Descriptive Analysis Research Articles

Determinant of Rural and Urban Student Performance in Ghana

Despite the large number of remedial students entering tertiary institutions in Ghana, very little empirical research has examined the impact of geographical and socio-economic variables on student performance. This study uses microdata on 360 urban and rural remedial students to examine the differences in educational outcomes between those attending remedial schools in rural areas and those enrolled in urban remedial schools. The study further analyzes the determinants of educational outcomes, with a focus on the relevance of geographical location. The descriptive analysis shows that the academic outcomes of urban remedial students are generally better than those of rural students. In contrast, the results from the student’s t-test indicate a statistically significant difference in the performance of urban and rural remedial students. The determinants of these performances include age, gender, number of papers written, parental education, and, most importantly, the location of the remedial student. From a policy perspective, the findings of this paper support actions aimed at improving educational conditions in rural areas.

Analysis of subtract quality along the Wiringtasi River, Barru Regency, Indonesia

This research aims to determine the quality of the substrate of the Wiringtasi River, Barru Regency, Indonesia. The research locations include location 1, namely the location around the rice field area; location 2, namely the location around the pond area and beach; and location 3, namely the location around the river estuary where many mangrove plants grow around it. Subtract samples were taken at the research location, then the samples were taken to the laboratory for analysis. The results of laboratory analysis are made in the form of pictures and tables, then analyzed using descriptive analysis. The results of the research show that in this study the substrate quality of the Wiringtasi River, Barru Regency, Indonesia, each had a pH value of the substrate in the range of 8.05-8.64, total nitrogen was in the range. Nitrogen was in the range of 0.049-0.121%. The organic material content of the substrate is in the range of 0.33-0.59. The ammonia (NH3) content of the substrate is in the range of 0.019–0.45 ppm. The nitrite content of the research location is in the range of 0.0025-0.0064 ppm. The substrate texture of location 1 is dusty clay, while locations 2 and 3 are sandy.

Analysis of the water quality of the Wiringtasi River, Barru Regency, Indonesia, in relation to fish cultivation

Objective: This research aims to determine the quality of water along the Wiringtasi River, Barru Regency, Indonesia in relation to the development of fish cultivation. Material and method: Sampling was carried out by random sampling by selecting three research locations, namely location 1 is a river location close to rice fields, location 2 is a location close to pond areas and beaches, and location 3 is a location around the mouth of the Wiringtasi River. The data collected is water quality parameter data, which includes temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and salinity. The data obtained is then processed and linked to fish cultivation needs. The data was then analyzed using descriptive analysis. Results: The research results show that the water temperature in the Wiringtasi river is in the average range of 29.4–30.4 oC. The average dissolved oxygen at the research location is in the range of 4.31–5.08 ppm. The average value of water pH at the research location is in the range of 6.33-7.17, while the average value of water salinity at the research location is in the range of 12.67-36.83 ppt. Conclusion: All water quality parameters measured in the Wiringtasi River, Barru Regency, Indonesia, are still in accordance with the growth and survival needs of fish.

An interrogation of family-based care for the elderly in Kaloleni sub-location, Kisumu, Kenya

The aim of this study was to interrogate family based care services for the elderly within Kaloleni Sub-Location, Kisumu, Kenya. The population of the elderly (age 60 and above) is projected to outnumber children (0-9 years) by the year 2030, and by 2050, to exceed the population of adolescents and youth aged between 10 to 14 years. The Kenya government is exploring the development of a community care strategy and the roll-out of an Integrated Care of Older Persons (ICOPE) package. While family-based care has been the policy and cultural preference for offering long term elderly care, the state recognized growing demand for responsive changes to current realities. This research set the following three objectives: First, to establish the state of family based care in Kaloleni sub-location; second, to examine alternatives to family based care that exist in the sub-location, and, lastly, to interrogate policy options as suggested by respondents in the study. Using Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination table, a total of 120 elderly persons aged 70 and above were traced and 92 of them randomly sampled. The methodology deployed was mixed methods involving narrative interviewing and cross sectional survey. Descriptive data analysis and thematic analysis were deployed for quantitative and qualitative results respectively. Narrative interviewing/In depth interviews method was used in collecting data from Kaloleni sub-location. While findings from this research may not be generalizable due to study limitations and scope, the study strongly demonstrated the desperate state of gerontological care in informal settlements in urban centers in Kisumu, where over 90% of respondents sought improvement on care service provision for the elderly. The elderly persons mostly rely on care givers from the family but these care givers also tend to be dependent on the elderly respondents for general upkeep. Results support the literature that contends that older people are vulnerable to poverty. It was recommended that policy must shift to address factors that promote healthy aging and diminish suffering in old age as population aging continues. Further studies of a longitudinal nature are required to lend greater insight and inform policy.

