ANOVA Model Research Articles

Lung function trajectories in children with early diagnosis of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: a retrospective observational study

Abstract Background Non-cystic fibrosis (non-CF) bronchiectasis (BE) is defined as a clinical syndrome of recurrent, persistent wet cough and abnormal bronchial dilatation on chest High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) scans. The aims of this study were to characterize the pattern of the trajectories of lung function parameters and to consider the relationship between the lung function and radiological severity according to the modified Reiff score. Methods The study retrospectively considered 86 children (46.5% male, median age of 4 years) with non-CF BE, admitted at the Paediatric Pneumology Unit of Buzzi Children’s Hospital from January 2015 to December 2022. The diagnosis of BE was made according to the presence of a suggestive clinical history and symptoms and key features of BE evidenced on chest HRCT scans. The modified Reiff score was adapted to quantify the severity of BE. Spirometry (COSMED MicroQuark spirometer) was performed at median age of 5.78 years (baseline or T0) and after 1 and 2 years from the baseline (T1 and T2, respectively). The general trends of lung function parameters were estimated by ANOVA models for repeated measurements. For each lung function parameter, a longitudinal regression model was fitted. The analysis was performed with the software R release 4.2.3. The statistical significance was deemed when the p-value resulted lower than 0.05. Results The general trends of lung function parameters showed a statistically significant variation of forced vital capacity (FVC%) and forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV1%) from T0 to T1 (p = 0.0062, 0.0009) and no significant change for FVC%, FEV1% and forced expiratory flow 25–75% of VC (FEF25/75%) from T1 to T2 (p = 0.145, 0.210, 0.600, respectively). Notably, we found no correlation between the age at diagnosis and the lung function parameters at T0 (r = 0.149, 0.103 and 0.042 for FVC%, FEV1% and FEF25/75%, respectively). Instead, a poor negative correlation resulted between the Reiff score and FVC%, FEV1% e FEF25/75% at baseline (Spearman coefficients: rho=-0.156, -0.204, -0.103, respectively). Conclusions A stable pulmonary function is detectable within 2 years follow up from baseline spirometry. The modified Reiff score should be considered as a good tool not only to quantify the radiological lung involvement but also the degree of pulmonary function impairment.

Economic Strain and Recovery Trajectories in Mental Health: The Role of Financial Stability in Mental Health Outcomes

This study explores the intricate relationship between financial stability and recovery from mental health, and clarifies how economic security constitutes an essential feature that enhances mental health results. The study has used SPSS in quantitative analysis for regression analysis, ANOVA, cluster analysis, and structural equation modeling to explore the determinants of influential predictors and patterns in linking financial stability with mental health recovery. The regression outcome showed that financial stability substantially predicts recovery (? = 0.52, p < 0.01), and ANOVA indicated large differences in the scores of recoveries among the financial groups (F = 8.15, p < 0.05). Cluster analysis also indicated a difference such that the average score of recovery for high-stability participants was 8.5, while for low-stability participants it was 4.1. Thus, SEM shows both direct and indirect effects as it manifests that financial stability indeed reduces stress and encourages treatment adherence. The study concludes that economic security indeed plays a multifaceted role ranging from the access of mental healthcare through income support programs to resilience and overall well-being through the promotion of living a financial stability life. Recommendations should include income support programs, financial literacy programs, and integrated financial and mental health support services to form sustainable recovery. Further longitudinal researches, with larger and more diverse samples, should be conducted to study the long-run impact of financial stability on mental health trajectories and tailor policy interventions accordingly.

Research on physical health assessment and intervention strategies for college students based on biomarkers

Effective physical health assessments and intervention strategies are crucial for college students, who often face unique stressors that can impact their physiological health. In this analysis, we explore how biomarkers can be utilized to assess physical health and the efficacy of targeted interventions for this demographic. Hypotheses were developed based on the three intervention groups: (1) a face-to-face intervention group receiving a tailored wellness program, (2) an Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets intervention group using a health management assessment, and (3) a control group with only baseline and follow-up measurements. College students (n = 204) were randomized into these groups. Biomarkers related to stress and inflammation (e.g., cortisol levels, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)) were measured at baseline, post-intervention (10 weeks), and follow-up (36 weeks). Psychological and physical health outcomes were also assessed using standardized questionnaires. The Mixed-Effects Models, ANOVA, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) were used to analyze the differences between groups, changes in biomarkers over time, and the relationships between psychological, physiological, and lifestyle variables. Results indicated that the face-to-face wellness group demonstrated significantly better physical health outcomes compared to both the IoT gadgets group and control group, with diet modification showing the highest effectiveness, followed by physical activity and stress management interventions.

