Chi-square Test Research Articles

Conventional suspension delivery versus tattooing pen-assistedsuspension delivery in non-cultured epidermal cell suspension procedure for vitiligo: A randomized controlled trial.

Non-cultured epidermal suspension (NCES) is one of the most widely used surgical therapy for stable vitiligo patients in which recipient size preparation plays an important role in the outcome of NCES. The primary objective is to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of conventional suspension delivery after manual dermabrasion (CSMD) versus tattooing pen-assisted suspension delivery (TPSD) in NCES. Paired vitiligo units (VU) in 36 patients, matched with respect to size and location were divided into two groups. The VU in Group 1 underwent suspension delivery by CSMD while the VU in Group 2 underwent same by TPSD. All the VU were followed up at regular intervals until 24 weeks. At the end of 24 weeks, 31 VU (86.1%) in Group 1 achieved >75% repigmentation which was significantly higher (p = .02, chi-square test) as compared to 22 VU (61.1%) in Group 2. The color matching in both the groups VU was also comparable (p = .84, chi-square test). The patient global assessment (PGA) was significantly higher in Group 1 VU as compared to Group 2. Treatment response in terms of repigmentation and PGA was significantly better in VU treated with CSMD as compared to TPSD. Recipient site complications were seen more commonly in Group 1 VU as compared to Group 2. Perilesional halo at the recipient site was seen in none of the VU in Group 2 which was significantly lower than 6 VU in Group 1 than (p = .02, chi-square test). Better results may be possible with technical improvisations in tattooing pen needle diameter and depth of penetration.

Precarious employment and associations with socio-demographic characteristics and self-reported health in Wales, UK

ObjectivesThe study's aim was to explore the prevalence of precarious employment (PE) in Wales prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and examine associations with PE domains across socio-demographics and self-reported health. Study designA cross-sectional design was used to explore the prevalence of PE in Wales prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, in February 2020. MethodsData were collected from a national household survey carried out in May/June 2020, with a sample of 1032 residents in Wales. PE was determined using the Employment Precariousness Scale. Associations between experiencing PE and socio-demographic/health characteristics were examined using Chi-squared tests and logistic regression models (multinomial and binary). ResultsOverall, before the pandemic, one in four respondents (26.5%) was in PE, with the most prevalent domains, wages, and disempowerment being experienced by at least 50% of respondents. Worse perceived treatment at work was twice as likely in those reporting pre-existing conditions (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.45 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.33–4.49]), poorer general health (aOR: 2.33 95% CI: [1.22–4.47]), or low mental wellbeing (aOR: 2.81 95% CI: [1.34–5.88]). Those with high wage precariousness were three times more likely to report low mental wellbeing (aOR 3.12 95% CI [1.54–6.32]). ConclusionsThe creation and provision of secure, adequately paid job opportunities has the potential to reduce the prevalence of PE in Wales. Targeting such employment opportunities to those people currently unwell would have better population health gains.

Predictive factors of cognitive impairment in alcohol use disorder inpatients.

Cognitive impairments are common in patients with AUD and worsen the prognosis of addiction management. There are no clear guidelines for screening cognitive impairments in hospitalized patients with AUD. Fifty-seven patients with an AUD history who were admitted to an acute hospital and assessed by the addiction care team were included. Those patients were screened for cognitive impairments using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test. We collected clinical information regarding addiction history, comorbidities, and current treatments. Chi-square tests, t-tests, and Mann-Whitney tests were performed to determine factors associated with a pathological MoCA score (<26). A pathological MoCA score was positively associated with spatial-temporal disorientation, difficulty in recalling addiction history, patient underreporting of AUD and a date of last alcohol consumption lower than 11days ago, and negatively associated with a reason for hospitalization due to alcohol-related health issues. No medication was associated with cognitive impairments. Clinical elements from assessment by the addiction care team allow for relevant indication for screening cognitive impairments.

