Independent T-test Research Articles

Exploring the association between sleep and health performance of migrant home care workers and elderly care recipients in Taiwan

ABSTRACT This study, conducted in June and July 2022 through purposive sampling, aimed to explore the relationship between sleep and health performance in 33 pairs of elderly individuals and their migrant caregivers in southern Taiwan. Participants completed a structured questionnaire and wore an Actiwatch for seven days. Pearson correlation and independent t-test were used for analysis. Nearly 50% of foreign home care workers suffered from insomnia, and 80% of elderly care recipients with disabilities experienced sleep disorders. The number of chronic illnesses and/or dementia among the elderly and insomnia among care workers were associated with poor self-perceived health (r = –0.667, p < .001) and sleep disorders among the elderly (r = 0.368, p = .035). The problem of caregiving should be addressed. Future studies should increase the sample size and extend the duration of the study to enhance the generalizability of the findings.

Effect of telerehabilitation-based core-stability exercise on pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy, and psychological factors in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled study

BackgroundCore-stability exercise is an exercise modality used in the management of patients with low back pain (LBP). Telerehabilitation is a new treatment approach that is gaining traction as an alternative rehabilitation approach. This study determined the effect of telerehabilitation-based core stability exercise (TCSE) and clinical-based core stability exercise (CCSE) on pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy, and psychological factors in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (CLBP).Materials and methodsFifty participants (24 males and 26 females) with a mean age of 40.28 years participated in this randomized controlled study and were recruited from the out-patients physiotherapy clinic of 2 tertiary hospitals in Lagos State and were allocated into two groups (telerehabilitation-based core stability exercise group and clinical-based core stability exercise group which serves as the control) using computer-generated random number sequence. Pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy, and psychological status were assessed at baseline, and at the completion of the 4th and 8th week. Patients received supervised intervention protocols twice weekly for 8 consecutive weeks. Independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Friedman test were used in analyzing the data at an alpha level of 5%.ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference (P = 0.0001) noted within each group (telerehabilitation-based core stability exercise group and clinical-based core stability exercise group) in all the outcome measures assessed (Pain Disability Index, Pain Self-efficacy Questionnaire and Depression-Anxiety-Stress scale) but no group was superior to one another when compared.ConclusionTelerehabilitation-based core stability exercise was as efficacious as clinical-based core stability exercise in decreasing pain-related disability, improving pain self-efficacy and psychological factors, and should be incorporated as part of the treatment program in musculoskeletal rehabilitation for individuals with non-specific CLBP.Trial registrationPACTR202208607830603, 16th August 2022—retrospectively registered, https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/

Stereophotometric facial changes in edentulous older adults after rehabilitation with complete dentures.

To evaluate the facial characteristics of edentulous older adults who underwent rehabilitation using complete dentures, and to compare them with dentate individuals. Edentulism rehabilitation with complete dentures aims to restore occlusion and facial aesthetics. The study included 102 edentulous participants needing prosthodontic rehabilitation with complete dentures and 30 with a natural dentition (aged >65). The 3D facial scans were performed using an Artec optical scanner. Superficial facial landmarks were identified, and 16 parameters were calculated. Regional analysis with the superimposition of two scans was used to calculate the average distances and percentage of non-matching surfaces in the 11 regions. Paired and independent t-tests (α = .05) were used to test for group differences, as appropriate. After rehabilitation with complete dentures, facial changes were most noticeable in the perioral region: wider rima oris, longer upper lip, wider upper vermilion, and more protruded profile. The comparison of facial regions without and with dentures showed fuller and curvier cheeks, with no direct influence of dentures. The edentulous faces with dentures appeared shorter and more retruded than those of dentate individuals. A narrower lower vermilion, retruded upper lip, and more flattened facial profile were observed in females with dentures than in their dentate peers. Besides the expected positive influence of rehabilitation with complete dentures on facial appearance in the perioral region, there are some unexpected changes, such as fuller cheeks, but there is still deficiency in vertical facial dimensions and a more flattened facial profile.

