Chi-square Test Of Independence Research Articles

“Cuddle buddies”: Couples sleep position closeness at onset is indirectly related to lower insecure attachment through lower couple perceived stress

Prior research on couples’ physical closeness during sleep (“cuddling”) suggests a benefit to relationship satisfaction and that affectionate touch during sleep onset may also improve mood and stress. Importantly, however, this initial research has yet to connect couples’ physical sleep positions at onset with attachment insecurity, stress, or sleep quality. Utilizing dyadic data from 143 mixed-gender, heterosexual bed-sharing couples, the present study examined the associations between couples’ average physical closeness at sleep onset, perceived stress, attachment insecurity, and sleep disturbance. We utilized a series of chi square tests of independence as well as the Common Fate Mediation Model (CFMeM) in Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with accompanying procedures to test alternative ordered models against our hypothesized model. We also included daytime sleepiness, income, age, relationship length, if children or pets sleep in the bed, and sleep diagnoses as important covariates. Results revealed no significant associations between individual preferred sleep position and couple physical sleep position. In addition, more physically close couple sleep positions at onset were indirectly linked with lower couple insecure attachment through lower couple stress. No significant associations were found between physical closeness at sleep onset and sleep disturbance. Although the present data were cross-sectional and future research is needed, physical closeness at sleep onset may be a promising and amenable avenue for improving relational and physiological well-being.

The Impact of Marriage Contract Type on Divorce Likelihood: Evidence from Rivers State, Nigeria

This study investigated the impact of marriage contract type (statutory and customary) on divorce likelihood in Rivers State, Nigeria. Data consisting of demographic, socio-economic and treatment related variables were collected from judiciary high court and customary court for a period of 10 years for the analysis. The factors estimated using survival analysis techniques were: Age at Marriage of Husband and Wife, Presence of Children, Duration of Marriage, Employment Status of Husband and Wife, Educational Level of Husband and Wife, Number of Counseling Sessions and Court Sittings Attended, as well as Marriage Type. The Cox PH model revealed that marriage type does not influence the rate of divorce among couple in Rivers State. For statutory marriages, significant determinants of divorce include: duration of marriage (p = 0.000), employment status of husband (p = 0.028), and presence of children (p = 0.045). For customary marriages, significant determinants of divorce include: presence of children (p = 0.018) and number of court sittings (p = 2.83e-06). Ironically, the result revealed that the presence of children increases the risk of statutory marriage divorce by 72% and reduces the risk of customary marriage divorce by 41%. The findings of this study using Pearson chi-square test for independence between the two types of marriage showed that chi-square statistic value χ2 = 0.0066 and the p-value = 0.936, which indicates that divorce is independent of the type of marriage contracted. This means that there is no relationship between the type of marriage contracted in Rivers State and the likelihood of divorce. Overall, this study contributed to the understanding of divorce likelihood in Nigeria, highlighting the complexity of factors influencing marital stability. The study thereby recommended among others that policymakers should focus on addressing socio-economic factors influencing marital stability.

Health literacy levels and self-rated health in the state of Delaware: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundBetter health literacy has been found to be associated with better health outcomes across varied populations. This study aimed to (1) examine the health literacy levels of individuals with respect to the extent to which they acquire, understand, appraise, and apply health information, and (2) to assess the relationship between health literacy and self-reported health in the state of Delaware.MethodsThe sampling frame consisted of 60 purposively selected faith-based organizations across the state of Delaware who predominantly serve minorities. Accounting for clustering design, a sample size was determined based on a Mixed Methods test. In total, 1095 participants responded to a survey questionnaire which included a validated short version of the European Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLS-EU-Q16). The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability techniques, chi-square test of independence, and ordinal logistic regression.ResultsThe study found that about a quarter of the participants had inadequate level of health literacy and about another quarter had problematic level of health literacy. These results are reflected across the health domains—health care, disease prevention, and health promotion. Health literacy was predictor of self-rated health. The odds of better self-rated health are 0.360 times lower for people with inadequate health literacy levels compared to those with sufficient health literacy.ConclusionHealth literacy profoundly shapes health outcomes. The high proportion of people expressing difficulty concerning accessing, comprehending, appraising, and using health information in the health care, disease prevention, and health promotion domains in state of Delaware would require a concerted effort.

