5-point Scale Research Articles

간호대학생의 통증관리와 수혈요법 핵심간호술 수행 평가

Objectives This study aimed to assess students' core nursing skills in pain management and transfusion therapy regarding their knowledge, attitude, performance, and communication skills, and to identify the perceived importance and performance of core nursing skills. Methods Participants were 71 fourth-year students enrolled in the Adult Nursing Practicum (Operating Room, Post-Anesthesia Care Unit) at C University in the first semester of 2024. Core nursing skills focused on pain management and transfusion therapy, guided by protocols based on accreditation standards and latest clinical guidelines. The 45-hour practicum included 6 hours for pain management and transfusion therapy practice and evaluation. Students reported the clinically important patient’s problems using the SBAR method and completed an online survey on the importance and performance of core nursing skills. Evaluations were conducted on a 10-point scale for knowledge, attitude, performance, and communication skills. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA with Scheffé’s test, Spearman's correlation, and Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA). Results The average score of the core nursing skills was 9.66±0.38, reaching the expected proficiency level. Higher knowledge was correlated with better performance (r=.285, p=.016) and more positive attitude (r=.443, p<.001). Performance was positively correlated with the perceived importance and performance of transfusion therapy (r=.290, p=.018; r=.356, p=.003). IPA placed pain management and transfusion therapy on the Quadrant B (higher importance and higher performance). Conclusions The evaluation on the core nursing skills regarding knowledge, attitude, and performance may be guide the improvement of the clinical practice education for nursing students. Additionally, the evaluation system of this study could be used as a evidence-based education guideline of the practicum education.

시험점수 예측과 학습전략 판단에서 자아 평가 유형의 차별 효과

The purpose of this study was to analyze how judgments about self-evaluation(s-e) relate to illusions identified in test score prediction and study strategy judgment situations. Nursing students(N=372) at a community college were surveyed. S-e was measured using a 9-point scale of "I think I am very smart" and ''My friends think I am very smart" to determine the extent of each type. S-e were not related to actual scores, but were positively related to expected scores, which reflected hope and motivation. The "low'' usefulness strategy(u-s), which creates the illusion of fluency and stability, also affects s-e, with direct ratings being positively related to both the use and effectiveness of rereading and the effectiveness of highlighting/ underlining(h/u), and reflective ratings being positively related to the use of rereading. There was no significant correlation with the "high" u-s. When judging learning strategies by predicted score quartiles,(=Q) the ''high'' u-s had higher effectiveness ratings than usage ratings in all Q, and the ''low'' u-s, ''h/u," had higher usage ratings than effectiveness ratings in the 3rd and 4th Q, indicating a typical competence illusion. Only for the ''h/u" strategy was the degree of use significantly higher than the degree of effectiveness when compared to direct evaluation. Overall, the proportion of "direct=reflective" is the highest, with more "d<r'' than "d>r'', and the proportion of "d=r’' tends to increase with grade level before dropping slightly in the 4th grade. In conclusion, it was confirmed that the illusion of motivation and hope in the test score prediction situation and the fluency and stability illusion in the learning strategy judgment situation are related to the illusion in the s-e situation.

Development of a Prognostic Model for Stage IV Colorectal Cancer Using Metastatic Patterns.

Metastatic patterns are the most convenient and common prediction models for the prognosis of patients with stage IV colorectal cancer. However, current prediction models do not include the severity of metastases in organs and exclude certain types of metastatic patterns. The aim of this study was to develop a prediction model that included several metastatic organs as well as the severity of liver and lung metastases, based on the Japanese Classification of Colorectal, Appendiceal, and Anal Carcinoma: the 3rd English Edition. We performed a state-wide cohort study and developed a prediction model using Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, utilizing data on patients with stage IV colorectal cancer in hospital-based cancer registries of all nine designated cancer hospitals across Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. The study included 1,230 patients with stage IV colorectal cancer. The prediction score consisted of the severity of liver and lung metastases, peritoneal dissemination, non-regional lymph node metastases, and other organ metastases (scale: 0-9 on a 10-point scale; divided into a 2-point scale, grade: I-V). The study found that the model had good discrimination properties, with a Harrell's concordance index of 0.64 (95% confidence interval: 0.62-0.66), and the grade was an independent prognostic factor [hazard ratio (HR)=1.83; 95% confidence interval=1.68-2.00; p<0.001]. We created a practical prediction model for stage IV colorectal cancer that can be applied at the time of diagnosis, using only metastatic patterns. Further external validation studies are required to ensure the accuracy of this model.

