Independent T-test Research Articles

Comparative analysis of learning management systems usage among tertiary students in Ghana

The objective of this study was to employ the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model to compare the differences in learning management systems (LMSs) usage by age, gender, and institution type among tertiary students in Ghana. The research used a survey design to collect quantitative data for the study. Multi-stage sampling was used to sample 476 tertiary students from three categories of tertiary institutions: public universities, technical universities, and colleges of education. Questionnaires were employed as a means of data collection and the data were analyzed using ANOVA, independent sample t-test, and post-hoc analysis. The results indicate that there is a statistically significant difference in performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and behavioral intention between the groups of tertiary institution users of LMS. The study concluded that the usage and acceptance rate of LMS among tertiary students was moderate. This work is a valuable contribution to the existing body of knowledge. Thus, providing empirical data on the comparative analysis of LMS usage among Ghanaian tertiary students that has implication for policy and practice. The study recommends that tertiary institutions should develop policies governing the usage of LMS across their various campuses.

Oxygen uptake efficiency slope in 8- to 12-year-old boys and girls.

Oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) is an objective physiological measure that can be obtained from a standard graded exercise test. However, there is conflicting evidence regarding sex differences in OUES values in children. Therefore, this study investigated potential sex differences in absolute, ratio-scaled, and allometrically scaled OUES in 8.0- to 12.0-year-old children. Retrospective and prospective data of 18 boys and 22 girls were utilized. All participants had undergone familiarization before performing a maximal cycle ergometer test to determine OUES. These values were also ratio-scaled and allometrically scaled to mass and body surface area (BSA). Group differences were tested via independent sample t-tests (or Mann-Whitney U if not normally distributed). Absolute OUES values (VO<inf>2</inf> mL∙min-1/log<inf>10</inf>VE L∙min-1) were significantly higher in boys compared to girls (1860.8±359.3 vs. 1514.3±212.6). When scaled to mass (VO<inf>2</inf> mL∙kg-1∙min-1/log<inf>10</inf>VE L∙kg-1∙min-1), OUES was no longer significantly different between groups, but when scaled to BSA (VO<inf>2</inf> mL∙m-2∙min-1/log<inf>10</inf>VE L∙m-2∙min-1), OUES was significantly higher in the boys than the girls (1414.4±204.2 vs. 1268.9±134.6). When allometry was applied for mass (OUES/mass0.444) boys had significantly higher value than girls (350.8±46.7 vs. 305.0±31.5). The present study demonstrated that boys had greater OUES values scaled to BSA and allometrically scaled to body mass. These findings provide further evidence of sex differences with OUES values in preadolescent children and implies the need for sex-specific reference values prior to using OUES for the assessment of cardiorespiratory pathology in children.

Implications of the Offshore Oil &amp; Gas Working Environment on Mental Health and Performance of Workers

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the potential effect of the site location on the relationship between the Oil and Gas working environment’s psychosocial hazards, mental health disorders and workers’ Performance. Quantitative methods and deductive approaches have been used. The study’s population was Egyptian Oil &amp; Gas workers, and the study sample included 409 participants. The collected data were statistically analyzed using descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, independent samples t-test, and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The results indicated a high levels of psychosocial hazards in the Oil &amp; Gas working environment, where isolation, remoteness and adverse living conditions significantly depicted the highest levels. The presence of mental health disorders was confirmed by screening Depression, Stress and Anxiety among the study sample, where most responses indicated difficulties in their abilities to overcome. Further, the results showed an average level of performance with a noticeably low levels in contextual performance aspects. The study concluded that performance in the offshore Oil &amp; Gas industry is not entirely a functional pattern but can also be influenced by the working environment, where the moderating effect of the site location of the Oil &amp; Gas working environment on workers’ mental health disorders could eventually compromise their performance levels, ultimately harming the interest and sustainability of this vital sector.

