Cross-sectional Survey Research Articles

Low-cost biosecurity measures are associated with reduced detection of non-Typhoidal Salmonella in Nigerian poultry while inappropriate antibiotic use is widespread

Large-scale poultry production in low- and middle-income countries may be a source of adulterated products (e.g., Salmonella contamination, antibiotic residues) that can be disseminated over wide areas. We employed a cross-sectional survey of 199 randomly selected poultry farms in Lagos State, Nigeria, to estimate the prevalence of non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS), and biosecurity and antibiotic use practices. Pooled fecal samples were collected from laying chickens and from poultry handlers. Selective culture, biochemical assays, and PCR (invA) were used to isolate and confirm NTS isolates. NTS was detected at 14% of farms (28/199) and from 10% of farm workers (6/60). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that antiseptic foot dips reduced the odds ratio (OR) for detecting NTS in chicken feces [OR: 0.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.07–0.58]. Most farms (94.5%, 188/199) used antibiotics for treatment and prophylaxis, but no farms (0/199) exercised withdrawal before sale of products. Most farms (86.4%, 172/199) reported using antibiotic cocktails that included medically important colistin, ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol, and gentamicin. Egg production in Lagos State relies heavily on antibiotics and antibiotic residues are likely passed to consumers through poultry products, but there is evidence that low-cost biosecurity controls are effective for limiting the presence of NTS on farms.

Electronic Marketing and Customer Retention in the Fast Foods Industry in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

Fast food businesses are known to be affected by some existential problems. This economic sector faces problems ranging from insufficient capital, lack of efficient manpower, inefficient management, fraud, and inability to analyse and capture market opportunities. Other problems also include marketing problems, research inefficiencies and production problems such as poor standardisation and low-quality products to mention but a few. In a quest to find lasting solutions to these problems, governments in Bayelsa State both at the state and local levels have been embarking on programs geared towards the development of businesses in the state especially the fast food sector which is very popular in the state. Authors have argued that the adoption of e-marketing has been found to improve firm performance. E-marketing is gradually gaining prominence as a tool for gaining competitive advantage and this has implications for marketing practice in Nigeria. The primary objective of this paper, therefore, is to review the current situation of e-marketing in Fast food restaurants in Nigeria and will also digress to understand its effect on customer retention, given that there are different levels of development of e-marketing in all countries. In line with the foregoing, the study used a cross-sectional survey design method based on an array of information collected from the population. The study target Sample size for the study was 138 customers drawn from the five selected fast food restaurants in Yenegoa. After an extensive analysis of the data gathered from administering structured questionnaires, the study revealed, among others, that Social media marketing has a significant influence on customer retention among customers of fast foods in Yenegoa, Bayelsa state. From the analysis of the hypothesised variables, the study concluded that there is a positive relationship between the independent variables (social media marketing, email marketing and online advertising) and the dependent variable (customer retention). Thus, on the basis of the findings and conclusion of the study, the researcher recommended, among others, that Fast food restaurants should pay strong attention to social media tools like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp etc to reach both potential and current customers to enhance retention.

The Impact of Green Business Ethics and Green Financing on Sustainable Business Performance of Industries in Turkey: The Mediating Role of Corporate Social Responsibility

The purpose of this research is to understand the relationship between green business ethics, green finance, and sustainable business performance, and to evaluate the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in this relationship. The impact of the damage inflicted on nature’s functioning order is being felt much more strongly today. In light of these realities, companies must emphasize sustainability principles not just out of financial concerns but as a result of corporate social responsibility. In this context, focusing on the role of corporate social responsibility in sustainable business performance is the main goal of this research. Quantitative research methods, specifically the cross-sectional survey method, were employed for data collection and analysis. For this purpose, a convenience sampling method was used to select 427 white-collar employees working in industries operating in Türkiye as the sample for this study. The data collected through surveys were analyzed using the AMOS 24 statistical program. The findings underscore that green business ethics and green finance have a significant impact on corporate social responsibility and sustainable business performance. Additionally, it was determined that corporate social responsibility plays an intermediary role in shaping sustainable business performance. These findings are expected to provide an important foundation that can guide both employees and managers in developing awareness about green policies and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of green policies in working life.

