Inferential Statistical Tests Research Articles

دور القانون السعودي في تنظيم الإعلام الرقمي ومكافحة الدعاية المضللة

This study aimed to reveal the role of Saudi law in regulating digital media and combating misleading propaganda in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study relied on the descriptive analytical approach. Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire that included 377 lawyers and media professionals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who were selected by simple random sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were used to analyze the data, such as mean, standard deviation, regression analysis, and correlation analysis. The results of the study showed a statistically significant positive relationship between the role of media professionals and lawyers in combating misleading propaganda and the effectiveness of Saudi law in this field. The results also showed that the role of media professionals and lawyers positively affects the clarity, strength, and application of the law. Based on these results, the study recommended the necessity of enhancing cooperation between media professionals and lawyers, developing awareness and training programs, reviewing laws and regulations, and encouraging scientific research in this field.

Comparative Evaluation of the Dimensional Accuracy of Silicone-Based Putty Reline Impressions with Different Spacer Acquisition Techniques in Fixed Partial Dentures.

BACKGROUND A tooth preparation's clinical requirements and geometric configurations should take precedence over material characteristics when advocating for putty reline impression techniques for permanent restorations, since they require a technically sensitive spacer for light body elastomer. We evaluated the linear dimensional accuracy of vinyl polysiloxane-based putty reline impressions with different spacer acquisition techniques in short-span and long-span fixed partial dentures (FPD). MATERIAL AND METHODS A typodont tooth set simulated a 3-unit (short-span) and a 5-unit (long-span) FPD. Between respective prepared abutments, 31 coordinates were identified and measured based on angles (line/point) and surfaces (curved/flat). Sixty impressions (dual stage 2-step putty reline technique) were divided into 5 groups (n=12/group): group PP (pre-preparation putty), group GP (gouging putty), group PS (polythene spacer), group CT (conventional temporary), and group MT (modified temporary), depending on spacer acquisition method. Coordinates measurements were conducted using a measuring microscope. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests (ANOVA, post hoc Tukey) determined between-group and within-group differences, at P≤0.05 significance level. RESULTS In short-span FPD, compared with control, the number of significantly different coordinates group-wise were GP (4 coordinates), PP (2 coordinates), and PS, CT, and MT (1 each). In long-span FPD, compared with control, the number of significantly different coordinates group-wise were group GP (12 coordinates), group PP (10 coordinates), group PS (5 coordinates), and group CT and group MT (4 each). CONCLUSIONS Different spacer acquisition methods produce varied thickness of spacers for relining of putty. CT and MT, when used as spacers, provided maximum accurate coordinates for angles (line/point) and surfaces (curved/flat).

Investigating the Apoptosis Status of Peripheral Lymphocytes in COVID-19 Patients in the Post-COVID-19 Era: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Although COVID-19 has been contained and the world is now in the post-corona era, evidence shows that the coronavirus can still cause hospitalization and even death of patients by inducing cell apoptosis. Aim The present study was conducted to investigate the apoptosis status of peripheral lymphocytes in patients with COVID-19 in the post-corona era. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted using a simple random sampling method in December, 2023, by examining the apoptosis level of peripheral lymphocytes in samples taken from 54 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Velayat Damghan Hospital. Using an RT-PCR test, the nucleic acid of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was identified in all COVID-19 patients. Apoptosis assay was performed using the Annexin V/Propidium Iodide technique. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism and inferential statistics tests. Results A total of 54 patients with COVID-19 in the age range of 21 to 59 years, of whom 44.4% were hospitalized in the non-ICU department and 55.5% in the ICU department. Among them, 27.7% required intubation, while 27.7% did not need intubation. The highest level of apoptosis in peripheral lymphocytes was observed in the intubated ICU (4.28%) and non-intubated ICU (1.89%) groups. The intubation group showed a significant difference from the non-intubation group (p < 0.01). In all groups, there was a significant increase in the level of apoptosis compared to the healthy control group (p < 0.01). Conclusion The increased apoptosis in COVID-19 patients raises concerns about the potential impact on immune function and the development of long-term health complications.

