Descriptive Statistical Methods Research Articles

The Influence of Leadership and Work Environment on Employee Performance Mediated by Job Satisfaction and Work Motivation in Pegunungan Bintang Regency's Regional Apparatus Organizations

Aims: Understanding the links between leadership, job satisfaction, work motivation, and employee performance is vital. Effective leadership shapes culture, direction, and employee engagement. Analyzing how leadership influences these factors helps identify areas for improvement, fostering stronger leadership practices and enhancing organizational outcomes. This study aims to comprehensively examine the intricate interplay between leadership, job satisfaction, work motivation, and employee performance within the context of the workplace environment. By investigating the direct and indirect effects of leadership, job satisfaction, and work motivation on employee performance, the research seeks to shed light on the underlying mechanisms that shape organizational outcomes. Furthermore, this study intends to explore how the work environment influences job satisfaction, work motivation, and ultimately, employee performance, offering valuable insights for enhancing workplace dynamics and fostering employee well-being and productivity. Study Design: Mention the design of the study here. Place and Duration of Study: Location to research eight Regional Apparatus Organizations of Pegunungan Bintang Regency whose office address is Jl. Kutdol, Oksibil, Kotdol, Oksibil, Pegunungan Bintang Regency, Papua. the object studied is an employee / ASN who works in the work environment of the Regional Equipment Organization of Pegunungan Bintang Regency. This research will be conducted in 2023 at the Regional Apparatus Organization of Pegunungan Bintang District. Methodology: The data analysis method used in explaining is obtained from field research, based on the proposed hypothesis there are two analytical methods to be used, namely descriptive statistical analysis methods and inferential statistical analysis through the use of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results: The study conducted in regional apparatus organizations in Pegunungan Bintang Regency revealed significant findings. Firstly, it demonstrated that effective leadership positively influences employee job satisfaction. This influence extends to job motivation, wherein leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering a conducive work environment. Moreover, the research emphasized the crucial link between the work environment and employee job satisfaction. A clean and comfortable workspace not only enhances job satisfaction but also stimulates work motivation, thereby improving overall employee performance. Conclusion: Furthermore, job satisfaction was identified as a key determinant of employee motivation within the organizational context. This motivation, in turn, catalyzes enhanced performance. The study underscores the intricate interplay between job satisfaction, work motivation, and employee performance, highlighting the importance of a supportive work environment and effective leadership in driving organizational success in Pegunungan Bintang Regency's regional apparatus organizations.

Forensic evaluation of craniometric characteristics of the Kazakhstan population

BackgroundThe human skull is the part of the skeleton most frequently used in population studies, as it was more exposed to genetic factors and less exposed to environmental factors. The skull is an important component in human forensic identification. Materials and methodsThe craniometric characteristics of 186 male and 114 female skulls found on the territory of Kazakhstan were studied. Dimensions were measured using standard anthropometric methods and instruments. The results of measurements of 25 craniometric parameters are presented. Methods of descriptive and parametric statistics were used. ResultsStatistical analysis showed significant regional dimorphism, confirming theindividuality of the Kazakhstan population. Statistically significant deviations werefound in 6 male craniometric characteristics and 4 female craniometric characteristics(p<0.05). The most dimorphous variables for regional identification in Kazakhstanmales were the higher skull base and frontal chord width , full face height , condylarand bigonial width , and low mandibular body reference values (p<0.05). For females,significant statistical discrepancies were seen in the transverse diameter and skullbase width, mastoid and occipital aperture width (p<0.05). ConclusionThe recorded variations and changes in the morphology of the humanskull of the population of Kazakhstan indicate the need to develop and updateosteometric standards used in practice for specific populations. All this will significantlyimprove the accuracy of forensic identification and more fully study the biologicalpatterns of population formation, as well as evaluate the comparative effectiveness ofindividual features in the reconstruction of the population history of various populationgroups.