A seasonal investigation of indoor air quality in relation to architectural features in government office buildings in Enugu, Nigeria

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is crucial to environmental health significantly impacting on the well-being and productivity of building occupants. Several studies have explored various aspects of IAQ in non-tropical regions but there is limited information on how seasonal variations affect IAQ in hot-humid climates like Enugu, Nigeria. This study investigated seasonal changes in key indoor air parameters including CO, CO2, HCHO, TVOC, temperature, RH, PM2.5, and AQI across rainy and dry seasons in 58 government offices in Enugu, and evaluated how these fluctuations relate to architectural features of the offices. Using a mixed-methods approach, data collection involved qualitative assessments of building design attributes alongside quantitative IAQ measurements taken with the BOSEAN T-Z01Pro detector. Seasonal variations were analyzed using paired T-tests, ANOVA, and regression models. The results revealed a marked increase in pollutant concentrations during the dry season (p < 0.001–0.005), resulting in a poorer air quality index compared to the rainy season. Architectural features accounted for 68.5% of the variability in AQI (R2 = 0.685, p = 0.000), with casement windows being significantly associated with better air quality (Exp B = -4.217, p = 0.013) These shows that the dry season poses a greater risk to IAQ which is worsened in offices where projecting windows were used, potentially impacting health and productivity. The study emphasizes the need to address seasonal IAQ differences when designing office buildings in tropical regions. Design architects can help reduce seasonal air quality challenges and support healthier, more productive indoor environments by incorporating ventilation strategies, such as the use of casement windows. Further research should include long-term monitoring across various settings and additional IAQ parameters for better understanding of IAQ dynamics.

Effect of thermocycling on flexural strength of dental CAD/CAM ceramics of variable thicknesses and structures: an in vitro study

Background This study examined the effect of thermocycling on the flexural strength properties of four CAD/CAM ceramic materials at different thicknesses. Methods Four CAD/CAM ceramics of different types: advanced lithium disilicate (ALD), zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) lithium disilicate (LD), and leucite reinforced (LE), and at three varying thicknesses 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 mm were examined. After subjecting all specimens to 5000 thermomechanical cycles, flexural strength was determined using a universal testing apparatus. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed for analysis. Two factorial ANOVA models assessed the association of different factors (ceramic type and thickness) with flexural strength and elastic modulus. The 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and adjusted means were computed. A p-value &lt; 0.05 was designated significant. Results ZLS exhibited the highest flexural strength at 1.5 mm thickness, while LD showed the highest Young’s modulus of elasticity. The lowest flexural strength was observed in the 0.5 mm thickness group. There were notable variations in flexural strength across all ceramic materials, with the highest adjusted mean strength in the ZLS group, ALD, LD, and LE, respectively. Additionally, significant differences were noted in ceramic thickness, with 1.5 mm thickness showing the highest strength and 0.5 mm thickness the lowest. Conclusions Ceramic material thickness significantly impacts flexural strength, with 1.5 mm thickness deemed suitable for posterior restorations. Ceramic materials with zirconia fillers or matrix demonstrated higher flexural strength than other ceramics.

Predictors of self-care behaviors in hypertensive patients based on the protection motivation theory