Ultra-fast [18F]florbetapir PET imaging using the uMI Panorama PET/CT system

BackgroundThere is a need for faster amyloid PET scans to reduce patients’ discomfort, minimize movement artifacts, and increase throughput. The recently introduced uMI Panorama PET/CT system featuring enhanced spatial resolution and sub-200ps TOF offers the potential for shorter scan duration without sacrificing image quality or efficacy to detect Aβ deposition. The study aims to establish a faster acquisition protocol for [18F]florbetapir PET imaging using digital PET/CT scanner uMI Panorama, while ensuring adequate image quality and amyloid-β (Aβ) detectability comparable to the standard 10-minute scan.MethodsThirty-eight participants (29 Aβ positive and 9 Aβ negative) from a prospective dementia cohort at Peking Union Medical University Hospital underwent routine [18F]florbetapir PET scans using the uMI Panorama PET/CT scanner and a T1-weighted brain MRI scan. List-mode PET data were reconstructed into durations of 10 min, 2 min, 1 min, 45 s, and 30 s (G10min, G2min, G1min, G45s, G30s). Two trained nuclear medicine physicians independently evaluated the image quality using a 5-point scale and provided binary diagnosis. Standardized uptake value ratios (SUVr) of the composite cortex (frontal, lateral parietal, lateral temporal, and cingulate cortices) were calculated to discriminate Aβ status and coefficient of variation assessed objective image quality. Comparisons of image quality and Aβ detectability between various fast scan groups and G10min group were conducted.ResultsThe subjective image quality evaluation and Aβ detectability results from the two physicians showed both good intra-reader and inter-reader agreements (Cohen’s kappa coefficient: 0.759-1.000). The subjective and objective image qualities of the G2min scans were comparable to the G10min scans, whereas adequate image quality was achieved with the G1min and G45s scans (5-point score ≥ 3). Subjective visual diagnosis by two physicians yielded consistent accuracy for G10min, G2min, and G1min groups, but lower specificity for G45s and G30s groups. The objective detection of Aβ status by cortex SUVr across all scan durations maintained perfect discriminatory efficiency and relatively high effect size (Hedge’s G: 2.48–2.54).ConclusionsA 1-min ultra-fast scan is feasible for [18F]florbetapir PET imaging using uMI Panorama PET/CT, while maintaining adequate image quality and Aβ diagnostic efficiency.Clinical trial registrationNCT05023564. Registered September 2022 https://clinicaltrials.gov/search?term=NCT05023564.

Frequency of nomophobia among medical students of Hayatabad: A cross sectional survey

Background: Nomophobia is relatively new medical term coined in 2008 by a UK based health organization. It is an acronym to the term “No mobile phone phobia” and it refers to people anxiety and fear of not being able to use their smart phones due to their battery running out or being out of coverage area. In some cases, it can become a serious mental problem for those affected. This study was conducted to find out the frequency of Nomophobia in medical students of Hayatabad. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on of medical students of Hayatabad and included all 5 years MBBS students in the survey. Participants who didn’t own their own smart phone were excluded from the study. Total sample size was 325 participants. Convenient sampling methods was used for data collection. Demographic data was obtained initially and nomophobia was assessed using NMP-Q questionnaire which is 7-point Likert scale and performed scoring and minimum possible score was 20, whereas maximum possible score was 140. Data was analyzed using SPSS-version 21. Results: A total of 130 (40%) males and 195 (60%) females participated in the study. Mean age of the participants was 21.72±3.043. Out of total 325 participants majority of the participants 168 (51.7%) reported to have moderate level of nomophobia followed by severe levels. Only 42 (12.9%) participants reported to have mild levels nomophobia. Conclusion: The current study findings showed that nomophobia is quite common in medical students. Nomophobia is a serious mental health issue and awareness needs to be created to help minimize it.

