; and social health scores by age. Moderate perceived stress and low perceived support were significant predictors of poor HRQOL. Across the weight categories, sleep quality, perceived stress, and support have consistently impacted the HRQOL domain scores. This study underscores the multifaceted influences on young adults' quality of life during the transition to university, especially in post-pandemic adjustments, highlighting the importance of addressing factors such as perceived stress and support to enhance overall well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe heavy rains caused by linear precipitation systems are occurring more frequently in Japan owing to climate change, and residents are being asked to evacuate more often. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with the willingness of people with mental health illness (PMHI) in group homes to disclose their illness when being evacuated. Participants were PMHI living in group homes in Japan. We conducted an original anonymous self-administered questionnaire based on previous research. Valid data from 119 people were analyzed. Factors associated with the willingness to disclose illness to supporters upon evacuation were "I can imagine living in a public shelter" (Odds Ratio [OR] 4.50, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.78–11.43), and "I socialize with neighbors" (OR 5.63, 95% CI: 1.74–18.22). Managers of group homes should encourage PMHI to imagine life in an evacuation zone by increasing opportunities for disaster training and for interaction with local residents. People who are less likely to socialize with neighbors should be especially careful, as they may not be able to disclose their illness, and those who support evacuees should pay special attention to these people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fertility is a crucial component of population maintenance and growth. A declining fertility trend has been observed over the past two decades, and it continues. The birth rate in the Republic of Croatia is continuously decreasing, which is insufficient to maintain its population. Objective: This research aimed to examine the level of fertility knowledge, factors influencing fertility knowledge, and the relationship between fertility knowledge and the decision to have a child. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of mothers in five hospitals on the Adriatic coast of the Republic of Croatia, involving 1541 mothers, 18 years and older, from September 2021 to December 2023. The Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale (CFKS) was used for the research. The participants were divided into four groups according to age. The analysis was conducted using SPSS software (version 22.0). Descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, t-tests, and Pearson's correlations were used for the data analysis. Results: The average percent correct score on the CFKS was 51.8% (SD 22.6), with greater knowledge being significantly related to married status and higher education status (both p < 0.05). A total of 83% of mothers who have one child want to have more children. Fewer mothers who have two children want to have more children (42%), while only 11% of mothers who have three or more children want to have more children. There is no significant relationship between the CFKS and the importance of childbearing in the future (p = 0.12). Respondents indicated that they gained most of their knowledge from the internet (31%) and from the healthcare system (33%). Conclusions: The research results reveal a lack of fertility knowledge among participants, as well as an intention to have a child in the later stages of life. The lack of formal education on this topic leads to information gathering from friends, newspapers, television, and the internet. This study was not registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Socioeconomic inequalities constitute an important focus area for public health, and it has long been established that higher educational level and longer lifespan are correlated. Little is known about decennial time trends in poor self-rated health and mental distress. Methods This study linked decennial cross-sectional survey data on self-rated health and mental distress from the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) from 1984 to 2019 with educational registry data using personal identification numbers. Survey participation ranged from 50 807 to 77 212. Slope index of inequality (SII) and relative index of inequality (RII) were calculated using generalized linear models in Stata. Analyses were stratified by sex and age, using the age categories of 30–59 years and 60–80 years. Results Absolute inequalities in self-rated health and mental distress between educational groups have stayed relatively stable throughout all rounds of HUNT. Relative inequalities in self-rated health and mental distress have generally increased, and both men and women with the lowest education level were more likely to experience poor self-rated health and mental distress relative to those with the highest education level. RII in self-rated health increased over time for both sexes and both age groups. RII for mental distress increased in both sexes and both age groups, except for men and women aged 60–80. Discussion This study shows that relative inequalities in self-rated and mental health in the Norwegian population are still persistent and have increased. Further knowledge about groups with a disadvantageous health situation should have implications for health care resource allocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency Second Edition (BOT-2) is the most common motor assessment in Korea. The BOT-2–Short Form (SF) is preferred over the complete form (CF) in settings with limited time. The present study aimed to assess the validity of the BOT-2 SF in Korean school-age children. First, we verified that the BOT-2 SF reflects developmental changes in motor skills. Second, we compared the BOT-2 SF scores to those of the BOT-2 CF. A total of 283 Korean school-age children performed the BOT-2. The differences in the BOT-2 SF point according to age group (7 years, 8–9 years, and 10–12 years) were analyzed. A correlation analysis of the standard