Chi-square Test Research Articles

Association between dietary total antioxidant capacity and sleep problems and depressive symptoms among U.S. adults

BackgroundIn this study, we aim to examine the impact of dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) on sleep problems and depressive symptoms (DS); besides, we seek to elucidate the potential mediating effect of dietary TAC on the relationships between sleep problems and DS.MethodsWeighted Kruskal–Wallis tests for continuous variables and Chi-square tests for categorical variables were employed to discriminate between DS and non-DS participants. Multivariable logistic regression and restricted cubic spline analysis were applied to evaluate the associations of TAC with DS and sleep problems.ResultsAmong the 21,805 participants, 1,947 participants suffered from DS. Weighted multivariable logistical regression indicated that shorter sleep hours were linked to an increased likelihood of risk of DS even after complete adjustments. Restricted cubic spline cure displayed that TAC was almost non-linearly correlated with DS and sleep problems. Mediation analysis indicated that sleep duration slightly mediated the association between TAC and DS (proportion of mediation: 3.12%, p < 0.001).ConclusionThis study illustrated the inverse association between TAC value and sleep problems and DS. Furthermore, TAC slightly mediated the effect of sleep duration on the DS, and there was a nearly non-linear relationship between TAC and DS, and TAC and sleep problems.

Determination of objective taste perception among Iranian medical sciences students during COVID‑19 pandemic in Yazd, Eastern Iran: a case-control pilot study

BackgroundTaste disorders in patients suffering from COVID-19 were popular. Some people even after recovery report residual effects of loss of smell and taste. This study aimed to investigate the taste Perception of Iranian Medical Sciences students during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsThe case-control study evaluated 50 Medical Sciences students with a history of COVID-19 infection, as confirmed by the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCOV) CFX96™ Real-Time PCR Detection System. The other participants consisted of 50 volunteer students with COVID-19 negative. The taste perception was measured with 4 different concentrations of the basic tastes. The stimuli were applied to the protruded tongue. Subjects were asked to identify the researcher when they felt the taste. Data are expressed as frequency distribution and analyzed with the Chi-Square test (P < 0.05).ResultsIn this survey, 54% of participants were male and 46% were female, the mean age of participants was 22.96 ± 5 years. The results showed a significant difference in the sweet and bitter taste perception score according to the history of dietary supplement use. The bitter taste perception score declared a considerable difference since COVID-19 infection. There was no significant difference between the taste perception in the two studied groups for all 4 basic tastes according to gender, COVID-19 infection status, history of taste and smell disorders, and the elapsed time since COVID-19 infection.ConclusionOur findings could provide important insights into taste perception. The history of dietary supplementation may influence how sweetness and saltiness are perceived. There was a noticeable difference in bitter taste perception depending on the time that had elapsed since the most recent COVID-19 infection.

Association of Physical Activity and Psychological Distress in Adolescents

Background: Adolescence is a critical period for the development of health-related behaviors and the onset of psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Physical activity has been associated with improved mental health, but its specific relationship with psychological distress in adolescents remains unclear.Objective: To evaluate the association between physical activity levels and psychological distress (stress, anxiety, and depression) in adolescents.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 109 adolescents aged 14-19 years from the University of Lahore and Beacon House School System, Valencia Campus, Lahore. Participants were recruited through non-probability convenience sampling. Psychological distress was assessed using the DASS-21, and physical activity levels were measured with the PAQ-A. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s rank correlation and Chi-square tests via SPSS version 23.Results: Significant but weak negative correlations were found between physical activity and stress (Spearman’s rho = -0.236, p = 0.013) and depression (Spearman’s rho = -0.219, p = 0.022). The association with anxiety was not significant (p = 0.075).Conclusion: Higher physical activity levels were associated with lower stress and depression among adolescents, suggesting potential mental health benefits of regular exercise.