Study of The Effect of Boswellia Leaf Extract on The Activity of Cardiac Enzymes (ALP, AST, ALT, LDH) Using Spectroscopic Methods

This study investigates the impact of Boswellia carterii leaf extracts on serum enzyme activity in myocardial infarction (MI) patients. Employing a comparative analysis between 60 healthy individuals and 40 cardiac patients, we measured the serum activity of ALP, AST, ALT, and LDH enzymes. Our findings reveal elevated enzyme activity in MI patients. We explored the inhibitory effects of aqueous, alcoholic, and ethyl acetate extracts of Boswellia carterii on these enzymes, demonstrating non-competitive inhibition. The inhibition ratio of ALT, ALP, and AST post-treatment was quantitatively assessed. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS-26 with independent t-tests. This research highlights the potential therapeutic role of Boswellia carterii in modulating enzyme activity associated with cardiac events, suggesting avenues for novel treatments in cardiac care.

Comparing and Analyzing the Physical and Functional Concerns of Post Breast Cancer Surgery Patients Who Received Physical Therapy for Lymphedema After Surgery to Those Who Did Not Receive Physical Therapy After Surgery

Objective: This pilot research project examined the physical and functional concerns of patients who had breast cancer surgery followed by receiving skilled physical therapy or lymphedema therapy services for more than or less than three months. Methods: This research study utilized the Qualtrics system to create a survey for the participants to complete. After completing the survey, the researchers divided the participants into two groups. The researchers analyzed the data using SPSS to run independent sample t-tests. Results: The study results show no significant difference in limb size and self-care activities between the two groups who received physical therapy.

Role of Non-verbal Communication Skills of Teachers and its Impact on Achieving Classroom Learning Objectives at Secondary Level

This descriptive study intends to investigate the influence of a teacher’s nonverbal communication on classroom learning objectives using a descriptive technique. This also determined the association between the unspoken behaviours of teachers working in various educational systems. The main objective of the research is to understand how non-verbal communication skills, including facial expressions, eye contact, pitch of voice, and physical appearance, collectively contribute to achieving classroom learning objectives. The quantitative survey method was used to present the study. This research was descriptive in nature. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was developed for data collection. This questionnaire was administered to a sample of 400 respondents who were randomly selected from 40 public and private secondary schools in Multan. Using SPSS software, the acquired data was tabulated and evaluated. The collected data was tabulated, analysed, and interpreted in the form of mean, frequency, percentage, and standard deviation. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to arrive at the conclusions. Frequencies and percentages were computed to illustrate the demographic items and questions, and one-way ANOVA and the independent sample t-test were utilized to illustrate the variations in teacher perspectives depending on various factors related to demographics.

Efficacy of Topical Niacinamide on Skin Hydration of Adolescents with Acne Vulgaris: An Experimental Study on the Adolescent Community in Jakarta, Indonesia

Background: Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder common in adolescents, often accompanied by dry, irritated skin. Topical niacinamide (vitamin B3) has shown potential in increasing skin hydration and reducing AV symptoms. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of topical niacinamide on skin hydration in adolescents with AV in Jakarta, Indonesia. Methods: This research is a randomized controlled experimental study involving 100 adolescents (14-19 years) with mild to moderate AV in Jakarta. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: the intervention group (receiving topical 4% niacinamide cream) and the control group (receiving placebo cream). The intervention was carried out for 8 weeks, and skin hydration was measured using a corneometer at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Data analysis was carried out using paired t-tests and independent t-tests. Results: There was a significant increase in skin hydration in the intervention group compared to the control group at week 4 (p &lt; 0.001) and week 8 (p &lt; 0.001). No significant side effects were reported. Conclusion: Topical niacinamide was effective in increasing skin hydration in adolescents with AV in Jakarta, Indonesia. This study supports the use of topical niacinamide as an adjunct therapy in the management of AV, especially in adolescents with dry, irritated skin.