Perception, use of social media, and its impact on the mental health of Indian adolescents: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND Mental illness is a health challenge faced by adolescents that has grown worse after the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Research on social media and young people’s mental health has recently increased, and numerous studies have examined whether frequent use of social media is linked to issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, eating disorders, insomnia, frustration, feeling alone, and externalizing problems among adolescents. This influence of social media on adolescents’ lives is clear, with many platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube playing an important role in daily interactions and self-expression. Even though social media offers numerous benefits, such as connectivity and information sharing, excessive usage can have detrimental effects on mental health, particularly among adolescents. AIM To study the impact of social media on the mental wellbeing of adolescents, and the associated potential dangers in India. METHODS A total of 204 adolescents aged 14 years to 23 years were included in the study. This study explored the intricate relationship between social media usage and adolescent mental health in India. The study employs a cross-sectional survey design to capture a snapshot of adolescent mental health and social media usage patterns. Data collection involved administering structured questionnaires and the analysis utilized quantitative methods, including descriptive statistics. RESULTS Excessive use of social media is correlated with increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Adolescents engage in compulsive behaviors such as scrolling in the middle of the night, which negatively impacts their mental and physical health, and leads to significant sleep disruption. Findings from the study aim to provide insights into the current state of adolescent mental health and inform strategies to promote positive wellbeing in the Indian population. CONCLUSION The study underscores the need for further research to better understand the complex interplay between social media and adolescent mental health, and need for effective strategies to combat online harassment.

Understanding mobile health literacy among the working-age population: A cross-sectional study in Thailand

Mobile health (mHealth) literacy refers to the ability of individuals to seek, find, understand, and evaluate health information accessed via mobile devices. In Thailand, an assessment of mobile health literacy among the working-age population (25-59 years old) across the country is still needed to gain a better understanding of the current landscape of this concept as well as to create strategies for improvement. As a result, this study aimed 1) to assess mHealth literacy among the Thai working-age population, 2) to investigate differences in mHealth literacy among the Thai working-age population classified by demographic variables, and 3) to identify the predictive factors affecting mHealth literacy among the Thai working-age population. Cross-sectional survey research was conducted in this study with samples consisting of 600 working-age individuals derived from six regions across the country. Respondents were randomly selected using a multi-stage sampling method. Data were collected by a self-administered questionnaire. Mean, SD, t-test, One-Way ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis [MRA] were used for data analysis at a .05 level of significance. The results found that 1) the samples showed a high level of mHealth literacy (Mean = 4.32, SD = 0.58) 2), differences in mHealth literacy level were classified by gender, age, income, education, and region, and 3) perceived behavioral control, attitudes, and subjective norms were factors significantly affecting mHealth literacy. These findings can be used to plan and develop strategies for improving mHealth literacy among the Thai working-age population more effectively.

Effects of Five Years of Treatment of Onchocerciasis with Ivermectin under Community Guidelines in Resurgent Areas of Burkina Faso: A before-and-after Analysis

Background: Almost the entire country of Burkina Faso was endemic to onchocerciasis. Onchocerciasis control efforts thus brought the prevalence of O. volvulus to a level where the disease was no longer a public health problem in 2002. A resurgence of onchocerciasis cases has been observed in two regions (Cascades and the Southwest) located around several river basins in 2010–2011. In accordance with WHO guidelines for the management of resurgent cases, community-directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) was implemented in the affected areas. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of this intervention on parasitological indices of onchocerciasis, depending on the distance between villages and rivers. Methodology: We conducted a paired pre-post study using aggregated village-level data from two cross-sectional surveys conducted in each region. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the standardized microfilarodermia prevalence and community microfilarial load (CMFL). Results: A total of 43 villages in 6 health districts, in the Southwest (18) and Cascades (25) regions were included in the study. The key findings were that standardized microfilaria prevalence and CMFL decreased significantly after the implementation of CDTI in both regions (p < 0.0001). The median standardized microfilaria prevalence was 2.8 [interquartile range (IQR): 0.2–6.6] before CDTI and 0.72 [IQR: 0.0–2.17] after CDTI. The results showed also a decline in standardized microfilaria prevalence and CMFL in all villages, regardless of the distance separating the village from the streams. However, the results were not statistically significant for the villages located 5 km or more from streams (p = 0.0816 and 0.0542 for standardized microfilaria prevalence and CMFL, respectively). Conclusion: Our results thus show that the implementation of effective CDTI could stop the transmission of O. volvulus in these two regions. The main challenge for stopping transmission could be the migration of populations to neighboring countries and migration of the vector from one country to another, as Burkina Faso shares some river basins with neighboring countries.