Market Factors, Not Quality, Influence Reimbursement for Pancreaticoduodenectomy in an Era of Price Transparency.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) price transparency rule tries to facilitate cost-conscious decision-making. For surgical services, such as pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), factors mediating transparency and real-world reimbursement are not well described. The Leapfrog Survey was used to identify United States hospitals performing PD. Financial and operational data were obtained from Turquoise Health and CMS Cost Reports. Chi-square tests and modified Poisson regression evaluated associations with reimbursement disclosure. Two-part logistic and gamma regression models estimated effects of hospital factors on commercial, Medicare, and self-pay reimbursements for PD. Of 452 Leapfrog hospitals, 295 (65%) disclosed PD hospital or procedure reimbursements. Disclosing hospitals were larger (beds >200: 81.0% vs. 71.3%, p = 0.04), reported higher net margins (0.7% vs. -2.1%, p = 0.04), more likely for-profit (26.1% vs. 6.4%, p < 0.001), and teaching-affiliated (82.0% vs. 65.6%, p < 0.001). Nonprofit status conferred hospitalization reimbursement increases of $8683-$12,329, while moderate market concentration predicted savings up to $5066. Teaching affiliation conferred reimbursement increases of $4589-$16,393 for hospitalizations and $644 for procedures. Top Leapfrog volume ratings predicted an increase of up to $7795 for only Medicare hospitalization reimbursement. Nondisclosure of hospital and procedural reimbursements for PD remains a major issue. Transparency was noted in hospitals with higher margins, size, and academic affiliation. Factors associated with higher reimbursement were non-profit status, academic affiliation, and more equitable market share. Reimbursement inconsistently tracked with PD quality or volume measures. Policy changes may be required to incentivize reimbursement disclosure and translate transparency into increased value for patients.

Balanço nutricional em mangueiras no semiárido brasileiro utilizando métodos diagnósticos nutricionais

ABSTRACT Nutritional assessment of mango trees based on diagnostic methods considering nutritional balance is recommended. This study aimed to establish optimum nutritional ranges using diagnostic methods, compare them, identify the most efficient diagnostic method, and select the nutrients responding best to the application of the diagnostic method. The study was conducted in commercial mango orchards in the São Francisco Valley. Nutritional content was calculated using the diagnosis and recommendation integrated system (DRIS-Beaufils, DRIS-Jones), modified DRIS (M-DRIS-Beaufils; M-DRIS-Jones), compositional nutrient diagnosis (CND), and mathematical chance (ChM) methods and compared using the chi-square test. Principal component analysis was applied to select the most efficient diagnostic method and the nutrients responsible for the greatest variability. The DRIS-Beaufils, M-DRIS-Beaufils, DRIS-Jones, M-DRIS-Jones, CND, and ChM methods generated nutritional sufficiency ranges for the evaluated cultivars. The nutritional diagnoses of the DRIS-Beaufils and M-DRIS-Beaufils methods were similar and discordant with those of DRIS-Jones, M-DRIS-Jones, and CND. The DRIS-Beaufils method, updated by Maia, proved to be more consistent for the nutritional assessment of mango trees. The nutrients N, P, K, Mg, and S in the Tommy Atkins cultivar; N, P, Mg, S, B, Mn, Zn, Mo, and Cl in the Kent cultivar; and N, P, K, Ca, S, B, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mo, and Cl in the Keitt cultivar showed significant responses to the application of the DRIS-Beaufils method updated by Maia.

Cinética de secagem e qualidade fisiológica de sementes de jiló

ABSTRACT The drying process is paramount for maintaining seed quality, where the temperature during this process directly influences germination and vigor, especially for vegetable species harvested with high moisture content. This research aimed to determine and model the drying curves of S. aethiopicum (cultivar Tinguá-verde-claro) seeds at temperatures of 35, 38, 41, and 44 ºC, as well as to evaluate the physiological quality of the seeds after drying. A completely randomized design was used, with four drying temperatures (35, 38, 41, and 44 ºC) and four replicates. Nine mathematical models were fitted using the non-linear regression analysis by the Gauss-Newton method, and the goodness of fit was assessed based on the magnitude of the coefficient of determination (R2), chi-square test (χ2), relative mean error (P), and estimated mean error (SE). Seed quality was evaluated by germination test (G), electrical conductivity (EC), and accelerated aging (AA). The Modified Midilli model best represents the drying curves of S. aethiopicum seeds at the studied temperatures. Seeds with higher germination and vigor, meaning lower electrical conductivity values and higher germination rates after accelerated aging, are achieved through drying at 35 and 38 ºC.

