Independent Sample T-test Research Articles

Appetite Loss in Patients with Advanced Cancer Treated at an Acute Palliative Care Unit.

Appetite loss is prevalent in patients with advanced cancer and negatively affects their quality of life. However, understanding of the factors associated with appetite loss is limited. The current study aims to explore characteristics and therapeutic interventions used for patients with and without appetite loss admitted to an acute palliative care unit. Patient characteristics and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), using the 11-point numeric rating scale (NRS 0-10), were registered. Descriptive statistics, independent samples T-tests and chi-square tests were utilized for data analysis. Of the 167 patients included in the analysis, 62% (104) had moderate to severe appetite loss at admission, whereof 63% (66) improved their appetite during their hospital stay. At admission, there was a significant association between appetite loss and having gastrointestinal cancer, living alone, poor performance status and withdrawn anticancer treatment. Patients with appetite loss also experienced more nausea, depression, fatigue, dyspnea and anxiety. In patients with improved appetite during hospitalization, mean decrease in NRS was 3.4 (standard error (SE) 0.27). Additionally, patients living alone were more likely to improve their appetite. Appetite improvement frequently coincided with alleviation of fatigue. Understanding these associations may help in developing better interventions for managing appetite loss in patients with advanced cancer.

Bully victimization and self-esteem among students with communication disorders

BackgroundBullying is a universal problem among school-aged adolescents, characterized by recurrent and destructive behavior toward peers. Bullying victimization has a strong impact on self-esteem. Students diagnosed with communication disorders are more likely to experience low self-esteem. The study’s main goal is to detect a correlation between victimization and self-esteem in teenage students diagnosed with communication disorders.MethodsFrom October 2023 to March 2024, we conducted this cross-sectional study in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. The study included 150 teenage students of both genders diagnosed with communication disorders. Rosenberg’s self-esteem scale was used to measure self-esteem, and the multidimensional peer victimization scale was used to measure bullying victimization. We analyzed the data using independent samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, and simple linear regression analysis.ResultsThis study found that students with communication disorders experience high levels of bullying victimization (M = 18.63) and report low self-esteem (M = 13.56). A significant negative correlation was observed between bullying victimization and self-esteem (r2 = 0.21), indicating that bullying accounts for 21% of the variance in self-esteem. Male students were more likely to experience higher levels of bullying victimization and lower self-esteem compared to female students.ConclusionThe study determined the severe impact of bullying on the self-esteem of adolescent students with communication disorders, particularly among males and those with stuttering. The long-term effects of bullying and potential protective factors that could mitigate its impact on self-esteem require further research.

Postpartum Depression Levels in Women After the Application of Assisted Reproduction Techniques and Their Affecting Factors

Objective: This study was carried out to determine postpartum depression levels and their affecting factors in women who became women after the application of assisted reproductive techniques. Methods: The study is descriptive and cross-sectional and was conducted with mothers (n=93) who had babies as a result of treatment at the infertility clinic of Cukurova University Hospital. Research data were collected using the “Personal Information Form” and “Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS)”. In the analysis of the research data, descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, Kruskall Wallis and Mann Whitney U test were employed. Results: The EPDS mean score of the women in the study was determined to be 18.22± 3.22 and 94.6% of them were at risk for postpartum depression. Statistically significant differences were found between the EPDS mean score of the mothers and the gender of the baby they want to have, experiencing anxiety, and sharing problems with their spouse (p0.05). Conclusion: It was determined that mothers who have a baby as a result of infertility treatment are at risk for postpartum depression. Although a healthy outcome of pregnancies obtained as a result of treatment is eagerly awaited by the mothers, it also poses a risk for postpartum infertile mothers.