Predictors of collaborative coping in couples managing type 2 diabetes: Illness factors, relationship factors, and interdependent personality traits

Past work has revealed benefits for both persons with diabetes (PWD) and their partners (e.g., spouses) when engaging in collaborative coping to manage a chronic illness, yet little is known about predictors of this type of dyadic coping. Based on conceptual frameworks on communal and dyadic coping, we sought to examine how illness factors, relationship factors, and interdependent personality traits predicted the frequency of collaborative coping among couples managing type 2 diabetes, and whether role (PWD vs. partner) moderated the associations. Cross-sectional survey data from 296 older adults ( N = 148 different-sex couples) were analyzed. Multilevel models examined both linear and nonlinear associations between each factor and collaborative coping, controlling for race/ethnicity. Linear associations were found for positive relationship quality, and nonlinear associations were found for diagnostic length and relationship length. No significant associations emerged between interdependent personality traits and collaborative coping. Although PWD reported more frequent engagement in collaborative coping than partners, role only moderated the associations between diagnostic length and relationship length with collaborative coping. Findings contribute to an understanding of potential correlates of collaborative coping and may have implications for health promotion and interventions for older couples managing type 2 diabetes.

Academic Brain-Drain and its Effect on Sustainability of Higher Education: A Case Study of Selected Public Tertiary Institutions in Ogun State

Abstract: The study investigated the effect of Academic Brain-Drain on sustainability of higher education in Public Tertiary Institutions in Ogun State, Nigeria. The target population for the study was the entire academic staff members of the selected Public Tertiary Institutions from three (3) Senatorial Districts in the State which consisted of 2058 Academic Staff members. The study selected a sample of 450 Academic Staff members through the use of purposive sampling technique. Cross-sectional survey was employed for the study to retrieve the expected data through a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics with the aid of tables were utilised to summarize the data obtained while multiple regression analysis was adopted for inferential purpose using SPSS version 26. Component factor analysis and Cronbach Alpha statistics were used to examine the validity and reliability of the instruments which yielded 80% and .767 respectively. The study found that Academic Brain Drain has a positive significant effect on Sustainability of Higher Education as emphasized by the t-statistic {f (3/446), t = 389.344, P< 0.05}. According to the model summary, R2=.803 suggests that the three factors: Poor Working Condition, Poor Pay Package and Inadequate Research Facilities together accounted for more than 80% of the variance in Sustainability of Higher Education. The study concluded that sustainability of higher education and Academic Brain-Drain have a strong, favorable, and significant relationship. The study recommended that good working conditions and better pay package be provided in public institutions in order to motivate the Academic Staff members and discourage them from migrating to where greener pasture can be found.

Long-term results and patient-reported outcomes after vascularized fibular graft use in the treatment of post-traumatic bone defects of femur shaft and tibia: A retrospective cohort and cross-sectional survey study

