Independent Sample T-test Research Articles

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

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

Virtual reality in specialized dentistry: employing virtual reality for the alleviation of pain and anxiety in hereditary angioedema patients.

Following an episode of hereditary angioedema (HAE), dental anxiety commonly arises, and many patients find it challenging to access proper care. While the use of virtual reality (VR) for pain and anxiety management in dentistry is on the rise, its application in individuals with angioedema remains largely unexplored. In a case series conducted at a specialized dental clinic, three patients with a history of acute angioedema attacks and dental anxiety engaged with 360° VR videos while seated in the dental chair, utilizing a virtual reality device. Three patients with hereditary angioedema were treated by subjecting them to virtual immersion using VR glasses. Intraoperative reactions were analyzed using VAS scales in order to report the patients' level of anxiety and pain. The outcomes, evaluated through a standard observation tool, surveys, and interviews, encompass the assessment of patient anxiety and pain, responses to VR, and the evaluation of system usability along with its impact on the dental team's workflow Three individuals underwent examination, from which three reliable questionnaires were obtained, demonstrating a success rate of 99.9%. The group included one male and two females, with their ages spanning from 6 to 58 years. The findings revealed an average anxiety score of 1.80 with a standard deviation of 0.6 points, and an average pain score of 1.98 with a standard deviation of 0.3, thus validating full immersion in distraction. Statistical analysis using independent-sample t-tests and ANOVA indicated no significant differences in anxiety levels among the patients based on gender. Both patients wore the VR device throughout the procedure, expressing that it was comfortable, diverting, and held the potential to alleviate anxiety and pain. The dentist noted a positive influence on patient anxiety levels and procedure completion times, expressing an intention to continue employing VR with other angioedema patients and across diverse clinical populations. Virtual reality can be an excellent distraction tool in patients with hereditary angioedema who present at least one acute attack per year.

Comparing de novo heart failure and acute decompensated heart failure using a proteomic approach

Abstract Background Acute heart failure (HF) is defined as new or worsening symptoms of HF and stands as the most common cause of unscheduled hospital admission in patients above the age of 65. Acute HF can be classified into de novo HF (DNHF), defined as no previous history of HF, and acutely decompensated HF (ADHF), defined as worsening symptoms of HF in individuals with a prior diagnosis of HF. Clinically, it is relevant to distinguish ADHF from DNHF as they differ regarding aetiology, comorbidities, mortality, and morbidity. The aim of this study was to compare DNHF and ADHF using a proteomic approach. Method Using a proximity extension assay in a Swedish HF cohort, a total of 324 individuals hospitalized for acute HF underwent proteomic analysis of 92 proteins. The population was categorized into DNHF and ADHF, subsequently comparing normally distributed proteins using an independent samples t-test. Non-normally distributed proteins were compared using the Mann-Whitey U-test. To adjust for multiple testing, Benjamini Hochberg method was applied with a false discovery rate of 5%. Fold change was calculated by subtracting the mean or median protein concentration in ADHF from DNHF. As protein concentrations are expressed on a log2-scale, the difference between the groups equals the fold change. Proteins were considered differentially expressed at a fold change threshold of 1.15. The proteins that met a cut-off, were thereafter analysed with a pathway enrichment analysis using Reactome (only a corrected p-value ≤0.05 was considered significant). Results Complete data was available for n=317 (30.3% women; mean age 74.6) individuals (Table 1). After FDR adjustment, differential protein expression analysis yielded 56 differentially expressed proteins. After applying the fold change threshold, 51 proteins were significantly up regulated in ADHF compared to DNHF and one (Paraoxonase 3) was significantly downregulated. The most prominently up-regulated protein was fatty acid binding protein-4 (FABP4) (fold change 1.68, p <0.001). The largest number of proteins were related to neutrophil degranulation (Figure 1). Conclusion In patients hospitalized for acute HF, we identified several common pathways of the proteins differentially expressed in DNHF compared with ADHF. Neutrophil degranulation was related to the largest number of proteins. The most prominently up regulated protein was FABP4. These findings may inspire future investigation into the different underlying molecular mechanisms in ADHF and DNHF and reveal potentially different targets of treatment between the two conditions.Figure 1.Pathway enrichment analysis

