Group Mean Difference Research Articles

The Effect of Virtual Laboratories on the Academic Achievement of Undergraduate Chemistry Students: Quasi-Experimental Study.

Experimentation is crucial in chemistry education as it links practical experience with theoretical concepts. However, practical chemistry courses typically rely on real laboratory experiments and often face challenges such as limited resources, equipment shortages, and logistical constraints in university settings. To address these challenges, computer-based laboratories have been introduced as a potential solution, offering electronic simulations that replicate real laboratory experiences. This study examines the effect of virtual laboratories on the academic achievement of undergraduate chemistry students and evaluates their potential as a viable alternative or complement to traditional laboratory-based instruction. A quasi-experimental design was implemented to examine the cause-and-effect relationship between instructional methods and student outcomes. The study involved 60 fourth-year BSc chemistry students from Dilla University, divided into 3 groups: a real laboratory group (n=20), which performed real laboratory experiments; a virtual group (n=20), which used virtual laboratory simulations; and a lecture group (n=20), which received lecture-based instruction. Quantitative data were collected through tests administered before and after the intervention to assess academic performance. The data analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics, such as means and SDs, 1-way ANOVA, the Tukey honestly significant difference test, and independent-sample t tests (2-tailed), with a P value of .05 set for determining statistical significance. Before the intervention, the results indicated no significant differences in academic achievement among the 3 groups (P=.99). However, after the intervention, notable differences were observed in student performance across the methods. The real laboratory group had the highest mean posttest score (mean 62.6, SD 10.7), followed by the virtual laboratory group (mean 55.5, SD 6.8) and the lecture-only group, which had the lowest mean score (mean 43.7, SD 11.5). ANOVA results confirmed significant differences between the groups (F2,57=18.429; P<.001). The Tukey post hoc test further revealed that the real laboratory group significantly outperformed the lecture-only group (mean difference 18.88; P<.001), while the virtual laboratory group also performed significantly better than the lecture-only group (mean difference 11.7; P=.001). However, no statistically significant difference was found between the real laboratory and virtual laboratory groups (mean difference 7.12; P=.07). In addition, gender did not significantly influence performance in the virtual laboratory group (P=.21), with no substantial difference in posttest scores between male and female students. These findings suggest that computer-based laboratories are a viable and effective alternative when real laboratories are unavailable, enhancing learning outcomes when compared with traditional lecture-based methods. Therefore, universities should consider integrating computer-based laboratories into their practical chemistry curricula to provide students with interactive and engaging learning experiences, especially when physical laboratories are inaccessible.

Oral LPCN 1148 improves sarcopenia and hepatic encephalopathy in male patients with cirrhosis: A randomized, placebo-controlled phase 2 trial.

Sarcopenia is highly prevalent in patients with liver cirrhosis and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes including hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Androgen receptor agonists, ARAs, can address these conditions through multimodal mechanisms of action, however their safety and efficacy in patients with cirrhosis have not been well established. In this multicenter, double-blind, phase 2 trial, men with sarcopenia and cirrhosis awaiting liver transplant were randomized 1:1 to receive either oral ARA LPCN 1148 or placebo for 24 weeks (NCT04874350). The primary endpoint was the change from baseline to 24 weeks in skeletal muscle index measured by computed tomography scan of the L3 region (L3-SMI), analyzed with a prespecified modified intent-to-treat population. The secondary endpoint was the number of overt HE events. 29 participants (mean age=59y, MELD=17) received at least one dose of LPCN 1148 (n=15) or placebo (n=14). Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Primary endpoint analysis demonstrated an increase in L3-SMI in the LPCN 1148 group (n=15) compared to placebo (n=10), with a mean group difference of 4.4cm2/m2 (95% CI, 1.3-7.4cm2/m2, p=0.007). Participants in LPCN 1148 experienced fewer episodes of overt HE (CTCAE grade ≥2; p=0.02) than placebo. The number and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events were similar between arms. LPCN 1148 treatment improved sarcopenia and reduced the number of overt HE episodes in men with cirrhosis and sarcopenia awaiting liver transplant. These findings support additional research on the efficacy of LPCN 1148 in treating sarcopenia and preventing HE recurrence.