The Frequency of Intraventricular Hemorrhage and its Risk Factors.

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (is the most prevalent type of cerebrovascular accident in premature infants, which can result in lasting neurological complications. The aim of this study was to ascertain the frequency of IVH and its associated risk factors within our particular context. This cross-sectional study was carried out in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit of a maternal and neonatal hospital from September 2018 to August 2019. Premature infants under 34 weeks of age and with birth weight < 1500 grams who did not have significant congenital anomalies participated in the study. A brain ultrasound was performed by a sonologist during the first week. The infants were subsequently categorized into two groups: those with and without IVH. A comparative analysis was conducted using the chi-square test and logistic regression. A significance level of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Of the 205 premature infants who completed the study, IVH was reported in 107 cases (52.1%), of which 97.3% of ventricular hemorrhages were grade I and II and 2.7% accounted for severe bleeding (grade III and IV). Gestational age less than 28 weeks, weight less than 1000 g, vaginal delivery, asphyxia and resuscitation, history of intubation and mechanical ventilation, cord blood acidity, dopamine infusion, and history of fever and chorioamnionitis in the mother have been found to be significantly associated with increased risk of IVH (p<0.001). Antenatal corticosteroids decreased the risk (OR=10.63). In this study, IVH has been found to be common in infants under 1500 g of weight, but the severe form was low in frequency and was observed significantly in high-risk pregnancies.

Prevalence of Chagas disease among Latin American immigrants in non-endemic countries: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundChagas disease (CD), endemic in 21 Latin American countries, has gradually spread beyond its traditional borders due to migratory movements and emerging as a global health concern. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of available data to establish updated prevalence estimates of CD in Latin American migrants residing in non-endemic countries. MethodsAa systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and LILACS via Virtual Health Library (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde - BVS), including references published until November 1st, 2023. Pooled prevalence estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random effect models. Heterogeneity was assessed by the chi-square test and the I2 statistic. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity among studies. The study was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42022354237). FindingsFrom a total of 1,474 articles screened, a total of 51 studies were included. Studies were conducted in eight non-endemic countries (most in Spain), between 2006 and 2023, and involving 82,369 screened individuals. The estimated pooled prevalence of CD in Latin American migrants living in non-endemic countries was 3.5% (95% CI: 2.5-4.7; I2: 97.7%), considering studies in which screening was indicated simply because the person was Latin American. Per subgroups, the pooled CD prevalence was 11.0% (95% CI: 7.7-15.5) in non-targeted screening (unselected population in reference centers) (27 studies); in blood donors (4 studies), the pooled prevalence was 0.8% (95% CI: 0.2-3.4); among people living with HIV Latin American immigrants (4 studies) 2.4% (95% CI: 1.4-4.3) and for Latin American pregnant and postpartum women (14 studies) 3.7% (95 CI: 2.4-5.6). The pooled proportion of congenital transmission was 4.4% (95% CI: 3.3-5.8). Regarding the participants’ country of origin, 7,964 were from Bolivia, of which 1,715 (21,5%) were diagnosed with CD, and 21,304 were from other Latin American countries of which 154 (0,72%) were affected. InterpretationCD poses a significant burden of disease in Latin American immigrants in non-endemic countries, suggesting that CD is no longer a problem limited to the American continent and must be considered as a global health challenge. FundingThis study was funded by the World Heart Federation, through a research collaboration with Novartis Pharma AG.

Study on Seroprevalence and Leptospiral Antibody Distribution Among Livestock Breeders and Farmers in Golestan Province.