IntroductionGlobally, hypertension is a significant public health concern and a leading cause of premature death. Since this disease is incurable, it is necessary to promote patients’ self-care behaviors to control it. The goal of this research was to identify the elements that influence self-care actions in individuals with hypertension, utilizing the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) framework.MethodsA study was carried out in Omidiyeh, located in southern Iran, using a cross-sectional design, involving 397 adults with hypertension (198 females and 199 males) who were selected from comprehensive health centers using a stratified random sampling technique. Data was gathered through a demographic data collection form and a questionnaire created by the researcher, which was based on the PMT. Data were assessed utilizing SPSS 25 and AMOS 24 software, and various statistical tests including one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, independent t-test, and structural equation modeling were conducted.FindingsThe variables of intrinsic reward (r = 0.182), extrinsic reward (r = 0.288), and response cost (r = 0.126) showed a significant negative correlation with self-care behaviors. On the other hand, perceived susceptibility (r = 0.212), perceived severity (r = 0.110), self-efficacy (r = 0.555), and response efficacy (r = 0.424) demonstrated a significant positive correlation with self-care behaviors. Specifically, self-efficacy and response efficacy were the most powerful predictors of self-care behaviors, respectively.ConclusionThe results showed that several factors can forecast self-care behaviors in patients with hypertension. Researchers are recommended to incorporate PMT in educational interventions and concentrate on self-efficacy and response efficacy constructs.

Enhancing surface integrity of additively manufactured Inconel 718 through numerical modeling of hydrostatic ball burnishing parameters using TOPSIS and ANOVA

Abstract Surface enhancement of laser powder bed fusion components is pivotal for their suitability in end-use applications. Hydrostatic ball burnishing, a mechanical surface hardening technique, induces compressive residual stress on the surface by the application of hydraulic force resulting in improved fatigue life of the material. This present study focuses on determining the optimum burnishing parameter combinations for better surface integrity (roughness, hardness, and residual stress) utilizing ANOVA and TOPSIS analysis. The cumulative performance score of the TOPSIS analysis states that the best parameter combination for Inconel 718 is found to be 300 bar pressure, 0.2mm burnishing width, and feed 800mm/min. The adjusted R² values of the ANOVA model for all three responses are 0.96, 0.93, and 0.94, confirming their close agreement with experimental results. With optimum parameters, the roughness decreased from 2.217μm to 0.305μm, Microhardness increased from 318.9HV to 475.9HV and residual stress was converted from tensile 216MPa to Compressive -54MPa demonstrating the significance of this process on surface enhancement.

Sustainable Management Strategies for Enhancing Commercial Growth in the Public Health Sector

This study investigates sustainable management strategies for enhancing commercial growth in the public health sector, focusing on the interrelationship between sustainability practices and organizational performance. With the increasing pressure on healthcare systems to reduce costs while improving service quality, sustainable management has emerged as a critical approach to achieving these objectives. The research employs a mixed-methods design, combining quantitative analyses, including descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and structural equation modeling, to evaluate the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and community engagement.Findings reveal that organizations that implement comprehensive sustainability practices not only experience enhanced operational efficiency but also achieve significant cost savings and improved financial performance. This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the tangible benefits of sustainability in the public health sector, providing a framework for organizations to adopt effective strategies that align with environmental goals while driving commercial growth. The recommendations from this research emphasize the importance of leadership commitment, employee engagement, and ongoing training in sustainability practices. As the global emphasis on sustainability continues to rise, this study positions sustainable management as a vital component for the future success of public health organizations.

AR atmospherics and virtual social presence impacts on customer experience and customer engagement behaviours

PurposeFew studies have examined technology-enhanced atmospheres for strengthening customer experience and brand engagement in physical store settings. This study builds on the social presence theory to test for the first time the moderating effects of virtual social presence on customer responses, through AR adoption in-store. Our study aims to understand the impact of technology-enhanced in-store atmospherics (TEISAs) with emphasis on AR elements and virtual social presence on customer experience and engagement behaviours (CEBs) in luxury settings.Design/methodology/approachHypotheses are developed and a survey using 566 responses were collected using Qualtrics. T-tests, two-way ANOVA and structural equation modelling were used for analysis of CEBs. Moreover, using PLS-SEM, we test whether virtual social presence moderates this relationship in a cross-country context; Britain and China, two of the largest economies for luxury growth.FindingsThe findings demonstrate that TEISAs have a positive impact on emotion and perceived value, with virtual social presence moderating this relationship. The cross-cultural comparison results show that the impact of TEISAs on emotion and perceived value is stronger for British than for Chinese millennials.Originality/valueOur model is the first to incorporate technology into various store atmospherics, to employ virtual social presence as a new moderator, and to provide empirical evidence on the effects of AR on customer experience and CEBs in the real-time luxury retail environment. This study is also the first to consider virtual social presence on social media as a moderating variable.