The Effect of Using Interactive Learning Media on Science Learning Outcomes of Class IV Students at SD Negeri 136 Palembang

This research aims to determine whether there is an influence of the use of interactive learning media on the science learning outcomes of class VI students at SD Negeri 136 Palembang. This research is a quantitative type using the True Experimental type of experimental research method with a Matching Pretest – Posttest Comparison Group Design. The population of this study were all fourth grade students at SD Negeri 136 Palembang. The sample for this research was students in class IV.A and IV.B with a total of 43 students. The sample selection technique used was simple random sampling. Data collection techniques in this research are observation and tests. Data analysis used the Independent sample T-test. The results of this research show that the average posttest learning outcome score for the experimental class is 78.18 and the control class is 67.62. The results of the t-test calculation of learning outcomes obtained t_count= 2.460 ≥ t_tabel= 1.6829 with a significance level = 0.05. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that there is a significant influence of the use of interactive learning media on the science learning outcomes of class IV students at SD Negeri 136 Palembang.

Mapping the localization of the facial artery and vein at the inferior border of the mandible for clinical applications.

To spatially map the position of the facial artery and vein along the inferior border of the mandible based on specific facial reference points. This cross-sectional study included 40 sides of 21 formalin-fixed cadaver heads (11 female, 10 male) with a mean age of 72.92 ± 11.72years. Superficial dissection was performed to visualize the facial artery and vein at the inferior border of the mandible (FA and FV). Measurements were taken from the FA and FV to various facial landmarks using a digital caliper and medical protractor. Statistical analysis was conducted using Shapiro-Wilk, independent sample t-tests, and paired sample t-tests. The mean distance between FA and FV was 6.20 ± 2.97mm. Distances from FA and FV to gnathion, oral commissure, nasal wing, lateral canthus, angle of mandible, intertragic notch, and Manson's point were determined, with no significant differences found between sides and genders (p > 0.05). The closest distances from FA and FV to the line between the intertragic notch and oral commissure were 38.63 ± 4.86mm and 37.78 ± 5.28mm, respectively. The angular measurements of FA and FV with inferior border of mandible were 61.45 ± 13.71 and 76.56 ± 10.17 degrees, respectively. The angle between intertragic notch, FA and oral commisure was 102.40 ± 11.12 degrees. The detailed measurements and analysis provided in this study aim to enhance the precision of surgical interventions involving the facial artery and vein. The practical localization methods proposed can assist in minimizing the risk of vascular injuries, improving outcomes in reconstructive and aesthetic procedures.

The Influence of the Talking Stick Learning Model on the Motivation and Learning Outcomes of Class V Students at SD Negeri 88 Palembang

This research aims to determine whether there is an influence of using the Talking Stick learning model on the motivation and learning outcomes of class V students at SD Negeri 88 Palembang. This research is a quantitative type using a Quasi Experimental type of experimental research method with a Nonequivalent Control Group Design. The population of this study were all fifth grade students at SD Negeri 88 Palembang. The sample for this research was students in classes V.3 and V.4 with a total of 50 students. The sample selection technique used was proportional sampling. Data collection techniques in this research are questionnaires and tests. Data analysis used the Independent sample T-test. The results of this research show that the average posttest learning motivation score for the experimental class is 87.28 and the control class is 78.72, while the average posttest learning result for the experimental class is 86 and the control class is 71.20. The results of the t-test calculation of learning motivation obtained t_count= 6.591 ≥ t_tabel= 1.678 and the results of the calculation of learning outcomes obtained t_count= 4.714 ≥ t_tabel= 1.678 with a significance level = 0.05. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that there is a significant influence of the use of the Talking Stick learning model on the motivation and learning outcomes of class V students at SD Negeri 88 Palembang.