Analyzing Gait Dynamics and Recovery Trajectory in Lower Extremity Fractures Using Linear Mixed Models and Gait Analysis Variables

In a prospective study, we examined the recovery trajectory of patients with lower extremity fractures to better understand the healing process in the absence of complications. Using a chest-mounted inertial measurement unit (IMU) device for gait analysis and collecting patient-reported outcome measures, we focused on 12 key gait variables, including Mean Leg Lift Acceleration, Stance Time, and Body Orientation. We employed a linear mixed model (LMM) to analyze these variables over time, incorporating both fixed and random effects to account for individual differences and the time since injury. This model also adjusted for varying intervals between assessments. Our study provided insights into gait recovery across different fracture types using data from 318 patients who experienced no complications or readmissions during their recovery. Through LMM analysis, we found that Tibia-Distal fractures demonstrated the fastest recovery, particularly in terms of mobility and strength. Tibia-Proximal fractures showed balanced improvements in both mobility and stability, suggesting that rehabilitation should target both strength and balance. Femur fractures exhibited varied recovery, with Diaphyseal fractures showing clear improvements in stability, while Distal fractures reflected gains in limb strength but with some variability in stability. To examine patients with readmissions, we conducted a Chi-squared test of independence to determine whether there was a relationship between fracture type and readmission rates, revealing a significant association (p < 0.001). Pelvis fractures had the highest readmission rates, while Tibia-Diaphyseal and Tibia-Distal fractures were more prone to infections, highlighting the need for enhanced infection control strategies. Femur fractures showed moderate readmission and infection rates, indicating a mixed risk profile. In conclusion, our findings emphasize the importance of fracture-specific rehabilitation strategies, focusing on infection prevention and individualized treatment plans to optimize recovery outcomes.

Comparison of tibiofibular syndesmosis stability following treatment of proximal, middle, and distal third fibula fractures

PurposeWhile treatment modalities for Maisonneuve fractures involving the proximal third of the fibula are established, no studies to date have reported outcomes associated with syndesmotic-only fixation of middle third fibular shaft fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes associated with syndesmotic-only fixation in the treatment of Maisonneuve fractures involving the middle third of the fibula.MethodsA retrospective review was conducted on 257 cases of syndesmotic ankle instability with associated fibular fractures at a level 1 trauma center between 2013 and 2023. Patients were divided into cohorts based on fibular fracture location in the proximal, middle, or distal third of the fibula. The Chi-square test of independence, two-sample t-test, and analysis of variance were used to compare outcome measures between cohorts.ResultsSixty-six patients were identified including 48% (n = 32) with proximal third fibular fractures, 20% (n = 13) with middle third fibular fractures, and 32% (n = 21) with distal third fibular fractures. Rates of infection, loss of reduction, wound healing complications, and reoperation did not vary significantly between cohorts. Functional outcome measures including range of motion, time to weight-bearing, and tibiofibular/medial clear space measurements at final follow-up were similar across cohorts.ConclusionPatients with Maisonneuve fractures involving the middle third of the fibula demonstrated positive outcomes with syndesmotic fixation alone, with no documented cases of infection, loss of reduction, or wound healing issues. By demonstrating maintenance of anatomic reduction and low rates of complications, our results support the use of syndesmotic-only fixation in the treatment of middle third Maisonneuve fractures.