Interface misfit of conventionally milled and novel hybrid full-arch implant-supported titanium frameworks

ObjectiveA hybrid manufacturing technique that combines selective laser melting (SLM) and computer numerical control (CNC) has been developed for the fabrication of implant-platform/framework interfaces (PFIs) for mandibular and maxillary full-arch implant-supported titanium frameworks. The aim of this study was to compare the discrepancies in specimens fabricated using the hybrid technique (termed SLM/m hereafter) with those in specimens fabricated by conventional CNC milling.Materials and methodsBased on a mandibular four-PFI CAD model and a maxillary six-PFI CAD model, four groups of titanium frameworks (eight per group, totaling 32) were fabricated according to the fabrication technique (SLM/m or milling) and number of PFIs (four or six). The frameworks were scanned by a structured light scanner and aligned with the CAD model in Geomagic Control X. Discrepancy was defined as the difference between the PFIs of the scanned framework and those of the CAD model. Discrepancies were measured and evaluated by multilevel analysis using a mixed-effects model (α = 0.05), followed by independent samples t-tests (α = 0.0125). Furthermore, the manufacturing times and raw-material costs were recorded and compared.ResultsThe maximum discrepancy values for the four-PFI and six-PFI hybrid frameworks were 52.2 and 64.3 μm, respectively. Multilevel analysis revealed that the fabrication technique and the number of PFIs had no significant effect on the discrepancy value. However, a significant interaction between the two factors was observed (P = 0.020). The discrepancies for the four-PFI hybrid frameworks were significantly lower than those for the four-PFI milled frameworks (P = 0.001). No significant difference in discrepancies between the six-PFI hybrid frameworks and six-PFI milled frameworks was observed (P = 0.697). Furthermore, the hybrid frameworks required only 11% of the raw materials and 25% of the milling time required for the conventionally milled frameworks.ConclusionSLM/m hybrid frameworks are viable, accurate alternatives to CNC-milled frameworks, with the added benefit of substantial cost reduction.

A mechanical comparison of the translational traction of female-specific and male soccer boots

ABSTRACT The studded outsole of a soccer boot provides additional traction to players to minimise the risk of slipping while performing high-speed manoeuvres. As excessive traction can lead to foot fixation and injury risk, there has been significant research surrounding the influence of stud configuration on the level of traction generated. This previous research, however, has predominately focused on the stud patterns, foot morphology and lower limb loading patterns of male players. As the popularity of women’s soccer increases, the aim of this investigation was to examine the differences in translational traction of female-specific soccer boots and male soccer boots currently available. A custom-built apparatus was used to determine the translational traction on both natural and artificial grass for four different movement directions. It was hypothesised that the female-specific boot in each pair would produce lower levels of translational traction as they are designed to be safer for female players who are more at risk of lower limb fixation injuries compared to males. An independent samples T-test showed that while there were some loading conditions where female boots produced lower translational traction compared to male boots, across all loading scenarios there was no significant difference between male and female boots (p = 0.818), thus the null hypothesis was rejected.

Prognostic value of multi-PLD ASL-based cerebral perfusion ASPECTS in acute ischemic stroke.

We aimed to verify the application value of the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) based on multiple post-labeling delay (multi-PLD) arterial spin labeling (ASL) for outcome assessment in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. The endpoint was modified Rankin scale score at 90 days (90-day mRS). Patients were divided into the good outcome (0-2) and poor outcome (3-6) groups. The independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney U-test, and χ2-test were used to compare clinical and imaging parameters between groups. We used partial correlation analysis to evaluate the relationships between ASPECTS and outcomes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine potential independent prognostic indicators. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the performance of the independent prognostic indicators in predicting outcomes. Fifty-five AIS patients were included. The good outcome group had a lower baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS; Z = -3.413, P < 0.001) and infarct core volume (ICV; Z = -3.114, P = 0.002) as well as higher cerebral blood flow (CBF)-ASPECTS (Z = -3.835, P < 0.001) and cerebral blood volume (CBV)-ASPECTS (Z = -4.099, P < 0.001). Higher CBF-ASPECTS (r = -0.459, P = 0.001), and CBV-ASPECTS (r = -0.502, P < 0.001) were associated with a lower 90-day mRS. The baseline NIHSS, CBF-ASPECTS, and CBV-ASPECTS were identified as independent prognostic indicators. The AUCs of the baseline NIHSS, CBF-ASPECTS, and CBV-ASPECTS were 83.3, 87.4, and 89.9%, respectively. Combining NIHSS with CBF-ASPECTS and CBV-ASPECTS, the AUC significantly improved to 96.3%. The combined three factors showed a significant difference compared to the baseline NIHSS (Z = 2.039, P = 0.041) and CBF-ASPECTS (Z = 2.099, P = 0.036), but no difference with CBV-ASPECTS (Z = 1.176, P = 0.239). The ASPECTS based on multi-PLD ASL is a valuable tool for identifying independent prognostic indicators and assessing clinical outcomes in AIS patients. The baseline NIHSS, combined with CBF-ASPECTS and CBV-ASPECTS, enhances the predictive efficacy of clinical outcomes in AIS patients. The CBV-ASPECTS alone can offer comparable predictive efficacy to the combination.