Acculturation and self-management abilities of well-being among older Moroccans in the Netherlands

Abstract Background Migration involves a variety of stressors. Their accumulation over time may negatively impact migrants’ well-being. The extent that older migrants can integrate into a host society may determine their readiness to adopt behaviors such as self-management of well-being. Research regarding this relation among older Moroccans, one of the largest migrant groups in the Netherlands, has not been examined. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between acculturation and self-management abilities of well-being among older Moroccans and to examine differences in subgroups. Methods This cross-sectional study included 290 older Moroccans (≥ 65) living in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Linear regression was applied to explore associations between acculturation (attachment to Moroccan and Dutch cultures) and self-management abilities of well-being. Independent samples t-tests were used to test differences between subgroups. Results Older Moroccans who received low education were found to be less attached to the Dutch culture [3.24 (0.72) vs. 3.54 (0.73); p = 0.016]. They were also poorer self-managers of their well-being [2.60 (0.59) vs. 2.86 (0.58); p = 0.012], along with those with multi-morbidity [2.55 (0.60) vs. 2.77 (0.54); p = 0.006] and those lacking comprehension of Dutch [2.46 (0.56) vs. 2.69 (0.59); p = 0.011]. Self-management abilities of well-being had a negative association with multi-morbidity (β = −0.18, p = 0.007) and lack of Dutch comprehension (β = −0.16, p = 0.031), and a positive association with attachment to Moroccan (β = 0.17, p = 0.012) and Dutch (β = 0.18, p = 0.010) cultures. Conclusions Findings indicate that attachment to Moroccan and Dutch cultures is beneficial for older Moroccans’ self-management of well-being. Efforts need to support older migrants’ integration for them to adequately function and feel at home. Interventions promoting integration and self-management need to consider the characteristics of older migrant populations Key messages • Attachment to origin and host cultures benefits older migrants’ self-management of well-being. The cultural context of older migrants needs to be considered when promoting values of self-management. • Differences in acculturation and self-management of well-being existed between older migrant subgroups. Interventions promoting these values should account for the diversity that exists among migrants.

Improvement of left atrial function after ablation in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is associated with the presence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) often coexist and left atrial (LA) function was impaired in both AF and HFpEF. However, It remains unclear if HFpEF is linked to LA function improvement in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (pxAF) patients post-ablation. Purpose To investigate whether the improvement of LA function after ablation in patients with pxAF combined with HFpEF is better than that in patients without HFpEF. Methods 147 patients with pxAF were enrolled and HFpEF was ascertained based on the H2FPEF score. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) at baseline and 3 months after ablation. Left atrial volume index (LAVI), left atrial ejection fraction (LAEF) and left atrial peak reservoir strain (LA RS) were measured. Improvement of left atrial function is defined as the difference in the above 3 indicators at baseline and 3 months after ablation. The change of the above atrial functional parameters was compared between patients with high-probability of HFpEF [hp-HFpEF] and medium/low-probability of HFpEF [lp-HFpEF]) in univariate and multivariate analysis. Statistical analyses were conducted using independent samples t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and ANCOVA. Results 147 patients were included (30 hp-HFpEF, 117 lp-HFpEF, mean age 62.6 years, 63.3% men, mean BMI 25.54kg/㎡, mean disease course 28.2 months, mean CHA2DS2-VASc score 1.97). In the univariate analysis, the following factors were significantly different between hp-HFpEF and lp-HFpEF, including BMI (26.95±3.71 vs. 25.18±3.00, p=0.007), CHA2DS2-VASc score (3[3-4] vs. 2[1-2], p＜0.001), LA function at baseline including LAVI (41.59±11.38 vs. 32.57[27.68-41.10], p=0.003), LAEF (45.97±10.26 vs. 57.23±9.08, p＜0.001), LA RS (26.43±10.68 vs. 34.43±10.60, p＜0.001), and difference at baseline and 3 months after ablation in LA function including LAVI (4.92±1.08 vs. 3.33±1.18, p＜0.001), LAEF (13.41±9.71 vs. 2.98±9.69, p＜0.001), LA RS (23.61±10.23 vs. 7.29±6.91, p＜0.001), and in left ventricular (LV) TTE indicators including E/e’ (3.10±2.30 vs. -0.32±2.68, p＜0.001), LV ejection fraction (10.5[7.0-16.5] vs. 2.0[-5.0-6.0], p＜0.001), LV global longitudinal strain (14.94±4.27 vs. 5.15[2.63-8.30], p＜0.001) and LV mass (17.79±28.67 vs 1.50[-8.75-17.00], p=0.006). After adjusted for BMI, CHA2DS2-VASc score, LA function at baseline and difference at baseline and 3 months after ablation in LV TTE indicators, the improvement of LA function 3 months after ablation in patients with hp-HFpEF is better than that in patients with lp-HFpEF: LAVI significantly decreased (4.24±0.21 vs. 3.46± 0.09, p＜0.001), LAEF significantly increased (12.90±2.13 vs. 3.09±0.86, p＜0.001) and LA RS significantly increased (21.44±1.81 vs. 8.02±0.76, p＜0.001) in hp-HFpEF compared with lp-HFpEF. Conclusion Patients with pxAF with hp-HFpEF showed better improvement in LA function after ablation than those with Ip-HFpEF.