Cervical spine sensorimotor deficits persist in people post-concussion despite minimal symptoms

Background The mechanisms of a concussion place stress on the cervical spine like that of a whiplash event, which can result in cervical spine dysfunction. This study aimed to determine if underlying cervical spine mobility and sensorimotor function deficits occur in individuals who are post-concussion with near resolution of symptoms. Methods Twenty-five participants with a self-reported concussive event within a year (PC group: post-concussion 157 + 120 d, 9 men, age: 25 ± 8 yr) and 26 comparable peers (Peer group, 9 men, age: 25 ± 7 yr) were tested. The Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS) quantified residual concussion symptoms. Participants completed cervical joint position error (JPE) and cervical spine joint mobility tests blinded from each other. Group mean differences were analyzed using t-tests. Results The PC group had minimal symptoms (PCSS = 6.8 ± 6.5) but substantial differences in JPE tests compared to the Peer group (PC = 7.4 ± 1.8 cm; PG = 5.6 ± 1.1 cm; p < .001). Those PC participants with pain during joint testing (n = 15) had worse JPE (Painful = 8.1 ± 1.8 cm, No-pain = 6.3 ± 1.6 cm; p = .02) and less averaged lower cervical spine joint mobility compared to PC participants without pain (Painful = 0.66 ± 0.22, No-pain = 0.87 ± 0.19; p = .02, Normal motion = 1.0). Conclusion Following a concussion, it is a reasonable recommendation to screen the cervical spine to identify impairments in joint mobility and JPE that contribute to neck dysfunction.

062. Satisfying Outcome of 24-Hours Post Operation Feeding Following Bowel Anastomosis Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Gastrointestinal anastomosis surgery does not have standardized postoperative feeding practices. The majority of surgeons used to believe that early enteral feeding (EEF) after bowel resection and anastomosis could be harmful and cause stress on the anastomosis site, increasing the risk of leakage. This study compared EEF patients whose nutrition started for the first 24 hours with delayed enteral feedings (DEF) during bowel anastomosis surgery Case: This systematic review and meta-analysis used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. All extracted data was presented in the table, summarized narratively, and analyzed statistically using forest plots through a relative risk (RR) with a fixed effect model test. Results: This research included 444 participants from 6 studies, including 196 in the EEF group and 248 in the DEF group. From the analysis, the incidence of leakage, gastrointestinal symptoms of abdominal distention and vomiting, fever, and surgical site infection (SSI) were lower in the EEF group although not significant, with statistical values in order namely; leakage (RR 0.39, p=0.10); abdominal distention (RR 0.67, p=0.11), vomiting (RR 0.88, p=0.53); fever (RR 0.61, p=0.005) and SSI (RR 0.42; p=0.002). Length of stay (LOS) was found to be statistically significant shortened in the EEF group (Mean Difference 2.23 days; P &lt; 0.00001). Conclusion: The EEF group had a statistically insignificant lower incidence of leakage, gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, and SSI and statistically significant shorter LOS. Twenty-four hours post-operation enteral feeding showed a satisfactory outcome, so we recommend it in either small or large bowel anastomosis surgery.

Differences in Body Fat in Athletes Categorized by Resting Metabolic Rate

The purpose of the study was to examine differences in body fat percentage (BF%) across groups stratified by resting metabolic rate (RMR) when normalized to body weight. National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III athletes (n = 190; Age: 19.8 ± 1.4 year; Body Mass: 79.3 ± 20.2 kg; Height: 175.0 ± 9.3 cm, Body Mass Index: 25.6 ± 4.9 kg/m2) participated in this cross-sectional mixed cohort study. Body composition was assessed using air displacement plethysmography. RMR was assessed using indirect calorimetry. For each sex, tertiles were determined and used to create low, moderate, and high relative RMR groups as follows: low (M: &lt;26 kcal/kg; F: &lt;24 kcal/kg), moderate (M: 26.1–29.0 kcal/kg; F: 24.1–27.0 kcal/kg), and high (M: &gt;29.1 kcal/kg; F: &gt;27.1 kcal/kg). The mean ± standard deviation RMR for male and female athletes was 27.9 ± 3.2 and 25.9 ± 2.8 kcals/kg when expressed relative to body weight. When stratified by sex, males in the low RMR group had significantly higher BF% values than those in the moderate (mean difference, [95% confidence intervals]) (7.2, [2.4, 12.0] kcal/kg; p &lt; 0.01) and high RMR groups (7.7, [2.9, 12.5] kcal/kg; p &lt; 0.001). Female athletes in the moderate RMR group had higher body fat percentages than those in the high RMR group (mean difference, [95% confidence intervals]) (5.8, [2.4, 9.2] kcal/kg; p &lt; 0.01). Female athletes in the moderate relative RMR group had higher BF% values than those in the higher relative RMR group (3.3, [−0.1, 6.7] kcal/kg; p = 0.049). Both male and female athletes with a low relative RMR had a higher BF%.