Investigation of the Prevalence of Depressive Illness in Vitiligo Patients: A Cross-sectional Study

Background Vitiligo, as a progressive skin disease, is associated with the public's negative attitudes toward this condition, as well as numerous social and familial problems that can lead to psychiatric disorders. Aim The present study was conducted to determine the frequency of depressive illness in patients with vitiligo. Methods This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted using census sampling on 178 patients with vitiligo who were referred to the skin clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital (RA) in Jiroft in 2023. Data were collected face-to-face using the Beck Depression Questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests in SPSS-22 statistical software, with a significance level of p less than 0.05. Results The average age of the examined patients was 31.4 ± 6.8 years. Of the participants, 53.3% were women and 46.7% were men. The frequency of individuals exhibiting moderate and severe depressive symptoms was 17.9% and 28.8%, respectively. The prevalence of depressive illness was higher among married women compared to single women. Conclusion The high prevalence of depressive illness symptoms in these patients underscores the urgent need for effective interventions and treatment strategies to address this mental health concern. The findings of this study highlight the necessity for continuous surveillance and monitoring of depressive illness prevalence and its risk factors, which will inform the development of effective interventions and policies aimed at mitigating this mental health issue.

Task sequencing on oral performance in Portuguese as a foreign language

This empirical study examined Robinson’s (2010, 2015, 2022) Simplify, Stabilise/ Automatise/ Restructure, Complexify (SSARC) instructional design model of task sequencing. Thirty-four university learners of Portuguese as a foreign language participated in the research. The analysis employed a monologic narrative task and two independent variables: “± here-and-now” and “± planning time”. Measures of syntactic complexity, lexical diversity, accuracy, and fluency were selected to analyse the learners’ output. A between-subjects design was adopted. Participants were divided into two groups: (i) sequencing group, in which the students (n=15) performed three tasks with different levels of cognitive complexity (simple task – complex task – more complex task); (ii) individual performance group (n=19), in which the students performed only one task (simple task, complex task, or more complex task). The inferential statistical tests showed gains in fluency and syntactic complexity (coordination index) regarding the complex task in the sequencing group, and increased accuracy and fluency for the more complex task, as compared to individual group performance. The SSARC model was considered to have pedagogical merit, which can help teachers design task-based syllabuses. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to fully test the SSARC model applied to oral task sequencing in Portuguese as a foreign language.

Evaluating the impact of reciprocal teaching embedded within a Web 2.0 tool upon fifth-grade students’ reading during integrated readers’ workshop at a Professional Development School

PurposeFor this study, 12 fifth-grade students read expository text, employed reciprocal teaching strategies, collaborated face to face online using a Web 2.0 tool during the reading workshop. The purpose of this action research was to evaluate the impact of reciprocal teaching embedded in the Wakelet Curation Tool, a Web 2.0 tool, on fifth-grade students’ reading for comprehension, reading attitudes and perceptions of the innovation in an integrated reading class at an urban characteristic (Milner et al., 2018) Professional Development School (PDS) (National Association for Professional Development Schools, 2021) site.Design/methodology/approachThis action research followed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Two quantitative data collection instruments were used. Inferential and descriptive statistical tests were run to analyze quantitative data.FindingsFindings showed the posttest scores for the Comprehension Content Knowledge test were not significantly higher than the pretest scores, but there was an increase from pre- to posttest. ERAS scores showed there was not an increase from pre- to postsurvey. In addition to quantitative data, qualitative data were collected and analyzed using inductive analysis. Four individual semi-structured interviews yielded the qualitative data for this study. Four themes were identified over the course of two coding cycles: (1) contributions of fifth-grade students’ perceptions about the innovation, (2) affective contributions, (3) reading achievement and (4) suggestions for future use. The data suggested participants acquired content-specific knowledge and strategies for monitoring and assessing their comprehension.Originality/valueThe information in this article explains the steps that the Outstanding Dissertation Award winner completed in order to apply for the PDS award. The article describes the action research that was conducted with fifth grade students to see how reciprocal teaching embedded within Wakelet Curation Tool impacted their reading comprehension.