#3106 The prevalence and degree of hyperkalaemia in adult patients with chronic kidney disease, in Durban, South Africa

Abstract Background and Aims Hyperkalaemia is a known risk factor for the development of cardiac rhythm disturbances and sudden cardiac death. The presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is also an independent risk factor for cardiovascular complications. The prevalence of hyperkalaemia in patients with CKD has previously varied widely between studies. The prevalence of hyperkalaemia in the patients attending the renal clinic at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital (IALCH) has not been previously determined. This study aimed to discover the prevalence of hyperkalaemia in patients attending the renal clinic at IALCH, as well as the degree of severity amongst the patients in whom hyperkalaemia was present. Demographic and other variables were also assessed for an association with hyperkalaemia. Method A retrospective review of outpatients attending the renal clinic at IALCH from 1 October 2016 until 30 September 2017. Demographic and clinical characteristics were retrieved and descriptive statistical methods and logistic regression analysis were performed. Results The study consisted of 200 patients, of whom the majority were female (n=120, 60%). The prevalence of hyperkalaemia amongst these patients was found to be 16%. In those with stage 3 CKD, the prevalence of hyperkalaemia was 7.69%. In those with stage 4 CKD, the prevalence of hyperkalaemia was 20.5% and in those with stage 5 CKD the prevalence was 17.3%. There were no statistically significant associations between hyperkalaemia and demographic variables, nor with dietician intervention. There was a significant association with the use of sodium polystyrene sulfonate. Conclusion CKD is a growing burden in the developing world. With CKD comes metabolic and other derangements, including electrolyte abnormalities as well as increased cardiovascular risk. Hyperkalaemia is associated with worsening CKD. In addition, hyperkalaemia puts patients at risk of cardiac dysrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Pharmacological measures to manage CVD risk should be weighed up against the risk of hyperkalaemia related complications. Potassium lowering agents should be considered to allow for optimal CVD management in the setting of hyperkalaemia in CKD.

INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF COMPANIES LISTED IN NAIROBI SECURITIES EXCHANGE

&lt;p&gt;Internal control systems involve various methods and measures the organisation takes to safeguard assets, accurately check financial reports, enhance operational efficiency and execute managerial policies to achieve their financial objectives. The study sought to determine how internal control systems influence the financial performance of Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) listed companies in Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to assess the effect of risk assessment, internal control environment and information and communication systems on the financial performance of the listed companies in NSE. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population comprised 63 listed companies in NSE as of 30th June 2023. A sample of 39 companies was drawn from the target population using a stratified random sampling technique. The study used primary data collected using structured questionnaires. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The results were presented using tables and charts. The study found that internal control systems positively and significantly influenced the financial performance of the listed companies in NSE. The study recommended that to improve the financial performance of these firms, the management needs to determine and implement the optimal combination of effective and efficient internal control mechanisms.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;JEL&lt;/strong&gt;: G20; L10; L20; M10&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; Article visualizations:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="/-counters-/soc/0737/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Investigating the Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Life Expectancy in Leukemia Patients regarding Selected Hospitals of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2023

Introduction: Experiencing tensions such as anxiety, stress, and depression is inevitable due to the nature of the disease and treatment, which can affect the life expectancy of these patients. Emotional intelligence is one of the most effective components in adapting to a disease and its complications and in complying with treatment. This study is conducted with the aim of determining the relationship between emotional intelligence and life expectancy in leukemia patients. Methods: This was a descriptive -correlational study conducted on 200 patients with leukemia who were referred to the selected hospitals of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2023. The research tools included a demographic information form, Schutte emotional intelligence questionnaire, and Snyder life expectancy questionnaire. Data analysis was done in SPSS version 16 using descriptive and inferential statistics methods. Results: The average age of the participants in the research was 36/83 ± 11/13 in the age range of 18-69. Most of the patients were male (62%) and married (66/5%). The mean score of emotional intelligence in leukemia patients was 127/17 and the mean score of life expectancy was 32/19. According to the results of the study, there was a positive and significant correlation between emotional intelligence and life expectancy (P&lt;0/001) (r=0/364). Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, patients with higher emotional intelligence had higher life expectancy. Since emotional intelligence is very helpful in facing stress and tension and can be taught and learned, implementing interventions to increase emotional intelligence can be the basis for improving the life expectancy of these patients.