The relationship between food insecurity, purchasing patterns and perceptions of the food environment in urban slums in Ibadan, Nigeria

BackgroundRapid urbanisation without concomitant infrastructure development has led to the creation of urban slums throughout sub-Saharan Africa. People living in urban slums are particularly vulnerable to food insecurity due to the lack of physical and economic accessibility to food. Hence, it is important to explore how vulnerable groups living in slums interact with the food environment. This study assessed the relationships between food insecurity, including restrictive coping strategies, food purchasing patterns and perceptions about the food environment among dwellers of selected urban slums in Ibadan, Nigeria.MethodsThis community-based cross-sectional study was conducted with people responsible for food procurement from 590 randomly selected households in two urban slums in Ibadan. Food insecurity and restrictive coping strategies were assessed using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and the Coping Strategy Index, respectively. We examined purchasing patterns of participants by assessing the procurement of household foodstuffs in different categories, as well as by vendor type. Participants’ perceptions of the food environment were derived through a five-item composite score measuring food availability, affordability and quality. Chi-square tests and logistic regression models analysed associations between food insecurity, purchasing patterns and perceptions of the food environment.ResultsThe prevalence of food insecurity in the sample was 88%, with 40.2% of the households experiencing severe food insecurity. Nearly a third (32.5%) of the households used restrictive coping strategies such as limiting the size of food portions at mealtimes, while 28.8% reduced the frequency of their daily meals. Participants purchased food multiple times a week, primarily from formal and informal food markets rather than from wholesalers and supermarkets. Only a few households grew food or had livestock (3.2%). Food insecure households had a lower perceived access to the food environment, with an approximate 10% increase in access score per one-unit decrease in food insecurity (AOR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.84, 0.96). The most procured foods among all households were fish (72.5%), bread (60.3%), rice (56.3%), yam and cassava flours (50.2%). Food-secure households procured fruit, dairy and vegetable proteins more frequently.ConclusionFood insecurity remains a serious public health challenge in the urban slums of Ibadan. Perceptions of greater access to the food environment was associated with increasing food security. Interventions should focus on creating more robust social and financial protections, with efforts to improve livelihoods to ensure food security among urban slum-dwellers.

Fluoride Exposure from Drinking Water Increases the Risk of Stroke: An Ecological Study in Changwu Town, China

Background: Stroke is a major cause of death globally and the leading cause in China. Excessive fluoride exposure has been linked to cardiovascular conditions related to stroke risk factors such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, and cardiomyopathy. However, evidence supporting the association between fluoride exposure and stroke risk is limited. Methods: We constructed an ecological study in Changwu Town, Heilongjiang Province, China, a typical endemic fluorosis area caused by excessive fluoride exposure from drinking water. We collected demographic data, stroke prevalence, and mortality information from 2017 to 2021. Fluoride exposure data were obtained from the national monitoring project on endemic fluorosis. Water fluoride concentrations were measured using the standardized methods. Trend changes in stroke rates were assessed using annual percentage change (APC). Differences in stroke rates among fluoride exposure groups were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: From 2017 to 2021, the all-ages and age-standardized stroke prevalence rates of permanent residents in Changwu Town increased year by year, while the all-ages and age-standardized mortality rates did not change significantly. The prevalence rates of stroke were significantly higher in endemic fluorosis areas compared to non-endemic areas (p &lt; 0.001). Stratifying the population into tertile groups based on the water fluoride cumulative exposure index (WFCEI) revealed statistically significant differences in stroke prevalence rates (p &lt; 0.001), showing a dose–response relationship with the WFCEI. However, the all-ages and age-standardized mortality rates of stroke were not found to be related to fluoride exposure. Conclusions: Long-term excessive fluoride exposure from drinking water may increase the risk of stroke prevalence, indicating fluoride overexposure as a potential risk factor for stroke.