Post-traumatic critical-sized bone defects pose a reconstructive challenge for reconstructive surgeons. The vascularized fibula graft is a well-described treatment for osseous defects of the femur and tibia. This study aimed to assess long-term patient-reported quality of life, the success-, and complication rates in lower extremity reconstruction with vascularized fibula grafts. A retrospective cohort of 29 patients who underwent fibula graft reconstruction for critical-sized bone defects after post-traumatic tibial and femoral bone loss between 1990 and 2021 was included. To assess the health-related quality of life and return to work and satisfaction, a cross-sectional survey was performed using the short-form-36, lower extremity functional scale, and a self-made questionnaire including the DN4, satisfaction, and subjective ankle function. The median bone defect size was 8cm (IQR 9-7cm). The mental component scores were comparable to the Dutch population norm, whereas the impaired physical function scores were associated with pain (r 0.849, p<0.001). Neuropathic symptoms were reported in 7 out of 19 patients, and 11 out of 19 patients returned to normal daily activity. All respondents reported positive or neutral scores on overall satisfaction with the recovery. Bone healing was uneventful in 19 out of 29 patients. Union was achieved in 25 out of 29 patients. Persistent nonunion was observed in 4 patients, leading to amputation in 2 patients. Vascularized fibula graft use led to high union rates and limb salvage in patients with post-traumatic segmental bone loss of the tibia and femur. Patient satisfaction with the overall recovery was positive; however, functional outcomes remained impaired.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of the Farmers towards Antibiotic Usage in Layer Birds in Haryana, India: A Cross-sectional Survey

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of the Farmers towards Antibiotic Usage in Layer Birds in Haryana, India: A Cross-sectional Survey

Workplace violence in three public sector emergency departments, Gauteng, South Africa: A cross-sectional survey

IntroductionWorkplace violence against healthcareworkers in Emergency Departments (EDs) is a global concern. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and types of workplace violence in EDs. Methodsa cross-sectional survey was conducted in three public sector hospital EDs in Gauteng, South Africa. A self-administered, standardised online questionnaire developed by the World Health organization was used to collect data between March and November 2022. A total of 65 healthcareworkers which consisted of nurses (24) and doctors (41) participated in the study. ResultsThe prevalence of workplace violence was 73.8 % with verbal abuse being the most common type at 66 %. Eighty-two percent of the victims did not report the incident. Poor communication and lack of mutual respect among staff and healthcare users contributed to both physical and non-physical workplace violence. ConclusionWorkplace violence appears to be a common occurrence in EDs in the hospitals surveyed in Gauteng. It is regarded as a typical incident by respondents, and it is underreported. It has a direct negative impact on healthcareworkers and their working environment and indirectly on patients. Urgent attention from all stakeholders is needed to minimize the prevalence of these incidents.

Analysis of the influential factors on innovative behaviors among ophthalmic specialty nurses in China: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo investigate the current situation of innovative behavior and organizational structure authorization of ophthalmic specialty nurses in China, and analyze the influencing factors of innovative behavior.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was carried out among 301 ophthalmic specialty nurses in China, representing Representing 82 hospitals in 25 provinces, using a general data questionnaire, Innovative Behavior Scale(IBS), and conditions of work effectiveness questionnaire(CWEQ-II).ResultsThe mean total score for innovative behavior among Chinese ophthalmic specialty nurses was (4.73 ± 1.14), and the mean total score for organizational structure authorization was (61.65 ± 14.69). The logistic regression analysis revealed that organizational structure authorization, hospital grade, and ophthalmic specialty nurses primarily engaged in clinical care and clinical research had statistically significant impacts on the level of innovative behavior (P < 0.05). The higher the organizational structure authorization score, the higher the innovative behavior level of ophthalmic specialty nurses, the level of innovation behavior of grade-B tertiary hospitals is higher than that of grade-A tertiary hospitals. The main positions are low level of innovative behavior in clinical care and high level of innovative behavior in clinical research.ConclusionsThe innovative behavior and organizational structure authorization of Chinese ophthalmic specialty nurses are at a medium level, the innovative behavior of ophthalmic specialty nurses is influenced by factors such as organizational structure empowerment level, hospital grade, and main job position. Nursing managers are advised to develop tailored training programs based on the influencing factors of innovative behavior among Chinese ophthalmic specialty nurses, in order to enhance their level of innovation and improve the quality of nursing services provided by Chinese ophthalmic specialty nurses.