THE IMPACT OF VACCINATION STATUS ON THE CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF MEASLES COURSE

Measles is a dangerous and highly contagious viral disease with a tendency to spread rapidly. The incidence of measles is cyclical with outbreaks occurring every 5-6 years and is directly related to the level of vaccination against the disease. Measles can become severe clinical course and have serious, sometimes fatal consequences. The purpose of the study is to compare the clinical course of measles depending on the vaccination status of patients. We analysed medical records of 218 patients aged 18 to 55 years who were inpatients with a diagnosis of measles at the Poltava Regional Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital. The clinical features of measles were compared based on vaccine status using descriptive statistics methods in accordance with the analysis requirements. Comparison of the clinical course of the disease depending on vaccination status did not reveal a statistically significant difference in clinical symptoms between the groups of vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. However, in the group of unvaccinated patients, a severe course of measles was significantly more often observed compared to those who were vaccinated (p = 0.003). The incidence of complications was studied and found to be lower in vaccinated individuals than in non-immune patients (p = 0.051), specifically pneumonia (p = 0.006). No cases of complications such as measles encephalitis and enterocolitis were recorded among vaccinated individuals. Thus, the course of the disease was characterised by typical clinical signs with a predominance of intoxication syndrome, the appearance of a typical rash, its stages, the presence of catarrhal and, less often, intestinal syndromes. It was found that vaccinated individuals had significantly less frequent severe measles, and the incidence of complications, including pneumonia, was was significantly lower than in unvaccinated patients.

Cross-sectional study on the epidemiological investigation ability of professional staff from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Guizhou Province

IntroductionThis study aims to evaluate the qualifications and identify skill enhancement areas for epidemiological investigators in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCs) in Guizhou’s, informing future training and policy initiatives to strengthen public health responses.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in August 2022, and an online, self-designed questionnaire on the Epidemiological Dynamic Data Collection platform was administered to evaluate the professional staff in CDCs. The responses were scored and presented using descriptive statistical methods, and the factors influencing the total score were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and linear regression.Results and discussionA total of 1321 questionnaires were collected, yielding an average score of 14.86±3.49 and a qualification rate of 29.9%. The scoring rate of ability of individual protection and coordination in epidemic control was high (87.25%). Meanwhile, improvements in further training were needed in areas such as data analysis ability (23.67%), knowledge of site disinfection (40.40%), and epidemiological investigation skills (42.50%). No significant difference was observed between the scores of city and county CDCs, (t = 1.071, p =0.284). The effects of gender and age could be disregarded, and the experience in epidemiological work and training (including investigation on COVID-19 cases and contacts), educational background, and professional title partially explained the survey outcome (R Square of the linear regression model was 0.351). The survey indicated the need for additional well-trained epidemiologic investigators in Guizhou. Specified training was effective in improving epidemiologic investigation, and enhancement in data analysis ability and knowledge of field disinfection are recommended in professional staff cultivation.

Development of interactive learning media based on website chatbots on plant tissue material

The utilization of learning media is a valuable instrument in enhancing the learn-ing process, hence maximizing the attainment of learning objectives. The objec-tive of this study is to create an educational tool for biology instruction in the form of a website chatbot focused on plant tissue content. The research also seeks to evaluate the viability and efficacy of this tool when used by students. The pre-sent study used the ADDIE model, a widely recognized framework in the field of development research. This model encompasses five distinct stages, namely anal-ysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The data utilized in this study was collected via interviews, questionnaires, and tests, and afterwards analyzed employing qualitative and quantitative descriptive statistical methods. The present study developed an educational tool in the form of a website chatbot focused on plant tissue materials. The validation process involved obtaining feed-back from media experts, material experts, and students. The assessment con-ducted by media experts resulted in a 91% rating, categorizing the chatbot as "very feasible." Similarly, the material expert's assessment yielded an 86.5% rat-ing, also falling into the "very feasible" category. Furthermore, students' respons-es indicated a 97.7% rating, categorizing the chatbot as "very feasible." Moreo-ver, based on the study conducted to evaluate the efficacy of learning media goods, the t-test findings revealed a significant difference between the pretest and post-test scores, as indicated by a Sig value (2-tailed) of 0.000, which is less than the predetermined significance level of 0.05. The mean gain for the website chat-bot learning media product is 0.77, falling inside the "high" category. This sug-gests that the product is very suited and effective as a learning medium.