Barriers to Successful Beekeeping: Insights from the Jammu Region of Jammu and Kashmir, India

This study focused on the constraints faced by the beekeepers of Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir, evaluating constraints perceived by the beekeepers identified from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) who have been involved in beekeeping for the last five years at least and the list contained eight beekeepers. By using the sampling method with replacement, the sample size of eight beekeepers were interviewed two times and comparison made for three time periods or years viz; 2019-20, 2021-22 and 2023-24, which made the ultimate sample size of twenty four (24) beekeepers. For analyzing the data collected for three time periods, Henry Garrett’s ranking and Chi-square test were used. Findings indicated that major production constraints were the disease of honey bees (78.60), death of the colony (70.00), and heavy rainfall (61.00). Marketing constraints included the fluctuating price of raw honey (69.20), unorganized and unregulated markets (63.20) and lack of government concern or support for the marketing of honey (55.80). Economic constraints featured the huge cost of investment is ranked first with an average score of 71.00, followed by no insurance facilities for the beehives with an average score of 53.67 and lack of credit supply for costly implements used in processing, packaging and quality testing (50.67). Chi-square test revealed that only two constraints under production problems such as, the lack of beehive equipments and materials in the local market (14.77) and pesticide poisoning (7.88) were significant and were showing dependency over the years. By addressing all these constraints through targeted interventions could significantly enhance the viability of beekeeping.

Comparison of Efficacy of Intravenous Tramadol and Intravenous Dexmedetomidine on Post-Spinal Anesthesia Shivering in Caesarean Section

Background: Post-aesthetic shivering is a common complication after neuraxial anaesthesia, often managed with agents like tramadol and meperidine, which are associated with adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting. Dexmedetomidine, a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, may offer a safer alternative.Objective: To compare the efficacy of intravenous tramadol and intravenous dexmedetomidine in controlling post-spinal anaesthesia shivering in obstetric patients undergoing caesarean sections.Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted from 20 February to 20 August 2024, involving 120 patients undergoing elective cesarean sections who developed post-spinal shivering. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either intravenous dexmedetomidine (0.5 mcg/kg) or tramadol (0.5 mg/kg). Outcomes measured included time to shivering cessation, recurrence, and adverse effects, analysed using independent sample t-tests and Chi-square tests with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.Results: The time to cessation of shivering was significantly shorter with dexmedetomidine (172.12 ± 14.26 seconds) compared to tramadol (278.06 ± 23.17 seconds, p &lt; 0.001). Shivering recurrence was 5% in the dexmedetomidine group versus 16.66% in the tramadol group (p = 0.03).Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine demonstrated superior efficacy in controlling post-spinal anaesthesia shivering with fewer adverse effects compared to tramadol, making it a preferred option in obstetric settings.

Predicting offensive sector entry during transition moments in soccer

Transitions, rapid attacks after regaining possession, are a potent weapon, yet their lower frequency compared to organized attacks highlights a need for understanding factors that influence their success, particularly regarding offensive sector entry. This study investigates factors influencing the success of transitions, with a specific focus on predicting their ability to penetrate the opponent’s offensive sector. We analyzed 1911 ball recoveries from the 2018 to 2019 Greek SuperLeague. Chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression were employed to examine the influence of recovery type, number of defenders, passing patterns (including penetrative passes), and other variables on successful transitions. Our findings reveal that the likelihood of entering the offensive sector significantly increased when the ball was recovered in advanced areas, against fewer defenders, involved a high proportion of penetrative passes, and had a longer offensive sequence duration. This model provides a framework for predicting offensive sector entry during transitions, offering valuable insights for coaches seeking to optimize training drills and maximize transitional effectiveness.