The Impact of Parental Involvement in Preschool on Children’s Academic Performance

This study aims to examine whether there is a correlation between parental involvement in preschool and children’s academic performance. The study also investigated whether parental involvement (home-based, school-based and home-school conferencing) have an impact on pre-school children’s academic performance. In addition, this study also investigated the effects of parents’ gender, level of education and income on young learners’ academic success at school. This study employed a descriptive research design and used questionnaire to collect the data. The sample consists of 400 parents from five preschools in Henan district, China. Stratified random sampling was used in choosing the sample. The data of the study were analyzed using independent correlation, regression, independent samples t-test and one-way ANOVA. The results revealed that there is a significant positive correlation between parental involvement (home-based involvement, school-based involvement and home-school conferencing) and preschoolers' academic performance. The findings also showed that female parents were more engaged than male parents at preschool. Results of the ANOVA test revealed that parents with higher level of education and higher income were significantly more involved in preschool compared to their counterparts with lower level of education and lower income. These findings are crucial for policy makers to take the right measures in enhancing parental involvement in preschool.

Cusp-overlap technique to reduce permanent pacemaker implantation rate after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Abstract Background Persistent conduction disturbances requiring permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation are one of the most common complications after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI). Cusp-Overlap Technique (COT) is a novel approach for self-expandable valve implantation to minimize the rate of procedural complications, mainly PPM implantation. Purpose To determine if the COT during TAVI with self-expandable valves leads to a reduction of PPM implantation rate in the real-world setting. Methods A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients undergoing TAVI between January 2020 and November 2023 in one high-volume tertiary care center in Portugal was conducted. Two groups were defined, the COT group and the control group based on the fluoroscopic approach. A baseline comparison between the 2 groups was made using independent-samples t-test and chi-square analysis to determine if there was a difference between the prevalence of known risk factors for PPM implantation after TAVI. Afterwards, chi-square analysis was used to determine if COT led to a reduction in the PPM implantation rate. Results Of the 539 completed procedures in this timeframe, 289 were excluded due to previous pacemaker implantation, use of a valve not amenable to COT or valve-in-valve implantation. COT was used in 57.6% of eligible cases. Baseline comparison did not show a significant difference in the prevalence of several known risk factors for PPM implantation, including complete right bundle branch block, atrio-ventricular block, calcium score, aortic ring dimensions and pre/post-dilation. PPM implantation after TAVI was required in 31.6% of cases. In the COT group the PPM implantation rate was 22.9% and in the control group 43.4%. Chi-square analysis showed a very statistically significant difference between the 2 analyzed groups (p-value = 0.001). Conclusion PPM implantation remains a frequent complication of TAVI. However, this study showed that the utilization of COT leads to a reduction of the PPM implantation rate.