A Cross-Sectional Study of Non-communicable Disease Risk Factors Among Non-diabetic and Non-hypertensive Population.

Noncommunicable diseases, especially diabetes and hypertension, have emerged as significant public health challenges. Regular screening, even among healthy individuals, is essential for early diagnosis and prevention of complications. This cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban ward of the Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad municipal corporation in Maharashtra, India, and cluster random sampling was used to collect data. A total of 430 participants aged 10 years and older were enrolled in the study. The institutional committee approved the study, and all guidelines, including consent and confidentiality, were strictly followed throughout the research. Data collection employed the World Health Organization (WHO) Stepwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) instrument. Descriptive statistics, such as percentage, mean, and standard deviation, were used to summarize the distribution of important variables in the study population. Inferential statistical tests, including unpaired t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA), were applied to compare mean blood pressureand blood sugar levels among participants with differing characteristics. Logistic regression was utilized to identify the best predictors for elevated blood pressureand blood sugar levels. Out of the 430 participants, 366 (85.1%) exhibited risk factors for non-communicable diseases. Elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levelswere noted in 220 (51.2%) and 194 (45.1%) subjects, respectively. Age and average systolic blood pressurewere the best predictors for random blood sugar levels, while age, lifestyle-related risk factors, religion, overweight, and random blood sugar levelswere the best predictors for systolic blood pressure. Marital status and random blood sugar levelswere the best predictors for diastolic blood pressure. Our findings highlight that a substantial proportion of apparently healthy people have elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Hence, regular screening from a young age is recommended.

Investigating the Relationship Between the Levels of Hematological and Biochemical Parameters of COVID-19 Patients with the Length of Hospitalization

Background: Identifying and treating patients with COVID-19 requires the use of quick and precise laboratory diagnostic techniques that assess the patient's health and identify the illness. Aim: This study was conducted to determine the relationship between hematological and biochemical parameters and length of hospitalization in patients with COVID-19. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of a descriptive-analytical type, which was conducted by census method on 360 medical records of patients with COVID-19 in Imam Khomeini Hospital in Jiroft in 2022. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics tests. Results: The average number of days of hospitalization in the present study was 4 days. The rate of COVID-19 was higher in men than in women. The most common underlying diseases in the patients were heart, pulmonary, and diabetes. Among the biochemical parameters, only lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), platelet (PLT), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) parameters had a statistically significant relationship with the total length of hospitalization (P-value<0.001). LDH, AST, ALT, creatinine (Cr), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), blood sugar (BS), total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin parameters were higher than normal in hospitalized patients. Conclusion: The results showed that there is a relationship between LDH, BUN, AST, ALT, PLT, and ESR parameters and the length of hospitalization of patients. The levels of LDH, AST, ALT, Cr, CPK, BS, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin parameters in patients were higher than normal.

The Effectiveness of Educational Intervention in Promoting Preventive Behaviors of Dengue Fever in Southern Iran: Applying Health Belief Model (HBM)

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsDiseases transmittable by Aedes mosquito affect the health of millions of people every year, however, they can be effectively prevented. This study aimed to apply the Health Belief Model (HBM) in promoting preventive behaviors against dengue fever in southern Iran.MethodsIn this quasi‐experimental study, 320 people were randomly selected through multi‐stage cluster sampling in 2022 (161 in the intervention group and 159 in the control group). The data were collected using a researcher‐made questionnaire based on the HBM constructs before and 1 month after an educational intervention. Content validity index (CVI), content validity ratio (CVR), and Cronbach alpha coefficient were used for psychometric evaluation of the questionnaire. The educational intervention was made on a daily basis in a WhatsApp group in August and September 2022. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were used for data analysis.ResultsAfter the educational intervention, the mean score increased in the constructs of behavior (38.42 ± 1.54), knowledge (10.77 ± 0.98), attitude (24.30 ± 1.59), perceived susceptibility (20.05 ± 1.42), perceived severity (21.31 ± 2.01), perceived benefits (28.00 ± 2.16), self‐efficacy (14.77 ± 0.51) of the intervention group. Moreover, after the intervention, the scores of perceived barriers (8.96 ± 1.31) decreased in the intervention group (p < 0.05). The analysis of covariance showed education had a statistically significant effect on HBM constructs.ConclusionsThe participants' knowledge about preventive behavior of dengue fever increased. They managed to remove the barriers to healthy behavior and began to show the desired preventive behavior with the self‐efficacy they gained; thus, the educational intervention based on the HBM can improve the behaviors to preventi of dengue fever, which is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito.