Early Reinitiation of Obesity Pharmacotherapy Post Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Youth: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Bariatric surgery is the most effective intervention for severe pediatric obesity, but a subset of youth experience suboptimal weight loss and/or recurrent weight gain. Early re-initiation ofobesity pharmacotherapy postoperatively may improve outcomes, though this has not been evaluated in pediatric populations. A retrospective cohort study at a tertiary care children's hospital evaluated the safety and efficacy of reintroducing obesity pharmacotherapy within six weeks afterlaparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Youth were offered obesity pharmacotherapy reinitiation at their 2-week postoperative visit. The study compared outcomes between 25 youth who chose early obesity pharmacotherapy reinitiation and 21 who received standard care without restarting medication. Primary outcomes included weight trajectory, eating behaviors, complications, readmissions, and reoperation rates, analyzed using independent t-tests, Chi-squared tests, and logistic regressions. Between November 2023 and July 2024, 53 youth had surgical consults, and 46 (86% conversion rate; mean age 16.5 ± 1.9years, mean BMI 53 ± 9.7kg/m2; 70% (32/46) female, 80% (37/46) Hispanic, 87% (40/46) publicly insured) underwent LSG, with 93% (43/46) using obesity pharmacotherapy preoperatively. Mixed-effects multivariate regression, adjusting for baseline BMI, age, and sex, revealed that early reinitiation (5.1weeks [IQR 3.7, 8.4]) significantly reduced BMI, percent BMI, percent total weight loss (TWL), and percent excess weight loss (EWL) at 3 and 6months compared to standard care, with no significant differences in complications or readmissions. At 6months, the mean differences were: %BMI: -6.5% (95% CI: -9.13, -3.86), p < 0.001; %TWL: -5.9% (95% CI: -8.52, -3.25), p < 0.001; %EWL: Reinitiators: -45.5% vs. standard care: -39.4%; meandifference: -8.2% (95% CI: -14.69, -1.63), p < 0.001. Early reinitiation also resulted in a significant reduction in emotional overeating at 3 and 6months compared to standard care, with mean differences of -2.5points (95% CI: -3.29, -1.76), p < 0.001, and -3.5points (95% CI: -4.38, -2.69), p < 0.001, respectivelyon self-reported eating behavior questionnaires. Early obesity pharmacotherapy reinitiation after LSG was safe and well tolerated, improving weight outcomes without negatively impacting complication or readmission rates.

The effects of patient triage management strategies on clinical outcomes and risk management in emergency departments: a prospective comparative study

Aims: The aim of this study is to compare the impact of the emergency severity index (ESI) and the Manchester triage system (MTS) on clinical outcomes, patients' satisfaction, and risk management using a prospective approach. Methods: In this study, which includes 12,000 patients who visited the emergency department of Esenyurt Necmi Kadıoğlu State Hospital between September 1, 2024, 2024, and October 15, 2024, 6,000 patients were triaged using the ESI, and 6,000 patients were triaged using the MTS. The study was conducted by randomly selecting patients between the ages of 18-85 who were visiting the emergency department for the first time. Data were collected using the observations of healthcare personnel, electronic health system data, and patient admission records. The primary variables include treatment times, clinical outcomes, resource utilization in the emergency department, and patient waiting times. Surveys were used to measure patients' satisfaction, and medical inaccuracies were evaluated based on error reports and inconsistencies in medical records. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software, applying independent sample t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analyses. Results: It was found that patients triaged using the ESI had significantly lower waiting times compared to those triaged using the MTS (OR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.50-0.85, p

Dietary Salt-Related Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of New Zealand Adults Aged 18-65 Years.

To explore dietary salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of New Zealand (NZ) adults aged 18-65 years and assess differences by demographic subgroups. Cross-sectional online survey conducted between June 1, 2018 and August 31, 2018. Participants were recruited in shopping malls, via social media, and a market research panel. English-speaking adults residing in NZ. An amended version of The Pan American and World Health Organization Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors standardized survey tool was used. Demographic data (age, sex, ethnicity, and educational attainment) were also collected. Descriptive statistics reported. Chi-square test for independence to assess differences by demographics. The survey was completed by 1,131 adults (mean age 36 ± 15 years; n = 876 [78%] female; n = 661 [78%] NZ European/other; n = 210 [19%] Asian; n =164 [15%] Māori). In addition, 865 participants (83%) knew the primary dietary source of salt; 406 (40%) knew the recommended salt intake; 946 (95%) believed food manufacturers are responsible for sodium reduction; 563 (55%) supported government regulations; and 259 (26%) used food labels. Females and NZ European/other participants reported more favorable salt-reducing behaviors, such as avoiding fast-food and packaged, ready-to-eat foods (P < 0.001). Improving salt-related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in NZ is particularly important for men, underserved populations, and adults aged 45-65 years. A multicomponent, national NZ salt reduction program based on research addressing engagement and effectiveness for at-risk groups is warranted.