An Assessment of Mental Health Challenges of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender College Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Collegiate mental health continues to be a worrisome public health concern among college students in the U.S. The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has caused an upward trend of mental health crises, especially among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ+) college students. The objective of this study was to assess the mental health statuses, attitudes towards disease control and mitigation measures, and coping strategies among this vulnerable group. A web-based survey was conducted at a medium-sized public university in the mid-Atlantic region during the summer and fall of 2021 when COVID-19 was still a major public health concern. The survey was distributed through the listservs of the college and was advertised through campus-wide social media. Descriptive and inferential statistics including a t-test for the differences in group means and a logit regression model for comparing the groups were used. Our final sample is composed of 611 students with 79% of the respondents identifying as straight, and 20% in the LGBTQ+ group. Our results showed that LGBTQ+ students exhibited higher levels of anxiety and fear compared to the non-LGBTQ+ groups. Also, a large proportion of LGBTQ+ students were negatively impacted by the pandemic as compared to the non-LGBTQ+ groups (p = 0.05), while they generally have more positive views on the public health measures to alleviate the adverse impacts from COVID-19 (p = 0.001). Public health emergency management should adopt appropriate strategies and adapt their services to support the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ students. Our study highlighted the need to design tailored health promotion programs and enhance support systems for LGBTQ+ college students during similar emergencies.

A clinical trial of the effects of cocoa rich chocolate on depression and sleep quality in menopausal women

In this triple-blind, randomized clinical trial, 60 menopausal women between the ages of 45 and 65 were randomized to receive 78% dark chocolate (12 g/day) or milk chocolate (12 g/day) for eight weeks. The primary outcome was depression scores. Secondary outcomes included sleep quality and anthropometric indices. ANCOVA with baseline adjustment showed that the mean depression score after the intervention in the group receiving dark chocolate was significantly reduced compared to the milk chocolate group (mean difference: -2.3; 95% confidence interval: -3.9 to -0.8; p = 0.003; Cohen’s d = -0.54). However, no statistically significant difference in the overall sleep quality score and its subdomains was observed between the two groups after the intervention (p > 0.05). Furthermore, after the intervention, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of anthropometric indices, including weight (p = 0.075), BMI (p = 0.137), waist circumference (p = 0.463), and hip circumference (p = 0.114). The study suggests that consuming 78% dark chocolate for eight weeks may contribute to improvements in depression scores, but it does not appear to improve sleep quality or anthropometric indices.Trial registration: IRCT20220926056046N1; December 2022.

The european organisation for research and treatment of cancer head and neck cancer module (EORTC QLQ-HN43): Estimates for minimal important difference and minimal important change

IntroductionMinimal important change estimates (MIC) are useful for interpreting results of clinical research with quality of life (QoL) as an endpoint. For the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer head and neck cancer module, the EORTC QLQ-HN43, no such thresholds are established. MethodsHead and neck cancer patients under active treatment (n = 503) from 15 countries completed the EORTC QLQ-HN43 three times (t1: before treatment, t2: three months after t1, t3: six months after t1). A subgroup completed a Subjective Significance Questionnaire (SSQ), indicating experienced change from the previous time point in four QoL domains. QoL was assumed to deteriorate after t1 and improve again until t3. The MIC was established using the average of mean differences in SSQ groups (MICmean) and estimates based on logistic regressions (MICpredict). Additionally, minimal detectable changes (MDC) were computed using 0.5 standard deviation and standard error of the mean. ResultsFor swallowing, speech, dry mouth, and global QoL, the MIC for deterioration were 13, 14, 26, and 10 respectively. The MIC for improvement were 8 (swallowing), 6 (dry mouth), and 5 (global QoL); no MIC for speech improvement can be presented because of insufficient correlation between change score and anchor. The MDC estimates for deterioration were 15, 14, 15, and 11. For improvement, the MDC estimates were 13, 14, 14, and 11. ConclusionsOur results underline that no single MIC or MDC can be applied to all EORTC QLQ-HN43 scales, and that the MIC for deterioration seems larger than those for improvement.

Experiences of Discrimination and Alcohol Involvement Among Young Adults at the Intersection of Race/Ethnicity and Gender.