The mediating role of risk tolerance in the relationship between behavioural factors of small investors and investment decisions in the saudi stock market

The aim of this study was to examine the mediating role of risk tolerance in the relationship between behavioural factors of small investors and investment decisions in the Saudi stock market. A random sample of small investors in the Saudi stock market was selected, with a sample size of 384 investors. Descriptive statistical methods such as mean, standard deviation, and frequencies were used to describe the study variables, and the mediation regression analysis was employed to test the study hypotheses. The main findings of the study revealed that individual investors' risk tolerance acts as a partial mediator in the relationship between behavioural factors and investment decision-making in the stock market. There is a significant relationship between the behavioural factors of small investors and their ability to make investment decisions in the Saudi stock market. Additionally, there is a significant relationship between risk tolerance of small investors and their investment decisions in the Saudi stock market. Based on the study findings, several recommendations were proposed, including the consideration of behavioural factors and risk tolerance of small investors by brokers and financial advisors in the Saudi stock market when providing advice and guidance on financial investments. They should also provide information based on accurate securities analysis to facilitate sound investment decisions in the Saudi stock market.

Treatment of portal hypertension complicated by variceal bleeding

Background. Mortality in variceal bleeding (VB) on the background of portal hypertension (PH) is highest among patients with gastrointestinal bleeding. The treatment of PH complicated by VB is a complex problem that is far from being solved, especially in case of Child-Pugh class B and C decompensation. The aim of the study was to determine the causes of PH complicated by VB, features of conservative and interventional therapy, indications and nature of surgical procedures, treatment efficacy, as well as causes of complications and mortality. Materials and methods. We analyzed treatment outcomes of 923 inpatients with PH complicated by VB who were treated in the clinic of the Department of Surgery of the Faculty of Dentistry of Bogomolets National Medical University on the basis of the Kyiv City Clinical Emergency Hospital from 2012 to 2023. It was possible to talk about the cause of PH based on anamnestic data in 61 % of cases. In 711 (77 %) patients, the source of bleeding was detected endoscopically within 30–60 minutes from the moment of admission to the clinic. Conservative therapy included the administration of hemostatic and agents lowering pressure in the portal system, as well as vasoconstrictors that reduce portal blood flow. For the failure of conservative therapy, unstable hemostasis, and repeated previous bleedings, 59 (6.4 %) patients were operated. The methodology of the research analysis consisted in the fact that the arithmetic mean and standard error (M ± m) were determined as the characteristics of the groups for features with a distribution corresponding to the Gaussian law. This reference method of descriptive statistics was applied to evaluate surgical treatment in comparison with conservative therapy and interventional measures. Results. Endoscopic hemostasis by the ligature method was achieved in 97 (10.5 %) patients. Repeated endoscopy due to VB recurrence was done in 276 (29.9 %) participants. In cases of unsatisfactory endoscopic hemostasis, as well as recurrent VB, a Sengstaken-Blakemore probe was installed. In case of right-sided PH, the formation of varices in the esophagus is caused by the discharge of blood mainly through the coronary vein, which required its transection during еsophagogastric devascularization. In compliance with this rule, the patients underwent esophagogastric devascularization, circular transection of the esophagus, which provided portoazygous disconnection. The total mortality rate was 43.1 %, among operated people — 8.5 %, and among non-operated ones — 42.1 %. Conclusions. PH complicated by VB is evidence of decompensated processes in the liver parenchyma or obstruction in the portal system. Conservative therapy and interventional measures make it possible to stop bleeding and prepare the patient for elective surgery, if necessary. An operation that stops blood flow through dilated veins of the esophagus or stomach is an effective method of treating bleeding in portal hypertension.