Examining the determinants of resilience and mental stress in emergency department nurses

BackgroundEmergency departments (ED) are characterized by highly dynamic environments. This study aimed to identify determinants of resilience and mental stress among ED nurses.MethodsA cross-sectional, analytical design was employed to assess 316 emergency nurses in Kermanshah hospitals using a convenience sampling method. The Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and the Perceived Stress Scale measured resilience and mental stress, respectively. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square tests, and Pearson’s correlation in SPSS version 25.ResultsThe average mental stress score was 26.9, and the average resilience score was 64, indicating moderate levels. Significant relationships were found between employment status, emergency responsibility, economic status, and resilience (P < 0.01). Additionally, place of residence, number of children, education, shift work, social network presence, employment status, emergency responsibility, and economic status were significantly related to psychological stress (P < 0.01). Pearson’s correlation showed an inverse relationship between resilience and mental stress (r = -0.123, P = 0.029). Age was inversely related to mental stress (r = -0.408, P < 0.001), while overtime hours per month were directly related to resilience (r = 0.135, P = 0.016) and inversely related to mental stress (r = -0.482, P = 0.029).ConclusionThe research highlights the importance of considering demographic variables in managing nurses’ resilience and mental pressure, emphasizing the need for hospital officials to focus on work shifts, employment status, and economic conditions.

Effects of Gender Difference on Fast Food Consumption among Associate Degree Students

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the attitudes of associate degree students about fast food and to determine the effect of gender. Study Design: Students who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study were included. Within the scope of the research, the questionnaire was conducted using a simple random sampling method to determine the students' consumption of ready-to-eat food. Questionnaire questions were developed based on the studies in the literature and organised by the purpose of the research. Place and Duration of the Study: The survey was conducted face to face with 326 students (approximately 15 students from each program) studying in 10 different departments and 20 programs of Tekirdağ Namık Kemal University Technical Vocational School in the 2022-2023 fall semester. Methodology: Before starting the questionnaire, the clarity and validity of the questions were tested with 10 subjects to make necessary corrections when necessary. In the questionnaire, students were asked about their height-weight values and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Descriptive statistics of the data obtained from the study were evaluated by Crosstabs analysis and Chi-square (χ2) independence tests in the SPSS ver.18 statistical package program. Results: According to the study results, statistical significance was found in the following dimensions related to gender factor: BMI (**P&lt;0.01), housing status (*P&lt;0.05), frequency of consumption (*P&lt;0.05), reason for consuming ready-to-eat food (*P&lt;0.05), favorite ready-to-eat food (**P&lt;0.01), portions consumed at meals (**P&lt;0.01), finding portions sufficient (**P&lt;0.01), comments about nutritional value (**P&lt;0.01), and thoughts about hygiene (**P&lt;0.01). Conclusion: Understanding the factors affecting fast food consumption can contribute to raising awareness among students about balanced nutrition and developing nutrition strategies. Studies that investigate and understand these factors may be important for companies in the sector to follow consumer preferences and trends. New studies should be conducted among associate degree students, including students from different universities. To these studies; Factors such as family income level, whether the student receives a scholarship, health information, stress factor, social environment, advertising and social media use, food options on campus, and physical activity should be included.

EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PSYCHOLOGICAL CHANGES, SLEEP QUALITY, AND HYPERTENSION AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING ELDERLY