Examination of Gender Performance in Physics in Mankranso Senior High School

Despite ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity in science education, the persistent gender gap in physics remains a pressing concern. This study investigated potential gender differences in physics performance among senior high school students at Mankranso Senior High School in Ghana. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing student physics test scores from a stratified random sample (N = 111; 79 males, 32 females) from a population of 184 students. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests were used to analyse the data. Descriptive statistics revealed a slightly higher mean score for females (M = 43.65, SD = 21.78) compared to males (M = 39.39, SD = 21.15). However, a two-sample t- test (t = - 0.721, df = 56, p = 0.474) showed no statistically significant difference in mean physics test scores between male and female students. Levene’s test for equality of variances (F = 0.210, p = 0.649) confirmed that the variability of scores was not significantly different between genders. The following conclusion was made, while females have a slightly higher average score (42.31) compared to males (41.29), the difference is not statistically significant. The study emphasizes the importance of creating equitable learning environments, focusing on individual student needs, and promoting inclusive practices that encourage all students to thrive in STEM fields. The following recommendations was made; be aware of potential unconscious biases that might impact how you interact with or perceive students of different genders. Offer students opportunities for enrichment, advanced coursework, or participation in science competitions. Further investigation and consideration of other potential factors influencing performance is recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

The Relationship between Family Support and Anxiety Level in Preoperative Major Elective General Anesthesia Patients at dr. Soedomo Hospital Trenggalek

surgical process. Family support plays a crucial role in helping patients manage preoperative anxiety. The study aimed to analyze the relationship between family support and anxiety levels in patients undergoing major elective surgery with general anesthesia. The research design was cross-sectional. The study population consisted of 92 patients, with a sample size of 75 recruited through non-probability purposive sampling. The study utilized family support and Amsterdam preoperative anxiety and information Scale (APAIS) questionnaires as instruments. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests, including Spearman’s rank correlation (Rho) with a p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results showed that almost all participant received high levels of family support (81.3%) and moderate level of preoperative anxiety (81.3%). The Spearman rank test indicated a significant relationship between family support and anxiety levels (p-value = 0.000 0.05) with a very strong, negative correlation (r = -.870). In conclusion, higher the family support is associated with lower anxiety level in preoperative patients. It is recommended that families provide consistent support during preoperative phase to help reduce patient level of anxiety.

The impact of a large-scale natural disaster on local economic activity: evidence from the 2003 Bam earthquake in Iran

AbstractThis study provides new causal evidence for the impact of a large-scale natural disaster on local economic activity in Iran using nighttime light intensity. We apply the synthetic control method (SCM) to nighttime light (NTL) data from 1992 to 2013 to study the impact of the 2003 Bam earthquake on Bam County in Iran and its neighboring counties. According to the results and statistical inference tests for the SCM, Bam County and its neighboring counties experienced a statistically significant boost in economic activity in the years following the earthquake. Bam’s GDP economic activity increases by an accumulated US$620 million in the post-earthquake period. We find that the average economic gain in Bam following the 2003 earthquake is approximately 5% of Bam’s GDP. We also discuss possible contributing factors to the post-disaster economic boom in Bam.