The Effects of Flipped Classroom Model on Academic Achievement, Academic Motivation and Cognitive Absorption

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of flipped classroom model on academic achievement, academic motivation and cognitive absorption. The study was conducted with a group of 68 freshman students studying at a vocational school’s “Computer Programming” department in the 2019-2020 academic year. A quasi-experimental framework with pre-test/post-test was employed in the research and the participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group and the control group. In the experimental group (n=38), flipped classroom model was utilized and in the control group (n=30), the traditional classroom model was employed. The experimental process of the study continued for 5 weeks, 4 weeks of training and 1 week of orientation. Demographic Information Form, Academic Achievement Test, Academic Motivation Scale and Cognitive Absorption Scale were used for data collection. To analyze the data, Independent Samples T-Test, Paired Sample T-Test, Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test, Spearman Correlation and Mann-Whitney U Tests were used. The findings showed that the experimental group had higher levels of academic achievement compared to the control group. Besides, it was found that there is no discrepancy between in-group and intergroup academic motivation. Although the pre- and post-test results of the experimental group students, who took cognitive absorption scale, did not show a statistically significant difference, the results indicate a modest level of connection between cognitive absorption and academic motivation.

Determinants of Quality of Life in Serbian Infertile Couples

Background: This study aimed to examine the quality of life and the factors that determine the quality of life of infertile couples. Methods: The research was conducted as a cross-sectional study at the Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic "Narodni Front" in Belgrade, the Special Gynecology Hospital "Ferona" in Novi Sad, the Special Hospital for the Treatment of Sterility and In Vitro Fertilization "Spebo Medikal" in Leskovac and the General Hospital in Valjevo, Serbia in 2022, on a sample of 378 infertile couples. The data were collected by means of a questionnaire, the integral part of which is the standardized FertiQoL scale. Independent t-test and one-way ANOVA were used to determine differences. A value of P&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Women achieve a significantly lower score on the quality-of-life questionnaire (69.34±11.05) compared to men (73.96±9.87). Women exhibit significantly lower scores in the area of physical, emotional and social functioning (P&lt;0.05). Men who live in the countryside show a lower quality of life score in the emotional (P=0.029) and social (P=0.042) domains. In addition, men over 40 years of age and with a high level of education have a lower quality of life (P=0.08). Conclusion: Women have a lower quality of life, as do men from rural areas and over 40 years of age. A multidisciplinary approach and community education, as well as the provision of social support with a special emphasis on emotional and material support, would significantly contribute to improving the quality of life of infertile couples.

Clinical Manifestations of Runny nose among Patients Attending Baqubah Teaching Hospital

Background: The runny nose refers to a discharge (fluid) coming from the nasal passages.Runny nose is associated with inflammation and swelling (congestion) of the inner lining of the nasal passages and sinuses. May associated with atopic condition the patient complain from nasal obstruction, runny nose, episode of sneezing, and nasal pruritis. Objective: To examine the demographic distribution, clinical features, and age disparities among male and female patients with Runny nose (Rhinorrhea). Patients and Methods: A study was done on 100 AR patients at Baqubah Teaching Hospital. Information on demographics, clinical symptoms, and age variations between males and females were gathered and examined through the use of descriptive statistics and independent sample t-tests. Results: The Findings revealed that most of the subjects were women (56%) and homemakers (38%), with an average age of 29.73 years. Frequent symptoms comprised of sneezing (93%), runny nose (83%), itchy nose (74%), and stuffy nose (92%). There was no notable variation in age between males and females (p = 0.139). Conclusion: Clinical symptoms of runny nose are often recognized consist of rhinorrhea, sneezing, obstruction of the nasal passages with lacrimation and pruritus of the nasal mucosa, conjunctiva and oropharynx with history of allergic rhinitis. Conditions commonly associated with allergic rhinitis include asthma, sinusitis, allergic conjunctivitis and atopic dermatitis. Long standing disease can lead to mucosa remodeling, atrophic skin changes, nasal infection and overall increased morbidity. Keywords: Runny nose, nasal obstractions , nasal pruritis, stuffy nose

Dynamics of Perceived Stress, Stress Appraisal, and Coping Strategies in an Evolving Educational Landscape

