Differences In Mean Scores Research Articles

Virtual team training with Mixed Reality and Virtual Reality – benefits and limitations illustrated on the example of two paramedic classes

In the field of medical case simulations, strong technologization has been observed for years, for example through Extended Reality. This study examined the impact of Virtual and Mixed Reality (VR, resp. MR) on the team training of paramedic trainees. In the quasi-experimental cross-sectional controlled comparison study, participants were assigned to an experimental group (= EG, mixed reality with manikin) and a comparison group (= CG, virtual reality without manikin). After a virtual case simulation, “VR sickness”, sense of presence, motivation, and sociodemographic variables were elicited. Parametric tests were used for mean comparison and correlation analysis. A total of 20 participants were evaluated in the EG and 16 in the CG. In both groups, high intrinsic motivation (mean 5.32/7), an acceptable sense of spatial presence (mean 4.24/6), and advanced usability (mean 68.54/100), were observed. VR sickness symptoms were present (SSQ total score: 11.43). In both groups, correlation was found between Identified Regulation and Usability (EG: r = .74, p < .001, CG: r = .76, p < .001). The same pattern could be observed for Intrinsic Motivation and Usability (EG: r = .83, p < .001, CG: r = .70, p = .003). Spatial Presence and Usability were also correlated in both groups (EG: r = .71, p < .001, CG: r = .61, p = .01). A significant mean score difference (p = .021) was found for Amotivation between the EG (Mean = 1.92/6) and the CG (Mean = 1.56/6). VR and MR are potential learning methods if they are implemented in a planned manner by competent faculty. Our recommendation is to use setup checklists, but also a competence-oriented approach, considering fiction contract and structured debriefing. The use of wireless head-mounted displays and "data gloves" is also recommended.

Exploring the Effectiveness of Ajwain Cream in Treating Taxane-induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Cancer Patients: A Pilot, Randomised and Double-blind Clinical Trial.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common disorder among cancer patients receiving various chemotherapeutic protocols. The present study aimed to explore the feasibility of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi [L.] Sprague) cream in treating peripheral neuropathy symptoms triggered by taxane chemotherapeutic agents. This was a pilot, double-blind, and randomised clinical trial on patients with peripheral neuropathy attributable to chemotherapy with taxane drugs during 2021-2022 in Tehran. Patients received ajwain or placebo cream for four weeks and filled out the chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy assessment tool (CIPNAT) at the start and end finale of the trial. Side effects were also noted. Thirty patients suffering from breast, lung, gastro-intestinal, or prostate cancer were allocated to each of the drug and placebo groups. The mean difference in CIPNAT score between the groups was 0.83, demonstrating the statistical ineffectiveness of the drug compared with the placebo (P = 0.372). The safety profile showed promising outcomes at the end of the trial. Although the effectiveness of ajwain cream was unacceptable in treating chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy symptoms, multicentre controlled trials with ample sample size are mandatory for an all-inclusive inference.

Severe COVID anxiety among adults in the United Kingdom: cohort study and nested feasibility trial

BackgroundPeople with severe COVID anxiety have poor mental health and impaired functioning, but the course of severe COVID anxiety is unknown and the quality of evidence on the acceptability and impact of psychological interventions is low.MethodsA quantitative cohort study with a nested feasibility trial. Potential participants aged 18 and over, living in the UK with severe COVID anxiety, were recruited online and from primary care services. We examined levels of COVID anxiety in the six months after recruitment, and factors that influenced this, using linear regression. Those scoring above 20 on the short Health Anxiety Inventory were invited to participate in a feasibility trial of remotely delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Health Anxiety (CBT-HA). Exclusion criteria were recent COVID-19, current self-isolation, or current receipt of psychological treatment. Key outcomes for the feasibility trial were the level of uptake of CBT-HA and the rate of follow-up.Results204 (70.2%) of 285 people who took part in the cohort study completed the six month follow-up, for whom levels of COVID anxiety fell from 12.4 at baseline to 6.8 at six months (difference = -5.5, 95% CI = -6.0 to -4.9). Reductions in COVID anxiety were lower among older people, those living with a vulnerable person, those with lower baseline COVID anxiety, and those with higher levels of generalised anxiety and health anxiety at baseline. 36 (90%) of 40 participants enrolled in the nested feasibility trial were followed up at six months. 17 (80.9%) of 21 people in the active arm of the trial received four or more sessions of CBT-HA. We found improved mental health and social functioning among those in the active, but not the control arm of the trial (Mean difference in total score on the Work and Social Adjustment Scale between baseline and follow up, was 9.7 (95% CI = 5.8–13.6) among those in the active, and 1.0 (95% C.I. = -4.6 to 6.6) among those in the control arm of the trial.ConclusionsWhile the mental health of people with severe COVID anxiety appears to improve over time, many continue to experience high levels of anxiety and poor social functioning. Health anxiety is highly prevalent among people with severe COVID anxiety and may provide a target for psychological treatment.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered at ISRCTN14973494 on 09/09/2021.