The level of efficiency of logistics management in achieving competitive advantage of refreshment businesses in Calapan CityJohn Mirko Alegre Velasquez

Success in the fast-moving beverage industry hinges on meticulous planning and preparation, with efficient logistics management being crucial for streamlining operations and overcoming the inherent complexities of managing multiple tasks. The success of business processes is highly dependent on its efficient logistics management which includes optimizing facilities, inventory, and transportation. Inventory management, customer service, and space optimization are the main elements incorporated in logistics management. Competitive advantages are factors that differentiate any businesses from their competitors. Through implementing these logistics management, such as improving inventory control, providing excellent customer service, and optimizing space, refreshment businesses can gain a competitive advantage by enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction. The study comprised 69 refreshment businesses from Calapan City in its sample size. Using descriptive-correlational quantitative research design and a 4-point Likert scale range of interpretation, the data collected from the respondents were analyzed and interpreted. The study found a significant and strong positive correlation between the efficiency of logistics management and the level of competitive advantage in terms of inventory management, customer service, and space optimization. The overall correlation between logistics management and competitive advantage is positive. The findings indicate that all these indicators have a substantial impact on competitive advantage. Among all the indicators, the constraints of Vietnam's refreshment businesses are infrastructure and regulation, while the Philippines faces seasonal demand and oversupply patterns during the peak seasons, like Christmas seasons. Inventory management and customer service have the most impact on competitive advantage. Consequently, a number of recommendations have been put forth to help refreshment businesses manage their logistics management more efficiently in order to continuously acquire, enhance, and maintain their competitive advantage.

Changes in Emergency Department Practices After Implementation of a Standardized Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Guideline.

The aim of the study is to assess the effect of an emergency department (ED) standardized clinical guideline for adolescent heavy menstrual bleeding on the rate of return ED visits and ED provider history-taking and management of this condition. This was a retrospective cohort study. Patients less than 18 years old presenting to a single academic children's hospital ED between 2010 and 2020 with a chief complaint of heavy menstrual bleeding were included. Patient demographics were collected, along with a 10-point scale of provider documentation of specific medical and menstrual history components and required laboratory workup. Planned treatment plans were collected, as well as hospital admissions and return ED visits (within 3 weeks). Total number of patients was 267 (n = 106 pre- and n = 161 post-), with similar distribution of age ranges between groups (14.6 [2.2] and 14.5 [2.0], P = 0.73). On the 10-point scale of required history and laboratory evaluations, postimplementation patients received 1.9 more points than the precohort (P < 0.001). Age (-0.22 [95% confidence interval {CI} -0.36 to -0.08]) and evaluation by a trainee physician (0.75, [95% CI 0.09 to 1.41]) were also associated with significant differences in point totals. Documentation of outpatient follow-up with primary care physician or an adolescent medicine/gynecology specialist significantly increased (50% and 90% P < 0.001). Implementation was associated with a decrease in ED return visits in multivariate analysis (odds ratio 0.27, [95% CI 0.08 to 0.92], P = 0.036). Implementation of a clinical guideline pathway improved provider documentation and history taking, increased referrals to specialist care, and significantly decreased return ED visits within 3 weeks for heavy menstrual bleeding complaints.

Relationship between postoperative dietary intake and walking ability among older adults with hip fractures: A retrospective study

Objective This study aimed to determine whether total dietary intake assessed in the acute phase after hip fracture surgery is associated with walking ability. Design The retrospective observational study. Setting A single institution. Participants Patients with hip fractures aged ≥65 years. Main measures Dietary intake was recorded daily on an 11-point scale using visual plate waste. The primary outcome was walking ability, which was assessed using functional ambulation categories at discharge. We categorised the patients into those with improved walking ability (functional ambulation categories score ≥3) and those without (&lt;3). Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for functional ambulation categories according to total dietary intake during acute hospitalisation. Results In total, 182 patients were included with a median age of 85 years; 73.6% were women. The median dietary intake during the first week after surgery, the second postoperative week, and throughout the postoperative period were 24.5, 28.4, and 27.1 kcal, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, high total dietary intake (hazard ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence intervals, 1.02–1.09; P = .006) and high dietary intake after the second week (hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence intervals, 1.01–1.08; P = .017) were associated with walking ability. Conclusions Total dietary intake was associated with walking ability at discharge during the acute postoperative period after hip fracture. Dietary intake following the second postoperative week may play a significant role in the recovery of walking ability.