The Relation Between "Main Business Area” And "Job Satisfaction" In Terms Of Doctors And Nurses In Türkiye

High expectations, which been sourced from high challenging skills, high level knowledge and to be hardworking, make healthcare staffs highly separated in work environment. The study was aimed to show whether there is difference between working in corporation in which “Main Business Area” (MBA) is healthcare services and is not healthcare services in terms of job satisfaction of doctors and nurses in Türkiye. The study was made up as “Descriptive” and “Cross-Sectional”, based on survey and literature. Hypothesis was tested though “Job Satisfaction Scale Turkish Version” (JSS) which created by Spector (1994) and prepared Turkish version by Yelboğa (2009). 9 Facet out of JSS were evaluated with 4 items for each, total score was calculated through 36 items. “SPSS” was used for evaluating of statistics. Independent Samples t-Test was used for analyzing of hypothesis. While study population consists of doctors and nurses in Türkiye, 258 Participant completed JSS out of 844 population who were sampled through Convenience Sampling and Snowball Sampling. While 147 of all participants were descripted their job in healthcare “MBA” (HMBA), 111 participants were outside. There was a significant difference between two groups in terms of Total Job Satisfaction Means. There was not significant difference between two groups in terms of Pay, Promotion and Fringe Benefits, though there was in terms of Supervision, Contingent Rewards, Operating Conditions, Coworkers, Nature of Work and Communication. As a result; doctors and nurses are openly dissatisfied which work outside HMBA like medical facilities of military or industrial corporations, in Türkiye.

Does Content-Focused Intervention Enhance Motivation in Physical Education? A Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Guided by the content specificity perspective of motivation, the purpose of the study was to identify the extent to which student motivation level is a function of content variations. Motivation intervention studies were reviewed and categorized into content-focused and motivation-only learning contexts for meta-analysis. Original and calculated effect sizes were used to determine the effects of each learning context on student motivation change. Two independent sample t-tests were conducted to compare effect sizes. The analyses showed that the content-focused learning context was effective in student motivation change (effect size g = 0.88). Within the content-focused learning context, intervention content was significantly more effective in student motivation change than the conventional curriculum (effect size g = 0.36). The findings suggest a possibility that motivation is content-specific and should be part of the curriculum.

Enhanced Safety and Efficacy of O-Arm Navigation Over C-Arm Guidance in Percutaneous Kyphoplasty for Patients With Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures and Spinal Deformity: A Comparative Study.

Although percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) under C-arm guidance is an effective treatment for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF), obtaining high-definition images in patients with OVCF and spinal deformities can be challenging or insufficient using traditional C-arm guidance, prompting our institution to adopt the O-arm navigation system-which offers comprehensive 3D imaging and precise navigation-and this study compares its safety and efficacy with conventional C-arm-assisted PKP. This was a retrospective study. From February 2019 to February 2022, we enrolled 28 patients with OVCF (44 vertebrae) with spinal deformity treated with O-arm navigation-assisted PKP and 30 patients with OVCF (42 vertebrae) with spinal deformity treated with C-arm-guided PKP. We recorded puncture times, single-segment operation time, number of cases with bone cement leakage, and length of stay. The visual analog scales (VASs), Oswestry disability indexes (ODIs), recovery of Cobbs angle, and vertebral height were used to assess treatment effect before the operation, on the first day postoperation, the first month postoperation, and at the final follow-up. The chi-squared test was utilized for comparing discrete variables, an independent samples t-test was used for continuous variables, and Pearson's chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test were applied for categorical data. Demographic features were comparable between the groups. The O-arm navigation group showed a significant reduction in puncture adjustment per vertebrae, single-segment operation time, and the rate of trocar needle malposition compared to the C-arm guidance group. The rate of cement leakage was decreased in the O-arm-guided PKP group, and other complications did not differ between the two groups. Intragroup comparisons revealed significant improvements in VAS scores and ODI on the first day, first month, and final follow-up after the operation (p < 0.05). The VAS score was significantly lower in the O-arm navigation-assisted PKP group than in the C-arm-guided PKP group on the first day postoperatively (p = 0.049). However, no significant differences in VAS scores were observed between the groups at the first month postoperatively or at the final follow-up. In each follow-up period, there was no significant difference in ODI, Cobb angle, and the percent of anterior vertebral height (AVH %) between the groups. O-arm navigation-assisted PKP demonstrates better clinical safety and efficacy than C-arm-guided PKP, marking it as a minimally invasive, safe, and effective procedure for treating patients with OVCF with spinal deformity.