The effect of exercise training and motivational counselling on physical activity behaviour and psychosocial factors in pregnant women: secondary analyses of the FitMum randomised controlled trial investigating prenatal physical activity

BackgroundA physically active lifestyle is beneficial during pregnancy. However, little is known about physical activity (PA) behaviour and psychosocial factors in women during and after pregnancy. This study examined exercise behavioural regulation, exercise self-efficacy, health-related quality of life, sickness absence and musculoskeletal pain in pregnant women offered either structured supervised exercise training, motivational counselling on PA, or standard prenatal care in the FitMum randomised controlled trial.MethodsTwo hundred and eighteen healthy inactive pregnant women were randomised to structured supervised exercise training (n = 87), motivational counselling on PA (n = 86) or standard prenatal care (n = 45). The women answered the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2 (BREQ-2), the Pregnancy Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (P-ESES-DK) and the Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) at baseline (gestational age (GA) of max 15 weeks), GA 28 and 34 weeks, and one year after delivery. Sickness absence and low back and/or pelvic girdle pain were likewise reported in questionnaires at baseline and GA 28 weeks.ResultsParticipants offered structured supervised exercise training or motivational counselling on PA had higher autonomous motivation for exercise during pregnancy compared with participants receiving standard prenatal care (e.g., difference in intrinsic regulation at GA 28 weeks, structured supervised exercise training vs. standard prenatal care: mean difference in score 0.39 [0.16; 0.64], p < 0.001). Participants offered structured supervised exercise training also had higher exercise self-efficacy during pregnancy (e.g., GA 28 weeks, structured supervised exercise training vs. standard prenatal care: mean difference in score 6.97 [2.05; 12.02], p = 0.005). All participants reported high exercise self-efficacy at baseline and medium exercise self-efficacy during pregnancy and one year after delivery. No differences were found between groups in health-related quality of life, sickness absence or low back and/or pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy. No group differences were found one year after delivery.ConclusionStructured supervised exercise training and motivational counselling on PA had important effects on autonomous exercise motivation during pregnancy. Exercise self-efficacy was also increased with structured supervised exercise training compared to standard prenatal care. No group differences in health-related quality of life, sickness absence, or pain were found during and after pregnancy. No effects were found one year post-delivery after intervention cessation.Trial registrationThe study was approved by the Danish National Committee on Health Research Ethics (#H-18011067) and the Danish Data Protection Agency (#P-2019–512). The study adheres to the principles of the Helsinki declaration. Written informed consent was obtained at inclusion.

The effectiveness of mindfulness training on social adjustment, self-esteem, and hope among transgender individuals in Tehran

Introduction: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of mindfulness training in enhancing social adjustment, self-esteem, and hope in transgender individuals. Methodology: This research employed a quasi-experimental design, incorporating pre-test and post-test measures, along with a control group. The study population comprised transgender individuals receiving support from one of the social support centres under the auspices of the Tehran Municipality in the year 1401 (2022). Fourteen participants from this population were selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group underwent eight sessions of mindfulness training. Subsequently, during the post-test phase, both groups completed questionnaires. Data analysis involved multivariate and univariate analysis of covariance. Results: The research findings revealed a statistically significant difference in mean scores of social adjustment, self-esteem, and hope between the control and experimental groups during the post-test phase. Mindfulness training contributed significantly to elevating the levels of these variables within the experimental group (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: In light of the research outcomes, mindfulness training emerges as a promising intervention for positively influencing social adjustment, self-esteem, and hope among transgender individuals. Consequently, this educational program is recommended for the provision of psychological services within the target community.