Personality traits and their correlation with behavior in the bonnet macaque (Macaca radiata) in southern India

The purpose of our research was to identify the primary personality traits of bonnet macaques using an observer-based questionnaire and to assess the accuracy of this method in predicting behavior. Additionally, we examined the relationship between personality traits and variables such as sex, age, and rank. We rated 25 males and 38 females on 50 personality questionnaire items using a 7-point scale, with reliable ratings and good agreement among raters (the lowest of the calculated ICC (3:k) index ≥ 0.62). Behavioral observations of 38 females over two-years were analyzed. Exploratory factor analysis revealed five traits: Friendliness, Aggression, Playfulness, Fearfulness, and Opportunism. Every trait correlated with a certain number of observed behaviors. Our results suggest that the questionnaire-based method is sufficiently valid as it confirmed high behavioral convergence with Fearfulness, Playfulness and Aggressiveness. Further studies are needed to understand the functional value of behaviors associated with Friendliness and Opportunism. Our study confirmed a tolerant social style of bonnet macaques, characterized by similar Aggression levels in both males and females, and lack of difference in Aggression level between subadult and adult males. Moreover, we identified a species-characteristic trait Opportunism which, unlike in other studied macaques, did not involve aggression-related characteristics.

Evaluating the impact of changing inhaler color on perception of symptoms and disease burden in patients with asthma: the FEEL study

Objectives Patient perception of treatment effectiveness is key to optimizing adherence. This is potentially impacted by color, yet no such studies have been conducted in asthma. This study assessed the influence of pink vs. white pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) actuators on asthma symptoms perception. Methods In this double-blind, randomized, multicenter, crossover study, adults with moderate-to-severe asthma received extrafine formulation beclomethasone dipropionate/formoterol furoate (BDP/FF) pMDI for a 2-week run-in. During two, 2-week treatment periods they received BDP/FF pMDI, white in one, pink in the other, using an ‘authorized deception’ approach (patients were told the inhalers contained the same active ingredients, but device characteristics differed). Endpoints included patient-reported asthma symptoms and psychopharmacological aspects (prior to use: did patients expect an improvement; after use: did they think there had been an improvement; both on 100-point visual analog scales [VAS]). Results Of 74 patients analyzed, 72 completed the study. There were no statistically significant differences between inhalers for asthma symptoms, with minimal changes from baseline. Patients were numerically more likely to expect symptoms improvement with the white than pink inhaler (mean VAS 64.5 vs. 60.8). Perceived improvements were lower than expected with both, numerically favoring the pink inhaler (mean VAS 41.1 vs. 44.6); 46.6% believed a change had been made, 51.9% of whom believed this impacted symptoms. Conclusions Changing inhaler color had no impact on asthma symptoms, but did have a numerical impact on patients’ expectations of subsequent treatment effect. This emphasizes the importance of communication between patients and healthcare practitioners when changing inhalers.

Health-promoting activities and facilitating/inhibiting factors in hospitals, clinics, and nursing care facilities: Public interest corporation survey results