Biplane Reduction: A Novel Technique for Restoring Fibula Length in Maisonneuve Fracture.

Fibular length is important for ankle stability. Failure to adequately restore and stabilize fibula length may result in malunion, hindering postoperative functional exercises and recovery of ankle function. However, there is no unified and effective reduction method for fibular shortening in Maisonneuve fractures. In this study, we introduce the biplane reduction as an effective surgical technique for restoring the length of the fibula in Maisonneuve fractures. This retrospective study enrolled 12 patients preoperatively diagnosed with Maisonneuve fractures between June 2019 and June 2022. All patients underwent our biplane reduction technique to restore the length of their fibula. Operation time, hospital stay, complications, FTA (the angle between the fibular tip and the superior articular surface of the talus), visual analog pain score, and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score were recorded. An independent sample t-test was used for component comparisons, and a paired sample t-test or one-way analysis of variance was used for intra-group comparisons. No patient was lost to follow-up and no obvious postoperative complications were observed. After operation, FTA recovered from 37.52 ± 0.37 ° to 40.42 ± 0.43 °, which was significantly improved compared with that before operation (p < 0.01). At the last follow-up, both the VAS and AOFAS scores showed significant improvement compared to pre-surgery scores. The reduction technique proposed in this study to restore the length of the fibula in Maisonneuve fractures is simple and effective, does not require special equipment, and has the advantage of directly examining the reduction condition.

Comparative analysis of different treatment strategies for septic spondylitis: a retrospective study of one hundred and twelve patients.

To compare the clinical efficacy and prognosis differences between conservative treatment and surgical treatment in patients with non-serious neurologically intact pyogenic spondylitis (Nsi-Nsni-PS), and to provide theoretical reference for the clinical treatment of Nsi-Nsni-PS patients. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 112 cases of Nsi-Nsni-PS patients treated in our hospital from June 2016 to June 2021. According to different treatment methods, they were divided into conservative treatment group (53 cases) and surgical treatment group (59 cases). The general data, laboratory tests, imaging examinations, length of hospital stay, duration of antibiotic use, VAS for pain before and after treatment, ODI, local kyphotic angle correction of diseased vertebrae, and recurrence rate were collected and analyzed in both groups. SPSS 26.0 statistical software was used for analysis. Measurement data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, and independent sample t-test or rank sum test was used for comparison between groups, while variance analysis was used for intra-group comparison. Count data were expressed as number (%) and compared between groups using chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. Mann-Whitney U test was used to evaluate the changes in local kyphotic angle between the two groups. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. There were no significant differences in general data and imaging characteristics between the two groups (P > 0.05); there were no statistically significant differences in the positive culture rate of pathogens, length of hospital stay, duration of antibiotic use, treatment complications, WBC, CRP, ESR levels at admission and discharge, VAS and ODI at admission and last follow-up between the two groups (P > 0.05). The WBC and CRP levels of patients in the conservative group at discharge were lower than those in the surgical group (P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference in the decrease in inflammatory indicators (WBC, CRP, ESR) between the two groups (P > 0.05). By the last follow-up, the neurological function of patients in both groups had significantly improved compared to admission (P < 0.05), with 12 out of 15 ASIA grade D patients in the conservative group recovering to grade E, and 21 out of 25 grade D patients in the surgical group recovering to grade E, with no worsening of neurological function in either group. The differences in VAS and ODI scores at the last follow-up compared to before treatment were statistically significant in both groups (P < 0.05), and all patients regained normal activity. Compared with before treatment, the correction degree of local kyphotic angle in the surgical group at the last follow-up was 0.93 ± 4.94°, slightly higher than that in the conservative group (-0.83 ± 3.37°), and the difference was statistically significant(P < 0.05). During our follow-up, we found that both conservative and surgical treatments achieved satisfactory clinical outcomes in patients with Nsi-Nsni-PS. Compared to conservative treatment, surgical intervention did not demonstrate significant advantages in reducing hospitalization time and antibiotic usage duration, increasing pathogen culture positivity rate, lowering treatment complications, or controlling recurrence. However, surgical intervention showed superiority in correcting the local kyphotic angle of spinal lesions, albeit with relatively increased surgical trauma, risks, and treatment costs. At the last follow-up, the surgical group did not exhibit better long-term efficacy. Therefore, when formulating clinical treatment strategies for patients with Nsi-Nsni-PS, it may be preferable to prioritize conservative treatment, supplemented by the use of sensitive or empiric antibiotics for infection management, to improve patient prognosis.