In the evolving landscape of education, college teachers often find themselves at the crossroads of myriad stressors, ranging from institutional demands to personal challenges. Understanding the factors that influence their stress perceptions and coping mechanisms is pivotal, not just for their well-being, but also for the overall quality of education imparted. This study sought to investigate the intricate relationships between gender, marital status, institutional affiliation, and their collective impacts on perceived stress, stress appraisal, and coping strategies among college teachers. A sample of 300 college teachers, evenly split with reference to gender, was engaged. Employing tools including Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Stress Appraisal Measure (SAM), and Brief COPE, the analysis of the study used independent samples t-test and Pearson Product Moment Correlation to derive insights. Findings revealed pronounced gender disparities in stress perception and appraisal, with women teachers manifesting heightened levels. Marital status emerged as a significant modulator of stress and coping, with married teachers depicting nuanced stress and its appraisal with reported coping strategies compared to their unmarried peers. Furthermore, a significant variance in perceived stress and coping was observed between teachers of private and governmental institutions, with private institution teachers displaying elevated stress levels. The study underscores the multifaceted nature of stress experiences among college teachers in Pakistan, influenced by a blend of personal and institutional determinants. These insights are pivotal for institutions aiming to enhance the well-being and effectiveness of their teachers. However, given the specific cultural context of the study, there is an imperative for more global, comparative research, ensuring holistic support mechanisms for teachers worldwide.

Parametric Stochastic Frontier Approach To Measure Efficiency Pre-And-Post-Merger Bank Syariah Indonesia

This research analyses the efficiency of pre-and-post-merger Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI). This research used a descriptive quantitative analysis method. The population in this research is Islamic banks, which were merged into BSI. The sampling technique was carried out using saturated samples, resulting in the merged of three Islamic Banks, namely Bank Syariah Mandiri (BSM), Bank Negara Indonesia Syariah (BNIS), Bank Rakyat Indonesia Syariah (BRIS), to become BSI. The data used is secondary data in the form of quarterly financial reports for 2019-2022. The research focused on input variables such as total fixed assets, third-party funds, operating costs, and financing. The data analysis techniques used to measure the efficiency of Islamic banks are the Econometric Model (Single Equation Model), Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA), and Independent Sample t-test. The result showed that pre-merger, the total fixed asset, total third-party funds, and operating cost as the input variables of the three Islamic Banks were optimal for generating financing. Therefore, the total assets, total third-party funds, and operating costs produced a more optimal impact on the distribution of total financing. It is shown that BSI, both pre-and-post-merger, has generally been efficient in its operational activities. The results of this research complement the theory related to the efficiency level of Islamic banks in terms of the amount of financing as measured by fixed assets, total third-party funds, and operational costs. Practically, the results of this research can be a reference for banks, especially Islamic banks, that will carry out mergers to measure their efficiency level.

Exploring the relationship between spiritual care and patient advocacy of nurses from generations X, Y and Z working in intensive care clinics: A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo determine the relationship between spiritual care and patient advocacy across three generations of nurses working in intensive care units. DesignCross-sectional survey. MethodsData collection took place from July to August 2022 with 120 nurses in Turkey. Data collection tools included the Spiritual Caregiving Competency Scale, the Spirituality and Spiritual Care Assessment Scale, and the Patient Advocacy Scale for Nurses. Data on nurses’ demographics were evaluated using descriptive statistical methods (number, percentage, mean, standard deviation). Independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and linear multiple regression analysis were used to evaluate the relationships between variables, with results reported as 95% confidence intervals (CI). ResultsMore than half of the nurses were from Generation Y (39.2 %) and Generation Z (42.5 %). Generation Z’s mean patient advocacy score (156.96 ± 23.16) was statistically significantly higher than Generation X’s (139.32 ± 34.26). We determined that the spiritual competence scale communication sub-dimension score of Generation Y nurses working between 1–10 years was higher than that of Generation Z nurses. Additionally, as the patient advocacy scores of all generations increased, so did spiritual competence scores. ConclusionThe study found differences in patient advocacy and spiritual care competencies between generations. Thus, we recommend organizing courses, seminars, and in-service training on patient advocacy and spiritual care for intensive care nurses. Implications for clinical practiceThis study estimates nurses’ spiritual care competencies and patient advocacy levels from different generations and sheds light on the literature to eliminate differences in care between generations in nursing practices that evolve and change over time. It is recommended that courses, seminars, in-service training, spiritual activities, and interactive meetings be organized to encourage the participation of intensive care nurses to minimize the differences in spiritual care and patient advocacy among all generations of intensive care nurses.