Clinical Profile and Histopathological Pattern of Major Salivary Gland Tumors in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital

Abstract Background: Varieties of tumors can arise from major salivary glands primarily or secondarily. Over 30 histological subtypes have been documented by the World Health Organization, serving as a guide in diagnosis and management. Objectives: To evaluate the clinical and histological pattern of presentation of major salivary gland tumors. Materials and Methods: This is a clinical retrospective study, done at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria, assessing records of patients with major salivary gland tumors seen between January 2018 and December 2022. Data obtained were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26. The results were presented in tables and charts and comparisons were made using the Chi-squared test. Results: Out of the 57 patients with major salivary gland tumors studied, 30 (52.6%) were benign tumors, and 27 (47.4%) were malignant tumors. About 63.2% of patients were predominantly females, whereas 36.8% were males with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.7. The most common presenting symptom was swelling. The average duration of symptoms before presentation was 24 and 12 months for benign and malignant tumors, respectively. The parotid gland (61.4% total) was the most common site of tumor presentation for both benign and malignant tumors followed by the submandibular and sublingual the least. The most common histological variant was pleomorphic adenoma (40.4%) for benign and mucoepidermoid carcinoma (28.1%) for malignant. Surgery was the first line of treatment given. Conclusion: The observed pattern of clinical and histological presentation of major salivary gland tumors will guide clinicians on the approach for the management.

Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets to Resin-Infiltrated Enamel

Abstract Objectives This study aims to evaluate shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets to enamel after resin infiltration pretreatment using different adhesive systems. Materials and Methods Sixty extracted maxillary first premolars were divided into five groups (n = 12). Group I: sound enamel + Transbond XT; group II: resin-infiltrated enamel (ICON) + Transbond XT; group III: ICON + Scotchbond Universal Plus; group IV: ICON + Assure PLUS; group V: ICON + Transbond Plus Self Etching. The SBS was measured using universal testing machine and analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The adhesive remnant index (ARI) score after debonding was determined under stereomicroscope with a 10× magnification. Statistical Analysis A one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's test were used to compare the data. Further, the ARI scores were evaluated using a chi-squared test. The level of significance was set at p = 0.05. Results SBS of group I, II, III, IV, and V were 11.70 ± 3.17, 11.23 ± 3.06, 9.52 ± 1.73, 8.97 ± 1.12, and 9.14 ± 0.70 MPa, respectively. SBS of group IV and V was significantly lower than group I and II (p &lt; 0.05). There was no significant difference in the ARI scores among the five groups (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion The SBS of enamel resin infiltration pretreatment depends on the adhesive system. The SBS of all groups was within adequate SBS range in clinical use. The most common ARI score was 2, which indicated lower risk of enamel fractures when debonding.

Selection and re-selection throughout a national talent pathway: Exploring longitudinal relative age effects in Northern Ireland male soccer

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to investigate the longitudinal prevalence of relative age effects (RAEs) across playing levels and positions in Northern Ireland international male soccer. Birthdates of U17 (n = 276), U19 (n = 320), U21 (n = 331), and senior (n = 108) international players between 2011 and 2023 were recorded. Chi-square tests and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to compare observed and expected birthdate distributions. A selection bias toward relatively older players was evident at U17 and U19 playing levels as well as defensive and midfield positions. In contrast, more relatively younger senior and forward players were selected. Longitudinal analyses revealed that of those players who were initially selected at U17, more relatively older players were re-selected at subsequent playing levels, but there were no birthdate asymmetries amongst new players added after U17. The results of this study demonstrate RAEs are prevalent across Northern Ireland international male soccer and are influenced by playing level as well as position. These findings have important implications for policy makers and practitioners as relatively older players are overrepresented at youth but not senior level, which questions the efficacy of this (un)conscious bias in the talent pathway.