Effect of the suture augmentation on the stability and strength of ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction: The anchor and bone tunnel methods

BackgroundThe initial fixation strength of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction is increased by combining a suture augmentation (SA). However, no reports have investigated the stability of UCL reconstruction with SA across multiple elbow flexion angles and the influence of SA on the stability and failure strength of the anchor and bone tunnel methods. This study aimed to compare the displacement against a valgus load at multiple elbow flexion angles of the anchor and bone tunnel methods between with and without SA, and to compare the failure strength between these methods with SA. We hypothesized that the combination of SA reduced the displacement, and the failure strength was comparable between the anchor and Ito methods with SA. MethodsEight fresh-frozen cadaveric upper extremities were used. To evaluate the displacement against valgus load, the valgus stability tests at multiple flexion angles were performed for four UCL reconstruction methods: anchor method, anchor with SA, bone tunnel, and bone tunnel with SA. The load-to-failure test was performed to evaluate the failure strength of the anchor and bone tunnel methods with SA. P < 0.05 was considered significant in tests of statistical inference. ResultsThe displacements of the anchor method with SA at 30°, 60°, and 90° of flexion were significantly smaller than those without SA. Regarding comparing the bone tunnel method with and without SA, a significant difference was observed at only 30° of flexion. There was no significant difference in the failure strength between the anchor and bone tunnel methods with SA. ConclusionThe combination of SA reduced the displacement against a valgus load at multiple flexion angles, and the failure strength was comparable between the anchor and bone tunnel methods with SA. Combining SA may increase the initial fixation strength in both the anchor and bone tunnel methods.

Pengaruh Perencanaan Program Kesiswaan Terhadap Pengembangan Karakter Siswa di Sekolah Menengah Pertama

The student program, which includes extracurricular activities, student organizations, and social activities, plays an important role in supporting the character development of students. This research aims to analyze the influence of student participation in extracurricular programs on character development at SMPN Sijunjung. This study employs a quantitative method with a survey approach and cross-sectional design. The research sample consists of 200 students randomly selected from several middle schools in Sijunjung. Data were collected using a Likert scale questionnaire to measure students' perceptions of their participation in student programs and character development. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistical tests, specifically Pearson correlation, using SPSS software. The research results indicate that students' participation in student programs is positively and significantly related to their character development, with a Pearson correlation value of r = 0.65. Sports extracurricular programs have the strongest influence on character development, followed by student organizations. More frequent participation in student activities is also associated with a higher level of character development. This research suggests the need for an improvement in the quality of student programs and stronger support from teachers, parents, and school authorities to maximize the positive impact on students' character

Animal Welfare Perspectives Against the Backdrop of Animal Cruelty in Nigeria

Knowledge is crucial for improving animal welfare. People's perceptions, attitudes, and understanding may be a hindrance to adopting animal welfare-improving ideas which is crucial for developing effective animal welfare policies and advocacy in Nigeria. This study evaluates the current knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of animal welfare among Nigerian residents. A cross-sectional survey using a structured questionnaire distributed via emails, social media platforms, and by personal contact. The survey collected data from 694 respondents across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria over 6 months (November 2023 and June 2024). Descriptive statistics, reliability testing, and inferential statistical tests were performed using SPSS for windows. The result revealed that majority (60-87.3%) of the respondents had a good knowledge of what constitutes cruelty to animals. Also, 88.8% were aware that animals have right to freedoms that could enhance their welfare, and 96.1% agreed that freedom from hunger and thirst is reasonable for animals. The standard deviations were relatively low, suggesting consistent responses among participants. Respondents (87.3%) also supported the enforcement of animal cruelty laws and the enactment of comprehensive animal welfare laws in Nigeria. The high knowledge scores among Nigerian residents suggest a strong foundational understanding of animal welfare principles. It is recommended that despite the result continual advocacy and policy development are still necessary to shape the public attitudes, and perceptions to animal.