Knowledge and attitude of the Jordanian community towards the use of medicinal herbs during COVID-19 pandemic: Females vs males perspective point of view

This paper examines the knowledge and attitudes towards complementary and alternative herbal medicine among the Jordanian population by gender during the COVID-19 outbreak. A cross-sectional self-reported survey conducted over two months included 419 participants in Jordan. Data were gathered and analyzed using SPSS V22. The results show that 65.4 % of participants used herbal medicine for COVID-19 symptoms, with higher usage among females (70.7 %) compared to males (51.3 %). For prevention, 44.4 % of participants used herbal medicine, with 78.5 % being females. Commonly used remedies included Anise, Chamomile, Ginger, Mint, Green Tea, and Thyme, with females using them more frequently. The average knowledge level was 72.08 %, with males (77.4 %) scoring higher than females (70.1 %). The knowledge level did not significantly vary across sociodemographic characteristics. Participants aged 19–25 showed less confidence in herbs for prevention, likely due to better health and fewer chronic conditions. A wide range of remedies was cited, and the primary sources of herbs were herbalists and affordable options. Family and friends were the main sources of information, with less reliance on the internet or professionals. The most common preparation methods were boiling or infusion. The study highlights the need for more education from professionals and enhancing the credibility of web-based health information.

Typologies of Minority Stressors and Depressive Symptoms among LGBTQ Employees in the Workplace: A Moderated Mediation Model of Workplace Climate and Resilience

Abstract Introduction The pathways between minority stressors and depressive symptoms require a nuanced understanding of how these stressors affect the mental health of sexual and gender minority people. It remains unclear whether minority stressors are associated with depressive symptoms through perception of workplace climate and if resilience moderates these effects. Methods This study examined the direct and indirect effects of different minority stressors (experiences of discrimination, internalized homophobia, expectations of rejection, and concealment of identity) on depressive symptoms through the mediating factor of perception of workplace climate and the moderating factor of resilience. Chinese lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) employees (N = 706) completed a cross-sectional online survey in 2021–2022. We examined the moderated mediating effects using PROCESS macro with a bootstrapping approach. Results Mediation results showed that the four minority stressors were each negatively associated with perceptions of workplace climate, which were associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms among Chinese LGBTQ employees. Moderated mediation models demonstrated that the conditional indirect effects of different types of minority stressors on depressive symptoms through perception of workplace climate were only significant for those with lower levels of resilience. Conclusions Extending the minority stress model to work settings, this study offers new knowledge about the mediating role of perception of workplace climate in the relationship between minority stressors and depressive symptoms. Knowledge about the moderating role of resilience also informs targeted interventions. Policy Implications Interventions targeted at reducing minority stressors, enhancing perceived workplace climate, and promoting resilience are vital to enhance LGBTQ individuals’ mental health.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Comprehensive Exploration of Diagnosis Experience in Saudi Women.

Background/Objectives: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. This study aimed to explore the diagnostic experiences of women with PCOS in Saudi Arabia, evaluating the timeline to diagnosis, the adequacy of information provided, and overall patient satisfaction with the healthcare process. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 1182 women diagnosed with PCOS across Saudi Arabia. The survey collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, the timeline from symptom onset to diagnosis, the number of healthcare visits required for diagnosis, and satisfaction with the information and support provided during the diagnostic process. Statistical analyses, including linear regression, were performed to identify factors influencing patient satisfaction. Results: The study found that 43.2% of participants sought medical attention within a year of symptom onset, yet significant delays in diagnosis were common, with 28.6% of women waiting six months or more after seeking medical care. Only 42.7% of women reported receiving adequate information at diagnosis, and satisfaction levels varied across different aspects of care. Key predictors of lower satisfaction included marital status and longer time since diagnosis, while quicker diagnosis and more healthcare visits before diagnosis positively influenced satisfaction. Conclusions: The findings highlight critical gaps in the diagnostic process and patient education for PCOS in Saudi Arabia. The widespread dissatisfaction with the information provided underscores the need for improved patient-centered care, comprehensive education, and standardized diagnostic protocols. Addressing these issues could enhance patient satisfaction and lead to better management of PCOS, both in Saudi Arabia and globally.