Accelerometer-based and self-reported physical activity of children and adolescents from a seasonal perspective.

Many children and adolescents in Europe are insufficiently physically active, which makes the advancement of children's physical activity a critical health promotion target. However, there are some environmental factors, such as the amount of daylight, weather conditions, temperature, and precipitation levels, which might influence physical activity behavior. The purpose of this study was to assess accelerometer-based and self-reported daily physical activity of children and adolescents in Luxembourg, during autumn/winter as well as during spring/summer, and to examine if there is a seasonal influence on the physical activity behavior. At two measurements, one in autumn/winter and one in spring/summer, physical activity of N = 137 (59.12% females; M = 12.37 years) participating children and adolescents aged 10-18 years was objectively undertaken via an accelerometer (ActiGraph) and subjectively assessed using, among others, one item of the MoMo physical activity questionnaire. A repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant seasonal effect on moderate to vigorous physical activity per day [F(1.000, 135.000) = 7.69, p < 0.05, partial η² = 0.054]. More minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day were accrued in spring/summer than in autumn/winter. The mean difference scores between the accelerometer-based and the self-reported physical activity at the two time periods, T1 and T2, correlated significantly (r = 0.31, p < 0.001). According to these results, children and adolescents are less physically active in autumn/winter than in spring/summer. However, the discrepancy between the accelerometer-based and the self-reported physical activity remains stable over the two measurements. Therefore, schools, sports clubs, and communities should offer special physical activity programs for the colder season.

Comparison of Lecturers’ Competency in Maldives Higher Education Institutes

Researchers in the past have found that instructors’ levels of competence have an important effect on their ability to teach. This research aims to determine if there is a quality gap in Maldives’ higher education institutions between public and private institutions and between full-time and part-time lecturers. An online structured questionnaire was used to conduct a cross-sectional survey as part of the quantitative research strategy. Lecturers from both public and private universities took part in this investigation. The Mann-Whitney U test found a statistically significant difference between public (M=67.52) and private (M=48.07) institution lecturers in terms of competency; U=829.50, p=0.021. However, lecturers’ competency mean rank scores of full-time lecturers (M=64.82) and part-time lecturers (M=59.34) indicate the difference of mean scores of lecturers’ competency was not statistically significant, U=937.50, p=0.55. It is likely better recruitment and in-service professional development policies at public institutes are established at the institutional level, thereby improving lecturers’ competency compared to private institutes.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy of camel milk consumption for improving autism symptoms in children in randomized clinical trials

Background: Camel milk has emerged as a potential complementary therapy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Aim: This study aimed to gather evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effectiveness of camel milk consumption in improving symptoms and associated measures in children with ASD. Methods: Comprehensive searches of multiple databases were conducted up to March 14, 2024, for RCTs that had evaluated whether camel milk consumption by children with ASD was more beneficial than the consumption of a control substance. Quality and bias analyses and meta-anlaysis data were synthesized and analyzed. Results: Of 136 records identified, 5 RCTs (n = 299 children) were selected. The mean difference in scores on the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) for the group given camel milk and the control groups was a mean deviation (MD) ‒0.75, 95% CI ‒1.97 to 0.47, p = .23. The mean difference in CARS scores in the subgroup analyses for raw camel milk was MD ‒0.95, 95% CI ‒2.33 to 0.44, p = .18 and boiled camel milk MD ‒0.50, 95% CI ‒1.93 to 0.93, p = .49. A qualitative synthesis found that raw camel milk intake led to improvements in various social behaviors in children with ASD. Camel milk consumption resulted in increased levels of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory biomarkers, with some differences observed between patients given raw camel milk and boiled camel milk. Conclusion: Camel milk shows promise in improving social behaviors and certain biochemical markers in children with ASD, although the current meta-analysis did not document a significant statistical difference in CARS scores for the children studied. Future studies should focus on rigorous RCTs and larger sample sizes to substantiate these preliminary findings.