Prevalence of gingival overgrowth among patients at the periodontology clinic of Dental Hospital Universitas Airlangga

Background: The prevalence of dental and oral health problems in Indonesia, including periodontal disease and gingival overgrowth (GO), remains high and requires serious attention from health workers. This study aims to determine the prevalence of GO due to the existing data gap and public concern regarding this condition. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of gingival overgrowth among patients at the periodontology clinic of Universitas Airlangga Dental Hospital. Material and Methods: This study was conducted from August to September 2023 at the Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGM) Universitas Airlangga using a descriptive observational method with a cross-sectional design. The sample was calculated using total sampling from medical record data of patients at the Periodontics Clinic of the Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGM) Universitas Airlangga who met the inclusion criteria in 2022. The study variables included gingival overgrowth (GO), gender, age, and tooth region (sextant). Data were processed using Microsoft Excel and presented as a percentage (%). A descriptive data analysis was carried out to draw a conclusion. Conclusion: The study found that 37.11% of patients at the Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGM) of Universitas Airlangga experienced gingival overgrowth. The percentage of male patients experiencing gingival overgrowth was higher than that of women, with the highest age group being 18-24 years. The tooth area that experienced the most gingival overgrowth was sextant 5, with a total of 29 samples.

Determinants of knowledge transfer activities among university researchers: a systematic review

Purpose This systematic review aims to identify the key determinants of knowledge transfer (KT) activities among researchers. Design/methodology/approach This study systematically reviewed KT literature in academic settings from 1995–2023. The authors searched Web of Science and Scopus using predefined keywords, following PRISMA guidelines for screening and eligibility assessment. From 158 selected articles, the authors extracted data and conducted a descriptive analysis to map KT activities’ evolution. A narrative synthesis approach categorized determinants of researchers’ KT activities. Findings The systematic review findings revealed a general conceptual framework that categorizes the identified determinants of KT into four categories. At the individual level, the factors are related to the sociodemographic characteristics of the researcher (e.g. gender, age, experience), their psychological aspects (e.g. attitude, intrinsic motivation, intention) and personal characteristics (e.g. self-efficacy, communication skills). At the research team level, leadership style and team dynamics. At the organizational level, the findings emphasize university characteristics (e.g. size, structure and ranking), KT culture installed and university resources. At the inter-organizational level, the key determinants were funding sources, network strength and trust. Research limitations/implications The studies included in our database were different in terms of contexts, country of the study, the disciplines of KT and the types of KT activities examined. This variety restricts the direct comparison of research findings thus the generalizability of our conclusions. Future research should focus on specific contexts, disciplines, countries or types of KT activities to provide generalizable findings. Practical implications A better understanding of all the factors influencing KT among university researchers is essential for several reasons. First, it will enable the government to develop effective policies to promote KT ecosystems. Second, universities can create strategies, policies and programs to support researchers’ engagement in KT activities. Finally, researchers can be more strategic in their KT efforts. Originality/value This systematic review contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive conceptual framework that identifies KT determinants at different levels and fills a gap in the existing literature that only addresses specific aspects of KT determinants. This framework can be a theoretical reference for future empirical studies. Furthermore, it practically provides recommendations for different actors including, government, universities and researchers.