Comparison of treatment results of femoral shaft fracture with two methods of intramedullary nail (IMN) and plate

BackgroundFracture of the femur is one of the most common fractures that, if not stabilized and treated properly, may lead to severe disability, impairment of the individual’s efficiency, and numerous complications. This study aimed to evaluate the treatment results of femoral shaft fracture with two methods intramedullary nail (IMN) and Plate.Materials and methodsIn this cross-sectional study, 60 patients with femoral bone fractures were admitted to Imam Khomeini Hospital in Jiroft in 2020 and were treated for at least one year after discharge. They were divided into two treatment groups - Plate fracture fixation (n = 30) and IMN fracture fixation (n = 30). Data were collected using a researcher-made checklist including patient demographics and treatment outcomes. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS-v 26 statistical software and descriptive and inferential statistical tests at a significance level of p < 0.05.ResultsPatients in the Plate treatment group were generally older (50–60 years) compared to the IMN treatment group (30–40 years), and there were more men than women in both groups. Only 10% of patients in each group developed superficial infections after surgery. There were more cases of deep infections in the Plate group, but it was not statistically significant. The IMN group had fewer cases of malignancy and claudication compared to the Plate group. Patients in the IMN group also returned to functional activities faster than those in the Plate group, which was a statistically significant difference.ConclusionConsidering that deep infection, non-union, malunion, claudication, and ability to return to functional activities in the group using nails treated was less than the group treated with plates, the treatment method of femoral fracture using IMN is the preferred treatment method.

Medical students’ perceptions of live versus recorded pathology lectures at a South African medical school during the Covid-19 pandemic: unique lessons for undergraduate pathology education in a diverse student population

Abstract Introduction/Objective The morphological depiction and interactive learning vital to the core discipline of anatomical pathology posed specific challenges during emergency remote teaching (ERT) in the COVID 19 pandemic. Using voice-over PowerPoint presentations (VoPPPs) in anatomical pathology at Wits University in Johannesburg, South Africa during this time provided a unique opportunity to determine students’ perceptions of this teaching and learning modality. Objective To determine a South African medical students’ perceptions of live lectures vs online learning with VoPPPs during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods/Case Report A descriptive, cross-sectional, online survey was sent to 326 4th year medical students in 2020. The questionnaire consisted of closed- and open-ended questions. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were conducted on the quantitative data. Content analysis was performed on the open-ended responses. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) The survey response rate was 56.75%. Respondents preferred the traditional lecture format to the exclusive use of VoPPPs (48.6% to 34.6%) for pathology learning. Respondents appreciated the flexibility of learning from VoPPPs, resulting in blended learning being the preferred approach (45.9% vs 44.3 for live lectures only and 9.7% for VoPPPs only, respectively). Respondents indicated a need for more effective use of VoPPPs regarding the depiction of pathology images, more opportunities for feedback, and more online learning modalities in addition to VoPPPs. Some respondents from rural areas stated that their home study environments were not conducive to online learning modalities. Conclusion Blended learning combines the interactivity possible in contact sessions with the time benefits of online learning for undergraduate pathology education. However, educators should use various online methods rather than relying solely on VoPPPs. This is especially important when considering the visual nature of pathology lectures. Where VoPPPs are used, they should be used effectively, mainly using good quality, labelled images to depict morphology. The preference for blended learning offers exciting possibilities for developing integrated learning platforms in the future, however, these must be tailored to suit the needs of students from economically and ethnically diverse backgrounds.

Protocol for a cross-sectional study on factors affecting health-related quality of life among Afghan refugees in Pakistan