Influence of computerized intraosseous anesthesia compared with traditional mandibular nerve block on children's behavior: A randomized clinical trial.

Effective pain management is crucial for the successful completion of dental procedures in children. Research has examined whether computerized intraosseous anesthesia (CIOA) could serve as a safe and viable substitute for the conventional inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) technique in pediatric patients. This study investigates the efficacy of CIOA, aiming to determine its effectiveness as an alternative anesthesia method. This study compared the efficacy of local intraosseous anesthesia using a computerized device (QuickSleeper 5) to conventional IANB anesthesia on cooperation and pain perception in children, using a randomized controlled trial design. The study included 88 healthy children, aged between 6 and 9 years, who required pulpotomy for their mandibular second primary molars. The study was approved by the local research ethics committee and registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05193487). The heart rate and Venham behavior rating scale were recorded and analyzed. Categorical data were analyzed using Fisher's exact test. Age and heart rate were compared using an independent t-test for intergroup comparison. The intragroup comparison was carried out using repeated measures ANOVA, followed by the Bonferroni post hoc test. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used to analyze the Venham scale scores. The significance level was set at p < .05 RESULTS: The mean Venham score was slightly higher in the IANB group than in the CIOA group, but was not statistically significant (p = .852). One minute after anesthesia administration, the heart rate (beats per minute [BPM]) was significantly higher in the IANB group (92.30 ± 13.45) than in the CIOA group (83.20 ± 10.40) (p < .001). Additionally, there was a significant difference in heart rate values measured at different intervals within the IANB group. The QuickSleeper 5 device was found to be a feasible alternative for IANB in children over 6 years old.

Relationship between Stigma, Psychological Flexibility, Positive and Negative Affect in Patients with Epilepsy

Background: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that significantly impacts the daily lives of individuals, leading to psychological, social, and cognitive challenges. Despite advancements in its management, stigma remains a substantial issue for epilepsy patients. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between stigma, psychological flexibility, and positive and negative affect in patients with epilepsy. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 200 participants, with 100 epilepsy patients and 100 healthy individuals, aged 18 to 45 years, from four major cities in Punjab, Pakistan. Data were collected using convenience sampling. The instruments used were the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) inventory (epilepsy version), the Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (CFQ), the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II), and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics summarized the demographic and clinical characteristics, and independent samples t-tests were used to compare the groups. Results: Epilepsy patients had significantly higher levels of internalized stigma (ISMI total score: 84.05 ± 11.77) compared to healthy individuals (52.79 ± 13.67), t(198) = 17.33, p &lt; 0.01. They also exhibited lower psychological flexibility (AAQ-II score: 39.23 ± 8.92 vs. 26.04 ± 10.07), t(198) = 9.81, p &lt; 0.01, and higher cognitive fusion (CFQ score: 39.62 ± 9.19 vs. 27.56 ± 10.44), t(198) = 8.67, p &lt; 0.01. Positive affect was lower in epilepsy patients (12.58 ± 4.13) compared to healthy individuals (15.30 ± 4.08), t(198) = 4.68, p &lt; 0.01, while negative affect was higher (19.97 ± 4.51 vs. 14.89 ± 4.69), t(198) = -7.81, p &lt; 0.01. Conclusion: The study demonstrated significant relationships between stigma, psychological flexibility, and affect in epilepsy patients. Addressing these factors is crucial for improving the psychological well-being and quality of life for individuals with epilepsy.