The high prevalence of leptospirosis in humans is of great public health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of leptospiral antibodies and the distribution of serovars in livestock breeders and farmers in Golestan province. Seventy samples of serum collected from farmers and ranchers suspected of leptospirosis were examined using an ELISA method for surveying Immunoglobulin M (IgM) anti-leptospiria. Also from samples, DNA was extracted and PCR was performed using by primers for 16s rRNA. Demographic properties of positive patients were analysed. Chi-square statistical test shows a statistically significant difference between the gender and prevalence leptospirosis (p-value = 0.004). Also, by examining the age, it was shown that 68.57% of patients are in the middleaged rang. According to the results obtained from the study and investigation of blood serum IgM-and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in people suspected of leptospirosis, 3 cases of the patients had IgM higher than 11 and were known to be positive for leptospirosis. Also, by examining the IgG level of patients, 5 cases had intermediate results, and 2 cases were found to be positive for IgG. The PCR results showed that 41.42% of patients tested positive for the 16s rRNA. Leptospirosis is a common disease among farmers, and in Golestan province, considering traditional farming methods, it is considered an important infectious disease. Therefore, health and safety measures should be expanded to control and prevent this disease. Also, by employing mechanised agricultural methods, the prevalence of leptospirosis in this region can be significantly reduced.

Valoración fisiológica y manejo de pacientes post-COVID con pruebas funcionales cardiopulmonares y de imagen normales

ObjectiveContributing to elucidate the pathophysiology of dyspnoea and exertion intolerance in post-COVID syndrome patients with normal cardiopulmonary imaging and functional tests at rest, while determining their fitness and level of endurance in order to individualize working parameters for physical rehabilitation. Material and methodsAfter an anamnesis and clinical examination at rest, 27 subjects (50±11.9 years) (14 women) with post-COVID syndrome of more than 6 months of evolution performed a continuous maximal-incremental graded cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) with breath-by-breath gas-exchange monitoring and continuous ECG registration, on an electromagnetically braked cycle ergometer. The values obtained were compared with those of reference, gender or controls, using the Chi-square, t-Student or ANOVA test. ResultsThe clinical examination at rest and the CPET were clinically normal and without adverse events. Reasons for stopping exercise were leg discomfort. It is only worth noting a BMI=29.9±5.8kg/m2 and a basal lactate concentration of 2.1±0.7mmol/L. The physiological assessment of endurance showed the following results relative to predicted VO2máx: 1)peakVO2=80.5±18.6%; 2)VO2 at ventilatory threshold1 (VO2VT1): 46.0±12.9%; 3)VO2VT2: 57.2±16.4%; 4)working time in acidosis: 5.6±3,0minutes; and 5)maximum lactate concentration: 5.1±2.2mmol/L. ConclusionsThe CPET identified limited aerobic metabolism and early increase in glycolytic metabolism as causes of dyspnoea and exercise intolerance, determined fitness for physical rehabilitation, and individualized it based on the level of endurance.

Factors influencing dementia patients' participation in advance care planning: A meta-analysis

ObjectiveA meta-analysis was conducted based on the available evidence to determine the influencing factors associated with the participation of people with dementia in advance care planning. MethodsA keyword search was performed in seven databases, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Scopus, and Void, to search for eligible studies published from the time of library construction up to February 1, 2024, to examine the factors influencing the participation of dementia patients in advance care planning and its effects. The quality of the included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the assessment criteria of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). After literature search, data extraction and quality assessment were completed independently by two researchers, meta-analysis was performed using Stata software 15.0 to pool the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Cochran chi-square test (Cochran 's Q) and I2 values. ResultsA total of 19 studies were included in this study, and Meta-analysis showed that 8 of the 16 influencing factors were statistically significant: Patients' gender (OR=1.17; 95%: 1.13–1.2), age (OR=1.07; 95%: 1.03–1.1), education (OR=1.98; 95%: 1.65–2.38), race (OR=2.61; 95%: 1.67–4.08), the severity of the dementia (OR=1.46; 95%: 1.34- 1.58), ability to perform activities of daily living (OR=0.99; 95%: 0.97–1.0), religious affiliation (OR=2.24; 95%: 1.23–4.06), and patient income(OR=2.10; 95%: 1.47–2.98) were associated with participation in advance care planning. ConclusionsThe participation of dementia patients in advance care planning is influenced by gender, age, education, race, dementia severity, ability to perform activities of daily living, religious affiliation and patient income. The results of the study can inform the development of targeted interventions for dementia patients, thereby reducing overtreatment of dementia patients at the end of life and improving patient adherence to hospice care.