Although discrimination is an important social determinant of alcohol involvement, there is a dearth of research testing these associations across race/ethnicity and gender. This is an important research gap given that experiences of discrimination and therefore links with alcohol involvement may vary as a function race/ethnicity and gender intersectional identities. We tested for measurement invariance in discrimination and alcohol involvement and examined group differences in means and covariances. The sample consisted of n = 1187 young adults (ages 18-26; n = 193 Black women, n = 209 Latina women, n = 186 White women, n = 198 Black men, n = 203 Latino men, and n = 198 White men). We found evidence for differential item functioning for discrimination and alcohol involvement that violated assumptions needed to make manifest between-group comparisons. To model the source and degree of differential item functioning, we used partial measurement invariance and dropped a discrimination item that did not reliably overlap with the latent factor for White women. After accounting for differential item functioning, Black women and men reported the highest discrimination, followed by Latinx women and men, and then White women and men. White women reported the most alcohol involvement, followed by White men, Latina women, Latino men, Black men, and Black women. Discrimination and alcohol involvement were positively associated for all groups except White women, though effect sizes varied with Black men exhibiting the largest effect. An intersectionally valid understanding of discrimination and alcohol involvement may necessitate statistical approaches that can test for (and model) differential item functioning prior to making between-group quantitative comparisons.

Protocol for a community-based, household-randomised, dose-response trial to assess the acceptability, nutritional effects and safety of double-fortified salt containing iodine and folic acid compared with iodised salt among non-pregnant Ethiopian women of reproductive age (DFS-IoFA).

The prevalence of neural tube defects (NTDs) is higher in Ethiopia than most other countries, and ~84% of Ethiopian women of reproductive age (WRA) have folate insufficiency, a major risk factor for NTDs. Salt fortification with folic acid is a potential strategy to improve women's folate status, but data are needed on the acceptability, nutritional impact and safety of folic acid fortification of iodised salt. The study is designed as a community-based, household-randomised, dose-response trial. A total of 360 non-pregnant WRA 18-49 years of age will be randomly assigned to one of three intervention arms: (1) iodised salt fortified with 30 ppm folic acid to provide ~200 µg folic acid/day; (2) iodised salt fortified with 90 ppm folic acid to provide ~600 µg folic acid/day; or (3) iodised salt (comparator). The preweighed salts will be delivered to participants' homes biweekly for 26 weeks; unused salt will be collected and weighed. Fasting, venous blood samples will be collected at baseline, end line and a randomly assigned intermediate time point for assessment of folate, iodine, vitamin B12 and other micronutrient status biomarkers. Women's dietary intakes, including discretionary salt consumption, will be measured using weighed food records; 24-hour urine specimens will be analysed for sodium and iodine excretion. Primary outcomes are women's consumption of study salts, change in biomarkers of folate and iodine status and prevalence of adverse events. Results will be analysed using analysis of covariance models to estimate group mean differences for continuous outcomes, controlling for baseline measurements, and log-binomial or modified Poisson regressions for categorical outcomes. Prespecified effect modifications will be explored. The study has been approved by the Ethiopian Public Health Institute's Institutional Review Board, and the protocol has been registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number NCT06223854). Study results will be published in open access scientific journals and disseminated nationally in Ethiopia. NCT06223854.

Clinical benefit of physical rehabilitation after total hip and knee arthroplasty: A pragmatic, randomized, controlled trial (The DRAW1 trial)

ImportanceComparative effectiveness trials have not shown superiority of one type of physical rehabilitation over another following total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty. We therefore ask the fundamental effectiveness question: Does physical rehabilitation “work” better than no physical rehabilitation? ObjectiveTo compare the effectiveness of a 6-week program of physical rehabilitation (home-based telerehabilitation, or home-based rehabilitation) to no physical rehabilitation following THA and TKA. Design3-arm,randomized, controlled, superiority trial with blinded outcome assessments. 377 patients (210 THA/167 TKA) were screened for eligibility before the targeted sample size of 168 patients was reached. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline, at the end of intervention (6 weeks), and 3 and 12 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS)/ Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)-subscale: function in daily living. Secondary outcomes included: HOOS/KOOS-subscales: pain, symptoms, and quality of life, patient global assessment, analgesics, walking aids, 30-s chair stand test, 4x10m fast-paced walk test, exercise adherence, and satisfaction. ResultsComparing physical rehabilitation (home-based telerehabilitation, and home-based rehabilitation) to no physical rehabilitation, the mean group-differences for the primary outcome were 3.3 (95%CI: -1.9 to 8.6; p = 0.10) points at 6 weeks, and 1.9 (95%CI: -3.7 to 7.6; p = 0.25) and 2.6 (95%CI: -4.4 to 9.6; p = 0.23) points at the 3- and 12-months follow-ups, respectively. ConclusionPhysical rehabilitation was not superior to the no physical rehabilitation comparator following THA or TKA in terms of self-reported function or any of the secondary outcomes. Trial registrationNCT03750448 (23/11/2018), URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03750448.