Neurodevelopment Outcome among Preterm Infants Admitted in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Introduction: With increasing the survival rates of premature babies, the management of long term complications, especially neurodevelopmental disorder is becoming an important issue for a better life. Aims: To assess the factors associated with adverse neurodevelopment outcome among preterm infants admitted in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Methods and Material: This prospective cohort study was conducted in Department of Neonatology, BSMMU, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Premature infants (&lt;34 weeks) discharged from the NICU were enrolled and followed up for neurodevelopmental assessment at 6 months of age. Prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal features of the babies were recorded. The Bayley-III scale was used to assess the composite scores. Continuous variables were analyzed using an independent t-test and categorical variables with chi-square test. Logistic regression analysis was performed to find out the relationship of risk factors with neurodevelopmental scores. Results: A total 47 patients were analysed at 6 months of age using Bayley scale III. Mean birth weight and gestational age was 1595.11 ± 377.17g and 32.43 ± 1.48 weeks respectively. Mean cognitive, motor and language score were 80.79±14.51, 82.87±14.53 and 82.98±13.72 respectively. Despite the fact that all mean scores were normal, 27.7% of infants in cognition, 23.4% in motor, and 31.9% in language had a BSID-III value &lt; 70. Variables like gestational age &lt; 30 weeks, birth weight &lt;1500 grams, and convulsion have been linked to poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, regression analysis revealed none of them were significant. Conclusions: In our study, at six months of age, the cognitive, language, and motor scores of preterm newborns (less than 34 weeks of gestation) were within normal limits. Of the newborns, we observed that 27.7% had cognitive delay and 31.9% experienced language delay. J Dhaka Med Coll. 2022; 31(2) : 251-257

Demonstration Method with TPACK Approach to Improve the Writing Ability of Procedure Text in Fourth Grade

The observation results reveal that the teacher did not integrate technology into all learning processes, resulting in poor writing skills among students. The researcher aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the TPACK-based demonstration approach in enhancing procedural text writing proficiency. A quasi experimental pre-test post-test control group design was employed to examine this effect. The target population for this study included all fourth grade students at SDN Kedaung Wetan 2. A sample of 40 students was selected, with 20 students from class 4A assigned to the control gorup and 20 students from class 4B assigned to the experimental group. The instrument used in this study was a written test. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS 27 program. Both the Paired Sample T-Test (Sig. (2-tailed) = 0.001) and the Independent Samples T-Test (Sig. (2-tailed) = 0.075) yielded statistically significant results (p = 0.05), indicating that the null hypothesis (Ho) can be rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis (Ha). This suggests a significant difference between the learning outcomes of students receiving traditional instruction. Furthermore, the N-Gain Score analysis revealed an average improvement of 56% in the learning outcomes. This finding supports the notion that the TPACK integrated method has a positive influence on students ability to write procedure texts.

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt patients and glaucoma: a cohort analysis of the NPH registry

BackgroundIdiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a chronic condition affecting the elderly. It is characterized by a triad of symptoms and radiological findings. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Earlier studies have proposed that the rate of glaucoma is higher in iNPH patients, and of a possible link between ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP) treatment and the development of glaucoma.ObjectivesThis study aimed to determine the prevalence of glaucoma among iNPH patients and assess the impact of VPs on glaucoma prevalence.MethodsA cohort study was conducted at Kuopio University Hospital (KUH), including 262 patients with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Clinical data were obtained from the Kuopio NPH Registry and medical records. Patients were grouped by iNPH status: iNPH (+) – probable/possible iNPH (n = 192), and iNPH (-) – other causes of hydrocephalus (congenital, secondary, obstructive) (n = 70). We conducted statistical analysis using the Independent Samples T-test, Fisher’s exact test, and Pearson Chi-Square. We compared demographics, glaucoma prevalence, brain biopsies positive for Amyloid-β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau (HPτ) as well as comorbidities for hypertension and diabetes medication. Age stratification assessed glaucoma prevalence in the full cohort.ResultsBoth iNPH (+) and iNPH (-) groups had comparable demographic and comorbidity profiles. The prevalence of glaucoma in the iNPH (+) group was 11.5% (n = 22) and 11.4% (n = 8) in the iNPH (-) group without a statistically significant difference (p = 1.000). Brain biopsies positive for Amyloid-β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau (HPτ) were similar.ConclusionsNeither shunted iNPH patients nor those with a comorbid condition other than iNPH showed a markedly higher prevalence of glaucoma. Instead, both groups exhibited age-related increases in glaucoma prevalence, similar to the trends observed in population-based studies. Our data does not suggest a correlation between VP shunts and an elevated rate of glaucoma.

Fortune 500 companies and employment of people with disabilities: The intermediary role of disability inclusion policies and practices

BACKGROUND: Employing qualified individuals with disabilities can improve organizational competitiveness and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. However, research on disability inclusion policy and practices among employers committed to hiring people with disabilities is limited. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate efforts of Fortune 500 companies to include disability in their DEI policy and examine the effect of disability inclusion policy and practices on employment of people with disabilities METHODS: Four hundred sixty-six human resource and project managers with hiring authority participated in the present study. The Disability Inclusion Profiler-23 (DIP-23) was used to assess the perceived importance and implementation level of disability inclusion policy and practices in Fortune 500 and non-Fortune 500 companies. Two-sample independent t-tests were used to compare disability-employment rates and disability inclusion scores between Fortune 500 and non-Fortune 500 groups. Parallel mediation analysis was conducted to examine the extent to which executive level and mid-manager level DIP scores mediated the relationship between Fortune 500 companies and disability employment rates. RESULTS: Fortune 500 companies demonstrated higher disability employment rates and better disability inclusion policies and practices compared to non-Fortune 500 companies. CONCLUSION: State vocational rehabilitation agencies and other disability service providers should engage Fortune 500 executives to bolster disability inclusion efforts. Collaboration between vocational rehabilitation professionals and mid-level managers can enhance DIP policy implementation, thereby improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Investigating social media addiction and impact of social media addiction, loneliness, depression, life satisfaction and problem-solving skills on academic self-efficacy and academic success among university students

IntroductionThe negative effects of post-COVID-19 restrictions have been detected in students’ mental well-being due to internet addiction, changing habits, despair and uncertainty. Students’ academic success is expected to be affected by social media addiction, loneliness, depression, life satisfaction, problem solving skills and academic self-efficacy factors. This study aimed to determine the level of social media addiction and the effects of these factors on the academic success of university students and define their interactions with each other.MethodsFour hundred nineteen questionnaires were collected between October–December 2022 at Bingöl University, Türkiye. Descriptive statistics, independent t-test, One-Way ANOVA, correlation and multiple linear regression methods were used to analyze data with the help of the SPSS 22 software.ResultsMiddle level grade (GPA) average (71,17 ± 9,69 out of 100), low level social support from friends and family members (34,6%), spending more than 4 h on social media (42,5%), middle level social media addiction, moderate depression level (51,31%-PHQ &amp;gt; 10), mild loneliness and slight dissatisfaction with life were found among students. Furthermore, high academic self-efficacy, moderate agreement with academic performance and good problem-solving skills were indicated in the survey results. Significant differences, such as higher life satisfaction among males and higher depression among females, were measured. Academic self-efficacy scale, problem solving skills and satisfaction with life had a negative correlation with social media addiction and depression, while a positive correlation with academic performance measures. Problem solving skills, satisfaction with life, fourth class vs. others and living alone vs. others were positive predictors of the academic self-efficacy. Meanwhile, loneliness was a negative predictor of the academic self-efficacy, while higher problem-solving skills and being female were positive factors leading to a higher GPA.DiscussionThe fact that the participants were only students from Bingöl University limits the ability to generalize the results. Policymakers could implement social and problem-solving skills training to develop better academic programs and cognitive-behavioral therapy for students’ academic success.