Mortality-related factors in older adults with delirium: A prospective observational study

BackgroundDelirium is a common and serious neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by acute changes in attention, cognition, and consciousness. It is frequently encountered in various clinical settings, including critical care units and postoperative care, and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Understanding the factors contributing to delirium-related mortality is crucial for improving patient outcomes and healthcare practices. However, the factors associated with mortality in delirium have not been well-defined in the literature. ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify factors influencing 3-month mortality in older adults with delirium presenting to the emergency department (ED). MethodsThe study was conducted prospectively and delirium was screened using the brief Confusion Assesment Method (bCAM). The primary outcome was 3-month mortality. Mann-Whitney U and Chi-square tests compared groups, Spearman correlation analyzed correlations, and multivariate logistic regression identified risk factors. ResultsAmong 243 patients, 29.6% experienced in-hospital mortality, and 56.4% had 3-month mortality. Factors associated with increased mortality risk included prior delirium history (3.32-fold increase, 95%CI: 1.51-7.30), active malignancy (3.49-fold increase, 95%CI: 1.61-7.56) and increased respiratory rate (1.18-fold increase, 95%CI: 1.08-1.29). An increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) was associated with a 0.98-fold decrease in mortality risk (95%CI: 0.96-0.99), increase in body temperature was associated with a 0.48-fold decrease in mortality risk (95%CI:0.31-0.76). ConclusionIn delirious older adults at the ED, higher respiratory rate, lower MAP, lower body temperature, active malignancy and prior delirium history signal elevated mortality risk.

Impact of Online Learning Platforms in Enhancing Employees' Skills and Knowledge in Academia

Abstract: The study investigates the impact of online learning platforms like Coursera and NPTEL on enhancing educators' skills and knowledge in academia. With digital transformation accelerating post-COVID-19, platforms offer flexibility for professional development, yet challenges persist. The study, conducted through a survey of 73 educators in Bengaluru, uses quantitative and descriptive methods, applying statistical tools like Correlation, Chi-Square tests, and ANOVA to assess platform effectiveness. Key findings reveal that platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy are popular, but balancing work and learning is a challenge for many. While educators appreciate the flexibility, 56.2% express dissatisfaction with the long-term career growth and skill development offered by these platforms. The study highlights the need for better interactive features, practical learning opportunities, and improvements in course content to support effective professional growth in academia. In conclusion, while online platforms provide valuable resources, they must address these gaps to fully meet educators' needs for continuous upskilling

Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Foldable One-Piece Intraocular Lens A1-UV for the Treatment of Cataracts: Summary of Two Clinical Trials

Objective: Through the combined analysis of data from two clinical trials, the clinical safety and efficacy of aspheric intraocular lens A1-UV implantation in cataract patients was evaluated at 1 year after surgery. Methods: A total of 239 subjects (239 eyes) were enrolled, including 117 subjects in the A1-UV group (study group), 61 subjects in the SN60WF group (control group 1) and AQBHL group (control group 2), respectively. Follow-up time points included: preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative 1~2days, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. The evaluation indexes included: visual acuity, refraction, contrast sensitivity, intraocular pressure and complications. Statistical methods mainly include Wilcoxon rank-sum test, independent samples t-test, chi-square test or Fisher exact probability test. Results: The uncorrected distance visual acuity of the A1-UV group increased from logMAR 0.77±0.33 preoperatively to 0.15±0.22 at 1 year after surgery, from 0.74±0.33 in the SN60WF group to 0.18±0.23 at 1 year after surgery, and from 0.78±0.34 in the AQBHL group to 0.21±0.24 at 1 year after surgery. For best-corrected distance visual acuity, the A1-UV group increased from logMAR 0.60±0.36 preoperatively to 0.05±0.10 at 1 year after surgery, the SN60WF group increased from 0.59±0.36 preoperatively to 0.07±0.15 at 1 year after surgery, and the AQBHL group increased from 0.59±0.35 preoperatively to 0.08±0.11 at 1 year after operation. There was no significant difference between the A1-UV group and the other two groups (all P&gt;0.05). At different follow-up times after surgery, the residual diopters was significantly lower than that before operation (all P&lt;0.05), and the refractive error before operation was effectively corrected. The contrast sensitivity was high, and the visual function was better. The mean intraocular pressure of the subjects implanted with A1-UV was within the normal range during each follow-up period after surgery. None of the patients had serious adverse events related to intraocular lens. Conclusion: The efficacy and safety of A1-UV foldable one-piece intraocular lens in cataract treatment are good