CLASSIFICATION OF COLORECTAL CANCER PATIENTS BASED ON SERUM MICRONUTRIENTS: AN EXPLORATORY INVESTIGATION

Abstract Introduction/Objective Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a growing global health challenge with a multifactorial etiology encompassing genetic susceptibility, nutrition, and inflammation in the bowel. To examine micronutrient status in CRC patients undergoing CRC resection. Methods/Case Report We performed a pilot case-control study including 13 consecutive CRC patients and 10 healthy controls (CTRL) comparing the serum levels of 29 micronutrients, namely Copper, Zinc, Selenium, Chromium, Manganese, Carnitine, Choline, Inositol, Methylmalonic acid (MMA), Vitamin (Vit) B1, Vit B2, Vit B3, Vit B5, Vit B6, Vit C, Vit A, Vit D3, Vit E, Vit K1, Vit K2 and the amino acids Serine, Valine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Asparagine, Glutamine, Arginine, Citrulline and Cysteine. The analysis of trace metals (copper, zinc, selenium, chromium, manganese) in serum was done using the Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) methodology using the Agilent 8900 QQQ instrument. The analysis of serum water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins and amino acids was conducted using the LC/MS (Xevo-TQ-XS) mass spectrometer (WBA0127). Elution of the fat-soluble vitamins was performed using a solid-phase extraction system with an OASIS Prime HLB plate containing 10 mg of sorbent per well, in a Waters vacuum manifold equipped with a waste collection plate. Comparison among continuous biological variables was carried out by multivariate ANOVA model (MANOVA), accounting for the effect of sex and age Results (if a Case Study enter NA) After considering the effect of age and sex, copper, arginine, and cysteine were increased, while zinc, selenium, chromium, Vit B1, Vit K1, and Vit A were decreased in CRC patients in comparison with CTRL. Zinc levels perfectly predicted the diagnosis of CRC, and was associated with lymph nodes (pN), of the pTNM staging. Copper levels in serum was strongly associated with the pathological pTNM staging of CRC. Conclusion Though this is a preliminary study which needs confirmation with a larger longitudinal cohort, our results show that serum micronutrients are linked to tumor growth, likely caused by increased demand from tumor tissue associated with an aberrant cell proliferation and changes in the antioxidant function.

Long Term Physical and Mental Health Outcomes of Older Adults Following a Major Burn Injury: A Burn Model System Investigation.

Older adults are at a higher risk of complications after burn injuries since many physical and mental changes are compounded by increasing age. Few studies have targeted the long-term effects of burns on older adults. Therefore, this study will investigate the long-term physical and mental health outcomes in older adults. 3129 participants from the Burn Model System Database were divided into 3 cohorts based on their age at injury (18-54, 55-64, and 65+). Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores were derived from the 12-item Short Form (SF-12) and the Veterans RAND 12-item (VR-12) health surveys and analyzed to measure recovery at preinjury, discharge, 2-year follow-up, and 5-year follow-up. ANOVA, T-score analysis, and linear mixed-effects models were utilized to assess for significant differences in outcome scores. PCS scores were significantly different between the 18-54 cohort and 65+ cohorts at the preinjury and 2-year time intervals (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively), but not at the 5-year follow up (P=0.28). MCS scores were significantly different between the 18-54 cohort and 65+ cohorts at all time intervals measured (p=0.001, p<0.001, P<0.001, and p=0.005 respectively), though the change in MCS scores over time were not significantly different between age cohorts across time (p=0.088). This supports that patients 65 years and older have a different physical function recovery trajectory when compared to patients under 64 years. These findings underscore the belief that for physical recovery after a burn injury, individualized physical rehabilitation plans will provide the most benefit for patients across all ages.