Adaptation of the Teaching Engineering Self-Efficacy Scale to Turkish and Analysis of Science Teachers' Teaching Engineering Self-Efficacy Beliefs across Different Variables

The objective of this study was to adapt the Teaching Engineering Self-Efficacy Scale (TESS) to Turkish through comprehensive validity and reliability assessments and to analyze science teachers' (specializing in science, physics, chemistry, biology) Teaching Engineering Self-Efficacy (TES) beliefs concerning various variables. The study employed the TESS, originally developed by Yoon, Evans, and Strobel (2014), alongside a personal information form, and followed a descriptive survey model as its research methodology. The adapted TESS's validity and reliability were evaluated using data from 476 science teachers in schools under the Ministry of National Education (MNE) in X province, and the main study involved 221 science teachers from Y province. The assessment of teachers' TES beliefs in relation to different factors was executed using independent samples t-tests, One-Way ANOVA, and the Scheffe test. It revealed that science teachers' TES beliefs significantly varied based on factors such as their involvement in providing engineering education, the integration of engineering education into their teaching, and their specific teaching subjects, but not gender. The study contributes a valid and reliable scale to the academic literature.

Association between pre-procedural anxiety and vomiting in children who undergo procedural sedation and analgesia in the emergency department

IntroductionChildren presenting to the emergency department (ED) often require procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) prior to procedures. Although ketamine is used widely for PSA safely, there is a risk of adverse effects. Among them, vomiting is significant as it occurs in about 10% of patients and can potentially endanger the airway. Because there is evidence that post-operative complications might be due to anxiety prior to the operation, this study aims to investigate the association between pre-procedural anxiety and vomiting in the ED.MethodsIn this cohort study, a convenient sample of children aged 2 to 14 years who were a candidate for PSA with ketamine in the ED were enrolled. Anxiety was evaluated using the short version of the modified Yale preoperative anxiety scale (mYAS). Vomiting was recorded during the period of hospitalization in the ED and 24 h after discharge by a phone call. Association between anxiety level and vomiting was analyzed using the independent samples t-test and multivariable logistic regression was used to control for covariates.Results102 children were enrolled and 93 were included in final analysis. The mean age of participants was 3.95 ± 1.79 years and 55.9% were male. According to the mYAS, the mean score of anxiety was 48.67 ± 21.78 in the waiting room and 59.10 ± 23.86 in the operating room. The mean score of anxiety was 58.3±25.3 and 51.0±20.7 in the vomiting and non-vomiting groups, respectively. At least one episode of vomiting was reported in 23 children of which, 19 took place in the hospital and 4 after discharge. No significant association was observed between pre-procedural anxiety and the occurrence of vomiting. On univariate regression model, the odds ratio of the association between mean anxiety and vomiting was 1.02 (CI 95%: 0.99–1.04) (P-value: 0.16). On the multivariable logistic regression model, after adjusting for all the covariates, the odds ratio was 1.03 (CI 95%: 1.0–1.05) (P-value: 0.05).ConclusionThe present study showed that anxiety before procedural sedation and analgesia with ketamine in children was not associated with the incidence of vomiting.