Chinese version of the Tendency to Avoid Physical Activity and Sport (TAPAS) scale: testing unidimensionality, measurement invariance, concurrent validity, and known-group validity among Taiwanese youths

Background and objectivesPsychosocial factors affect individuals’ desire for physical activity. A newly developed instrument (Tendency to Avoid Physical Activity and Sport; TAPAS) has been designed to assess the avoidance of physical activity. Considering cultural differences could be decisive factors, the present study aimed to translate and validate the TAPAS into Chinese (Mandarin) for Taiwanese youths, and further cultural comparisons are expected.MethodsStandard translation procedure (i.e., forward translation, back translation, and reconciliation) was used to translate the English TAPAS into the Chinese TAPAS. Following translation, 608 youths (mean [SD] age 29.10 [6.36] years; 333 [54.8%] women) participated in the study via a snowballing sampling method with an online survey. All participants completed the Chinese TAPAS and additional instruments assessing weight stigma and psychological distress. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to examine the factor structure of the Chinese TAPAS and multigroup CFA to examine measurement invariance across gender (men vs. women) and weight status (overweight vs. non-overweight). Pearson correlations were used to examine the concurrent validity; independent t-tests between gender groups and weight status groups were used to examine the known-group validity.ResultsConsistent with the English version, the Chinese TAPAS was found to have a one-factor structure evidenced by CFA results. The structure was invariant across gender and weight status groups evidenced by multigroup CFA results. Concurrent validity was supported by significant associations with the related constructs assessed (r = 0.326 to 0.676; p < 0.001). Known-group validity was supported by the significant differences in TAPAS total scores between gender and weight status groups (p = 0.004 and < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 0.24 and 0.48).ConclusionThe Chinese version of the TAPAS is a valid and reliable instrument assessing individuals’ avoidance of physical activity and sports due to underlying psychosocial issues among Taiwanese youths. It is anticipated to be applied within a large Asian population, as well as cross-cultural comparisons, for further explorations in health, behavioral and epidemiological research and practice.

Infection prevention, control and management: assessing the knowledge among nurses and student nurses in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka

Background and aims: The knowledge of infection control among health-care workers is a crucial factor in the success of infection control pro-grams. This study compares the understanding of infection control and prevention practices among nurses and student nurses in eastern province of Sri Lanka. Methods: We utilized a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire with 25 questions. Descriptive statistics and the independent t-test were used to analyze survey responses and compare scores between groups. Results: Out of 178 responses analyzed 112 were nurses and 66 were student-nurses. The average scores were 44% for nurses and 51% for student-nurses. Both groups had less than 10% knowledge of notifiable diseases in Sri Lanka and medical abbreviations. Knowledge about immunization, vaccines, clinical sample transportation, and MRSA decolonization was under 40% for both groups. Overall knowledge of infection control and prevention practices among nurses was significantly poorer than that of student-nurses (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: These findings underscore the generally inadequate knowledge of infection control and prevention practices among both nurses and student-nurses. It is imperative to implement policies and measures to as-sess and enhance the training curricula for student-nurses and to ensure ongoing training programs for nurses.