Objective: to examine the relationship between psychological changes and sleep quality with the incidence of hypertension in the elderly.Method: This cross-sectional study, conducted with a purposive sample of 126 elderly participants, assessed psychological changes using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42) questionnaire and sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. Blood pressure was measured using a sphygmomanometer to assess hypertension. Data analysis included independent t-tests and chi-square tests, with logistic regression used to identify predictors of hypertension. Results: The independent t-test revealed significant differences in stress levels between participants with and without hypertension (t = -6.614, p = 0.020). Similarly, significant differences in depression levels were observed between these two groups (t = -0.044, p = 0.014). Elderly individuals with poor sleep quality had a 5 times higher risk of experiencing hypertension (OR = 4.625, p = 0.008). Multivariate analysis indicated that age was a predictor of hypertension incidence (β = 0.208, p = 0.004), and sleep quality was also a predictor (β = -1.501, p = 0.023). Discussion: The findings suggest that psychological factors and sleep quality influence hypertension development in the elderly, likely through physiological mechanisms such as heightened sympathetic activity and vascular stress. These results highlight the importance of addressing both psychological health and sleep quality in managing hypertension risk. Conclusion: Sleep quality is a predictor of hypertension incidence in the elderly. Those with poor sleep quality have a 5 times greater risk of developing hypertension compared to those with good sleep quality. Keywords: elderly, hypertension, psychological changes, sleep quality

Aspectos de saúde geral, mental e auditiva de trabalhadores da equipe de enfermagem de um hospital público acometidos pela Covid-19

ABSTRACT Purpose: to analyze possible impacts on the general, mental and hearing health of nursing workers affected by the COVID-19 virus. Methods: an exploratory, cross-sectional study, carried out with nursing professionals from a public hospital in Southern Brazil, who answered a questionnaire on general and auditory symptoms after COVID-19 infection, and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI). Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test of independence, the ANOVA test with Tukey's post-test and Pearson's Linear Correlation, with a p-value of 5%. Results: 52 workers participated (17 nurses, 30 technicians, five aides). The symptoms of headache, loss of smell and taste, fatigue and muscle pain were reported by more than 75% of workers; 80.8% either had already been classified as burnout (40.4%) or featured high scores for exhaustion or work disengagement (40.4%), with a correlation with the symptoms of cough (p=0.0327) and fever (p=0.0235); 44.23% had auditory symptoms, with dizziness/vertigo reported by 34.6% and tinnitus by 13.5%, although without correlation with burnout levels (p=0.4250). Conclusion: there were impacts on the general, mental and hearing health of nursing workers who were diagnosed with COVID-19, mainly cough and fever, burnout, tinnitus and dizziness.

Pregnancy Psychosocial Outcomes on Adolescent Girls at Dakodwamu a Suburb of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, Ghana

Adolescent pregnancy is a social and public health concern in Ghana, with high prevalence in some regions in the country, including the Ashanti Region, particularly at Dakodwamu. This study investigates the pregnancy psychosocial outcomes on adolescent girls at Dakodwamu a suburb of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed with 393 respondents which comprised older adolescent girls aged 15-19 years. Data were analysed using frequency distribution, Pearson’s chi-squared test of independence and multiple linear regression. Experienced obstetric outcomes were statistically significant at P &amp;lt; 0.05, (coeff = 1.000, 95%CI [0.914—1.086]). Have sleeping problem was observed as statistically significant at p &amp;lt; 0.05, (coeff = 0.497, 95% CI [0.411—0.583]). Again, faced family discrimination was statistically significant at P &amp;lt; 0.05, (coeff = -0.667, 95%CI [-0.667— -0.667]). Difficulty in getting money for abortion when pregnant was observed as statistically significant at p &amp;lt; 0.05, (coeff = -0.333, 95% CI [-0.333— -0.333]). Based on this, the study recommends that parents need to be encouraged to have strict rules and regulations within the family of teenage girls, but should also create the freedom within the family for teenage girls to discuss issues related to sex, sexuality and responsible adulthood.

Gut-Brain Axis: Exploring the Link Between Digestive Health and Mental Health

Objective: This study aimed to explore the link between digestive health and mental well-being through the gut-brain axis, with a focus on microbial composition, dietary patterns, and psychological outcomes in a local population. Methodology: A retrospective study was conducted at the Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, between April 2022 to March 2023. A total of 323 participants were included, with 162 patients having gastrointestinal disorders and 161 controls. Data on demographics, dietary patterns, microbial composition, and psychological well-being were analyzed. Independent t-tests and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis, with a significance level set at p &lt; 0.05. Results: Patients with gastrointestinal disorders exhibited significantly higher anxiety (11.2 ± 4.5 vs. 6.8 ± 3.9, p &lt; 0.001) and depression scores (10.4 ± 4.1 vs. 5.7 ± 3.5, p &lt; 0.001) compared to controls. Microbial dysbiosis was more prevalent in the gastrointestinal disorder group (63%) than in controls (32%, p &lt; 0.001). Traditional dietary patterns were associated with gastrointestinal disorders (p = 0.032). Demographics showed no significant differences in age (p = 0.246) or sex (p = 0.431). Conclusion: The findings confirm a strong association between gut health and mental well-being, emphasizing the role of microbial dysbiosis and dietary patterns. The study highlights the need for gut-targeted therapies and public health initiatives to address the gut-brain axis.