HUBUNGAN MODAL SOSIAL PETANI TERHADAP KEBERLANJUTAN USAHATANI JAGUNG KUNING DI DESA WAKADIA KECAMATAN WATOPUTE KABUPATEN MUNA

The objective of this study is to ascertain the correlation between farmers' social capital and the sustainability of yellow corn farming in Wakadia Village, Watopute Subdistrict, Muna Regency. The study population consisted of all yellow corn farmers in Wakadia Village, Watopute Subdistrict, Muna Regency, comprising a total of 103 households. The number of samples was determined using the Slovin formula with a 10% error margin, resulting in a sample size of 51 respondents. The sampling technique employed was simple random sampling. The data collection techniques employed included surveys, interviews, and document analysis, with data collected using questionnaires. This study employs two variables: social capital, comprising trust, participation, networks, and social norms, and farm sustainability, encompassing economic, social, and environmental sustainability. The data were subjected to descriptive analysis using a class interval formula and a Rank Spearman correlation formula. The findings indicate that the social capital of farmers engaged in yellow corn farming in Wakadia Village, Watopute Subdistrict, Muna Regency is in an optimal category, suggesting that their social capital is capable of sustaining yellow corn farming over the long term. The sustainability of yellow corn farming in Wakadia Village is sufficient, indicating that farmers have implemented business sustainability indicators but still require improvement. There is a significant and positive relationship between farmers' social capital and yellow maize business sustainability in Wakadia Village.

Seasonal migration and youth social life in the Eastern Barienou district, Benin

This study investigated the relationship that exists between seasonal migration and social life of youth in the Eastern Barienou, Benin. Several young people from the Barienou district in the northern Benin leave their homes each year to work in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Migration is a strategy employed to improve their standard of living. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of seasonal migration on social life of youth in the Eastern Barienou. This study employed a mixed-method research design that combines a correlation survey and a phenomenological study. The population of the study included 450 people. The sampling frame included not only a list of youth in the Eastern Barienou district but also a list youth’s parents and youth’s leaders. A total of 196 participants were sampled using stratified sampling techniques. Data were collected using a questionnaire, an interview guide and a focus group discussion guide. A multivariate regression analysis was run to assess the association between seasonal migration and social life. Seasonal migration has a significant negative relationship with youth social life (β=.-39, p<.001). QDA miner lite V3.0.6 was used for qualitative data analysis, SPSS 21 for descriptive analysis, and SPSS AMOS 26 for multivariate regression analysis. The study recommended that the Benin government enhance farming sector in the Eastern Barienou district and collaborate with the Nigerian government to improve working conditions for seasonal migrants.

PERAN KELOMPOK TANI DAN PENGGUNAAN SARANA PRODUKSI PADA KEGIATAN USAHATANI JAGUNG DI DESA KOMBA-KOMBA KECAMATAN KABANGKA KABUPATEN MUNA

The issues encountered in maize farming activities in Komba-Komba Village can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the knowledge and expertise of farmers in this area remain limited. Secondly, the role of farmer groups is not yet fully realised. Thirdly, the utilisation of production resources, including seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, is not optimised. The objective of this study was to ascertain the utilisation of production facilities and the function of farmer groups in maize farming activities in Komba-Komba Village, Kabangka Subdistrict, Muna Regency. The research informants were selected purposefully, with specific criteria in mind. Consequently, the research informants totaled 13 individuals, comprising farmer group administrators, specifically two farmer group leaders, two secretaries, two treasurers, six farmer group members, and the village head. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis using interview guides. This study focuses on the utilization of production facilities and the role of farmer groups in maize farming. The research employs a qualitative descriptive analysis approach to data analysis, comprising three stages: data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that farmer groups in Komba-Komba Village serve as a conduit for collaboration in maize farming activities. This is evidenced by the presence of groups that engage in joint efforts between the farmer group leaders and members during the farming process. Furthermore, the role of farmer groups has not been as effective as the function of farmer groups. In terms of production facilities, farmers in Komba-Komba Village provide these for maize farming activities, including seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, using their own capital.