Prevalence of signs of professional burnout among medical workers involved in providing medical care for circulatory system diseases

BACKGROUND: Among 13 thousand doctors interviewed in 2021, 42% displayed signs of professional burnout. This phenomenon negatively affects the frequency of repeated hospitalizations, the number of adverse events, and increased employee turnover. However, studies concerning burnout in doctors are rare and do not focus on specialists who provide medical care for patients with circulatory system diseases (CSD). AIM: was to assess the level of burnout in medical workers involved in the provision of medical care for patients with CSD and to explore staff perceptions of its prevention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sociological survey (based on the standardized Maslach Burnout Inventory questionnaire) was conducted among medical personnel (women represented the majority of the sample — 76%, men — 24%). The sample is represented by doctors (n=89), nursing staff and auxillary nurses (NSAN) (n=128). The mean age for the whole group of respondents was 40.7±0.7, professional experience lasted 12.0±0.6 years. Standard methods of descriptive statistics were used for the data analysis. The age characteristics of the group had no significant differences by professional categories. Doctors had 39.0±1.2 years (min — 24, max — 63), NSAN had 41.0±0.6 years (min — 19, max — 67). Professional experience lasted differed doctors 39.0±1.2 years, in NSAN — 12.3±0.8. Men were characterized by a mean age of 36.7±1.6 years and professional experience lasted 10.0±1.2 years and women 42.0±0.7 years and 12.6±0.7 years, respectively. The character of distribution of quantitative data in the presented study was analyzed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov and Shapiro–Wilk criterion. RESULTS: 80.2% of respondents presented with a high level of reduced professional accomplishments (RPA), 53.4% — a moderate average level of depersonalization. The emotional exhaustion was similar in all respondents, although average level of emotional exhaustion was the most prevalent (39.6%). 43.8% of doctors had an average level of emotional exhaustion, which is higher compared with NSAN — 37.5%. Clinical and paraclinical units are associated with a medium level of emotional exhaustion and a high RPA. At the same time, paraclinical units are characterized by a medium level of depersonalization, in contrast to clinical units, which are found to have a high level of this factor. According to the respondents, possible measures to prevent emotional burnout should include a set of measures including, rational distribution of responsibilities within departments, workload among the staff, as well as the formation of special skills to overcome stressful situations and optimization of activities with the help of digital solutions (support system for medical decisions, etc.). CONCLUSION: Working as medical staff and providing medical care for patients with CSD is strongly associated with a high level of reduced professional accomplishments (80.2% of respondents). Proper measures for the prevention of emotional burnout should primarily include organizational solutions focused on optimizing internal processes in medical staff’ work. According to the respondents, among the measures aimed at the prevention of emotional burnout, the most demanded may be: rational distribution of responsibilities within departments, workload among staff, as well as the formation of special skills to overcome stressful situations and optimization of activities with the help of digital solutions (medical decision support system, etc.).

Analysis and evaluation of peer group support for doctors in postgraduate training following workplace violence and aggression.

Workplace violence and aggression toward healthcare staff has a significant impact on the individual, causing self-blame, isolation and burnout. Timely and appropriate support can mitigate harm, but there is little research into how this should be delivered. We conducted multi-speciality peer groups for London doctors in postgraduate training (DPT), held over a 6-week period. Pre- and post-group burnout questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to evaluate peer support. Thematic analysis and descriptive statistical methods were used to describe the data. We found four themes: (a) the experience and impact of workplace violence and aggression on DPT, (b) the experience of support following incidents of workplace violence and aggression, (c) the impact and experience of the peer groups and (d) future improvements to support. DPTs showed a reduction in burnout scores. Peer groups are effective support for DPT following workplace violence and aggression. Embedding support within postgraduate training programmes would improve access and availability.

Health and social care managers' self-assessed competence in knowledge management: A descriptive cross-sectional study.