scores between the BOT-2 SF and CF was conducted. The sensitivity and specificity of the BOT-2 SF were calculated in reference to its CF. Overall, the BOT-2 SF point scores increased with age. The correlation between the total scores of the BOT-2 SF and CF was strong. The BOT-2 SF had a sensitivity of 83% and specificity of 92%. This study has demonstrated the validity of the BOT-2 SF in Korean school-age children. The BOT2 SF can be useful in screening Korean school-age children with motor skills problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Granulomatous dermatoses, particularly on facial skin, pose a diagnostic challenge, as similar histologic patterns can be produced by different causes. Aim. To evaluate the correlation between clinical suspicion and histopathological findings in various facial granulomatous dermatoses. Materials and Methods. This retrospective, cross-sectional study included all patients with the histopathological diagnosis of facial granulomatous dermatoses from the years 2016 to 2021 in an academic hospital. Demographic, clinical, and histopathologic features were reviewed and analyzed. Results. In this study, 150 histopathological records with the diagnosis of facial granulomatous dermatoses from the years 2016 to 2021 were reviewed. The most common clinical diagnosis was rosacea 34 (23.6%), followed by sarcoidosis 27 (18.8%), leishmaniasis 15 (10.4%), and granulomatous rosacea 10 (6.9%). The frequency of clinical diagnosis of rosacea (70.6), sarcoidosis (66.7), foreign body G (62.5), TB (75), pseudolymphoma (75), acne agminata (66.7), and granulomatous rosacea (70) in female patients was higher than that in males (P value = 0.03). The effect of age on the type of both clinical and histopathological diagnosis was statistically significant (P value = 0.0001 and 0.004, respectively). Conclusion. Our study contributed significantly to the understanding of the clinicopathological aspects of facial granulomatous dermatoses and advocated for a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of these complex skin conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Home mechanical ventilation (HMV) is a treatment method for patients with chronic respiratory failure. HMV is a challenge for both patients and their caregivers. Some studies have shown a higher risk of depression, job loss, or lifestyle disturbance in family members caring for HMV patients. The purpose of the study was to measure caregiver burden, perceived social support, and coping strategies. Methods: In the cross-sectional study, 58 caregivers (65.52% female) of HMV patients treated at five healthcare institutions were surveyed. The questionnaires including patient/caregiver demographic data, the type and duration of MV, the Caregiver Burden Scale (CBS), the Social Support Scale (SSS), and the Brief-COPE questionnaire were applied. For statistical analysis, the Mann‒Whitney U test, the Kruskal‒Wallis H test, Dunn's test, and Spearman correlations were used. Results: In the CBS, a high level of burden was observed mainly in the isolation and disappointment subscales. The female caregivers achieved a higher score for general strain than did the male caregivers (p = 0.023). Differences in the distribution of the isolation (p = 0.028) and disappointment (p = 0.03) variables between the financial situation groups were observed. The older the patient, the lower the burden in the domains of isolation (p = 0.015) and disappointment (p = 0.005) was elicited. Invasive MV was associated with greater burdens of general strain (p = 0.005), isolation (p = 0.001), and disappointment (p = 0.001). A medium total SSS score was shown (74.5 ± 7.56). Caregivers used various coping strategies. The most common were planning, acceptance, and active coping. Self-blame and denial were positively related to several CBS subscales, whereas acceptance of difficult situations and positive reframing were related to lower scores. Conclusions: Caregivers most frequently experienced a medium level of burden. Female caregivers were characterized by higher level of burden. Invasive ventilation increased the burden. Respondents who assessed their financial situations as good, had lower burden in the selected subscales. Using some positive coping strategies may reduce the level of burden. Interventions to ensure that caregivers overcome these burdens should be undertaken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Being aware of the possibility of becoming pregnant shortly after childbirth before the resumption of the menstrual period is often overlooked but remains a significant contributor to unintended pregnancies and may lead to maternal and neonatal comorbidities. Exploring the extent of awareness and associated factors could help tailor more interventions toward reducing the rates of short-interval unplanned pregnancies. Objective: This study explores the extent to which Ghanaian women are aware of the possibility of becoming pregnant shortly after childbirth before the resumption of the menstrual period and its associated factors. Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the 2017 Ghana Maternal Health Survey. The women participants were sampled using a two-stage cluster sampling design. Methods: We analyzed the 2017 Ghana Maternal Health Survey data of 8815 women who had given birth and received both antenatal care and postnatal checks after delivery in health facilities (private and public) and responded to questions on being aware of short interpregnancy intervals. A multivariable survey logistic regression was used for the analysis. Results: Of the 8815 women, approximately 62% of women who received both antenatal care and postnatal examinations before discharge reported being aware of short interpregnancy intervals. Postnatal examination before discharge but not antenatal care was associated with a higher awareness of short interpregnancy intervals. Women who received a postnatal examination were more aware of short interpregnancy intervals than their counterparts (adjusted odds ratio = 1.29, 95% confidence interval: 1.03–1.61). Also, awareness of short interpregnancy intervals increased with age, education, knowledge of the fertile period, contraceptive use, and delivery via cesarean section. Conclusion: Over a decade following the initiation of Ghana's free maternal health policy, there remains a significant gap in the awareness of short interpregnancy intervals, even among women who received both antenatal pregnancy care and postnatal examinations before discharge. The unawareness of the short interpregnancy interval observed in approximately 38% of women raises concerns about the effectiveness of counseling or education provided during antenatal care and immediate post-partum care regarding birth spacing, contraceptive use, the timing of resumption of sexual activity, and the extent to which women adhere to such guidance. Plain Language Summary: A study found more women were unaware of pregnancy soon after birth before menses Unplanned pregnancies may lead to worsened health conditions for mothers and newborn infants. One possible way this unplanned pregnancy could happen is through unknowingly becoming pregnant soon after birth before menstruation resumes. However, the more we know about pregnancy soon after birth before menstruation resumes, the better we can introduce measures to reduce it. This study examines how well Ghanaian women are aware of the possibility of becoming pregnant soon after birth before menstruation resumes and factors that may influence the awareness. This study analyzed 2017 data collected from women who received pre-delivery care and post-delivery checks before discharge from a health facility. The study findings revealed that 38% of the 8815 women who received both pre-delivery care and post-delivery checks were unaware of pregnancy soon after birth before menstruation resumed. Factors such as post-delivery checks, contraceptive use, delivery through cesarean section, women aged 30 years and over with secondary education and higher, and having knowledge of the periods more appropriate for a woman to be pregnant were more aware of pregnancy soon after birth before menstruation resumed. We proposed that effective counseling and adherence from women who are not planning to get pregnant soon after birth could help reduce the rate of pregnancy soon after birth before menstruation resumes. These unplanned pregnancies can also be avoided by educating women about birth spacing, contraceptive use, and the timing of resumption of sexual activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Performing cardiovascular and cancer screenings in target populations can reduce mortality. Visiting a General Practitioner (GP) once a year is related to an increased likelihood of preventive care. The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of visiting a GP in the last year on the delivery of preventive services based on sex and household income. Methods: Cross-sectional study using data collected from the European Health Interview Survey 2013–2015 of individuals aged 40–74 years from 29 European countries. The variables included: sociodemographic factors (age, sex, and household income (HHI) quintiles [HHI 1: lowest income, HHI 5: more affluent]), lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and preventive care services (cardiometabolic, influenza vaccination, and cancer screening). Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses and multilevel models (level 1: citizen, level 2: country) were performed. Results: 242,212 subjects were included, 53.7% were female. The proportion of subjects who received any cardiometabolic screening (92.4%) was greater than cancer screening (colorectal cancer: 44.1%, gynaecologic cancer: 40.0%) and influenza vaccination. Individuals who visited a GP in the last year were more prone to receive preventive care services (cardiometabolic screening: adjusted OR (aOR): 7.78, 95% CI: 7.43–8.15; colorectal screening aOR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.80–1.95; mammography aOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.69–1.83 and Pap smear test: aOR: 1.89, 95% CI:1.85–1.94). Among those who visited a GP in the last year, the highest ratios of cardiometabolic screening and cancer screening benefited those who were more affluent. Women underwent more blood pressure measurements than men regardless of the HHI. Men were more likely to undergo influenza vaccination than women regardless of the HHI. The highest differences between countries were observed for influenza vaccination, with a median odds ratio (MOR) of 6.36 (under 65 years with comorbidities) and 4.30 (over 65 years with comorbidities), followed by colorectal cancer screening with an MOR of 2.26. Conclusions: Greater adherence to preventive services was linked to individuals who had visited a GP at least once in the past year. Disparities were evident among those with lower household incomes who visited a GP. The most significant variability among countries was observed in influenza vaccination and colorectal cancer screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In complex teeth like maxillary premolars, endodontic treatment success depends on a complete comprehension of root canal anatomy. The research on mandibular premolars' root canal anatomy has been extensive and well-documented in existing literature. However, there appears to be a notable gap in available data concerning the root canal anatomy of maxillary premolars. This study aimed to explore the root canal morphology of maxillary premolars using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging, considering age and gender variations. Methods: From 500 patient CBCT scans, 787 maxillary premolar teeth were evaluated. The sample was divided by gender and age (10–20, 21–30, 31–40, 41–50, 51–60, and 61 years and older). Ahmed et al. classification system was used to record root canal morphology. Results: The most frequent classifications for right maxillary 1st premolars were 2MPM1 B1 L1 (39.03%) and 1MPM1 (2.81%), while the most frequent classifications for right maxillary 2nd premolars were 2MPM1 B1 L1 (39.08%) and 1MPM1 (17.85%). Most of the premolars typically had two roots (left maxillary first premolars: 81.5%, left maxillary second premolars: 82.7%, right maxillary first premolars: 74.4%, right maxillary second premolars: 75.7%). Left and right maxillary 1st premolars for classes 1MPM1 and 1MPM1–2−1 showed significant gender differences. For classifications 1MPM1 and 