PENGARUH MODAL SOSIAL TERHADAP KAPASITAS MANAJERIAL PETANI JAGUNG DI DESA UMBA KECAMATAN NAPANO KUSAMBI KABUPATEN MUNA BARAT

This study aims to ascertain the social capital and managerial capacity of farmers, as well as to determine the influence of the social model on the managerial capacity of corn farmers in Umba Village, Napano Kusambi Subdistrict, West Muna Regency. The research population comprises all individuals engaged in the cultivation of corn in Umba Village, amounting to a total of 32 individuals. The sample was selected using the census method, resulting in a sample size of 32 respondents for this study. Data were collected through observation, surveys, and structured interviews, with the use of a questionnaire. This study employed a quantitative approach. The variables under investigation are divided into two categories: social capital and managerial capacity among farmers. The data were subjected to two distinct forms of analysis. Initially, a quantitative descriptive analysis was conducted utilising the class interval formula to delineate the prevailing conditions pertaining to social capital and managerial capacity among maize farmers. Subsequently, a multiple linear regression analysis was employed to ascertain the influence of social capital on the managerial capacity of maize farmers. The multiple linear regression analysis is comprised of three tests: the T-test, F-test, and determination test. The findings indicate that the utilization of social capital among corn farmers in Umba Village is classified as favorable. This is evidenced by the presence of a robust level of trust, a commendable application of norms, and a relatively strong network of social connections. The managerial capacity of maize farmers is categorized as good, as evidenced by their effective maize farm planning and organization. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the dimensions of maize farming implementation and supervision, which remain in the poor category. Social capital has a significant positive effect on the managerial capacity of maize farmers, amounting to 29.1%, with 70.9% influenced by other factors.

METODE PENYULUHAN KELOMPOK DALAM BUDIDAYA PADI SAWAH DI DESA LEBO JAYA KECAMATAN KONDA KABUPATEN KONAWE SELATAN

The implementation of extension activities is confronted with a multitude of challenges and difficulties. It is therefore imperative for extension workers to possess a comprehensive understanding of the most appropriate and productive extension methods in the context of agricultural extension activities. The objective of this study was to ascertain the efficacy of group extension methods in paddy rice cultivation and to elucidate the relationship between the two. The study population consisted of all rice paddy farmers in Lebo Jaya Village, Konda Subdistrict, with a total of 104 farmers. The sample size was determined using the Slovin formula, with a degree of error or margin of error of 15%, resulting in a research sample of 31 respondents. The sampling technique employed was simple random sampling. The data were collected via survey, interview, and document analysis, using various media in the form of questionnaires. The research employed a quantitative approach. The research variables were twofold, comprising group extension methods and paddy rice cultivation activities. The data were subjected to quantitative descriptive analysis, employing the class interval formula and the Spearman rank correlation equation. The findings indicated that the implementation of group extension methods in paddy rice cultivation in Lebo Jaya Village was classified as "good." The aforementioned activities, which pertain to paddy rice cultivation specifically, land preparation, seed selection, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control have been classified as "good." The level of application of group counseling methods is found to be significantly and positively related to the cultivation of wet rice in Lebo Jaya Village. The correlation value is 0.542, and the significance of 0.002 is less than 0.05. The strength of the relationship between group extension methods and paddy rice cultivation activities is moderately strong. This indicates that an improvement in the method of agricultural counseling will result in an improvement in rice paddy farming activities in Lebo Jaya Village, Konda Subdistrict, South Konawe District.

PENDEKATAN TEKNIK KOMUNIKASI DALAM PENYULUHAN PENGGUNAAN PUPUK ORGANIK BAGI PETANI SAYURAN KANGKUNG DI KELURAHAN MATABUBU KECAMATAN POASIA KOTA KENDARI

This study aims to determine and analyze the communication techniques of extension workers in counseling the use of organic fertilizers for farmers, and to know the knowledge of farmers in the use of organic fertilizers in Matabubu Village, Poasia District, Kendari City.This research was conducted in July 2023. The population in the study will be informants, because kale farmers in Matabubu Village amounted to 7 people, as well as 1 extension agent in charge of Matabubu Village. Data collection techniques consist of observation, in-depth interviews, documentation and literature. The focus of the research includes: extension communication techniques (informative communication, persuasive communication and instructive communication), farmers' knowledge during related extension (source/content of organic fertilizer, benefits of organic fertilizer, how to make organic fertilizer and use of organic fertilizer). The analysis used in this research is qualitative descriptive analysis. The results showed that the communication techniques used consisted of informative, persuasive and instructive communication techniques that had been implemented by extension workers. As well as, farmers' knowledge in the use of organic fertilizer for kale vegetables in general have known, but the process of making organic fertilizer, farmers do not know