THE PERCEPTIONS OF THE PROVIDER ASSESSMENTS FOR PATIENT EXPERIENCES DURING PAIN AND ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT IN JORDANIAN CONTEXT

Aim: The goal of the present study is to determine the perceptions of the provider assessments for patient experiences during pain and orthodontic treatment in Jordanian context. Materials and Methods: The research sample was gathered at the Jordanian Royal Medical Services, Princess Haya Bent Alhussain Hospital, and Price Hashim Hospital from patients who have had orthodontic treatment in the past. Specifically, 107 questionnaires were analyzed. The questionnaire aimed to identify the pain during and appointments based on providers’ and patients experience. The replies of the patients were calculated using frequency. Result: A comparison was also conducted, focusing on the average responses from all of the providers and patients. The independent sample t-tests showed the estimation of the providers regarding the last appointment of their patients. The providers asked their patients how much pain they were experiencing (2.93 versus 2.50; P.056). Following this, a comparison was made regarding the pain that patients experienced immediately after the last appointment (3.83 versus 3.62; P.047), as well as one day after the treatment (3.72 versus 3.48; P.006) and two days after the last appointment (3.19 versus 3.08; P .001). Last but not least, it is demonstrated that at today's appointment, difference was (2.13 vs 2.28; P .425). Conclusions: Finding out whether or not orthodontists are aware that their patients take pain medication and whether or not patient reports of their pain are compatible with orthodontists' assessments of their patients' pain levels are crucial.

Exploring teachers' artificial intelligence awareness

The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technological advancements is reshaping various aspects of our daily lives, including education. Integrating AI in education offers advantages such as personalized learning and operational efficiency. However, educators need to be aware of AI's implications in education. Teachers must enhance their awareness and knowledge levels to adapt to the educational environment where AI technologies are becoming increasingly prevalent. Therefore, this research aims to assess teachers' AI awareness levels and investigate whether AI awareness varies based on age, graduation status, and years of experience. This study used data collected from 147 educators using the Teachers' Artificial Intelligence Awareness Scale. The results indicated that teachers' AI awareness was at a moderate level. Additionally, the study examined teachers' AI awareness across different variables. Independent sample t-tests and one-way ANOVA analyses determined teachers' AI awareness variation based on age. The research findings suggest that younger educators and those with higher academic qualifications have more excellent practical knowledge of AI. The study's limitations included a relatively small sample size and the assumption of accurate participant responses. Despite these limitations, understanding teachers' AI awareness levels is a foundation for developing educational programs related to AI. By understanding teachers' perceptions and knowledge of AI, tailored interventions and training initiatives can enhance educators' proficiency in effectively utilizing AI technologies within educational settings.

Evaluation of Total Risk-Weighted Assets in Islamic Banking through Fintech Innovations

The assessment of total risk-weighted assets (LTRWAs) in the banking sector is of the utmost importance. It serves as a critical component for regulatory compliance, risk management, and capital adequacy. By accurately assessing LTRWAs, banks can effectively meet regulatory requirements, efficiently allocate capital resources, and proactively manage risks. Moreover, the accurate assessment of LTRWAs supports performance evaluation and fosters investor confidence in the financial stability of banks. This study presents statistical analyses and machine learning methods to identify factors influencing LTRWAs. Data from Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen, spanning from 2010 to 2021, was utilized. Various statistical tests and models, including ordinary least squares, fixed effect, random effect, correlation, variance inflation factor, tolerance tests, and fintech models, were conducted. The results indicated significant impacts of the unemployment rate, inflation rate, natural logarithm of the loan-to-asset ratio, and natural logarithm of total assets on LTRWAs in regression models. The dataset was divided into a training group (90% of the data) and a testing group (10% of the data) to evaluate the predictive capabilities of various fintech models, including an adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), a hybrid neural fuzzy inference system (HyFIS), a fuzzy system with the heuristic gradient descent (FS.HGD), and fuzzy inference rules with the descent method (FIR.DM) models. The selection of the optimal model is contingent upon assessing its performance according to specific error criteria. The HyFIS model outperformed others with lower errors in predicting LTRWAs. Independent t-tests confirmed statistically significant differences between original and predicted LTRWA for all models, with HyFIS showing closer predictions. This study provides valuable insights into LTRWA prediction using advanced statistical and machine learning techniques, based on a dataset from multiple countries and years.