Assessing the impact of the 2021 flood event on the archaeological heritage of the Rhineland (Germany)

BackgroundArchaeological sites are increasingly threatened by climate-related hazards. In response, heritage management authorities initiated projects to document damage and plan risk assessment measures. We present a project initiated after the heavy rainfall and subsequent flood event of July 2021, which involved extensive fieldwork to document the damage to archaeological sites in the Rhineland. We use this database to characterise and assess the damage and investigate site-specific and geospatial factors to identify potential predictive parameters for site damage.ResultsDuring fieldwork, we found that the flood damaged 19% of the 538 archaeological sites surveyed. The majority of damaged sites are relatively recent, dating from the medieval or modern periods, and are associated with the use of water power. Damage was mainly caused by erosion, floating debris and washout, e.g. mortar. In a case study, we tested the option of comparing pre- and post-disaster Airborne Laser Scanning elevation data to identify damages. It showed that not only the damage detected during fieldwork was found but also additional areas of loss. In general, however, and quantified based on the entire dataset, the ordnance survey Airborne Laser Scanning data were of limited use for monitoring flood-related damage and could not replace fieldwork. Our statistical analysis of possible risk factors, including both site characteristics and geospatial parameters, using Naïve Bayes Modelling and chi-squared tests, showed that no set of parameters could consistently predict the preservation or damage of archaeological sites across all catchments. In contrast, some external geospatial factors correlated with the occurrence of damage.ConclusionsThe study highlights both the strengths and limitations of the approaches used to assess and predict the damage to the archaeological heritage in the 2021 flood zones of the Rhineland. It also demonstrates the complexity of the data and spatial processes involved, which limits generalisation but can still inform decision-making for archaeological site management and on-site protection measures in flood-prone areas. With the prospect of more frequent heavy rainfall due to climate change, the specific needs of the archaeological heritage should be integrated into broader prevention and disaster management plans.

Data variables related to wins and losses of game in different scenarios in the WNBA 2023 season

ABSTRACT The research subarea of sports performance analysis on women’s basketball games is relatively scarce. Therefore, this study aims to explore the key variables that influence the game outcomes in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) during the 2023 season. Firstly, chi-square tests and k-means clustering to control variables were applied to categorise games into four groups (home balanced, home unbalanced, away balanced, and away unbalanced). Secondly, stepwise logistic regression was employed to identify key variables influencing game outcomes in each group. The game statistics variables that were significant in home and away balanced games were the field goals made (FG) (+) and attempted (FGA) (-), free throws made (FT) (+), total rebounds (TRB) (+), steals (STL) (+), turnovers (TOV) (-), and personal fouls (PF) (-). Additionally, 3-point field goals made (3P) were significant in home balanced games and assists (AST) (+) in the away balanced games. And FG (+), FGA (-), offensive rebounds (ORB) (+), STL (+), blocks (BLK) (+), and TOV (-) were significant in the home unbalanced games. In addition, in the away unbalanced group 4 variables included 3P (+), offensive rebound percentage (+), defensive rebound percentage (+), and total rebound percentage (+) were identified as key variables.

The status of response to the flood early warnings in Kilosa District, Tanzania

Floods have been a challenging phenomenon, jeopardizing human life and property. Measures have been taken to alleviate flood effects, including using flood early warning systems (EWS), which give warnings to people. Despite the use of warnings from EWS, there is limited information on warnings contribution to mitigate flood effects. This study investigates the status of flood early warning response measures by communities in areas where floods frequently occur in Kilosa District. The data were collected from 375 household heads through surveys and triangulated by 17 participants via focus group discussions, 22 officials through key informant interviews, and a literature survey. The data were descriptively analysed, and chi-square tests and binary logistic regression analyses were done. Results indicate that 76.53 % of the respondents receive flood early warnings from word of mouth among relatives (54.21 %), phones (45.45 %), and radios (31.65 %). Upon receiving the early warnings, 45.43 % inform family members about what to do, 43.82 % vacate flood-prone areas, and 6.99 % make flood emergency response plans. Those flood warning response measures are significantly an outcome of the households’ distance from the rivers causing floods (p < .0001), chances of receiving flood warnings (p < .0001), past flood experience (p < .0001), and the nature of the houses (p < .0007). In conclusion, individuals can proactively protect against floods by diverting floodwaters away from populated areas and reducing human exposure to flood risks. To actively protect against floods, communities should implement multiple warning systems, establish reliable mechanisms to disseminate alerts and install water level gauges in all flood-prone rivers.