A scoping review of robotic technology in hospitality and tourism

Purpose With the disruptive evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), the roles of robotics in hospitality and tourism are shifting rapidly from automatic to emotional works. Although academics have focused on examining robotic applications in hospitality and tourism, concrete images of the different roles of robots are unclear. Thus, this study aims to systematically aggregate and evaluate existing robotic technology-related studies published in Social Science Citation Index-listed hospitality and tourism journals to link the fragmented knowledge and provide an up-to-date overview of robotic technology in hospitality and tourism. Design/methodology/approach This study retrieved 134 robotic technology-related articles and used descriptive and content analyses to analyze the retrieved papers thoroughly. Findings The top keyword identified was service robot. Robotic technologies are categorized into AI-supplemented, AI-generated, robotic technology anthropomorphism (RTA)-facilitated and RTA-mediated. Research limitations/implications Future studies can consider exploring service robots further from the perspectives of suppliers in tourism. A more comprehensive categorization of robotic technologies is also recommended. Originality/value This study contributes to the robotic research realm by providing a holistic view of robotic applications in hospitality and tourism research. This study also attempts to pin down the potential research directions to guide researchers in expanding future studies.

Analisis Diversifikasi, Merger, dan Akuisisi Perusahaan

This research aims to analyze the diversification, mergers and acquisitions of manufacturing companies in Indonesia. The research method used is descriptive qualitative analysis with a literature study approach. The results show that the diversification analysis was developed with various objectives including increasing growth when the existing market/product has reached a maturity stage, maintaining stability by spreading the risk of profit fluctuations, increasing credibility in the capital market, to avoid dependence on a single item or product in circulation. in the market, fulfill the wishes of unsatisfied consumers, increase the attractiveness or interest of consumers, increase sales turnover, increase profits by using the same ingredients, and prevent consumer boredom. Keywords: Diversification, Mergers, and Company Acquisitions.

FranchiseGlobal.com Business Development Strategy: Analysis Using Financial Planning at FranchiseGlobal.com

This research aims to analyze the business development strategy of FranchiseGlobal.com through a comprehensive financial planning approach. As a digital platform offering franchise and business opportunities, FranchiseGlobal.com aspires to become the leading and innovative online franchise media. The research analyzes short-, medium-, and long-term financial planning to achieve profitability and business sustainability. A qualitative descriptive method and thematic analysis were employed for data analysis. The study examines key financial planning elements, including revenue planning, cost management, capital requirements, and five-year financial projections. The results show that sound financial planning can help the company achieve profitability targets within five years, indicated by a positive NPV, IRR above 10%, and a payback period of less than four years. The company's projected revenue growth is expected to remain stable through diversification of revenue streams and efficient capital management. The study concludes that appropriate financial strategies will be a crucial foundation for FranchiseGlobal.com to become Indonesia's leading digital franchise platform.

Sistem Pengelolaan dan Pengembangan Wakaf secara Produktif di Pondok Pesantren Al-Uswah Kuala Kabupaten Langkat: Studi Analisis Menurut Undang-Undang No. 41 Tahun 2004 tentang Wakaf