Prevalence of Methamphetamine (Mkpurummiri) use in south east Nigeria: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundMethamphetamine (MA) (Mkpurummiri) is seen as the most common, accessible and new drug of use/abuse in south east Nigeria. Despite the overwhelming evidence of the dire consequences of this drug to the users, there is lack of empirical research to determine its prevalence in this area where use is assumed to be common. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MA use, characteristics of the users and the control measures.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was conducted from May through November 2023 among adolescents/adults at the age bracket of 15-64 years in the five states of south east, Nigeria. Three hundred and seventy-one (371) respondents were recruited using purposive/convenience sampling methods. A semi structured questionnaire was the instrument used. Data were analyzed using percentage, bivariate and multivariate logistics regression statistics. The Prevalence of MA was determined using percentages whereas the factors that are associated with MA use were expressed using multivariate logistics regression statistics AORs and 95%CIs. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05.ResultsThe prevalence of Methamphetamine (Mkpurummiri) was (21.8%). The most common reason for MA use was depression (86.5%), the most common route of administration was inhalation (64.9%). The most common characteristic of MA (Mkpurummiri) user was aggressive/violent behaviour (94.1%).The control measures were self-control (92.2%), parental monitoring (85.7%), drug education (83.1%) and legal control (80.8%). The multivariate logistics regression statistics AOR shows that off-campus were 3 times (AOR = 0.298; CI = 0.12–0.73 P = 0.008), family house 4 times (AOR = 0.241; CI = 0.09–0.65; P = 0.005 ≤0.05\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\le 0.05$$\\end{document}) less likely than on-campus to predict MA use. Recently married were 3.25 times (aOR = 3.25; CI = 1.47–7.18), divorced 3.45 times (aOR = 3.45; CI = 1.23–9.58), polygamy 2.3 times (aOR = 2.3; CI = 1.08–4.90; P = 0.031 ≤0.05\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\le 0.05$$\\end{document}), tradition 4.44 times (aOR = 4.44; CI = 1.77–11.15; P = 0.001 ≤0.05)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\le 0.05)$$\\end{document}, more likely than others to use MA.ConclusionsMA use prevalence was relatively high, and marital status, living arrangements, family type and religion were the predictors. These findings underscore the need for concerted effort among the relevant government agencies, community stakeholders, families, religious bodies and school authorities to designing MA use policy/laws with special focus on adopting the punitive measure used in checking cocaine users. This may help to arrest and prosecute the manufacturers, distributors and users of MA.

Current status and influencing factors of protective motivation for body mass management during pregnancy.

Excessive weight gain, obesity, or insufficient weight gain during pregnancy can adversely affect both the mother and her offspring. This study aims to investigate the relationship between pregnant women's self-perception and beliefs and their body weight management during pregnancy. A cross-sectional survey involving 350 pregnant women in Changsha City was conducted from July to September 2023. Instruments included a sociodemographic data sheet, protective motivation questionnaire for pregnancy body quality management, and scales measuring body image, anxiety, self-efficacy, and social support. Univariate analysis and multiple linear regression were employed to identify factors influencing protective motivation for body quality management during pregnancy. The average score of the protective motivation questionnaire was 124 (SD = 13.07), suggesting a need for enhanced weight management. Key factors influencing protective motivation included household income, cooperation with healthcare workers, sources of pregnancy information, midnight snacking habits, prepregnancy exercise, body image, and self-efficacy (P < 0.05). The study highlights significant factors influencing pregnant women's motivation for body quality management. These include economic status, healthcare collaboration, information accessibility, lifestyle habits, and psychological factors. The findings underscore the need for healthcare professionals to integrate these factors into pregnancy care programs to improve body quality management.

A nationwide survey on the management of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome: insights from the MUNICH survey in 394 Chinese hospitals