Side Effect Profile of Arimidex vs. Femara: A Comparison Study

Background: Background: Aromatase inhibitors, Arimidex (anastrozole) and Femara (letrozole), are commonly used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Despite similar efficacy, these drugs have different side effect profiles that impact patient compliance and quality of life.Objective: To compare the incidence and severity of side effects between Arimidex and Femara in postmenopausal women with HR+ breast cancer.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 1,000 postmenopausal women with HR+ breast cancer from multiple oncology centers. Participants were divided into two groups: Arimidex (n=500) and Femara (n=500). Side effects were assessed via patient self-reports, clinical evaluations, and standardized questionnaires. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression models, with p-values &lt;0.05 considered significant.Results: Arimidex was associated with higher rates of joint pain (45% vs. 30%, p&lt;0.001) and muscle pain (38% vs. 25%, p&lt;0.01). Femara showed increased rates of hypertension (28% vs. 20%, p&lt;0.05) and significant bone density loss (18% vs. 12%, p&lt;0.05).Conclusion: Arimidex and Femara exhibit distinct side effect profiles, suggesting the need for personalized treatment approaches based on patient risk factors.

Knowledge and perceptions about fragile X syndrome and fragile X-premutation-associated conditions among medical doctors in Nigeria.

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a significant cause of intellectual disability and autism, while Fragile X Premutation -Associated Conditions (FXPAC) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally. This study assessed the level of knowledge and perceptions about FXS and FXPAC among doctors in Nigeria. It was a web-based, cross-sectional study conducted among a cohort of doctors in Nigeria. Socio-demographic profile, knowledge of FXS, perceptions about FXS, knowledge of FXPAC, experience of doctors, and suggested ways of improving knowledge and management of FXS were obtained. Data were analyzed using STATA 16.0. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests of association were used to determine the association between variables, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. A total of 274 doctors participated in the study. A significant proportion of respondents had limited knowledge about the clinical features of FXS. Nine of ten (90.0%) participants with good knowledge of FXS had good perceptions of FXS management. This was statistically significant (p < 0.001). There was a high nonresponse rate to what FXPAC is (164/274, 59.9%) among the respondents because of insufficient knowledge. Suboptimal knowledge of FXS which influenced perception was noted among doctors. More strategies should be considered to improve doctors' knowledge and management of FXS and FXPAC in Nigeria.

Identification of probability distributions of SCFs in three-planar KT-joints

KT-joints are crucial in jacket platforms, providing structural integrity by effectively transferring loads between the main chord and braces. Their robust design ensures stability and durability in harsh offshore environments, preventing structural failures and enhancing the platform's overall safety and performance. This study presents the findings of finite element (FE) analysis conducted on 324 tubular three-planar KT-joints subjected to in-plane bending (IPB) loadings. The purpose of the research was to generate a probability distribution (PD) for the stress concentration factors (SCFs) under bending moments. To the authors' knowledge, no previous research has analyzed the PD of the maximum SCFs in three-planar KT-joints. Consequently, data representing the maximum SCFs were collected from the three-planar KT connections. The maximum likelihood method was used to determine the distribution parameters. The goodness-of-fit of the Generalized Extreme Value distribution was assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) and Chi-square (CS) tests. The results indicated that this distribution is the most suitable for modeling three-planar KT-joints under IPB loading. In the subsequent stage, well-defined theoretical probability density functions (PDFs) and cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) were developed. Furthermore, probability-probability diagrams demonstrated that the proposed PD closely aligns with the observed data.

A Comparison of In-Person and Telemedicine Triage in Otolaryngology.