To describe health and social care managers' self-assessed competence in knowledge management and the factors associated with management competence. It has been shown that the performance of an organization is as good as the competence of its managers, so health and social care managers' competence in knowledge management should be assessed to improve organizational performance. A descriptive cross-sectional design. A total of 116 managers participated from six Finnish public health and social care organizations. The data were collected in February and August 2022 using the managers' competence in knowledge management (MCKM) instrument and analysed using descriptive statistical methods. Health and social care managers rated their self-reported total competence in knowledge management as good. Among the dimensions of knowledge management competence, managing a culture of competence received the highest rating, while planning competence development and cooperation was perceived as the weakest dimension. The results indicate that background factors such as the healthcare setting, the number of units managed and the number of direct staff had a statistically significant association with the health and social care managers' self-assessed competence in planning competence development and cooperation. Even though the health and social care managers' total self-assessed competence level in knowledge management was rated as good, the results underscore the significance of continuous competence development among these managers in all dimensions of knowledge management. By enhancing and clarifying managers' tasks and competence in knowledge management, managers can increase staff retention, attractiveness and work well-being. The results can be utilized to identify managers' strengths and weaknesses in knowledge management and, thus, effectively target their limited competence development resources. The STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist. There is no patient or public contribution.

Reasons for unsuccessful recruitment of children with atopic dermatitis in primary care in the Netherlands to a cohort study with an embedded pragmatic, randomised controlled open-label trial: a survey

BackgroundThe Rotterdam Eczema Study was an observational cohort study with an embedded pragmatic randomised controlled open-label trial. It was conducted in children with atopic dermatitis (AD) in the Dutch primary...

Workshop Penyusunan Bahan Ajar Kurikulum Merdeka dalam Meningkatkan Profesionalisme Guru di Sekolah Perbatasan Indonesia-Malaysia

This service activity aims to increase the professionalism of teachers at schools on the Indonesia-Malaysia border in preparing independent curriculum teaching materials. The method of implementing this service uses participatory-based training. The partners involved are teachers at SMAN 1 Jagoi Babang on the Indonesia-Malaysia border. This service evaluation instrument includes participant satisfaction surveys, knowledge tests before and after the workshop, as well as direct observation of participant participation and skills. Data analysis was analyzed using descriptive statistical methods to describe the success rate of the workshop, as well as comparative analysis to see changes before and after the workshop. The results of this service show an increase in teachers' understanding of the preparation of teaching materials in the independent curriculum, as well as an increase in enthusiasm and skills in creating teaching modules. In addition, participants showed high interest in implementing differentiated learning and adapting to curriculum changes. It shows that there is a positive impact of service activities on teacher professionalism and readiness to face the demands of the new curriculum.

Evaluation of Alterations That May Occur on Root Surfaces after Root Planing Procedures with a Scanning Electron Microscope

Background: The aim of root debridement procedures in non-surgical periodontal treatment is the elimination of etiologic factors that cause periodontal disease, as well as the removal of cement affected by the disease. However, root debridement procedures for the treatment of periodontal diseases produce root surface irregularities that can adversely affect the healing of periodontal tissues. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the surface texture of a root after instrumentation, including an ultrasonic instrument, a Gracey curette, or a double Gracey curette. Methods: A total of 26 single-rooted teeth were used in this study; two specimens were used as controls, and the remaining 24 specimens were equally divided into three groups. Specimens from each group were then subjected to root planing using one of the following instruments: (1) an ultrasonic instrument; (2) a Gracey curette; or (3) a double Gracey curette. The control group was treated with no instrumentation. The extracted teeth were analyzed under a scanning electron microscope and graded in terms of the “roughness and loss of tooth substance index” and the “exposed dentin tubule index.” The SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) V.21 program was used to conduct a statistical analysis of the data obtained in this study. While evaluating the data, in addition to descriptive statistical methods (mean and standard deviation), a one-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) was carried out to compare the quantitative data and evaluate normally distributed parameters between groups, while a post hoc multiple comparison test was carried out for subgroup comparisons. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the roughness and material loss on the root surfaces in the samples treated with the ultrasonic instrument or the Gracey curette, and no exposed dentine tubules were observed. Meanwhile, it was observed that the double Gracey curette caused more roughness and material loss on the root surface, and exposed dentine tubules were observed in some samples. The time required for treatment using a double Gracey curette was significantly shorter than that required with the Gracey curette and ultrasonic instruments. Conclusions: The double Gracey curettes produced a relatively rougher root surface than the Gracey curettes or the ultrasonic instrument.