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to determine the productive waqf management and development system at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School, Langkat Regency, and also to find out the forms of productive waqf management and development at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School, Langkat Regency. This type of research includes empirical research with a qualitative approach. The subject of this study involved the Chairperson of the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School Foundation, Nazhir Waqf, and the Community, with a qualitative descriptive research analysis. The results of the research conducted show that the waqf management and development system productively at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School, Langkat Regency is carried out by administering and collecting data on waqf assets, then recording them in a notarial deed so that they have permanent legal force, and carrying out maximum supervision so that the utilization Waqf assets are in accordance with their function and main objective, which is to develop Islamic education as a place to nurture true Muslims. Then, the productive management and development of waqf at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School in Langkat Regency is carried out in two forms, namely the physical form in which waqf assets are developed by adding and constructing various buildings needed in the educational process at the institution. Apart from that, it is also being developed in the form of waqf management policies especially for the needs of the students, for example providing free tuition fees for orphans and high achieving students so as to help the Muslim community (santri's parents). While the form of waqf assets is distributed to the surrounding community in the form of donations such as groceries and so on at certain moments. So that the productive management and development of waqf assets is in accordance with Law no. 41 of 2004 concerning Waqf. Keywords: Management, Development, Productive Waqf.

Patient Information Leaflet Feedback on Delusional Infestation

Abstract Background Delusional parasitosis, also known as Ekbom syndrome, is a poorly understood condition often surrounded by misinformation. Patients and their families frequently encounter skepticism regarding their experiences. This research aimed to create a patient information leaflet (PIL) with a patient centred approach and to gather feedback on its usefulness for sharing information and validating their experiences. Objective To evaluate patient feedback on a newly developed PIL designed for individuals with delusional parasitosis, assessing its perceived usefulness and impact. Methods A survey was administered to 18 patients before their appointments, incorporating the new PIL. The survey included questions on the leaflet’s clarity, usefulness, ability to validate patient experiences and other pointers, measured on a 10-point Likert scale (0 = No answer, 1 = Strongly Disagree, 10 = Strongly Agree). Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis. Additionally, the final question allowed for written feedback, which was examined through thematic analysis. Results The survey results revealed that the majority of patients were satisfied with the new PIL. Specifically, 94% agreed or strongly agreed that the leaflet was logical and easy to follow, 72% found it useful for understanding their condition, and 89% felt it validated their experiences. Mean scores for these concepts were 8.83, 7.61, and 7.78, respectively. Thematic analysis of written feedback highlighted themes of improved understanding but uncertainty around acknowledgement of experiences. Conclusion This new patient-centered PIL for delusional parasitosis was well-received, indicating its potential as a valuable tool for patients and their support networks. By addressing the specific needs and experiences of patients, the leaflet can improve communication and reduce the stigma associated with the condition. Future research should explore long-term impacts and the effectiveness of similar resources in other patient populations.

Measuring palatability of pet food products: Sensory components, evaluations, challenges, and opportunities.

The pet food industry is a growing business launching a variety of new products in the market. The acceptability or preference of pet food samples has traditionally been measured using either one-bowl or two-bowl tests. Academic researchers and professionals in the pet food industry have explored other methods, including the cognitive palatability assessment protocols and the ranking test, to evaluate more than two samples. A variety of approaches and perspectives were also utilized to predict palatability and key sensory attributes of pet foods, including descriptive sensory analysis by human-trained panelists and pet food caregivers' perceptions of pet food. This review article examined a range of testing methods for evaluating the palatability of pet foods, specifically targeting products for dogs and/or cats. It outlined the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Additionally, the review provided in-depth insights into the key sensory attributes of pet foods and the methodologies for assessing palatability. It also explored pets' behavioral responses and facial expressions in relation to different pet foods. Furthermore, this review discussed current challenges and future opportunities in pet food development, including the use of instrumental analyses and artificial intelligence-based approaches.

What characterizes normotensive individuals with obesity and normal systolic heart function? A descriptive study from the SCAPIS cohort