Sexual Health and Psychological Well-Being: An Examination of the Interactions between Sexual Satisfaction, Relationship Dynamics, And Mental Health

This study comprehensively examines the relationships between sexual health and psychological well-being, focusing on sexual satisfaction, relationship dynamics, and mental health. The primary objective of this research is to determine how individuals' levels of sexual satisfaction impact their psychological well-being and to understand the dynamics of this relationship. While existing literature widely discusses the positive effects of sexual satisfaction on individuals' overall mental health and quality of life, this research aims to analyze these interactions from a more unique perspective. Utilizing quantitative methods, including statistical analyses such as independent sample t-tests, the study compares face-to-face and online data sets. The findings reveal that sexual satisfaction has a significant and robust impact on psychological well-being. It was observed that sexual satisfaction enhances individuals' capacity to cope with stress, reduces anxiety levels, and improves overall mental health. Additionally, relationship dynamics, particularly factors such as emotional alignment and closeness with a partner, significantly strengthen the interaction between sexual satisfaction and psychological well-being. In this context, the study sheds light on the interdependent dynamics of sexual health and psychological well-being, offering critical insights for clinical practice in this area. Enhancing sexual satisfaction could substantially improve individuals' quality of life and mental health. Therefore, it is recommended that sexual health topics receive greater emphasis in psychotherapy and counseling processes.

Analysis of corneal surface shape following overnight orthokeratology with different optical zone diameters.

This study analyzed the corneal surface shape following overnight orthokeratology with different optical zone diameters. A total of 82 eyes belonging to 41 myopic children who completed 1 month of the orthokeratology (ortho-k) lens wear at the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from January 2022 to January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the size of the base curve (BC) of ortho-k lens, patients were divided into BC 5.0 and BC 6.0 groups. The changes in decentration distance and corneal refraction of the two groups after the ortho-k lens wear were analyzed. Independent sample t-tests were used to compare these two outcome measures between the two groups. The decentration distance of BC 5.0 group (0.37 ± 0.19 mm) was significantly lower than that of BC 6.0 group (0.49 ± 0.25 mm, t = -2.330, p = 0.022). In the BC 5.0 group, the direction of decentration was superonasal in 3 cases, inferonasal in 2 cases, inferotemporal in 21 cases, and superotemporal in 6 cases. In the BC 6.0 group, the direction of decentration was superonasal in 2 cases, inferonasal in 2 cases, inferotemporal in 27 cases, and superotemporal in 19 cases. The optical zone area (8.19 ± 2.96 mm2) and reverse curve zone area (30.05 ± 6.74 mm2) in the BC 5.0 group were significantly lower than in the BC 6.0 group (10.42 ± 2.03 mm2, t = -4.043, p < 0.001; 38.21 ± 4.77 mm2, t = -6.422, p < 0.001). The change in the rate of refraction in the horizontal direction in BC 5.0 group were significant higher than in BC 6.0 group. Base curve 5.0 mm ortho-k lens is better positioned than BC 6.0 mm lens. A small BC ortho-k forms a smaller optical zone and reverse curve area, which might get a greater aiameter of alignment curve to facilitate positioning better than the traditional BC lens. In addition, a small BC lens increases positive refraction in the peripheral area, resulting in a greater negative pressure than the traditional BC lens.

The effect of using virtual reality goggles on psychological well-being and care burden of informal caregivers of patients hospitalized in a palliative care clinic

PurposeThis study was conducted to determine the effect of virtual reality goggles on the psychological well-being and care burden of informal caregivers of patients hospitalized in a palliative care clinic. MethodsPretest-posttest randomized controlled study. It was conducted from June-October 2023 with 44 informal caregivers (22 in the control, 22 in the intervention group). Caregivers in the intervention group were shown 360° relaxing virtual reality videos with virtual reality goggles for four weeks, three days a week, 30 min per use. The control group did not receive any intervention. Data were collected using the caregiver introduction form, psychological well-being scale, caregiving burden scale, and satisfaction form for virtual reality goggles. Analyses were performed with Independent Sample T-Test and Paired Sample T-Test. ResultsThe post-test mean score of the psychological well-being scale of the intervention group was statistically significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.05). The post-test mean score of the caregiving burden scale of the control group was statistically significantly higher than the intervention group (p < 0.05). 68% of the caregivers in the intervention group were very satisfied with using virtual reality goggles. This study revealed that using virtual reality goggles increased psychological well-being and reduced the care burden of informal caregivers of patients hospitalized in a palliative care clinic. ConclusionThe results of this study have revealed that virtual reality glasses can be used to support informal caregivers in palliative care. This study reveals promising results for improving the quality of patient care by supporting informal caregivers. ClinicalTrials.gov IDNCT06156540