Objective Medical and nursing care services within community-based integrated care systems are vital in community health. This study aimed to assess the current status of health-promoting activities across hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes operated by the Japan Association for Development of Community Medicine and explore differences depending on the type of facility and strategies for expanding these activities.Methods Between April 2022 and September 2023, we conducted web-based surveys, followed by telephone and email interviews. The survey covered three main areas; health-promoting activities for patients/users, the community, and staff (options), willingness to expand activities (10-point scale), and facilitating and inhibiting factors (open-ended responses). Responses were analyzed according to facility type, and activities were categorized according to the 2020 Standards for Health-Promoting Hospitals and Health Services (The 2020 HPH Standards).Results The response rate was 100%. Activities were implemented across all facilities. The percentages of facilities that implemented activities in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes were as follows; patients/users (96.0, 84.5, 94.4, P = 0.011), community (96.0, 83.3, 100.0, P < 0.001), and staff (100.0, 72.9, 94.4, P < 0.001). The implementation rates were significantly lower in clinics than in hospitals and nursing homes. The mean number of activities in small clinics with < 50 staff (S) was significantly lower than that in large clinics with > 50 staff (L) for patients/users (S, L, difference) (4.1, 6.2, P = 0.034), community (4.9, 9.1, P < 0.001), and staff (1.6, 3.8, P < 0.001). Willingness did not vary by facility type (median of 7.0); however, conviction, as a determinant of willingness, was slightly higher in clinics and nursing homes than in hospitals (hospital = 7.0, clinics and nursing homes = 8.0). The most common facilitating factor for hospitals was "development of organizational structure," such as the establishment of a promotion committee, whereas for clinics and nursing homes, it was the "provision of educational materials and know-how." The most common inhibiting factor was "increasing workload." These activities aligned with almost all 2020 HPH standards; however, the evaluation system needed improvement.Conclusion All facilities are implementing health-promoting activities according to the 2020 HPH standards and have expressed eagerness to expand their activities. Developing organizational structures, ensuring the profitability of activities, developing evaluation indicators for measuring results, and establishing an evaluation system are crucial for expansion.

Microbial Assessment of Herbal Tea Production with Natural Ingredients

Purpose: The study aimed to assess the microbial safety and quality of herbal tea production using natural ingredients. The objectives of the research were to: determine the sensory characteristics of herbal tea produced using lemongrass, cloves, “precise”, and negro pepper. To evaluate critical control points for microbial contamination. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employed an experimental research design with staff from the Western Regional House of Chiefs as the population. A sample size of one hundred (100) respondents was selected for the study using purposive and convenience sampling methods. The sensory evaluation utilised a 7-point hedonic scale, whilst mineral content and proximate analysis were conducted. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was employed to evaluate differences among the various tea samples. Findings: Participants showed a strong preference for Lemongrass (201) and Basic tea (204) due to their delightful taste experience, which encompassed appealing attributes such as colour, aroma, texture, and aftertaste. The investigation revealed notable differences in the nutrient composition of the herbal tea samples. Cloves (202) stood out for its higher protein and fat contents, with the highest counts of both aerobic microorganisms and yeast and molds, while Lemongrass was found to have more fibre and carbohydrates. Research Limitation: This research focused on the production of herbal tea using negro, pepper, “prekese”, cloves and lemongrass. Practical Implication: Healthcare systems benefit from validated safety standards for herbal products, reducing the burden of foodborne illnesses and contamination-related health issues. Social Implication: The research contributes to food security by ensuring the safety and reliability of traditional herbal beverages while maintaining their cultural significance. Originality/Value: This research contributes to food safety science by bridging traditional herbal knowledge with modern microbiological assessment methods, potentially influencing industry standards and regulatory frameworks.