The Effect of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy-Based Psychoeducation on Medication Adherence and Aggression in Individuals Diagnosed With Schizophrenia: An Experimental Study.

It is known that treatment compliance is low and aggression is higher in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia compared to the normal population. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is known to reduce relapse and hospitalisation and increase well-being in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. However, there are almost no studies on increasing treatment compliance and decreasing aggression. This study was conducted to determine how CBT-based psychoeducation affects medication adherence and aggression in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. The study was conducted as a quasi-experimental model with the pre-test-post-test control group with 73 schizophrenic patients (33 experimental, 40 control) between June 2022 and July 2023. Data were collected using the Descriptive Characteristics Form, Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) and Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPSQ). The schizophrenic patients in the experimental group were given eight sessions of CBT-based psychoeducation, while the schizophrenic patients in the control group were not given any training. The data were analysed using mean, standard deviation, chi-squared test, dependent samples t-test and independent samples t-test. It was determined that the aggression level of the experimental group before the training was 80.51 ± 19.38, and after the CBT-based psychoeducation, it was 73.12 ± 15.28. It was determined that the aggression level of the control group before the training was 84.22 ± 12.13, and after the post-test, it was 85.60 ± 11.72. It was determined that the medication adherence level of the experimental group before the training was 2.75 ± 1.25, and after the CBT-based psychoeducation, it was 3.57 ± 0.67. It was determined that the medication adherence level of the control group before the training was 2.05 ± 1.33, and after the post-test, it was 2.17 ± 1.36. The psychoeducation based on CBT caused a statistically significant difference (p = 0.001) in medication adherence and aggression levels in the experimental group. It was determined that CBT applied to individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia was effective on increasing their medication adherence and reducing their aggression. It is recommended for psychiatric nurses to include CBT-based psychoeducation in their nursing practices in order to increase medication adherence and reduce aggression in individuals with schizophrenia. The findings emphasise that CBT-based psychoeducation increases treatment adherence and significantly decreases the level of aggression in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Psychiatric nurses should include CBT-based psychoeducation in their treatments.

Assessment of Compliance Status and Its Determinants Among Hypertensive Patients From County Areas in Zhejiang, China: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Compliance is crucial for patients to control and manage their high blood pressure. This study assesses the compliance levels of hypertensive patients in China and explores the factors influencing compliance. A descriptive, cross-sectional design was conducted. A total of 371 hypertensive patients were recruited from six County hospitals and 12 township health centers in Zhejiang Province, China. Patient compliance was measured using the Hypertensive Patient Scale (CHPS). Independent-sample T-test or variance analysis was applied to analyze CHPS scores by sociodemographic factors, and linear regression was used to explore the significant correlates of the total CHPS score. The total score of CHPS was 50.18 ± 6.12. Among the seven domains, drug treatment and lifestyle had the highest and lowest average scores, 3.59 ± 0.87 and 2.74 ± 0.73, respectively. The total score of CHPS positively associated with age (β = 0.075, p = 0.028), > 7 years of hypertension (β = 1.896, p = 0.022; Ref: < 3 years), and negatively associated with males (β = -2.224, p = 0.001; Ref: female) and rural area (β = -2.008, p = 0.007; Ref: urban area). These findings highlight the importance of related measurements of thelocal "health-oriented" healthcare system. Primary health professionals should strengthen their health behavior intervention capacity and improve hypertension management among their patients.