Exploring ICT Awareness and Academic Achievement Among Senior Secondary School Students

This research aims to examine the awareness of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and academic achievement among Senior Secondary School Students in Barnala district, Punjab. The primary objectives include assessing the level of ICT awareness and academic achievement, exploring the relationship between ICT awareness and academic performance, and examining potential gender-based variations in ICT awareness and academic achievement. Employing a descriptive survey design, the study involved a sample of 232 participants, and data were collected using a self- constructed questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including 't' tests and correlation, were applied. The findings indicate a high level of ICT awareness, average academic achievement, and significant differences in mean scores based on gender. Furthermore, a substantial relationship between ICT awareness and academic achievement among Senior Secondary School Students was established.

Development and nutritional and sensory evaluation of ragi, bajra, and white soybean incorporated adai: Traditional South Indian food for pregnant women with micronutrient deficiency

Background: Pregnant women have increased nutritional needs to support the growth of the baby, placenta, and maternal tissues. Inadequate dietary intake of these essential nutrients can lead to maternal-fetal complications. Hence, this study has developed a micronutrient-rich adai to educate and encourage pregnant women to incorporate it into their regular diet. Aims: The aim of this study was to develop a micronutrient-rich adai using millets, grains, green leaves, and spices and to evaluate its sensory characteristics and nutritional qualities. Methods: A micronutrient-rich adai was prepared with four food groups: (1) cereals and millets, (2) legumes and grains, (3) green leaves, and (4) spices in three different formulations: type I, type II, and type III, with the ratios of [1,2,3+4] are 50:30:20, 40:30:30, and 40:20:40, respectively. Sensory evaluation was conducted among 20 pregnant women using 9-point hedonic scales for color, flavor, taste, texture, and overall acceptability. The nutritional analysis was performed using Association of Official Analytical Collaboration (AOAC) (2016) methods. Statistical analysis was done by using SPSS version 21. Results: Type I adai was well accepted, with a mean score of 36.85, while type II (27.65) and type III (28.5) scored lower. One-way analysis of variance showed a significant difference in mean scores, with type I adai being statistically significant (P &lt; 0.05). Nutrient analysis indicated adequate amounts of iron, calcium, and vitamin D. Conclusion: The study revealed that the type I combination of adai was found to be more palatable compared to the other two types and rich in calcium and iron. This suggests that mothers can be motivated to incorporate it into their diet.

Early complications and quality of life in patients with immediately loaded implant-supported maxillary partial rehabilitations: A prospective cohort study.

Immediate loading of dental implants is considered an excellent option to reestablish function and aesthetics in a short period of time, thereby reducing the psychological impact of edentulism. The aim of this study was to describe the incidence of complications in immediately loaded implant-supported single or partial maxillary provisional rehabilitations; to assess changes in patient quality of life (QoL); to evaluate patient overall satisfaction; and to determine whether the occurrence of complications affects these outcomes. Patients requiring partial rehabilitation with implants in the maxilla were included in a prospective cohort study. In all cases, implant-based restoration with an immediate loading protocol was indicated. A provisional restoration was placed within 72 hours after implant placement. Patient QoL was measured at the first appointment and just before placing the final restoration, using two validated questionnaires. All mechanical and biological complications occurring up until placement of the final restoration were documented. A descriptive and bivariate analysis of the data was performed. Thirty-five patients with 40 prostheses supported by 60 implants were analyzed. Three implant failures were observed, yielding a 95% survival rate. Five provisional prosthesis fractures and two prosthetic screw loosenings were recorded in four patients. A significant reduction in OHIP-14 score was observed. Likewise, significant differences were found in the results of the QoLFAST-10, with a mean difference in score of 7.3 between the initial and final evaluation. Patients receiving immediately loaded implant-supported single or partial maxillary provisional rehabilitations seem to have a low risk of developing early mechanical (13.3%) or biological complications (5%). These patients appear to experience significant improvement in QoL and report excellent overall satisfaction with the treatment received - though the occurrence of complications seems to affect these outcomes.