Evaluating AI Excellence: A Comparative Analysis of Generative Models in Library and Information Science

ABSTRACT This study compares the performance of GPT-3.5, GPT-4, Bard, and Gemini in answering Library and Information Science (LIS) questions. Sixteen questions were used for assessment, with two independent examiners scoring the initial and two successive responses from each AI system. Statistical analyses, including one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), independent sample t-test, and one-sample t-test, were employed to identify performance differences. The results revealed consistency in responses generated across iterations for all AI systems. Significant differences were observed among the AI models, with Bard consistently underperforming compared to GPT-3.5, GPT-4, and Gemini. The study uncovered variability in the examiners’ scoring and emphasized the need for multiple evaluators in AI assessment.

A Comparison of Arch Length, Intercanine Width, Intermolar Width, and Interalveolar Width in Patients With Angle's Class II Division I Malocclusion With Shallow and Deep Palates.

Background and objective Palatal depth is significant as it impacts the intra-arch dimensions in patients with Angle's Class II Division 1 malocclusion. Hence, understanding this relationship is crucial for developing targeted orthodontic treatment plans, to optimize dental alignment and overall facial aesthetics. This study aimed to compare the arch length, intercanine width, intermolar width, and interalveolar width in patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion with deep palates and those with shallow palates. Methods The study involved 88 patients aged 18-30 years, categorized into two groups based on palatal depth: Group A (deep palates) and Group B (shallow palates). Measurements were taken for arch length, intercanine width, intermolar width, and interalveolar width. An independent samples t-test was used to compare these measurements between the groups, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results The analysis revealed significant differences in intermolar and interalveolar widths between the two groups. Group B, with shallow palates, showed larger intermolar and interalveolar widths compared to Group A, with deep palates (p = 0.001 and p = 0.017, respectively). However, no significant differences were observed in arch length and intercanine width between the groups. Conclusions Our findings suggest that palatal depth is significantly associated with certain intra-arch transverse dimensions, particularly intermolar and interalveolar widths. These differences underline the importance of considering palatal morphology in the orthodontic treatment of patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion.

Pengaruh Model Pembelajaran Project Based Learning (PjBL) Terhadap Aktivitas Belajar Peserta Didik Materi Sistem Reproduksi Kelas XI SMAN 9 Gowa

This study aims to test the significant influence of learning activities of students who are taught using the Project Based Learning learning model of the reproductive system material of class XI SMAN 9 Gowa. This study is a quasi-experimental design with a research design in the form of a Non-equivalent Control Group Design. The population of this study involved all students of class XI MIA SMAN 9 Gowa totaling 210 people. The sample of this study is class XI MIA 3 which totals 35 students as the control class and class XI MIA 4 which totals 35 students as the experimental class. The sampling technique used is purposive sampling. The data collection tool in this study uses observation sheets of student learning activities and documentation. The data analysis techniques used are descriptive statistical analysis and inferential statistical analysis with independent sample t-test. The results of the analysis showed that the sign value was less than 0.05, so the hypothesis in this study H1 was accepted and H0 was rejected, because 0.000 &lt; of 0.05. This means that there is a significant influence on the learning activities of students who gain learning by applying the PjBL learning model to the reproductive system material of class XI SMAN 9 Gowa

Vital Staining Role in Resection and Reconstruction of Tongue Cancers with Free Flap - A Comparative Study

Abstract Introduction: The purpose of this study is to compare and infer the most suitable dye for visualisation of ipsilateral and contralateral sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs), positive, negative outcomes, sensitivity, their specificities and visualisation of anastomosed blood vessels in microvascular reconstruction of tongue cancers. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective in vivo comparative study involving twenty patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue treated with wide excision of primary tongue tumour, modified functional neck dissection and microvascular reconstruction with radial forearm free flap. Consecutive random allocation was done into two groups with ten patients each. Patients were injected with methylene blue as the first group and near-infrared fluorescence indocyanine green (ICG) into the second. The patients were evaluated intraoperatively regarding the better dye in methylene blue and ICG for identification of ipsilateral and contralateral SLNs, their positive, negative outcomes, sensitivity and specificities. Apart from these, in cases of group B, after microvascular transfers, ICG is used for visualisation of anastomosed vessels to prevent abnormal perfusions, leaks and post–flap failures. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, and Chi-square were used for statistical analysis. Results: The present study revealed ICG being the better dye in the parameters mentioned. Discussion: Lymph node yield in neck dissection is a prognostic factor in oral cancers. ICG is inferred as the better dye for identification of SLN with 100% outcomes and in blood vessel visualisation after microvascular free tissue transfers. It is also useful in identifying positive contralateral sentinel nodes, which is helpful in undertaking bilateral neck dissections related to tongue carcinoma.