Social networks and maintenance of an endangered language: the Kejaman of Malaysia

PurposeThis study examined how social network influences maintenance of the indigenous language of the Kejaman, a small indigenous group living in Sarawak, Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachThe participants were 123 Kejaman speakers from three generations living in two longhouses in Belaga, Sarawak. Participants were presented with 20 situations relevant to the lives of Kejaman people to find out the people they interact with.FindingsThe grandparents, parents and children’s generations all had more exchange networks (M = 131.7) than interactive networks (M = 110.3). They consulted kin on matters related to family, money, culture, death and taboos, providing the avenue for the use of the Kejaman language. Generation 2 had more interactive networks and Generation 3 consulted non-kin on more matters, and the communication takes place in languages other than Kejaman. Chi-Square tests of independence showed no significant differences in the number of exchange and interactive networks across generations. The three generations were not significantly different in uniplexity (M = 29.5%) and multiplexity scores (M = 20.6%). The Kejamans belong to a low-density, uniplex social network community.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a limitation in using social network analysis as a reliable predictor of future language use. This is because social networks are not fixed. They can expand, shrink and change over lifetime, and the fact that the generation of children does not talk about family matters in their mother tongue does not mean that they will not do so in future.Practical implicationsAs interactive networks comprise non-Kejaman people, there will be inadequate close ethnic ties to support transmission and maintenance of Kejaman linguistic and cultural norms. Therefore, their language fluency may decline to the extent that they experience language anxiety and feel uncomfortable using it.Social implicationsThe quantity and quality of interactive networks for the Kejaman are not conducive for upward mobility. What this means in the sociopolitical context of Sarawak is that, this small indigenous group is still family-centred and does not have adequate social contacts in the wider society, indicating lack of social standing.Originality/valueThe study suggests that in future the Kejaman will rely on interactive networks to talk about life-choices, and the lessened contact with Kejaman people will affect maintenance of Kejaman linguistic and cultural norms.

Unraveling the Digital Divide: Examining Factors Impacting the Accessibility to Digital Resources in the Digital Age

The research focused on examining the variables affecting the accessibility to digital resources of BPO employees. The study was conducted in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, with one hundred three (103) respondents. The process of data collection was conducted during the second semester of the academic year 2023–2024. A quantitative approach with a correlational research design was employed to identify factors that hinder individuals' access to technology. The researchers utilized a self-made questionnaire to collect the necessary data that will support the study. Percentage, Mode, Chi-square Test of Independence, Cramer’s V, and Ordinal Logistic Regression analysis were the statistical treatments used by the researchers to analyze the collected data. The result of the study indicates that digital literacy level and digital skills and competencies are significantly correlated and a significant factor that determines the respondents’ accessibility to digital resources.

Prevalence and Determinants of Depression Among University Students: Case Study, Technical University of Mombasa

Depression is a significant global mental health issue that affects countless individuals annually and can lead to severe consequences, including suicide. One area that has seen an increase in mental health concerns is among public university students, with many struggling with depression-related challenges and even dropping out of school. Unfortunately, there have been several reports of suicide among university students in the mainstream media. To better understand the situation, a study was conducted to determine the prevalence of depression among Technical University of Mombasa students and identify the risk factors that contribute to this condition. The study surveyed 390 students using structured questionnaires, with depression as the dependent variable and family, school, environment, and economic factors as the independent variables. Through the use of the chi-square test of independence and multiple linear regression model, the study found that 57.7% of students experienced depression, with students in year four and above being more likely to be affected than those in lower years. The study found that family, school, environment, and economic factors significantly influence depression among students, with 34.2% of the variations in depression explained by these factors. Family, school, environmental, and economic factors were found to increase depression levels by 23.8%, 12.7%, 10.6%, and 17.7%, respectively. Based on these results, the study recommended establishing peer counselling programs, raising awareness of mental health issues, creating online platforms for students to share their concerns, promoting participation in extracurricular activities, and incorporating mental health education into the university curriculum. These recommendations aim to address the rising cases of depression and promote the overall well-being of students in public universities in Kenya.