Retrospective analysis of diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis in designated medical institutions in China from 2017 to 2022

Objective: To understand the status of tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment capacity and the development and changes of tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment in provincial and municipal designated medical institutions in China from 2017 to 2022, so as to provide a basis for the formulation of relevant policies for the improvement and development of designated medical institutions for tuberculosis and the tuberculosis prevention and treatment service system, and to provide reasonable support for further strengthening the capacity of designated medical institutions for tuberculosis. Methods: This study was initiated and carried out by Beijing Chest Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University/Clinical Center for Tuberculosis Prevention and Control of China CDC (hereinafter referred to as "Clinical Center") by means of questionnaire survey, and the investigation was carried out from March to November 2023. During this period, the clinical center distributed questionnaires to the hospital member units of "Beijing Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Treatment Technology Innovation Alliance", retrospectively collected their tuberculosis-related diagnosis and treatment data from 2017 to 2022, and used descriptive statistical methods to analyze the number of tuberculosis beds, outpatients and hospitalizations in medical institutions. The results were expressed in absolute numbers (percentages), and three-line tables, bar charts and line charts were drawn to describe the analysis results and changing trends. Results: The 54 medical institutions surveyed in this survey included 21 provincial-level designated medical institutions and 33 prefecture-level designated medical institutions. Most medical institutions have set up clinical departments, auxiliary departments and functional departments to undertake public health tasks of infectious diseases. The tuberculosis laboratory in the hospital has a comprehensive ability and has the detection technology needed for most tuberculosis diagnosis; The number of tuberculosis beds, children's tuberculosis beds and ICU beds all showed an increasing trend from 2017 to 2022. The proportion of tuberculosis beds in the hospital decreased slightly, from 39.31% in 2017 to 34.76% in 2022, showing a slight downward trend. Compared with the hospital surveyed, the number of tuberculosis outpatients in 2019 was 562 029, and the number of outpatients in 2020-2022 was 462 328, 519 630 and 424 069 respectively, which was significantly lower than that in 2019. The number of tuberculosis outpatients in medical institutions decreased significantly from 2020 to 2022. By analyzing the proportion of patients with different types of tuberculosis, the proportion of sensitive tuberculosis outpatients in 2017-2022 decreased from 84.49% in 2017 to 78.05% in 2022, showing a downward trend year by year. The proportion of patients with multidrug-resistant/ rifampin-resistant tuberculosis increased from 2.03% in 2017 to 7.18% in 2022. From 2017 to 2019, the total number of inpatients with tuberculosis showed an upward trend. Compared with 2019, the number of inpatients in 2020, 2021 and 2022 showed a downward trend, and the decline in 2020 was large (down 14.94% compared with 2019). Among the inpatients, the absolute number and proportion of patients with sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis remained relatively stable, and the number and proportion of inpatients with multidrug-resistant/rifampin-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis increased year by year. Conclusions: Most medical institutions have the capacity to carry out routine diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis, but the public health function needs to be strengthened. The transformation of medical institutions requires proper guidance and adequate support. During 2019-2022, most medical institutions were affected by the COVID-19 epidemic, and their tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment work also changed to varying degrees. During this period, hospitals took various measures to overcome difficulties and tried their best to maintain the normal development of tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment, and the tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment work of various institutions gradually resumed in 2022.

Corporate Social Responsibility and Organizational Performance of Mount Kenya University.