Medical and nursing interventions influence a caregiver’s willingness to continue home hemodialysis: a multicenter cross-sectional survey

BackgroundIn Japan, home hemodialysis (HHD) has several benefits, including a favorable prognosis, enhanced quality of life (QOL) of patients, and cost-effectiveness. However, the caregiver’s burden in assisting patients on HHD is significant, which influences their decision to continue HHD. This study focused on the relationship between medical and nursing interventions, caregiver resolve to continue HHD, and caregiver quality of life, aiming to create support strategies for caregivers.MethodsA multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted on caregivers of patients on HHD from 150 HHD facilities in Japan. The caregiver’s intent to continue HHD was assessed using a four-tier response scale that evaluated aspects such as caregiver–healthcare provider meetings, caregiver breaks, treatment discussions, difficulty in HHD initiation, and post-initiation medical support. Caregiver QOL was evaluated using the Short-form Health Survey, eight domains (SF-8). Statistical analysis involved χ-squared tests, independent t-tests, and propensity score matching.ResultsThe study achieved a caregiver participation rate of 55.6%. Results indicated that caregivers who were inclined to continue HHD were significantly more likely to receive respite outpatient dialysis and had a better understanding of HHD mechanics as explained by healthcare professionals; however, propensity score matching revealed limited generalizability. There was no significant difference in the SF-8 scores before and after propensity score matching among the groups.ConclusionsThis study highlights that there are a small number of caregivers who have little motivation to continue HHD and emphasizes the crucial role of support from healthcare professionals. Comprehensive support, including respite dialysis and detailed HHD information, may affect HHD sustainability.

Examining the Impact of a Behavior Modification Program on Disease Prevention Behaviors among Individuals at Risk of Diabetes: A Quasi-Experimental Investigation

This study aimed to develop and test a behavior modification intervention to prevent type 2 diabetes (T2DM) among at-risk individuals. The primary goal was to compare diabetes prevention behaviors and fasting blood sugar levels between the intervention and comparison groups. This study utilizes a quasi-experimental design to develop a behavior modification intervention for preventing diabetes. It involves two groups, each with pre- and post-intervention assessments, comprising 60 at-risk individuals equally divided into intervention and comparison groups. The 8-week intervention includes components like risk assessment, dietary skill enhancement, exercise, stress management, and social media platforms (data recording training, follow-up visits, reminders, and visual aids). Data collection includes self-administered questionnaires and blood sugar level measurements. Statistical analysis involved paired t-tests for within-group comparisons and independent t-tests for between-group differences. The findings showed that the intervention group achieved significantly higher average scores in nutrition, exercise, and stress management, and had significantly lower average blood sugar levels compared to the comparison group. These results suggest that healthcare providers and policymakers should develop community health programs and public health policies that incorporate integrative care, leverage social media platforms, and foster collaboration with other health professionals to improve outcomes for individuals at risk of T2DM.

Evaluation of Serum Amino Acid and Carnitine Profile in Dogs with Transmissible Venereal Tumor

The presented study aimed to reveal the changes in serum amino acid and carnitine profiles in dogs with transmissible venereal tumor (TVT). The study material comprised 40 female dogs ranging in age from 3 to 5 years. The dogs were divided into two groups based on genital organ examinations. Group 1 (n=20) consisted of healthy dogs, while Group 2 (n=20) consisted of TVT-positive dogs. The definite diagnosis of transmissible venereal tumor was made based on the detection of intracytoplasmic vacuoles and numerous mitotic figures in the collected vaginal smear samples. Blood samples were taken from dogs in both study groups and serum was obtained. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used for the determination of carnitine and amino acid profiles. The obtained data were compared using independent samples t-test. The serum amino acid profiles of Lysine, Aspartic Acid, Tyrosine, Asparagine, Alanine, Arginine, Citrulline, Glutamic Acid, Glycine, Methylglutaryl, Phenylalanine, and Ornithine were found to be lower in the TVT group (P

Efficacy of EMLA for office-based andrology procedures under local anesthesia: a randomized control trial