The integration of virtual visits has been met with skepticism by many surgical specialties, including otolaryngology, due to the lack of a complete physical exam. Analysis of differences in the workup between patients triaged virtually or in-person is warranted. A chart review was performed for a cohort of adults undergoing septoplasty (January 2021-May 2022). Groups (telemedicine, in-person) were compared by 2-sample t-test and chi-square test to determine the difference in the number of preoperative visits and to assess the variation in patients with preoperative laboratory testing, imaging, or referrals. Of 338 patients, initial evaluation was in-person for 225 (66.5%) and via telemedicine for 113 (33.5%). The groups were similar in demographics (mean age 39.1 years for telemedicine vs 38.8 years for in-person, female 28.9% vs male 37.7%, P = 0.088). The telemedicine group had a significantly higher number of preoperative visits (3.03) compared to the in-person group (2.38, P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in patients who underwent preoperative laboratory testing, imaging, or referrals. Patients triaged via telemedicine experienced a shorter time to surgery compared to those triaged in person (434 vs 208, P = 0.003). In this cohort, triage by telemedicine allowed otolaryngology patients to have an expedited path to surgery despite having more visits. There is no evidence to suggest that otolaryngologists had an overreliance on diagnostic modalities when triaging by telemedicine. Among patients undergoing septoplasty, those initially evaluated by telemedicine were more likely to have more preoperative visits and shorter time to surgery than those evaluated in person. Telemedicine can serve as an effective method for triaging surgical patients without excess diagnostics.

Parental Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Early Childhood Caries in Bihor, Romania: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant global health issue, particularly affecting deciduous teeth in young children. ECC is prevalent in Romania, where nearly half of children experience dental caries. This study aimed to assess the influence of gender, age, and living environment on parents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding ECC in Bihor County, Romania, using a KAP-type questionnaire. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between March and September 2024, utilizing an online KAP questionnaire distributed via social networks. The sample comprised 419 parents of children under six years old. Respondents provided socio-demographic data and answered questions regarding their knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning ECC prevention, treatment, and oral health. Statistical analysis was conducted using Chi-square tests to assess associations between demographic factors and parental KAP. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 419 respondents, 83.1% were female, and 62.5% were between the ages of 31 and 40. Significant gender-based differences were found in knowledge about pain from caries (93.7% of female participants vs. 81.7% of male participants, p = 0.004) and the importance of brushing twice daily (93.7% of female respondents vs. 80.3% of male respondents, p = 0.010). Younger parents (aged 18–30) were more likely to affirm the effectiveness of fluoride (65.4%) compared to those aged 31–40 (53.1%, p = 0.02). Urban parents were more likely to correctly identify the timing of tooth eruption (59.1% vs. 52.6% of rural parents, p = 0.021). Conclusions: The study highlights gender, age, and urban–rural disparities in parental knowledge and attitudes towards ECC. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to improve oral health outcomes and reduce ECC prevalence in the Bihor region. Tailored public health strategies addressing demographic factors could enhance preventive oral health behaviors and reduce the healthcare burden associated with untreated dental caries.

Factors Associated with Insulin Self-Administration Knowledge and Practices Among Hospitalized Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Peshawar, Pakistan

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a rapidly growing chronic condition requiring effective management, including insulin self-administration (ISA). Proper ISA knowledge and practices are crucial for optimal glycemic control, yet gaps remain, particularly in low-resource settings.Objective: To assess ISA knowledge and practices among insulin-dependent DM patients and identify associated sociodemographic and clinical factors.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 116 DM patients at a public hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and medical records review. Knowledge was assessed using a validated questionnaire based on ADA guidelines, while practices were observed using a structured checklist. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, applying descriptive and inferential statistics, including Chi-square tests for associations.Results: Of the participants, 50% had average ISA knowledge, 34.5% had poor knowledge, and 15.5% had good knowledge. Regarding practices, 37.1% exhibited poor, 29.3% fair, and 33.6% good practices. Significant associations were found between ISA knowledge and age (p = 0.004), education (p &lt; 0.001), and previous training (p = 0.002).Conclusion: Knowledge and practices regarding ISA were suboptimal, influenced by age, education, and training. Tailored educational programs are needed to improve DM management.