Abstract Background Heart failure and cardiovascular disease are strongly related to obesity, and the incidence of these conditions shows a linear relationship with increasing body mass index (BMI). Despite these known facts, some individuals with obesity show no clinical signs of heart disease or arterial hypertension (AH). Purpose We aimed to investigate the characteristics of individuals with obesity without impaired left ventricular function and left ventricular hypertrophy (termed systolic heart function, SHF) and AH, compared to individuals with obesity with signs of impaired SHF or AH, and individuals without obesity with and without signs of impaired SHF or AH. Method A cross-sectional analysis was performed of the 4,692 individuals who had undergone a transthoracic echocardiography within the Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study (SCAPIS). Participants were divided into four groups: 1) individuals with obesity (BMI³30 kg/m2) without impaired SHF (normal left ventricular systolic function and left ventricular mass) and no AH (based upon the absence of antihypertensive treatment) (ObSHF/AH-, n=623; 13%), 2) individuals with obesity with impaired SHF or AH (ObSHF/AH+, n=252; 5%), 3) individuals without obesity and without impaired SHF and no AH (NObSHF/AH-, n=3179; 68%) and 4) individuals without obesity with impaired left ventricular systolic function, left ventricular hypertrophy or AH (NObSHF/AH+, n=638; 14%). Individuals in group 1 (ObSHF/AH-;) were compared to those in groups 2-4 through descriptive analyses. Results Compared to ObSHF/AH+ individuals, ObSHF/AH- subjects showed significantly lower HbA1c (p<0.001), fasting plasma glucose (p<0.001), triglyceride (p<0.001), NT-proBNP (p=0.035) and troponin I (p<0.001) levels. Furthermore, no significant differences between the two obese groups could be seen regarding BMI (p=0.074), whereas waist-to-hip ratio was lower in ObSHF/AH- subjects (p<0.001). ObSHF/AH- individuals had higher glucose and lipid levels as well as higher blood pressure than individuals without obesity. Interestingly, no differences were seen between ObSHF/AH- and NObSHF/AF- subjects regarding NT-proBNP (p=0.864) and troponin I levels (p=0.110). Furthermore, left ventricular mass index (LVMI) was significantly higher in ObSHF/AH- subjects compared to NObSHF/AH- individuals (73.8 vs. 72.1 g/m2, p=0.015) and the ejection fraction was significantly lower (57.4 vs. 59.6 %, p<0.001). Conclusion When ObSHF/AH- and NObSHF/AH- subjects were compared, markers of cardiac damage/remodeling did not differ significantly, indicating that heart function might be preserved despite a worsened metabolic profile and an obese phenotype, through putative protective mechanisms yet to be explored. However, parameters of SHF were unfavorable for ObSHF/AH- when compared to NObSHF/AH-, further implicating preclinical cardiac impairment in individuals with obesity.

Predictors of social withdrawal among early adolescents in Korea: a latent growth class analysis

Abstract Background This study examines the trajectory of social withdrawal from the fourth grade of elementary school to the first grade of middle school in Korea. By classifying them, we identify individual differences such as individual, family, and school factors. Methods This study uses data from the Korean Youth Panel Survey (KYCPS) conducted by the Korea Youth Policy Research Institute, which includes data from the 1st-4th waves of KYCPS 2018, with a total of 2,607 participants (1,313 boys and 1,294 girls). A latent class growth analysis verifies the trajectory of youth social withdrawal, classifies latent classes, and identifies predictive. SPSS 24.0 was used to analyze the main variables’ characteristics, descriptive analysis, and reliability. Mplus 8.9 was used to test the research model. Results First, results indicated that three was the optimum number of latent classes. We identified three latent classes ‘high level of withdrawal continued (HL)’, ‘medium level of withdrawal increased (ML)’, and ‘low level of withdrawal increased (LL)’. Second, when compared the ‘LL’ and ‘HL’ groups, the higher the self-esteem, the higher the friendship, and the higher the dependence on smartphones, the more likely it was to be in the ‘HL’ group. Third, when comparing ‘LL’ and ‘ML’ groups, the more negative the parenting attitude, the more likely it was to be in the ‘ML’ group. On the other hand, higher self-esteem and more positive friend and teacher relationships were associated with a higher likelihood of being in the ‘LL’ group. Conclusions It is necessary to seek differentiated interventions to prevent social withdrawal among early adolescents. Parental education to understand the adolescent period and practical approaches to intervene in the negative psycho-emotional aspects of adolescents continuously are needed to enhance the healthy psychological development of early adolescents. Key messages • The higher the self-esteem, the higher the friendship, and the higher the dependence on smartphones, the more likely it was to be in the ‘high level of withdrawal continued’ group. • Higher self-esteem and more positive friend and teacher relationships were associated with a higher likelihood of being in the ‘low level of withdrawal increased’ group.