VHDLISTE: An Instructional Strategy to Cover the Additional Content beyond the Curriculum

Abstract: In current scenario of engineering education, Students must have more practical knowledge and skills required to work in the technologies that are currently used in industries though they are not the part of the curriculum. The instruction based videos help students to develop their hands on the new skills that are essential for their adaptability to new technologies. Handout is the guided document which contains the instructions to follow during the laboratory session to complete the problem statement given in the assignment. Assessment of their knowledge acquirement and skills is done through grading of assignments given to them. So in this article, VHDLISTE (Instructional Videos followed by Handout Learning – Implement, Submit, Test, and Evaluate) instructional strategy is designed and implemented for Tableau: A Visual Data Analytics Tool which is the part of the course Business Intelligence and Big Data Analytics of Final Year Computer Science and Engineering but is not covered in the syllabus. This VHDLISTE instructional strategy consists of six phases V- Instructional Videos, HDL- Handout Learning, I – Implement, S – Submit, T-Test, and E – Evaluate. In first phase V - Instructional Videos phase, students watch the instructional videos prepared by the instructor to get acquainted with the Tableau tool. In second phase HDL, students go through the lab handouts to read the instructions given for completing the lab assignment. In I – Implement phase, students implement the problem statement related to Tableau tool while test on covered topics is conducted in T-Test phase. In S – Submit, students submit the problem statement on institutional MOODLE. Instructor conducts the test on covered topic in T-Test phase. Instructor evaluates the problem statement as well as test submitted by students on institutional MOODLE in E – Evaluate phase.Learning objective (LOs) of this study is to teach the problem analysing and solving ability. These LOs are 1) Apply Filters on Dimensions and Measures for given dataset using Tableau (LO1) and 2) Apply K-means Clustering on given dataset in Tableau (LO2). The research question is - Whether the use of instructional strategy VHDLISTE is useful for learning the content beyond the curriculum? This activity is conducted for two Academic Years 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. The result of applying this strategy and perception of students are also explained. The result showed that this strategy improves the problem analysis as well as problem solving ability of students. Using t-test statistical analysis, it is found that there is significant difference in mean score between sample and overall population means for LO1 as well as LO2 for all these three years. Keywords: Learning Objectives, Handouts, Instruction based Videos, t-Test

Emergency Fresh Whole Blood Transfusion Training for Ukrainian Health Professionals in Austere Environments.

Blood is a highly valuable medical resource that necessitates strict guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of the recipient. Since the onset of the war in Ukraine there has been an increased demand for training in emergency fresh whole blood transfusion (EFWBT) to improve damage control resuscitation capabilities. To meet this demand, we developed, implemented, and evaluated a training program aimed at enhancing Ukrainian EFWBT proficiency. Eight Ukrainian healthcare professionals (UHPs), including six physicians and two medics, completed our training, derived from the Joint Trauma System Clinical Practice Guidelines, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) Guidelines, 75th Ranger Regiment Ranger O-Low Titer (ROLO) program, and Marine Corps Valkyrie program. Participants were assessed on their confidence in the practical application and administrative oversight requirements of an EFWBT program. A cross-comparison was conducted between a larger data set of third-year medical students from the Uniformed Services University and the UHPs to determine the statistical significance of the program. The difference in mean scores of UHPs during preand post-training was statistically significant (p<0.001). Additionally, the average rate of improvement was greater for the UHPs compared with the third-year medical students (p=0.000065). Our study revealed that the application of an EFWBT training program for UHPs can significantly increase confidence in their ability to conduct EFWBTs on the battlefield. Further larger-scale research is needed to determine the impact of this training on performance outcomes.

Intrarater Reliability of an Adductor Squeeze Test With Professional Basketballers

Groin injuries are common in basketball. Reduced adductor strength is a risk factor for injury, so monitoring strength can be important for injury prevention. This research assessed the reliability of an adductor strength test in male professional basketballers in preseason. Strength was tested using a sphygmomanometer between the knees at 0°, 45°, and 90° of hip flexion, in two trials. There was no difference in mean scores between trials. All conditions had moderate or higher intrarater reliability, with 45° hip flexion the most reliable. This test can be used to identify and monitor players with increased adductor injury risk.

The Effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy on Self-Blame and Cognitive Avoidance in Adolescents with Subclinical Depression

Objective: The aim of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy on self-blame and cognitive avoidance in adolescents with subclinical depression. Methods and Materials: This research utilized a quasi-experimental method with a pretest-posttest design and a control group. The statistical population of the present study consisted of all 16-17-year-old adolescents studying in public schools in District 2 of Sari during the 2023-2024 academic year. From 35 high schools in District 2 of Sari, two public schools, Sharif al-Olama and Al-Zahra, were randomly selected. A sample of 30 adolescents was selected using purposive sampling and assigned to experimental and control groups (15 participants each). Data were collected using the Beck Depression Inventory, Second Edition (Beck et al., 1961), the Self-Blame Scale (Thomson &amp; Zuroff, 2004), and the Cognitive Avoidance Questionnaire (Sexton &amp; Dugas, 2004). The mindfulness-based cognitive therapy program was conducted in eight 90-minute sessions for the experimental group, while the control group received no treatment. Data were analyzed using covariance analysis. Findings: The findings indicated a significant difference in the posttest mean scores of the experimental group compared to the control group after controlling for pretest differences in self-blame and cognitive avoidance (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Based on the findings, it is concluded that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is effective in reducing self-blame and cognitive avoidance in adolescents with subclinical depression and that this intervention is applicable for adolescents with subclinical depression.

Clinical Outcomes of Anatomic, Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction through All-inside Technique in Armed Forces Personnel

Abstract Context: Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) allows patients to resume their sports activity and delay the onset of osteoarthritis associated with loss of meniscal function. The all-inside approach for ACL reconstruction (ACLR) is to increase the graft diameter by folding several strands when sufficient graft diameter is not secured. Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes in patients undergoing of anatomic, all-inside ACLR procedure. Settings and Design: This was a prospective clinical study conducted in a Tertiary Care Hospital for 12 months on patients undergoing all-inside anatomic arthroscopic ACLR with hamstring autograft using BUTTONFIX® fixation button with adjustable loop (Chetan Meditech Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India). Subjects and Methods: Patients were evaluated for functional status using Lysholm Knee Score, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Tegner Activity Scale at 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month postsurgery. Statistical Analysis Used: All the statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 23 (IBM 2013). Results: Forty patients were included in the study with a mean age of 29.38 ± 5.47. There was a gradual increase in the scores at the follow-up starting from baseline with a mean difference of Lysholm knee score from 43.58 ± 5.23 to 93.50 ± 3.00 at the 12-month follow-up period. Similarly, the KOOS at baseline showed a mean of 44.03 ± 5.20, which increased gradually up to 93.05 ± 2.83 at 12 months, and the Tegner activity score at baseline was 3.55 ± 0.6 and gradually increased to 7.28 ± 0.85 at 12-month period. Conclusions: All-inside surgical techniques for the anatomic ACLR showed favorable clinical and functional outcomes.

Validity testing of the Korean version of the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) and its application in people with chronic diseases.

Health literacy plays a crucial role in promoting and maintaining the health of patients with chronic illnesses. Therefore, adequate assessments and the application of interventions based on people's health literacy strengths, needs, and preferences are required to improve health outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometrical properties of the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) in Koreans with chronic diseases. Data were collected from 278 patients (57.04±15.22 years) diagnosed with chronic disease, including kidney disease, hypertension, and diabetes, who visited the outpatient clinic of a university hospital from June to December 2020. For validity assessment, construct, convergent, and discriminant validities were evaluated, along with the HLQ reliability using Cronbach's α. One-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate mean differences in the HLQ scale scores based on patients' characteristics. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) indicated that all items were loaded on their respective factors. The model fit of a full nine-factor CFA model showed satisfactory or better fit compared with nine one-factor CFA model; χ2WLSMV (866) = 576.596 (p < .001), comparative normed fit index of 1.000 (reference: >0.950), Tucker-Lewis index of 0.981 (reference: >0.950), root mean square error of approximation of 0.066 (reference: <0.080), and standardized root mean square residual of 0.055 (reference: <0.080). All scales demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α ≥.757). Sociodemographic characteristic variables with significant score differences in HLQ scores were reported across nine scales, with the level of education and income showing significant score differences in 8 and 6 scales, respectively. This study revealed that the Korean version of the HLQ has many strong measurement properties among patients with chronic diseases. The validation indicated the HLQ as a robust tool that is used cross-culturally and is recommended for use in the Korean population.