Corporate Hereditary Succession Risk Management

The relevance of the study lies in the presence of problems related to hereditary transfer of business, especially in conditions of economic turbulence in the Russia, which, together with the loss of enterprises, can lead to the loss of accumulated knowledge and created technologies, which will put the Russian economy at a disadvantage compared to international competitors. In addition, this topic has not been sufficiently studied from the perspective of enterprise risk management. In the study, the factors of successful hereditary succession are divided into internal and external ones. External factors include a perfect regulatory framework and availability of necessary socio-economic infrastructure; internal factors include adherence to the principles of corporate governance G20/OECD, formation of a systematic approach to the transfer of the company to heirs, including development of their competencies, compliance with the legislative norms of the Russian Federation and formation of official succession plans. The purpose of the study is to develop a risk management mechanism for the hereditary succession of a corporation. Materials and methods. In the course of the research, the following methods were used: analysis of Russian and foreign scientific sources and business Internet resources, the case method, the «bow tie» risk management method (GOST R ISO/IEC 31010-2011), the scoring method based on the interpretation of scientific publications. Results. An event of hereditary succession, having a dual nature, like any risk, can affect the financial performance of the company, the image of the company in the eyes of the consumer (risks in brand management) and other aspects of the company's activities, that is why careful preparation and selection of the most favorable moment at the stage of the company's life cycle, for example, during its economic growth are necessary. The practical experience described in the article has shown that the absence of a regulated process for transferring business ownership leads to significant losses: closure of enterprises, financial damage to the company and heirs, complete loss of business, a decrease in market share, etc. An impulse mechanism for preventing the risk of hereditary succession has been identified in studying the experience of Chinese companies, which is implemented through one-time events, such as charitable donations to strengthen reputation. A systemic mechanism for preventing the risk of hereditary succession was identified from the experience of Auchan company, in which both the organizational structure and a set of measures were aimed at increasing the stability of the company in transferring business to heirs. It is proposed to introduce a hereditary succession risk management mechanism at the enterprise based on GOST R ISO/IEC 31010-2011. The use of the risk analysis method («bow tie») made it possible to systematize the causes, consequences and to offer a set of preventive (drawing up a legally formalized inheritance plan, training the heir in management skills, appointing intermediaries in conflict resolution, assessing market changes and adapting to them) and mitigating (creating a reserve fund in case of crisis situations, maintaining stable relationships with partners and clients, support for employees during the transition period, legal support) measures to prevent the risk of hereditary succession. The mechanism represents a cyclical sequence of stages aimed at continuous improvement of the risk management process during business transfer. The interdisciplinary approach at each stage is carried out with the help of a team of specialists, the contribution of each of whom is evaluated on a 10-point scale. Conclusions. The proposed mechanism can be adapted for various industries and types of family business and will help to mitigate the risks of hereditary succession, preserve the stability of enterprises and the Russian economy as a whole.

Уровни понимания и градуальность смысловой организации текста: комплексный подход на стыке психологии и лингвистики

&lt;p&gt;The article describes an interdisciplinary framework which we have developed to study verbal text comprehension based on a combination of psychological and linguistic approaches. The comprehension phenomenon is considered to be a result of a reversible transformation between verbal symbols and mental images of the to-be-comprehended material, with the obligatory condition of preserving its semantic invariance. We emphasize a gradual nature of comprehension and its reliance on a coordinated activity of the recipient's cognitive and emotional mechanisms. We pay particular attention to the negative potential of subjective projections in the comprehension process. We also describe the method of in-depth semi-structured interview, which allows for a multi-level explication of the processes involved in building up a mental representation of the text&amp;rsquo;s content. As a model for studying the comprehension phenomenon, we suggest a short story "Invisible Japanese Gentlemen" by G. Greene, which has a complex intrinsic structure of implicit meanings. Using linguostylistic and propositional analyses, we described the story&amp;rsquo;s structure of implicit meanings and identified its various elements (87 in total) and 66 key textual propositions. The reliability analysis showed a high degree of consistency between the experts' (ɑ = 0.6 for elements, ɑ = 0.67 for propositions). This indicates that this text and the structure of its implicit meanings can serve as an adequate stimulus material for studying the comprehension phenomenon. Finally, based on in-depth semi-structured interview data (N = 30), we developed a set of quantitative criteria for assessing the completeness of text comprehension on a 5-point scale.&lt;/p&gt;

Pomegranate Peel Extract Fortified Yogurt: Effect on Physicochemical, Microbiological and Sensory Quality of Functional Dairy Product