Rwandan Farmers’ Perceptions of the Acoustic Environment and the Potential for Acoustic Monitoring

Monitoring the farm acoustic environment can provide important information about processes affecting crop production. This paper assesses farmers’ knowledge and attitudes toward acoustic technology for farm monitoring in Rwanda. Stratified random sampling was used to select 430 farmers from 3 sectors. Demographic, farm, and technical knowledge data were collected from farmers with a survey. Cross-tabulation results show farmers with secondary and university education are more interested in acoustic technology than those with a primary education and farmers engaged in commercial farming are more interested in technology for monitoring acoustic sources than subsistence farmers. However, nearly all farmers are willing to deploy a listening technology to monitor the acoustic environment. Farmers have a clear priority to listen to animals on the farm, whether they are pests (specifically, birds) or livestock. A chi-square test of independence indicates a significant relationship between farmers’ consideration of technology for farm monitoring and their attitudes toward sound monitoring. Farmers want a technological solution, but demand that the solution be low-cost and provide a simple alert. The results inform system requirements for an Internet of Things acoustic network that can deliver this information to the farmer.

Prevalence and Complications of Anemia Across Pregnancy Trimesters: A Cohort Study

Background: Anemia is a common condition affecting approximately 40% of pregnant women, posing serious risks to maternal and fetal health. These risks include premature birth, low birth weight, infections, postpartum hemorrhage, and increased likelihood of cesarean section. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from 390 pregnant women who attended the gynecology and obstetrics clinic at Amir Al-Momenin Hospital. Participants were selected based on referrals on a predetermined date. Data collection and analysis were conducted using STATA version 11. Pregnancy outcomes between anemic and non-anemic women were compared using independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: The study found no significant association between low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in the first trimester and pregnancy outcomes. However, low hematocrit levels in the second trimester were significantly associated with increased risks of stillbirth, low Apgar scores, and premature delivery. No significant effects were observed on other maternal or neonatal outcomes. Conclusion: Hematocrit levels in the second trimester may serve as a critical predictor of adverse pregnancy outcomes for both mother and infant. Screening for anemia and monitoring blood indices before and during pregnancy are essential. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment of anemia can help mitigate risks to maternal and fetal health.

Effect of intracanal cryotherapy on post-operative pain in single-visit endodontic retreatment: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundThis randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of intracanal cryotherapy with 2–4 °C normal saline irrigation on post-operative pain after single-visit non-surgical root canal retreatment.MethodsForty-six single-rooted, single-canal teeth requiring non-surgical root canal retreatment were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 23): a cryotherapy group and a control group. All the treatments were completed during a single visit. A combination of nickel-titanium and stainless-steel files was used for the removal of gutta-percha and root canal preparation, and irrigation was performed using 5.25% NaOCl and 17% EDTA. The cryotherapy group had a final irrigation temperature of 2–4 °C for 5 min before root canal obturation, whereas the control group received irrigation at room temperature. Post-operative pain levels were assessed via the Numerical Rating Scale at 6, 18, 24, 48, 72, and 168 h (up to 7 days). The number of analgesics consumed at the same intervals was also recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test, Mann-Whitney test, and Independent Samples test, with the significance level set at 0.05.ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference in post-operative pain between the cryotherapy group and the control group at 6 h after treatment (P < 0.05). However, post-operative pain levels were not significantly different at 18, 24, 48, 72, or 168 h after treatment (P > 0.05). Additionally, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of analgesic intake (P > 0.05).ConclusionIntracanal cryotherapy can effectively reduce short-term post-operative pain, but it has no effect on long-term pain or the need for analgesics.