Assuring the success of their organizations is every manager's most important responsibility. It is feasible for an enterprise to hastily achieve its objectives and gain a competitive edge by integrating a sustainable CSR. This research project aimed to determine how corporate social responsibility affects an organization's performance. The following clear goals served as its guide: to ascertain how CSR's economic, environmental, social, and humanistic cultural dimensions affected the performance of Mt. Kenya University. A descriptive research design was employed in the study. The study's target audience was the management team entrusted with conceptualizing and operationalizing the adoption of corporate social responsibility. The university administrative structure served as a guide for the study area selection, explicitly targeting employees of all management offices. The study made the best use of the primary data, which was gathered using semi-structured questionnaires with open-ended and closed-ended questions. The questionnaires were distributed using the drop-and-pick technique. The data gathered from the questionnaire findings underwent both quantitative and qualitative cross examination. Descriptive statistical methods were used in quantitative analysis. The usage of frequencies, means, and percentages that were aggregated and displayed using tables, graphs, and charts were complemented by descriptive statistics. The linear regression model was incorporated to facilitate data analysis analyzed using SPSS version 24.0. Notably, the research reveals that increasing the economic dimension by one unit increases organizational performance by 0.158 points, the environmental dimension by 0.227 points, the social dimension by 0.590 points, and the humanistic cultural dimension by 0.442 points. The descriptive and correlational analyses indicate that CSR positively impacts all aspects of performance at MKU. In future studies, it is recommended that researchers examine the impact of CSR initiatives on the satisfaction of consumers as a dependent variable.

Effect of Media Exposure and Related Factors on Antenatal Care Visits Among Pregnant Women in Bangladesh: A Study Based on BDHS 2017-18 Data

Providing antenatal care (ANC) to expectant mothers is the primary method of reducing maternal morbidity and death. The objectives of ANC are to monitor and preserve the health and safety of both the mother and the fetus, identify any pregnancy issues and take appropriate action, address the concerns of the mother, get her ready for delivery, and encourage mothers to adopt healthy habits. The goal of this research is to investigate the determinants associated with Bangladeshi women&amp;apos;s ANC. Data were obtained from the BDHS for the 2017–18 year, and 4,920 married women of reproductive age (15–49 years) were selected as participants from 18,895 married women. The data was analyzed using multinomial logistic regression as well as descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The main outcome of this study found that 48.4% of respondents received 4 or more ANC visits. The ANC contacts were correlated with factors such as media exposure, division, maternal age, women&amp;apos;s education, husband&amp;apos;s education, and wealth index. The primary educated women were 0.312 times (p&amp;lt;0.002) less likely to receive 4 or more ANC, compared to higher educated women, and women who don’t access to media, 0.464 times (p&amp;lt;0.000) less likely to engage in 4 or more ANC visits compared to media access. The results of this investigation demonstrate a substantial correlation between media exposure and ANC visits, as well as a noteworthy rise in appropriate ANC visits among expectant mothers with increased media exposure.

Factors predicting self-care behavior of cardiovascular patients during the COVID-19 epidemic

BackgroundThe COVID-19 virus has had wide-ranging effects on all healthcare systems and a direct impact on all areas of human life in all countries around the world. Therefore, it is necessary to take preventive actions to reduce the prevalence and severity of the complications associated with this disease. The purpose of this study was to explain the dimensions of adopting general self-care behaviors (mask-wearing, social distancing, hand hygiene, and home quarantine) for preventing COVID-19 based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) in cardiovascular patients.MethodsThis was a descriptive-analytical study conducted with the participation of 420 patients referring to health and treatment centers of Ahvaz, southwest of Iran, in 2022. Sampling was done using a non-random (convenience) method. The data collection tool was a questionnaire containing items addressing demographic characteristics, questions related to the TPB, and questions dealing with the adoption of everyday self-care behaviors against contracting COVID-19. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods (prevalence, mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and linear regression) in SPSS version 25.ResultsThe results of this study showed that the rate of adoption of self-care behaviors against COVID-19 among cardiovascular patients was moderate. The results also showed that among the constructs of the TPB, Perceived behavioral control, Subjective norms, and Perceived behavioral intention were the most important predictors of adopting self-care behaviors among cardiovascular patients with a change variance of 46%.ConclusionsThe results of the present study have implications for health and treatment policy makers as well as planners of educational and behavioral interventions aimed at promoting the adoption of self-care behaviors against COVID-19. In this respect, managing and institutionalizing desirable behaviors among cardiovascular patients could be beneficial from economic, social, and health-related aspects.