Effect of educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) on amount of salt intake in pregnant women with PreHypertension

BackgroundPrehypertension is one of the common disorders during pregnancy. Reducing salt intake is among the best cost-effective interventions to reduce the risk of hypertension. The present study aimed to explore the effect of an educational intervention based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) on amount of salt consumed by prehypertensive pregnant women.MethodsThe present quasi-experimental study was conducted in 2022 on 61 prehypertensive pregnant women visiting the Comprehensive Health Services Centers in Birjand, Iran. Pregnant women were selected through a convenience sampling method and randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. A blood pressure test and a 24-hour urine test were taken in 3 stages (before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention). A reliable and valid questionnaire based on the TPB was used to measure the cognitive variables. The intervention program included three training sessions based on the TPB held on an online platform (WhatsApp social network). Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and longitudinal marginal model with the GEE approach in SPSS19. The significance level for all statistical tests was set at p < 0 0.05.ResultsAfter intervention, the mean score of perceived behavioral control (p = 0.02), intention (p = 0.004), and salt consumption behavior (p = 0.03) increased significantly in the intervention group, and the mean score of systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (P < 0.01) decreased significantly in this group. In the control group, a statistically significant difference was observed in the systolic and diastolic blood pressure of the subjects (p < 0.01). However, the score of attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intention, salt consumption behavior and the daily salt intake did not show a statistically significant difference over time (P < 0.05).ConclusionThe present findings showed that the perceived behavioral control, intention, behavior, systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be modifiable variables to improve the amount of salt consumed by pre-hypertensive pregnant women. Therefore, we recommend that the present model be used to develop interventions to improve health indicators in pregnant women as a highly susceptible group in society.

Morphological and Taxonomic Analysis of the Quercus faginea and Quercus canariensis (Fagaceae) Complexes in Algeria

The valid deciduous Quercus L. species from North Africa have been largely discussed by many authors. The current species remain yet uncertain. In this study, we compare several populations of presumably Q. canariensis Willd. and Q. faginea Lam. from Algeria with pure populations of these species from the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Different morphological characters from leaves have been analyzed. Principal components analysis and a canonical analysis of principal coordinates have been used to observe the relationship between samples, groups and the seven quantitative variables. Distances among centroids have been reported and a SIMPER procedure has also been executed to better explain the different variability within and between groups. PERMANOVA has been applied to test for significant differences between the groups. For the trichomes study, ANOVA models have been used. From our analysis, we conclude that in Algeria, we have a single Q. canariensis Willd. population, different from the Iberian population we examined. It probably corresponds morphologically to Q. mirbeckii Durieu, currently considered a synonymy of Q. canariensis Willd., and for the “Q. faginea” group we have two Algerian populations: Q. faginea Lam. subsp. faginea, found in the northeast Iberian Peninsula, and Q. tlemcenensis (A.DC.) Maire and Weiller ex Greuter and Burdet. Previous results from other authors have also been discussed.

The Facilitating Factors of Organizational Learning in Pharmaceuticals Sector of Bangladesh

The present study is focused on the determinant factors of the organizational learning culture in pharmaceutical companies. The work explains the role of leadership, employee engagement, training, and knowledge-sharing mechanisms. The main purpose of the study is to explore four companies and determine to what extent learning culture and various elements impact it. The paper describes the survey conducted with 200 respondents working for these entities. The employees had different experience and occupied diverse positions. The analysis was completed with the help of 20 key areas. Correlation analysis, ANOVA, T-tests, factor analysis, and regression models were used to identify relationships. The results are compared in such aspects as leadership support, training opportunities, and innovation encouragement. It has been determined that both leadership and the so-called culture of continuous learning are the main factors that might affect an employee’s ability to apply the new knowledge. The correlation between leader engagement and the ability to use knowledge is average. Factor analysis shows that management performance could be attributed to five dimensions, which are related to leadership, training, feedback mechanisms, innovations, and sharing practices. Finally, regression analysis reveals that such culture of learning could be regarded as the best predictor of whether an employee will apply knowledge. Interestingly, these factors are not significantly different in such departments as leadership and non-leadership. Similar improvements are observed among different departments.

Evaluating the Let's Move It intervention programme theory for adolescents' physical activity: Theorized psychosocial mechanisms of behavioural changes.