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN DISORDERED EATING BEHAVIOURS AND SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE IN YOUNG ADULTS A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Disordered eating behaviours(DEB) have increased significantly in recent times, especially among young adults. These behaviours are the result of several variables, including conventional beauty ideals. Social media plays a significant role by popularizing unrealistic beauty standards. The correlation between DEB and the use of social media has not been adequately explored in young adults. Methodology: Data from engineering students (n = 690 mean age = 19.5) was collected. Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) was used to determine DEB and social media disorder (SMD) scale was used to determine disordered social media usage. Chi-square test was applied to find the association between DEB and problematic usage of social media. Results: Out of 690 sample size, 53.6 % of the sample were female and 46.4% were male. DEB were reported by 44.2% of which 15.2% were female and 29.0% were male with dieting being the most common disordered eating behavior. A total of 31.9% reported problematic or disordered social media usage of which 15.2% were female and 16.7% were male. A Significant association was found between DEB and disordered social media usage with p value=0.000 and ᵡ² value= 15.06. A Significant association was also found between DEB and male sex with p value=0.000 and ᵡ² value= 16.2. Conclusion: The results of this study point to a correlation between DEB and problematic usage of social media in young adults.

Factors of unmet dental care needs due to the time, economic, and physical constraints among older people

Objectives: We aim to identify factors associated with unmet dental care needs in older adults and explore the impact of time, economic and physical constraints on each. Methods: The analysis was based on the 2023 Community Health Survey. Statistical analyses were conducted using chi-square test and multinomial logistic regression for 65,952 people aged 65 years and older. Results: First, we looked whether subjects experienced unmet dental care needs and found that 8.4% did. Second, according to the type of unmet dental care needs, 54.1% of the time, economic, and physical constraints were economic constraints. Analyzing each of the time, economic, and physical constraints, we found that time constraints were associated with younger age. For economic constraints, lower education level and health security type of recipients in medical aid program were more likely to experience unmet dental care needs. In terms of physical constraints, those living in rural areas were more than three times more likely to experience unmet dental care needs than those living in urban areas. Conclusions: The results showed that time constraints were related to age, economic constraints were related to household income level, and physical constraints were related to residential area.

Nutritional assessment of parent-packed school lunches in selected private pre - schools in Kalingalinga, Lusaka Zambia

Background: The nutritional quality of parent-packed school lunches is crucial for the health and academic performance of children. In Lusaka's Kalingalinga area, there is limited data on the factors influencing these packed lunches, especially in private schools. This study explores the nutritional content of school lunches packed by parents, assesses their knowledge and attitudes towards nutrition, and identifies key factors influencing their food choices. Methodology: A quantitative and qualitative research design was employed, with data collected through structured questionnaires from 303 parents and guardians of children attending private schools in Kalingalinga, Lusaka. The demographic characteristics, knowledge of nutrition, and factors influencing food choices were analyzed using descriptive statistics, a 24-hour food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and Chi-square tests. SPSS version 23.0 was used for data analysis. Results: The majority of respondents were female (67.0%) and within the 18-25 age group (39.3%). Most had completed secondary education (57.4%) and were employed full-time (67.3%). Despite 95.7% acknowledging the importance of nutrition, 78.2% lacked knowledge of the nutritional content of the foods they packed. Sugary drinks (54.5%) and processed foods (51.2%) were frequently packed, while balanced meals and fruits were less consistent. The main factors influencing food choices were cost (53.1%) and peer pressure (25.4%), with only 7.3% considering nutritional value. Chi-square tests showed that occupation had a marginal relationship with adherence to nutritional guidelines (p=0.053), while age and education had no significant association. Conclusion and Recommendations: The findings reveal a gap in parents' knowledge regarding nutrition, impacting the quality of school lunches. Targeted nutritional education and policies promoting healthier eating are recommended to improve children's health in Kalingalinga, Lusaka