Prevalence of Dentine Hypersensitivity in Vital Abutment Teeth being prepared for Fixed Partial Dentures or Crowns

Objective: To determine the prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity during the preparation of vital abutment teeth for Fixed Partial Dentures or Crowns and its association with patient’s gender, age, and location of tooth. Study Design &amp; Setting: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study of patients with 150 abutments of either crown or fixed partial dentures, carried out in the department of Prosthodontics at Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry (AFID) Rawalpindi from June to December 2021. Methodology: The Dentine Hypersensitivity was recorded on a VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) of 0-10 after the patient reported pain during exposure to thermal stimulus i.e. cold water from a 5cc syringe at 1cm distance during or just after the tooth preparation. Results: In this study, the prevalence of Dentine Hypersensitivity was 13.3% with a mean dentine hypersensitivity score (VAS) for cold water test (Mean ± SD) of 0.61±1.756. Independent samples t-tests were used to determine the difference in hypersensitivity between genders, two age groups, and type of tooth (anterior/ posterior). It showed significant results with p-values of 0.002, 0.002, and 0.003 respectively. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it was highlighted that the preparation of vital teeth for conventional porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crown or fixed dental prosthesis results in dentine hypersensitivity in a considerable number of cases, with a higher incidence in women, younger patients, and vital anterior abutments.

HEART RATE VARIABILITY IN FOOTBALL PLAYERS AND TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES

Objective of the study: To investigate the state of the autonomic nervous system in athletes based on heart rate variability indicators. Materials and methods: The study was conducted on 142 male athletes (67 football players and 75 track and field athletes) aged 17-20 years, with an average age of 18.5±1.5 years. Depending on the type of higher nervous activity, athletes were divided into 4 groups: sanguine (41.55%), choleric (28.87%), phlegmatic (19.01%), and melancholic (10.56%). Heart rate variability (HRV) was studied using the "BioMouse" system. A t-test for independent samples (Welch's t-test) was used to analyze the significance of differences between the groups. Results of the study: It was found that the highest adaptive capabilities were observed in phlegmatic athletes, who demonstrated high SDNN and HF values, as well as a low tension index (IN). Their calm temperament allows for better adaptation to physical exertion and maintaining a balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity. The lowest adaptive capabilities were observed in melancholics, who showed high IN and LF values, as well as low SDNN and HF, indicating an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system and lower resilience to physical stress. Overall, beginner athletes tended to have slightly higher heart rates and lower HRV indicators (SDNN), LF, and HF compared to more experienced athletes of the 2nd-3rd ranks. This is due to the fact that first-year athletes have not yet fully adapted to physical loads, leading to more pronounced dominance of the sympathetic nervous system and less parasympathetic activity. KEYWORDS: variability, heart rate, athletes, football players, track and field athletes, autonomic nervous system, physical exertion

Investigation of Factors Associated with Gut Microbiota in Demodex-associated Skin Conditions.