Mitigating antibiotic misuse in dairy farming systems and milk value chain market: Insights into practices, factors, and farmers education in Nyabihu district, Rwanda

The widespread misuse of antibiotics to combat bacterial infections in dairy farming is a global concern contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). To gain insights within small-scale dairy farming, a study was conducted in Nyabihu district of Rwanda from September 2021 to April 2023 to assess practices and factors associated with antibiotic use, investigate antibiotic residues in cow milk and undertake a comprehensive training program to improve quality milk production. A mixed-methods approach, combining cross-sectional and longitudinal intervention studies, involved 42 regular dairy farmers from both open and zero-grazing systems delivering milk to the Union pour la Promotion des Cooperatives des Eleveurs en Nyabihu (UPROCENYA) milk collection center (MCC). Standardized questionnaires and farm interviews were conducted to assess antibiotic use practices while bulk tank milk samples from the same farmers were collected and tested for antibiotic residues using rapid tests over 16 months (8 months before and 8 months after training).Out of 451 bulk tank milk samples tested, 27 samples (6%) contained antibiotic residues, primarily tetracyclines (55.3%) and beta-lactams (44.7%). Before farmers training, 5182.75 l of milk were rejected monthly due to antibiotic residues. Following training, milk rejections decreased to 3192.75 l per month, reflecting 38.35% monthly decrease. However, no statistically significant difference was found by independent t-test (t = 1.441; p = 0.173) between milk rejected before and after training. 97.6% of interviewed farmers reported using antibiotics within six months preceding data collection, with 71.4% primarily used for disease treatment, notably targeting tick-borne diseases (34.0%). Alarming practices included administering antibiotics without referring samples for laboratory examination (100%), disregarding withdrawal periods (88.1%) and administering antibiotics without a veterinary doctor's prescription (85.7%). Factors contributing to these practices included limited farmer’s knowledge on antibiotics, easy access to antibiotics in local agro-veterinary shops, and insufficient veterinary services. Antibiotic-laden milk was used to feed calves (38.6%), consumed at home (26.5%), and sold (12.0%).The observed misuse of antibiotics and disregard for antibiotic withdrawal periods pose significant threats to both milk quality and human health. The authors recommend that dairy farmers prioritize animal health monitoring, seek veterinary advice for disease prevention and treatment and implement biosecurity measures to prevent diseases and thus reduce antibiotic usage. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders are highly recommended to enhance capacity building for dairy farmers and support research initiatives. Furthermore, it is strongly suggested to strengthen regulations on the prudent use of antibiotics within the Rwandan food production system to curb antimicrobial resistance across both animal and human populations.

The effect of educational intervention based on health belief model on colorectal cancer screening behaviors

BackgroundColorectal cancer is the second most prevalent cause of death from malignancies globally. The present study was conducted targeting the influence of an educational intervention based on the health belief model (HBM) on colorectal cancer screening behaviors in people 50 years old and older.MethodsAll 134 samples were included in this quasi-experimental study from Fasa City Health Service Center, equal halves were random into experimental group and control group. The data collection tool was a questionnaire that contained questions on demographic variables, knowledge, and HBM constructs (perceived sensitivity, perceived intensity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and screening behaviors). Both groups answered the questionnaire before and two months following the intervention. There were six 90-minute instruction sessions for the intervention group. SPSS 22 and descriptive and analytical tests (independent t-test, paired t-test, and Chi-square test) were used for data analysis (P < 0.05).Results59 women and 75 men took part in this study. A majority of participants were married and had at least high school diploma. The findings indicated that the mean scores for knowledge, each of the HBM’s constructs, and cancer screening behaviors did not differ significantly from one another before the intervention between the test group and the control group. However, post the intervention, the intervention group exhibited a significant rise in all mentioned dimensions.ConclusionIn light of the outcomes, the application of the HBM on colorectal cancer screening behaviors in people 50 years and older was successful. This approach might serve as a helpful foundation for planning, carrying out, and overseeing colorectal cancer screening programs.

Making Healthful Food Choices: University Employee Perception of Nutritional Information on Restaurant Menu

Nutrition-related illnesses continue to pose challenges for healthcare providers and as such, people are encouraged to look into meal constituents, especially in the hospitality industry. This study sought university employees’ general perception of nutritional information on restaurant menus. Data was purposively obtained from employees who patronized restaurants on the university campus. Descriptive statistics and an independent samples t-test were used to analyze the data. Results indicated that respondents had some form of perceived knowledge of nutritional information with calories and cholesterol, reported as the most important information to be provided on menus. There was a statistically significant difference between females and male respondents with females showing a greater positive perceived nutritional knowledge than their male counterparts. University employees had a high perceived expectation of the provision of nutritional information on menus of restaurants on campus. Implications for restaurants on campus to provide nutritional information on menus that can guide healthier food choices and the University’s management involvement in encouraging individuals to develop and maintain better eating habits are also discussed.