Relationship between mental health and tooth fracture among Korean adolescents: analysis using data from the 19th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between tooth fractures and overall mental health by data from the 19th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2023. Methods: The participants were 52,880 adolescents attending middle and high schools. The chi-square test and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to examine the association between mental health and tooth fractures. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0. Results: Overall, 26.0%, 82.6%, 13.5%, and 55.6% of participants experienced sadness and despair, stress cognition, suicidal ideation, and loneliness, respectively. In the groups that experienced sadness·despair, stress, and loneliness, the experience of tooth fractures was significantly higher (1.28 [95% confidence interval, CI: 1.20-1.38], 1.09 [95% CI: 1.00-1.19], and 1.12 [95% CI: 1.05-1.20] times, respectively). Conclusions: We found an association between mental health and tooth fractures among adolescents.

Bacterial etiology, antibiotic susceptibility pattern, and treatment modality of surgical site infections among post-caesarean delivery women: A 2019 cross-sectional study conducted in Iringa, Tanzania

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication after cesarean section in Tanzania, with high rates of infection and multidrug-resistant isolates reported. Understanding bacterial etiology and antibiotic susceptibility patterns is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the bacterial etiology, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, and treatment modalities of SSI among post-cesarean delivery women in the Iringa region. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 162 women with SSI was conducted across five hospitals in Iringa. Data on demographics were collected using a structured questionnaire, and wound discharge samples were taken for culture and sensitivity testing. Definitive treatment modalities were identified from patients’ files. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, with chi-square tests used to identify associations, and a p-value &lt; 0.05 considered significant. Results: Among 162 participants, 59.7% had superficial SSIs and 35.2% had deep SSIs. Culture positivity was 96.3%, with 53.2% being gram-positive and 37.2% gram-negative. Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly isolated pathogen (40.1%), with 64.6% of cases being methicillin-resistant (MRSA). Resistance to vancomycin and chloramphenicol among gram-positive isolates was 3.1% and 13.8%, respectively. Non-surgical management was provided to 58% of the participants, while Staphylococcus aureus infections were significantly associated with surgical intervention (OR = 1.38, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Staphylococcus aureus, particularly MRSA, was the most prevalent pathogen in post-cesarean SSIs. Antibiotic resistance was common, and surgical intervention was significantly associated with Staphylococcus aureus infections.

Mycological analysis in three schools over four seasons using passive air sedimentation

The aim of the study is the isolation and identification of fungi using passive air sedimentation. This study analyzed 540 mycological samples from three primary schools in Zenica, collected in September, December, February, and May. Each season, 135 samples were taken from five rooms (two classrooms, a gym, a locker room, and a library) in each school. Samples were collected three times daily at three different heights with 15-minute exposure times. Samples were refrigerated and transported in sterile bags, incubated for 24 hours, and inoculated on specific agars with and without additives. Plates were incubated at 37°C and 25°C for up to 7 days, followed by examinations. Petri dishes were used for passive air sampling, and colonies were counted after incubation. The average number of microorganisms (CFU/m³) was calculated using Omeliansky’s method. Statistical methods included the Chi-squared test and p-value. Colony appearance was assessed visually and microscopically using a light microscope. Growth rate, size, structure, and color changes were monitored. In September, the highest mold concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (796 CFU/m³, not significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (1260 CFU/m³, not significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (3980 CFU/m³, significant). Penicillium spp. and Alternaria spp. were most prevalent, with Alternaria spp. significant at H. Kikić Primary School. In December, the highest mold/yeast concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (4578 CFU/m³, not significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (1924 CFU/m³, significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (2587 CFU/m³, not significant). Penicillium spp. was most prevalent. In February, the highest mold concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (4578 CFU/m³, not significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (2786 CFU/m³, not significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (5838 CFU/m³, significant). Aspergillus spp. and Penicillium spp. were equally prevalent. In May, the highest mold/yeast concentrations were at H. Kikić Primary School (6568 CFU/m³, significant), M. Dizdar Primary School (3516 CFU/m³, significant), and A. Šantić Primary School (7431 CFU/m³, significant). Aspergillus spp. was most prevalent. These findings highlight the importance of regular monitoring and implementing appropriate ventilation measures to manage air quality and health concerns in schools.