Background: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of incorporating Punica granatum (pomegranate) hydroethanolic extract as a functional ingredient in yogurt on the physicochemical, sensory quality and microbiological count of freshly prepared and refrigerated stored (4°C) yogurts. Methods: Pomegranate peels were dried, ground and extracted with 70% ethanol, then concentrated using a rotary evaporator and finally lyophilized to obtain pomegranate peel powder (PPP). Yogurts were prepared using pasteurized semi-skimmed cow’s milk, with phenolic extracts of pomegranate peels added at 10.0 mg, 20.0 mg and 30.0 mg per 100 mL of milk; a control product was simultaneously prepared without such pomegranate peel extract. The physicochemical analysis included pH, acidity, syneresis and viscosity measurements. Microbiological analysis was performed to determine the viability of Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus. Sensory scoring of the yogurt was carried out by 25 panelists using a 5-point scale. Result: Initial pH values of freshly prepared yogurt ranged between 4.48 and 4.64, decreasing to pH values of 4.3 and 4.15 at 21st day of refrigerated (4°C) storage. The titratable acidity of yogurt increased from initial value of 75°D for freshly prepared control product to 99°D as noted on 21st day of storage. Syneresis at the 21st of storage were 35.98%, 37.88%, 39.34%, 39.22% for yogurt samples control, experimental yogurt containing PPE of 10.0 mg, 20.0 mg and 30.0 mg respectively. The viscosity of yogurt utilizing 10.0 mg PPE peaked to value of 769.63 cP on 21st day of storage. Streptococcus thermophilus count peaked to 8.39 log CFU/g for experimental sample containing 10.0 mg of PPE as noted on 7th day of storage. Yogurt samples containing 20.0 mg and 30.0 mg of PPE received the superior overall acceptability scores over others. The extract improved yogurt’s physicochemical and sensory properties, enhancing its nutritional value and consumer acceptance.

Evaluation of the Glymphatic System in Rabbits Using Gadobutrol-Enhanced MR Cisternography With T1 and T2 Mapping.

We aimed to characterize and further understand CSF circulation and outflow of rabbits. To our knowledge, there is no research on contrast material-enhanced MR cisternography (CE-MRC) with T1 and T2 mapping in the rabbit model using a clinical 3-T MR unit without a stereotaxic frame. Twenty-one rabbits were included in the study. The CE-MRC exams with T1/T2 mappings were categorized into approximate time points based on an intention-to-scan approach: precontrast, less than 4 h after contrast, 24 h after contrast, and 24 to 120 h after gadobutrol. The presence of contrast media in the head and neck structures was scored with a 3-point scale (present, score: 2; absent, score: 0; and inconsistent, score: 1). T1 and T2 estimates were directly derived by drawing regions of interest on the corresponding maps. Gadobutrol accumulation was detected in the CSF near the cribriform plate and nasal areas on early-phase postcontrast images of all animals. These contrast material accumulations completely disappeared on the images obtained in postcontrast ≥ 24 h. The lowest T1 and T2 estimates in olfactory and cerebral areas were observed on early-phase images. Significant correlations were observed between the enhancement of the bladder and the medial portion of the sclera and the enhancement of inner ear structures, olfactory regions, turbinates, nasal cavities, and cranial subarachnoid spaces. The T1 and T2 estimates of the septum and olfactory bulb were generally lower than those measured in the frontal and parietal lobes on early-phase images. Our findings, which indicate an absence of clearly visible arachnoid granulations in rabbits, support the significance of olfactory outflow and the glymphatic system as highlighted in recent literature. Glymphatic transport can be more effectively demonstrated using T1 mapping in rabbits. The anatomical and physiological differences between human and rodent central nervous systems must be considered when translating experimental results from rabbits to humans.

The factors influencing consumers' buying behavior via Social Media

This research aimed to assess the variables that impact consumers’ buying habits through social media. 455 households from 7 villages: Chunlong Village, Ta Vien Village, Trapeang Treng Village, Wat Damnak Village, Wat Bo Village, Wat Svay Village, and Sala Kamreuk Village, were chosen using a multi-stage sampling technique, with one member per family completing a questionnaire. The survey instrument was a closed-ended questionnaire utilizing a 7-point Likert scale. Data was gathered from study participants using self-administered questionnaires, with 375 individuals eventually making purchases via social media, representing an 18% margin of error. The collected questionnaire data was cleansed and processed using SPSS v.26. The multiple linear regression analysis findings indicated that five factors (product quality, trust and safety, perceived usefulness, time, and delivery) positively influence consumer purchasing behavior via social media. These results contribute to consumer behavior theory and provide practical insights for companies and retailers to offer attractive options and build consumer trust, thereby encouraging social media purchases.