Behaviour change theories have extensively been used in health behaviour change interventions and their programme theories. However, they are rarely evaluated in randomized field studies. The Let's Move It intervention targeted various psychosocial constructs to increase adolescents' physical activity. A theory-based process evaluation aiming to illuminate the trial findings as well as to test the programme theory used is conducted. Specifically, we investigate whether the intervention influenced the theorized determinants of change immediately post-intervention and after 1 year, and whether these determinants were associated with changes in physical activity. A cluster-randomized controlled trial (n = 1166). We measured theorized determinants with self-report, and physical activity (PA) with accelerometry and self-report. The effects are evaluated with repeated measures ANOVA and regression models. No changes were detected in most theorized determinants but intervention arm reported higher enactment of behaviour change techniques used during intervention immediately post-intervention and lower descriptive norms for PA throughout. Autonomous motivation was associated with PA immediately post-intervention. The lack of intervention effects may be due to many factors, for example insensitive measures, ceiling effects. However, reporting these null effects advances understanding of behaviour change processes. We introduce methodologic possibilities for future intervention programme theory evaluation efforts.

Abstract C137: Exploring cardiotoxicity risk factors among patients diagnosed with breast cancer

Abstract Introduction Heart disease is the second most common cause of death for cancer survivors after their cancer diagnosis. Patients diagnosed with cancer, especially those with left-side breast cancer are at higher risk for treatment related toxicity. This burden is exacerbated for vulnerable patients that experience structural and chronic risk factors such as language barriers and disability which contribute to poorer survival. This study compared multi-level factors and their effect on age of diagnosis. Methods We explored a diverse population of N=1795 patient electronic medical records for patients diagnosed with left-side breast cancer and compared characteristics of patients by age, race, ethnicity, history of heart disease, disability status. Descriptive and Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA models were used to compare groups. Results The mostly female cohort of language diverse patients had an average of 66 years, most were White (64.5%), retired (52.1%), and on Medicare (43.2%). Approximately 17.8% were Latine and 13.3% needed an interpreter. Disability status was 9.7% and 8.8% had a history of heart disease. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer who were disabled were younger compared to those without a disability (60 yrs vs 67, p&amp;lt;.0001). When we compared language proficiency, we found this difference persisted as patients with a disability and were limited English were younger compared to patients that experienced neither (61yrs vs 67, p&amp;lt;.0001). Discussion This exploratory analysis is one of the first to explore the role of disability among minoritized and limited English proficient patients with breast cancer. More research is necessary to understand how to best plan and support diverse and disabled patients diagnosed with cancer to minimize their risk and improve outcomes. Citation Format: Melody K Schiaffino, Van "Vannie" K. Nguyen, Dominique Rash, Alicia Fernandez. Exploring cardiotoxicity risk factors among patients diagnosed with breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C137.

Effect of Needle Insertion Angle on Pain During Labial Infiltration Anesthesia of the Anterior Maxilla: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

This study aimed to assess the effect of needle insertion angle on pain during labial infiltration anesthesia in the anterior maxillary region. In this parallel-design randomized clinical trial, participants were randomly assigned to four groups for labial infiltration anesthesia of the anterior maxilla. Local anesthesia was performed with needle orientation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tooth using a conventional syringe (Syringe-0), needle at α angle with a conventional syringe (Syringe-α), computer-controlled local anesthetic delivery (CCLAD) device parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tooth (CCLAD-0), and CCLAD at α angle (CCLAD-α). The heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and respiratory rate (RR) of participants were measured before needle insertion, immediately after needle insertion, and immediately after the injection by a vital signs monitor. The level of pain experienced by participants was quantified using a numerical rating scale (NRS). Data were analyzed by repeated-measures ANOVA and regression models (α = 0.05). Thirty-six participants aged from 21 to 60 years, with a mean age of 35.36 years were recruited. The mean pain scores were 7.44, 4.67, 2.89, and 0.67 in groups Syringe-0, Syringe-α, CCLAD-0, and CCLAD-α, respectively (p < 0.001). Age and sex had no significant effect on pain scores (p = 0.914 and p = 0.702, respectively). The four groups had no significant difference in vital signs (p > 0.05). Injection at an α angle and the application of CCLAD can be used in clinical practice to decrease the pain experienced by participants during labial infiltration anesthesia of the anterior maxilla. Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20230719058849N1.