Background Pakistan served as a host for more than 1.4 million Afghan refugees for more than 40 years. Access to health care is the most important issue faced by refugees, because they might be at a higher risk for certain diseases. This risk can be attributed to a lack of awareness of health care facilities, health beliefs, inadequate hygiene, cultural differences, and malnutrition. Health of individuals is closely associated with their quality of life. Quality of life over the whole lifespan is pivotal to overall life satisfaction. It includes physical wellbeing, mental health, education, occupation, income, personal safety, as well as (religious) freedom. Until now, the health status of Afghan refugees has never been comprehensively investigated in Pakistan. Therefore, an assessment in this regard is needed to explore their health-related quality of life, for securing their human right to health. Methods A cross-sectional study has been designed to describe and explain the health-related quality of life of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Multistage cluster sampling was applied for selection of study participants. The number of respondents from two regions in Pakistan was drawn through a proportionate sampling technique. A quantitative research method using pre-validated questionnaires was used for data collection. The questionnaire included items to assess well-being, mental health, health literacy, and factors affecting health and health care. Descriptive analysis was used, whereas inferential statistical tests (binary logistic regression model) was also performed. The study received ethically permission by the Advanced Studies and Research Board of the University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. Discussion The assessment of Afghan refugee’s quality of life in Pakistan should lead to recommendations disseminated to public and health care officials. This evidence is needed for policymaking related to adequate measures for improving health conditions of Afghan refugees in Pakistan.

Investigating the Status of Mothers and Newborns' Access to Safe and Quality Care from the Perspective of Midwifery Personnel Working in Government Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim The present study was conducted to determine the status of mothers’ and newborns' access to safe and quality care from the perspective of midwifery personnel. Background Safe and quality care is recognized as a principle in providing healthcare to mothers and newborns. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted through random sampling on 270 midwifery personnel working in government hospitals of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in 2023. The data were collected using a questionnaire created by a researcher and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests in SPSS-22 statistical software at a significance level of less than 0.05. Results The average age of the participants was 34.41 ± 7.93 years. The results showed the status of mothers' and newborns' access to safe and quality care to be in the average range of 38.30 ± 6.67. The midwifery personnel have demonstrated adherence to scientific and specialized protocols regarding the way for childbirth and how to care for mothers and newborns to be the most frequent (51.5%), while the provision of emotional and psychological support to women who have given birth with newborn problems to be the least frequent (8.5%). Conclusion Midwifery personnel believe that the safe and quality care provided to mothers and newborns is adequate. Midwifery personnel are committed to following evidence-based practices, but need additional training and resources to support women in need emotionally and psychologically. This is particularly concerning given the potential impact of maternal mental health on both the mother and the newborn.

Exploring Caregiver Burden in Alzheimer's Disease: The Predictive Role Of Psychological Distress

Background Alzheimer's Disease [AD], the most prevalent form of dementia, is on the rise in terms of its prevalence. Individuals affected by this condition typically require extensive care across all aspects of daily living. The mental well-being of caregivers for those with dementia stands as a significant public concern. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the association between the burden of caregiving and the psychological distress experienced by family caregivers of individuals with AD. Methods This cross-sectional study employed a census method and involved the participation of 150 caregivers of Alzheimer's patients in Shahroud, Iran. To assess the eligibility of family caregivers, the inclusion criteria comprised minimal literacy in reading and writing and at least six months of care for an individual with AD.. Exclusion criteria included being a formal caregiver or employed in healthcare, having mental disorders, or using neuroleptic drugs among family caregivers. Data collection tools consisted of the Zarit Care Burden Inventory [ZBI] and Lovibond's Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale [DASS-21]. Information was gathered online and through self-reporting, followed by analysis using descriptive statistics [frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation], as well as inferential statistical tests [multivariate linear regression]. Results In this study, the mean scores for caregiver burden, anxiety, stress, and depression were 28.09 ±13.01, 4.50 ±4.53, 8.12 ±4.98, and 4.69 ± 4.86, respectively. The study's findings revealed that with each additional hour spent on daily patient care, the burden score for caregivers increased by 0.327 units [p=0.025, β=0.327]. Furthermore, for every one-unit rise in stress [p&lt;0.001, β=1.087] and depression scores [p=0.015, β=0.671], the burden score also increased by 1.087 and 0.671 units, respectively. Conclusion Caregivers of individuals with AD experienced notable levels of caregiving burden, particularly correlated with the duration of daily patient care and the manifestation of stress and depression symptoms. Hence, the study suggests the implementation of tailored interventions, such as psychoeducational programs, to provide vital support for these individuals.