The Role of Citizenship Education on Enhancing the Promotion of Unity in Nigeria: Implication for Primary Education

Citizenship education, as a pedagogical approach, emphasizes the development of civic responsibility, tolerance, and national identity, which are essential for addressing the challenges posed by Nigeria's ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity. The study explores how the integration of citizenship education in primary schools helps inculcate values such as respect for diversity, patriotism, and conflict resolution skills among young learners. Using a survey research design, data were collected from 320 Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) students from Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe, and Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze, in Anambra State, Nigeria. Purposive random sampling was employed to select respondents from Social Studies, Economics, English, and Igbo Language departments. A structured questionnaire with 15 items on a 4-point Likert scale was used for data collection, and reliability was confirmed using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. Data analysis involved mean scores, with a cutoff of 2.50 for agreement. Findings revealed that ethnic hatred, religious intolerance, distrust, lack of basic education, and colonial policies are significant barriers to unity in Nigeria. Citizenship education was found to promote unity by enhancing the appreciation of diversity, instilling values of cooperation and tolerance, and equipping individuals with conflict resolution skills. However, challenges such as a lack of qualified teachers, insufficient instructional materials, and inadequate commitment from educators hinder its effectiveness. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating citizenship education into primary education to cultivate values that promote unity among young learners. The research findings imply the need for systematic transformation in the basic education curriculum, by integrating programs that comprehensively teach the values ​​of tolerance, cooperation, and conflict resolution.

KEPERLUAN PENDIDIKAN KEUSAHAWANAN SOSIAL BAGI PELAJAR BIDANG TEKNIKAL DAN VOKASIONAL DI SEKOLAH MENENGAH DI MALAYSIA

Social entrepreneurship is an essential aspect of modern education, equipping students with specific skills and mindsets to address social issues. Integrating social entrepreneurship into the secondary school curriculum in Malaysia, particularly in the technical and vocational fields, is crucial as it opens up vast career opportunities. Moreover, the incorporation of social entrepreneurship education allows students to learn how to solve social problems effectively. However, to date, social entrepreneurship education has mainly been concentrated at the tertiary level. Therefore, this study aims to explore the necessity of social entrepreneurship education at the school level in Malaysia, focusing on Form 4 students in technical and vocational fields. The main objectives of this study are to identify the need for social entrepreneurship education and assess the entrepreneurial intentions among Form 4 technical and vocational students in Malaysian secondary schools. The study employed a descriptive quantitative approach involving 368 students. Data were collected through questionnaires using a 7-point Likert scale. Findings indicated that the majority of students understood the concept of social entrepreneurship and supported the need for a formal course in this field at the secondary school level. Although exposure to social entrepreneurship activities was limited, students demonstrated positive intentions towards social entrepreneurship. These findings reinforce the need to cultivate and equip students with social entrepreneurship education within the early stages of the Malaysian education system.

Application of T1-weighted and augmented T1-weighted images of multi-parametric MR sequence in detecting neonatal punctate white matter lesions.

Punctate White Matter Lesion (PWML) is common in neonates. Multi-parametric MR imaging with flexible design (MULTIPLEX, MTP) generates multiple requires only about 6 min for full-head coverage. This study aimed to evaluate the value of T1WI and aT1WI contrasts of MTP in detecting neonatal punctate white matter lesions. Twenty-one neonates with punctate white matter damage underwent multi-parametric MR imaging between November 2022 to July 2024. For subjective image quality, two pediatric neuroradiologists assessed overall image quality, and visualization of structures using a 4-point assessment scale. To analyze objective image quality, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), contrast, number and sharpness of lesions were quantified. With regard to sharpness of the lesion, MTP T1WI and aT1WI are comparable to conventional T1W. For subjective assessment, MTP-T1WI exhibited superior overall image quality and anatomical structure display compared to conventional T1WI (P < 0.01). Regarding objective assessment, MTP-T1WI had significantly higher SNR values for gray matter, white matter and lesions than the other two groups. The CNR values of MTP-T1WI and MTP-aT1WI of the white matter to lesion (WM-Lesion) were higher than conventional T1WI. The contrast of aT1WI surpassed that of the other two groups in WM-Lesion contrast. MTP-aT1W can detect more white matter lesions than conventional T1WI (conventional T1WI vs MTP-T1WI vs MTP-aT1WI,123 vs 165 vs 161). The MTP-T1W and aT1W images can enhance lesion contrast and precisely delineate the extent and boundaries of the lesions, and could be more sensitive to PWML than conventional T1WI.