Efficacy of 10 IU Syntocinon versus 800 µg Misoprostol Sublingual in Active Management of 3rd Stage of Labour

Background: The active management of the third stage of labor is crucial for preventing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal mortality. Syntocinon (oxytocin) and Misoprostol are prominent pharmacological agents used to manage this stage by inducing uterine contractions and minimizing blood loss. Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of 10 IU intravenous Syntocinon and 800 µg sublingual Misoprostol in the active management of the third stage of labor, focusing on maternal outcomes, blood loss, side effects, and the need for additional interventions. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Hayatabad Medical Complex from August 1, 2021, to February 1, 2022. A total of 284 women aged 18-40 years with singleton pregnancies were enrolled and randomized into two groups of 142 each. Group A received 800 µg of sublingual Misoprostol, while Group B received 10 IU intravenous Syntocinon at the delivery of the anterior shoulder of the baby. The third stage of labor was managed with early cord clamping and controlled cord traction. Blood loss was meticulously recorded, and patients were monitored for 24 hours postpartum. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 25, with continuous variables expressed as mean ± standard deviation and categorical variables as frequencies and percentages. Post-stratification analysis utilized an independent sample t-test, with a p-value of ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 29.507±3.24 years in the Misoprostol group and 28.352±3.77 years in the Syntocinon group. Blood loss was slightly lower in the Misoprostol group (242.4 ± 3.72 ml) compared to the Syntocinon group (249.176 ± 4.07 ml). The majority of participants were aged 18-30 years (69.7% in Group A and 71.1% in Group B). No statistically significant differences were observed in blood loss based on age, gestational age, or parity. Conclusion: Misoprostol offers practical advantages in terms of ease of administration and stability at room temperature, making it a viable alternative, especially in low-resource settings. Both Misoprostol and Syntocinon are effective in managing the third stage of labor, with comparable efficacy in reducing blood loss.

Multivariate Analysis of Risk Factors for In-Hospital Dislocation Following Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Background: Early dislocation following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a rare but devastating complication and represents a source of patient morbidity and financial burden to the healthcare system. The objective of this study was to identify patient characteristics and comorbidities that are associated with increased early in-hospital dislocation rates following primary THA. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using patient data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database; we identified patients who had undergone THA from 2016 to 2019 and compared those with an early periprosthetic dislocation prior to discharge to those without. The patient characteristics and comorbidities were compared using univariate analysis with a subsequent investigation of statistically significant variables using multivariate analysis. The variables were compared using chi square, Fisher's exact test, and independent sample t-tests with data assessed using odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals. Results: A total of 5151 patients sustained an early dislocation compared to 362,743 who did not. Those who sustained an in-hospital dislocation were more likely to share the following characteristics: female sex (OR 1.21, p < 0.01), age > 70 (OR 1.45, p < 0.01), Caucasian ethnicity (OR 1.22, p < 0.01), SLE (OR 1.87, p < 0.01), and Parkinson's disease (OR 1.93, p < 0.01). Certain characteristics were also associated with decreased odds of having an in-hospital dislocation including elective surgery (OR 0.14, p < 0.01), tobacco use (OR 0.8, p < 0.01), diabetes without complications (OR 0.87, p < 0.01), and a history of heart valve replacement (OR 0.81, p < 0.01). The length of stay was significantly longer (4.7 days vs. 2.3 days) as was the total hospital charges (USD $101,517 vs. USD $66,388) for the early in-hospital dislocation group. Conclusions: Several patient characteristics and comorbidities are associated with early in-hospital dislocation episodes following total hip arthroplasty including female sex, age > 70, non-elective surgery, SLE, and Parkinson's. This information may be useful to help guide intraoperative implant selection and/or postoperative protocol in select patient populations to limit early instability as well as decrease the financial burden associated with this postoperative complication.