Online English Language Teaching of Grade Eleven Students

In the Philippines, English teachers face additional challenges with online learning, particularly regarding connectivity issues and the teaching of grammar. Students also struggle with modular distance learning due to the lack of stable social and physical interactions. Considering these challenges, evaluating the effectiveness of online learning in English language teaching can inform decision-making among education stakeholders. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the effectiveness of online learning for Grade 11 English language instruction. To investigate this, the study employed an experimental research design to assess the effectiveness of online English language instruction for Grade 11 students. An equal number of 30 students were allocated to both the control and experimental groups. Specifically, the control group comprised 30 GAS students receiving instruction through the modular approach, while the experimental group consisted of 30 HUMSS students undergoing online English language instruction. A comparative analysis was conducted to ascertain differences between the pretest mean scores of students taught using modular versus online methods, differences between their posttest mean scores under these approaches, and discrepancies between their pretest and posttest mean scores across both approaches. Results revealed that modular and online approaches to teaching English were both effective to the students considering that no significant difference was shown in their pretest mean scores. However, the students were more comfortable with online learning since there was a significant difference in the post-test mean scores when taught using modular and online learning.

Knowledge, attitude and practice toward diabetes among the public in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study.

The increasing adoption of sedentary lifestyles and cultural shifts has fostered unhealthy habits and decreased physical activity, consequently exacerbating the prevalence of diabetes. Diabetes is currently one of the top 10 diseases worldwide, contributing significantly to both mortality and morbidity. Since diabetes hinges on self-care, possessing the right knowledge, attitude, and habits related to the disease is paramount. This study, therefore, aims to examine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of diabetes among the population of Saudi Arabia. The study utilized data from a cross-sectional study conducted via an online self-reported questionnaire among the general population of Saudi Arabia. The study primarily used univariate and multivariable regression data analyses. Univariate analysis was employed to compile social and demographic statistics frequencies, while One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess mean differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practices scores. Furthermore, a multivariable linear regression analysis was executed to identify factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The mean score for diabetes knowledge was 17.79 (SD = 5.39, range: 0-29), with an overall accuracy rate of 61.34%. The mean attitude score for diabetes was 2.33 (SD = 1.91, range: 0-7), while the mean score for diabetes practices was 2.58 (SD = 1.28, range: 0-4). The multivariate analyses reveal distinct variations in knowledge, attitudes, and practices of diabetes among participants based on their gender, education, marital status, income, diabetes patient status, and having a medical field-related education. High knowledge scores do not necessarily equate to positive attitudes and practices related to diabetes. There is need for intensified care and the implementation of specialized educational programs that emphasize the importance of having the right attitude and engaging in the good diabetes practices.

Utilization of interactive E-book in bridging the least learned competencies in statistics and probability

This experimental study with purposive non-probability sampling focused on investigating the results before and after using interactive e-books by the Grade 12 students at Southville 1 Integrated School during the academic year 2022-2023. This study was conducted among 108 students in Grade 12 who answered the 20-item pre-test and 20-item post-test with a 5-point Likert scale survey. This study used mean, standard deviation, and mean percentage scores to determine the effectiveness of interactive e-books in bridging the least learned competency and a paired sample t-test test to analyze the significant difference between the respondents' performance before and after utilizing the interactive e-book. The study showed a significant mean difference in pre-test and post-test scores, indicating a significant decrease in scores before the intervention. However, interactive e-books resulted in a considerable performance improvement, as evidenced by the t-value and low p-value, which revealed a significant difference between the two scores. The effect size of 1.93 was likewise adequate, showing the magnitude of the observed effect. The findings indicate that interactive e-books can increase students' academic performance and learning outcomes as digital learning materials. The study finds that using interactive e-books in the classroom can increase student engagement, comprehension, and overall academic achievement.