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetic (EMLA), a topical anesthetic cream, in office-based invasive andrological procedures such as hydrocelectomy, spermatocelectomy, and others, aimed at minimizing pain perception and enhancing the overall patient experience. MethodsA double-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted for patients undergoing scrotal andrology surgeries under LA. Power calculation was performed with an estimated sample size of 72. Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to topical EMLA + LA vs LA alone. In the post-operative recovery area, patient will be asked to complete a VAS questionnaire rating pain with LA administration and pain with procedure. Analysis comparing VAS pain scores of both groups was performed using the independent sample t-test method. Results72 patients were included in our analysis, with 36 in the control and 36 in the intervention arm. For patient pain with administration of LA, the control arm reported an average VAS pain score of 4.31, compared to 3.72 in the intervention arm (p=0.319). For patient pain with procedure, patients in the control arm reported a median VAS pain score of 3.47 compared to 3.03 (p=0.432) in the intervention arm. Overall, 86% (62/72) of patients reported that they would either be “very likely” (4/5) or “highly likely” (5/5) to undergo future procedures under local anesthetic. ConclusionsWhile performing scrotal surgeries under LA appears to be well tolerated and a feasible option, the application of EMLA cream does not appear to significantly alter patient-reported outcomes.

Effect of conventional cigarette smoking and recent heated tobacco products on CAD/CAM restorative materials

ObjectiveTo determine the effects of conventional cigarette smoking (CS) and recent heated tobacco products (HTPs) on the surface roughness and color stability of different indirect restorative materials.Materials and methodsOne hundred disc-shaped samples were constructed of three different restorative CAD/CAM materials: lithium disilicate glass–ceramic (IPS e.max CAD; Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein), zirconia (BruxZir® Zirconia, Glidewell, USA) and polyetheretherketone (BioHPP® bredent GmbH, Germany). Of the IPS e.max CAD and the Bruxzir samples, 20 samples were glazed, and 20 samples were polished, while the BioHPP samples were all polished according to the manufacturer’s instructions.Fifty samples were subjected to conventional cigarette smoking (LM, Philip Morris International Inc., Egypt) (Groups: IPS e.max CAD_Glazed exposed to CS (LD_G_Cig), IPS e.max CAD_Polished exposed to CS (LD_P_Cig), Bruxzir_Glazed exposed to CS (Zr_G_Cig), Bruxzir _Polished exposed to CS (Zr_P_Cig) and BioHPP exposed to CS (PEEK_Cig) and fifty samples were exposed to heated tobacco product smoking (Heets, Russet selection, Philip Morris International Inc., Italy) (Groups: IPS e.max CAD_Glazed exposed to HTP (LD_G_HTP), IPS e.max CAD_Polished exposed to HTP (LD_P_HTP), Bruxzir_Glazed exposed to HTP (Zr_G_HTP), Bruxzir CAD_Polished exposed to HTP (Zr_P_HTP) and BioHPP exposed to HTP (PEEK_HTP).. Six hundred cigarettes/heets representing 30 days of medium smoking behavior (20 cigarettes/day) were used. Before and after exposure to smoke, the surface roughness of all the samples was measured using JITAI8101 surface roughness tester (Beijing Jitai Tech Detection Device Co., Ltd, China, and the color parameters were assessed using VITA Easyshade Advance 4.01 (VITA shade, VITA made, VITA). The data were analyzed using One-way ANOVA, paired sample t-test and independent sample t-test. The significance level was set at α < 0.05.The surface topography was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy to determine changes in the surface chemical composition.ResultsBoth types of smoking caused significant increases in the surface roughness of all the samples. There was a significant difference in color change between CS and HTP for all materials with different surface finish (P < 0.01) and zirconia had the greatest effect on color change (P < 0.001). In contrast, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) “BioHPP” had the least effect (P < 0.001).ConclusionExposure to different types of smoking induce changes in the surface topography and color of different esthetic restorative materials. Compared with HTP, conventional cigarette smoke has a greater effect on the surface roughness and color stability of esthetic restorative materials. The glazed surfaces showed less change in surface topography than did the polished surfaces. Zirconia showed better color stability when compared to polyetheretherketone (PEEK).