Adherence to Mediterranean diet in Moroccan school-age adolescents: sociodemographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle determinants

BackgroundDespite its benefits, the Mediterranean diet (MD) is abandoned or not adopted by the younger generations in most Mediterranean countries.ObjectiveThe aim here was to examine some factors determining adherence to MD in Moroccan school-age adolescents.Material and methodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in a school setting among 386 students (148 boys and 238 girls), aged 14 to 18 years, randomly selected and from different socioeconomic strata. A structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle data. Physical activity was assessed using the short French version of the IPAQ questionnaire. The KIDMED test was used to assess adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured according to WHO standards. Body mass index (BMI) and waist�to-height ratio (WHtR) were calculated. Statistical ANOVA test was used for to compare multiple means, Student’s t-test for independent samples, &lt;i&gt;Chi&lt;/i&gt;&lt;sup&gt;2&lt;/sup&gt; test for categorical variables and multinomial logistic regression analysis to identify factors associated with adherence to the MD amongst adolescents sample.ResultsAdherence to the MD in this population was very low, with nearly 53% having poor adherence and only 7.7% reporting optimal adherence. Multinomial regression analyses showed that poor adherence is correlated with female gender (p=0.042), low paternal education (p=0.004), limited number of meals (p=0.006), advanced age (p=0.005) and inadequate sleep duration (p=0.027). In contrast, better adherence appears to be correlated with a high number of meals per day (p&lt;0.001) and a better socio-professional class of the father (p&lt;0.001).ConclusionsThis study revealed a low prevalence of good adherence to MD confirming a transition of the study adolescents towards a Westernized diet. Targeted nutritional intervention programs should be implemented to improve adherence to the MD among Moroccan adolescents, by promoting healthy eating habits.

Prevalence and associated factors of dyslipidemia in elderly people: Results from the Ardakan Cohort Study on Ageing, Iran.

Dyslipidemia is a major modifiable factor in elderly people. The study objective was to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of dyslipidemia among the Iranian population aged over 50. This population-based cross-sectional study is part of the Iranian Longitudinal Study on Ageing conducted in Ardakan, Iran. In total, 5,197 participants aged over 50 years old were included through a stratified random sampling method. Dyslipidemia was defined in compliance with the Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. The Chi-square and independent sample t-test were used to compare categorical and quantitative variables, respectively. A logistic regression analysis was applied to determine associated factors of dyslipidemia. The mean age of the participants was 62.24±7.52. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 68.85%. High levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and low level of high-density lipoprotein were seen among 9.74%, 24.66%, 5.54%, 19.20% of the participants, respectively. In addition, 66.05% of the study participants were under the treatment of lipid-lowering medications. Among the possible investigated risk factors of dyslipidemia, male gender (odds ratio (OR) = 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.47, 0.68), waist circumference (OR = 1.03, 95%CI: 1.02, 1.04), diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.28, 95%CI: 1.96, 2.66), and hypertension (OR = 1.59, 95%CI: 1.38, 1.83) showed a statistically significant association (p<0.05). Dyslipidemia is highly prevalent in Ardakan's older population. So, lipid management interventions are necessary for this population.

Caregiver burden, religious coping, and spiritual well-being among caregivers of elderly stroke patients and predictors affecting spiritual well-being.

Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. Stroke usually creates a range of disabilities such as physical deficits and difficulty in performing daily activities. These long-term needs and the continuous caregiving sequence affect the care burden and spiritual well-being of caregivers. The correlational study population consisted of caregivers of stroke older patients (N = 100). Burden Interview Scale, Spiritual Well-Being Scale and Religious Coping Scale were used. Descriptive analyses, independent sample t-test, one-way analysis of variance, correlation, regression analyses were used to evaluate the data. The mean age of caregivers was 48.38 ± 13.52 years. The score of Burden Interview Scale was 31.41 ± 15.13 (light/moderate), Negative Religious Coping was 7.39 ± 3.17 (moderate), Positive Religious Coping was 24.30 ± 4.34 (high), and Spiritual Well-Being was 21.65 ± 6.73 (low). There is a significant relationship between Burden Interview and Negative Religious Coping (r = 0.274; P = 0.006), Burden Interview and spiritual well-being (r = -0.563; P = 0.000), and spiritual well-being and positive religious coping (r = 0.228; P = 0.026). The predictors that affect the spiritual well-being of caregivers were found to be Burden Interview (β = -0.571) and Positive Religious Coping (β = 0.181) (P < 0.05). Nurses play an important role in increasing the spiritual well-being levels and religious coping behaviours of caregivers. Nurses should communicate empathically with caregivers, understand their feelings, and provide emotional support.

Teaching Online in a Developing Country Context

This study explored lecturer perceptions of their use of a Learning Management System (LMS) at a rural university in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study took place just prior to the COVID-19 lockdown and provides a brief insight into the thoughts of lecturers at this time. A sample of 141 lecturers from six faculties at the rural university completed an online questionnaire. A factor analysis (using principal component analysis and varimax rotation) of 46 items on lecturers’ perceptions of the LMS yielded six factors: their perceptions of usefulness, performance expectancy, self-efficacy, technical support, effort, and institutional support using the LMS. The reliability of factors was confirmed, while group differences were determined with independent sample t-tests and ANOVAs. The results indicate that although lecturers found the LMS to be beneficial, they were reluctant to use it when teaching face-to-face. There was a large discrepancy between the perceived usefulness and their actual use of the LMS. They perceived the LMS to be very useful but found technical- and institutional support to be low, which in turn strongly influenced their low self-efficacy (confidence) to use it. It emerged that increased training and support for lecturers would address both work performance and the confidence of lecturers using the platform. It was also evident that each academic department requires a dedicated teaching and learning consultant and that a centralized teaching and learning division may not be the answer. The one academic department with their own dedicated consultant was the best prepared for the demands of online teaching when the need arose.

Comparative Analysis of Blood Transfusion Accuracy and Hemolysis Rate of Transfusion Cartridge Set Between Conventional Infusion Pumps and Cylinder-Type Infusion Pumps

Background: Infusion pumps are critical in delivering fluids, including medications and blood products, in controlled amounts. However, conventional pumps can cause hemolysis and other issues such as flow variations and infection risks, especially during blood transfusions. To address these limitations, a novel cylinder-type infusion pump, the Anyfusion H-100, was developed, which includes a specialized blood transfusion cartridge set that combines syringe and peristaltic infusion methods. This study evaluates the accuracy and hemolysis rates of the Anyfusion H-100 compared to conventional pumps, aiming to confirm its viability as a safe and effective medical device for blood transfusions. Methods: This study evaluated six different infusion rates (10–180 cc/hr) and conducted 57 transfusion trials, 20 of which used a 1:1 blood–saline dilution. Blood transfusion accuracy was measured using research-grade packed red blood cells, and hemolysis rates were assessed before and after transfusion by chi-square tests and independent sample t-tests. Results: Anyfusion demonstrated an average transfusion error rate of 3.77%, compared to 4.00% for the Terufusion, with no statistically significant difference in hemolysis rates (p = 0.697). Bland–Altman plots confirmed their equivalent performance, with hemolysis rates of 0.566 ± 0.095% for Anyfusion and 0.518 ± 0.126% for Terufusion. Conclusions: Anyfusion provides an accurate and reliable blood transfusion performance comparable to that of Terufusion, with no significant difference in hemolysis rates; its integration of syringe and infusion methods shows a potential for safer and more efficient transfusion practices, especially in pediatric and emergency settings.