Effects of Short-Term Physiotherapy in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients Infected with Mutant and Non-Mutant Virus: A Prospective Study

Aim: The aim of study, to assess the short term effects of physiotherapy on patients infected with mutant and non-mutant SARS-CoV-2 virus. Material and Methods: The patients included in the study were analyzed in two different groups. Patients infected with non-mutant SARS-CoV-2 were in Group 1 (n=16; age=53.81±9.48). Patients infected with mutant SARS-CoV-2 were included in Group 2 (n=16; age=55.25±10.12). Physiotherapy which included mobilization, normal range of motion, and a breathing exercise program, was performed on both groups (Group 1: Median=7.00; Min-Max=5-20 days; Group 2: Median: 7.00; Min-Max=4-15 days). All patients underwent a once-daily physiotherapy program. The patients' muscle strength, mobility, activities of daily living, exercise capacity, and perception of fatigue were evaluated. The mixed repeated measures ANOVA model was used to compare groups. Results: It was found that physiotherapy improved muscle strength, mobility, ability to perform activities of daily living, exercise capacity, and perception of fatigue in both groups (p0.05). Conclusion: The current study showed that a short term physiotherapy program was as successful in patients infected with mutant SARS-CoV-2 as it was in patients infected with non-mutant SARS-CoV-2. Physiotherapy is beneficial for COVID-19 disease, as it decreases functional limitation and symptoms of COVID-19 disease by contributing positively to muscle strength, mobility, activities of daily living, exercise capacity, and the perception of fatigue.

Corneal changes after large (9mm) lateral rectus muscle recession measured with Pentacam®

ABSTRACT Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate alterations in corneal astigmatism, axial anterior corneal curvature, anterior chamber depth, and central corneal thickness (CCT) two months after the unilateral recession of lateral rectus muscle in children. Methods: This prospective study included 37 children with intermittent exotropia who would undergo unilateral lateral rectus muscle recession. All measurements were performed using Pentacam®. Comparisons were made between the operated and fellow unoperated eyes, pre- and post-operatively. The assessment was made for changes in the radius of axial curvature on major meridians at 3 and 3.5 mm from the optical corneal center in the mid-peripheral zone. Astigmatism changes of the anterior and posterior corneal surface were calculated using vector analysis software (astigMATIC®). The interaction between age or CCT and postoperative changes in anterior and posterior surface corneal astigmatism were examined with ANOVA model. Results: In the intervention group, changes in anterior and posterior corneal surface astigmatism were statistically significant, with a mean increase of 0.56Dx90 and 0.08Dx87, respectively. In the mid-peripheral corneal zone, an increase was observed in the radius of anterior corneal axial curvature, more evident temporal 3 and 3.5 mm from the corneal center on the horizontal meridian, with corresponding decrease superiorly and inferiorly at 3 and 3.5 mm from the corneal center on the vertical meridian. Discussion: The changes in total astigmatism of the operated eyes are mainly attributed to the anterior corneal surface. These changes are associated with flattening in the 180 meridian of the cornea, leading to a shift to “with-the-rule” astigmatism.

Active Engagement: The Impact of Group-Based Physical Activities on the Resilience of Israeli Adolescents with ADHD.

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a pressing concern in pediatric public health, with its prevalence rising among children and teenagers. This study explored the relationship between group-based physical activity and the well-being, resilience, and distress levels of Israeli youth, with a specific focus on those with ADHD symptoms. Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed 699 Israeli teenagers, assessing their participation in three types of physical activities: unorganized, structured, and the "Five Fingers" program. Data were collected through an online platform and analyzed using ANOVA, t-tests, and multivariable regression models to identify predictors of resilience. Results: Structured, group-based sport activities are associated with higher resilience (p < 0.01) and lower distress (p < 0.01) in adolescents. Adolescents with ADHD symptoms exhibited lower resilience (p < 0.001) and well-being (p < 0.001), and higher distress (p < 0.001). However, those with ADHD symptoms who participated in group-based activities fared better in terms of distress (p < 0.01) and well-being (p = 0.018) than those who did not. Participation in any sport activity, older age, male gender, and a higher socio-economic status predicted greater resilience in youth, generally. Conclusions: This study presents the potential of structured physical activities that involve psychosocial and group integration training to improve the mental health of adolescents, especially in the context of ADHD symptoms.