BackgroundAt present, preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in China present higher mortality and morbidity rates than those in high-income countries. The aim of this nationwide survey was to assess the clinical management of RDS in China.MethodsA nationwide cross-sectional survey to assess adherence to RDS management recommendations was performed. One neonatologist per hospital was randomly selected. The primary outcome was the key care of RDS management.ResultsAmong the 394 participating hospitals, 88·3% were birthing centres. The number of doctors and nurses per bed were 0·27 and 0·72, respectively. Antenatal corticosteroids (any dose) were administered to 90% of the women at risk of preterm birth at < 34 weeks of gestation (90·0% inborn vs. 50·0% outborn, p < 0·001). The median fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) for initial resuscitation was 0·30 for babies born at ≤ 32 weeks of gestation and 0·25 for those born at > 32 weeks. T-piece resuscitators were available in 77·8% of delivery rooms (DRs) (tertiary hospitals: 82·5% vs. secondary hospitals: 63·0%, p < 0·001). Surfactant was used in 51·6% of the DRs. Less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) was used in 49·7% of the hospitals (tertiary hospitals: 55·3% vs. secondary hospitals: 31·5%, p < 0·001). Primary non-invasive ventilation was initiated in approximately 80·0% of the patients. High-frequency oscillation ventilation was primarily reserved for rescue after conventional mechanical ventilation (MV) failure. Caffeine was routinely used during MV in 59·1% of the hospitals. Bedside lung ultrasonography was performed in 54·3% of the health facilities (tertiary hospitals: 61·6% vs. secondary hospitals: 30·4%, p < 0·001). Qualified breast milk banks and Family Integrated Care (FICare) were present in 30·2% and 63·7% of the hospitals, respectively.ConclusionsSignificant disparities in resource availability and guidelines adherence were evident across hospitals. Future strategies should address DR facilities and medication access, technical training, staff allocation, and ancillary facility development for a better management of RDS patients in China.

Study preferences and exam outcomes in medical education: insights from renal physiology

BackgroundEfficient learning strategies and resource utilization are critical in medical education, especially for complex subjects like renal physiology. This is increasingly important given the rise in chronic renal diseases and the decline in nephrology fellowships. However, the correlations between study time, perceived utility of learning resources, and academic performance are not well-explored, which led to this study.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted with second-year medical students at the University of Bergen, Norway, to assess their preferred learning resources and study time dedicated to renal physiology. Responses were correlated with end-of-term exam scores.ResultsThe study revealed no significant correlation between time spent studying and overall academic performance, highlighting the importance of study quality over quantity. Preferences for active learning resources, such as Team-Based Learning, interactive lessons and formative assignments, were positively correlated with better academic performance. A notable correlation was found between students’ valuation of teachers’ professional competence and their total academic scores. Conversely, perceived difficulty across the curriculum and reliance on self-found online resources in renal physiology correlated negatively with academic performance. ‘The Renal Pod’, a locally produced renal physiology podcast, was popular across grades. Interestingly, students who listened to all episodes once achieved higher exam scores compared to those who listened to only some episodes, reflecting a strategic approach to podcast use. Textbooks, while less popular, did not correlate with higher exam scores. Despite the specific focus on renal physiology, learning preferences are systematically correlated with broader academic outcomes, reflecting the interconnected nature of medical education.ConclusionThe study suggests that the quality and strategic approaches to learning significantly impact academic performance. Successful learners tend to be proactive, engaged, and strategic, valuing expert instruction and active participation. These findings support the integration of student-activating teaching methods and assignments that reward deep learning.

Association between Serum Glycated Hemoglobin Levels and Female Infertility: A Cross-Sectional Survey and Genetic Approach.

Female infertility affects a significant portion of the population, and recent studies suggest a potential link between glycemic control and reproductive health. This study investigates the association between serum glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and female infertility, utilizing data from the NHANES 2017-2020 and Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1578 women aged 20-45 who attempted pregnancy for at least one year. Serum HbA1c levels were analyzed in relation to infertility status, with multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for covariates such as age, body mass index, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Higher HbA1c levels were significantly associated with increased infertility risk. Each 1% increase in HbA1c was linked to higher odds of infertility (adjusted OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.15-1.69, p = 0.003). HbA1c levels ≥ 6.5% showed the strongest association. MR analysis employed single-nucleotide polymorphisms as instrumental variables to assess the causal relationship between HbA1c and infertility, confirming a causal relationship between higher genetically predicted HbA1c levels and infertility (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.33-2.49, p = 0.00018). Sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of these findings. Elevated HbA1c levels are associated with an increased risk of female infertility, suggesting the importance of glycemic control in reproductive health management.