This study describes the relationships of factors related to gut microbiota and skin conditions associated with Demodex, including demodicosis, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis. A total of 113 patients from Dokuz Eylül University Hospital Dermatology Department answered a cross-sectional questionnaire. They consisted of 42 cases of Demodex-related skin diseases and 71 healthy controls. Demographic data and medical history, dietary and lifestyle habits, and gastrointestinal symptoms were recorded. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Fisher's Exact tests, independent samples t-tests, and logistic regression methods. Our findings identified alcohol consumption [odds ratio (OR)=11.13, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.11-17.22, p<0.01] and smoking (OR=10.32, 95% CI: 2.47-21.57, p<0.01) as strong risk factors for Demodex-related conditions. Low water intake (0-1 liter per day) (OR=3.39, 95% CI: 2.08-5.57, p=0.03) and infrequent exercise (less than 1 hour per week) (OR=4.87, 95% CI: 2.70-12.54, p=0.02) were also significant risk factors. Additional factors associated with increased Demodex risk included reduced bowel movements (OR=2.71, 95% CI: 1.45-4.06, p=0.01) and higher pet ownership (OR=2.85, 95% CI: 2.13-4.27, p=0.03). Although vegetarian and high-fat diets showed some associations, they were not independently significant. This study demonstrates key environmental and lifestyle factors, such as low water intake, infrequent exercise, reduced bowel movements, higher pet ownership, alcohol consumption, and smoking, that are significantly associated with Demodex-related skin conditions. These factors, related to gut microbiota, may provide valuable insights for managing these skin conditions and suggest promising directions for future research.

The Influence of Glycemic Control Over Post-extraction Healing in Diabetic Patients.

Background Diabetes mellitus hinders wound healing after tooth extractions due to hyperglycemia, causing complications like infections and delayed recovery. The precise role of glycemic control in healing remains uncertain. This study aims to clarify it by comparing outcomes in patients with well-controlled and poorly controlled blood sugar levels. Material and methods This prospective observational study at Priyadarshini Dental College and Hospital (October-November 2023) involved 100 insulin-dependent diabetic patients (n = 100) requiring dental extractions, divided into group A with random blood sugar (RBS) ≤150 mg/dL (n = 50) and group B with RBS between 151 and 240 mg/dL (n = 50). Inclusion criteria included fully erupted teeth in patients aged 18 or older, while exclusion criteria comprised those on antibiotics, with systemic immunodeficiency, undergoing chemotherapy, or with active infections. Preoperative RBS and post-extraction wound dimensions were recorded, and clinical outcomes, such as pain, bleeding, infection, dry socket, and tissue color changes, were assessed on days 1, 7, and 14. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee (IEC-PDCH5/4-2023) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR Reference ID: 2023-14931). Data were analyzed using chi-square and independent sample t-tests. Results The findings suggest that higher glycemic levels (151-240 mg/dL) are associated with increased pain and complications but do not significantly affect healing outcomes compared to levels ≤150 mg/dL. Group A shows better healing status, while group B has a higher incidence of moderate pain and bleeding. Conclusion This study indicates that glycemic levels between 151 and 240 mg/dL have no significant impact on post-extraction healing compared to levels ≤150 mg/dL in diabetic patients. Elevated blood sugar within this range may not increase the risk of delayed healing or complications. However, managing blood sugar levels is still critical, as uncontrolled diabetes can lead to adverse outcomes. Further research is required to determine the ideal glycemic range for optimal healing in diabetic patients.

The differential effects of parent-targeted alcohol harm-reduction campaigns with varying executional styles.

Parental provision of alcohol to children is associated with a range of negative outcomes. Public health campaigns discouraging this practice are required as part of a comprehensive approach to reduce alcohol-related harm among minors, however, limited research has examined the relative effectiveness of different messaging approaches. This study compared the effects of two campaigns with different executional styles on parents' intentions to provide alcohol to minors-one campaign used a fear-based approach and the other adopted a first-person narrative approach. The study used a repeated cross-sectional design. An independent samples t-test was used to compare the effects of two campaigns with alternative executional styles on parents' alcohol provision intentions. Two ordinal logistic generalised linear models were used to assess whether intentions effects differed according to parents' demographic and behavioural characteristics. Both campaigns were effective at motivating parents to abstain from providing alcohol to minors. This outcome was particularly notable among female respondents and those who had never provided alcohol to their children. Older respondents and those who used less alcohol were more likely to intend to change their behaviours as a result of exposure to the fear-based campaign, while the campaign using a narrative approach was more effective with heavier drinkers. Overall strong performance of both campaigns combined with varying effectiveness by parent attributes highlights the utility of parent-focused campaigns targeting alcohol provision to minors. To best protect minors, continued investments are needed to develop suites of evidence-based campaigns that resonate with different parent subgroups.