1MPM1–2−1, age-related changes were seen in the left and right maxillary first premolars. Conclusion: This study provides novel insights into the root canal anatomy of maxillary premolars within the Saudi population, addressing a notable gap in the literature specific to this demographic. Through CBCT imaging and analysis of large sample sizes, the complex and diverse nature of root canal morphology in these teeth among Saudi individuals is elucidated. The findings underscore the importance of CBCT imaging in precise treatment planning and decision-making tailored to the Saudi population. Consideration of age and gender-related variations further enhances understanding and aids in personalized endodontic interventions within this demographic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Olfactory and gustatory disorders are common problems encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic with a significant impact on the patient's quality of life: The aim of this study was to assess the olfactory and gustatory functions in COVID-19 patients with correlation between them and clinical and laboratory markers. This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 63 subjects recruited from the COVID-19 clinics at Police Authority and Menoufia University hospitals. The patients were assessed using history taking, anterior rhinoscopy, endoscopic examination, computed tomography, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Olfactory functions were assessed using the alcohol threshold test. Gustatory functions were assessed using the three-drop method. The olfactory and gustatory functions were correlated with age, gender, and laboratory parameters. Also, the recovery of smell and taste disorders was correlated with our assessed laboratory markers. Results: The prevalence of olfactory dysfunction among study participants was 41 patients (65%) of the participants including 12 patients (19.1%) having mild hyposmia, 10 patients (15.8%) having moderate hyposmia, 9 patients (14.3%) having severe hyposmia, and 10 patients (15.8%) having complete anosmia. The prevalence of gustatory dysfunction among study participants was 24 patients (38.1%). Age, gender, and laboratory parameters did not show any statistically significant difference between those who experienced olfactory dysfunction or gustatory dysfunction and those who did not. However, there was a significant positive correlation between the total leucocytic count, serum level of CRP, and serum level of D-dimer and the degree of olfactory dysfunction (0.049, 0.03, and 0.02, respectively). There was a nonsignificant correlation between recovery of olfactory and gustatory dysfunction and laboratory markers. Conclusion: Olfactory and gustatory dysfunction are established clinical presentations among COVID-19-positive patients. The laboratory markers had no correlation with the incidence of these dysfunctions or their recovery. However, TLC, serum CRP, and serum D-dimer had a significant positive correlation with the severity of olfactory dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Health Bulletin / Zdravstveni Glasnik is the property of Faculty of Health Studies, University of Mostar and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The health care systems in the Nordic countries and worldwide are under pressure due to increased longevity and a shortage of nurses. Providing nurses with a high level of education, such as advanced practice nursing, is of great importance to ensure effective, safe and high-quality care. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate self-reported competence using the Nurse Professional Competence Scale Short-Form for the first time among master's students of advanced practice nursing in the Nordic countries and to relate the findings to age, work obligations, child-rearing responsibilities, level of education and clinical nursing experience. Methods: A multicentre, cross-sectional design was used in this study conducted at five universities in Denmark, Finland and Norway. The Nurse Professional Competence Scale Short-Form consisting of six competence areas was used with a maximum score of 7 per item for the analysis of single items and a transformed scale from 14.3 to 100 for analysing the competence areas (higher score equals higher self-reported competence). Descriptive and comparative statistics were used to analyse the data. Results: The highest mean score was found for the competence area 'Value-based nursing care'. Students living with home-dwelling children (≤ 18 years) reported significantly higher competence in 'Nursing care', while students ≥33 years reported significantly higher competence in 'Nursing care' and 'Value-based nursing care'. No significant differences were found between students working and those not working alongside their studies, between students with and without further nursing-related education, or between students with long and short experience as nurses. Conclusions: The findings from this study might help to further develop curricula in advanced practice nursing master's programmes to ensure high-quality nursing and sustainable health care in the future. Future high-quality master's programmes might benefit from systematic collaboration between Nordic higher education institutions as also Sweden is planning master's programme. Higher age, having children at home and working while studying should not be considered causes for concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kink practitioners are marginalized and experience adverse health and social outcomes, which are exacerbated by consent violations. This study aims to understand experiences of reporting consent violations within a kink context. Kink practitioners (N = 2,888) completed a survey focused on consent violations, reporting, and recommendations, with 767 (25.56%) of them reporting consent violations in the kink context. The type of consent violation (sexual assault or kink-related behaviors), disclosure, and reporting significantly differed based on gender, sexual orientation, and injury status, but not age. Additionally, recommended steps included avoidance of police and others in positions of power and increased accountability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]