Lateral column lengthening versus subtalar arthroereisis for pes planovalgus in patients with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Although pes planus, a common deformity in children with cerebral palsy (CP), is predominantly treated through lateral column lengthening (LCL), subtalar arthroereisis (SA) has also gained popularity for this purpose. This systematic review was conducted to compare surgical outcomes between LCL and SA for pes planovalgus in children with CP. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were comprehensively searched for relevant articles reporting the outcomes of LCL and SA in the target population. Surgical outcomes were evaluated in terms of radiographic parameters and postoperative complications. This review included 22 studies involving patients undergoing LCL (LCL group) and 9 studies involving those undergoing SA (SA group). LCL outperformed SA in terms of corrections in the talonavicular coverage angle (8.1°-42.1° vs. 8.0°-30.7°), anteroposterior talo-first metatarsal angle (12.3°-33.7° vs. 9.8°-21.4°), and calcaneal pitch angle (2.5°-29.7° vs. 3.5°-8.0°). Furthermore, the risk of postoperative complications, such as recurrence, pain, undercorrection, and overcorrection, was higher in the LCL group than in the SA group. However, the risks of reoperation and implant-related problems were higher in the SA group than in the LCL group. A meta-analysis of two randomized studies revealed that improvement in calcaneal pitch angle was significantly greater in the LCL group than in the SA group (mean difference: 2.09°; P = 0.0488). LCL outperforms SA in correcting pes planus-related radiographic parameters in patients with CP. However, postoperative complications appear to be more common after LCL than after SA. https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2024-5-0126, Identifier 202450126.

Effect of time restricted eating versus current practice in dietetics on glycaemic control and cardio-metabolic outcomes in individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes: Protocol for a multi-centre, parallel group, non-inferiority, randomised controlled trial

BackgroundTime restricted eating (TRE) is a dietary strategy that may improve metabolic health. However, no studies have compared TRE with current practice (CP) in dietetics. HypothesisTRE will not be inferior to CP to improve glycaemic control in individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). MethodsThis parallel group, randomised, non-inferiority, controlled trial randomised 247 participants by site and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) into TRE or CP (1:1) for 12 months. Participants were aged 35–70 years, with a body mass index (BMI) >25 but <45 kg/m2, and score ≥15 on the Australian type 2 diabetes risk (AUSDRISK) assessment, without a diagnosis of T2D. Study visits were balanced between groups and all participants received five consultations at 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 months. TRE followed a self-selected 9 h eating window (≥0600 and ≤1900), whereas CP followed Australian dietary guidelines. OutcomesThe primary endpoint is the estimate of group mean difference (TRE vs CP) of HbA1c at 4 months in a covariate linear regression adjusting for stratification factors and sex. Secondary efficacy outcomes at 4 and 12 months are changes in fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR and nocturnal glucose by continuous glucose monitor incremental area under the curve and change in HbA1c at 12 months. Other endpoints are exploratory and will not be adjusted for multiplicity. ConclusionsWe will determine whether TRE is an alternate strategy to current practice in dietetics to improve glucose control.Trial registration:NCT04762251; 21 Feb 2021.

Essential Components of an Electronic Patient-Reported Symptom Monitoring and Management System

Multicomponent electronic patient-reported outcome cancer symptom management systems reduce symptom burden. Whether all components contribute to symptom reduction is unknown. To deconstruct intervention components of the Symptom Care at Home (SCH) system, a digital symptom monitoring and management intervention that has demonstrated efficacy, to determine which component or combination of components results in the lowest symptom burden. This randomized clinical trial included participants who were older than 18 years, had been diagnosed with cancer, had a life expectancy of 3 months or greater, were beginning a chemotherapy course planned for at least 3 cycles, spoke English, and had daily access and ability to use a telephone. Eligible participants were identified from the Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah (Salt Lake City), and from Emory University Winship Cancer Institute, including Grady Memorial Hospital (Atlanta, Georgia), from August 7, 2017, to January 17, 2020. Patients receiving concurrent radiation therapy were excluded. Dates of analysis were from February 1, 2020, to December 22, 2023. Participants reported symptoms daily during a course of chemotherapy and received automated self-management coaching with an activity tracker without (group 1) and with (group 2) visualization, nurse practitioner (NP) follow-up for moderate-to-severe symptoms without (group 3) and with (group 4) decision support, or the complete SCH intervention (group 5). The primary outcome, symptom burden, was assessed as the summed severity of 11 chemotherapy-related symptoms rated on a scale of 1 to 10 (with higher scores indicating greater severity), if present. The 757 participants (mean [SD] age, 59.2 [12.9] years) from 2 cancer centers were primarily female (61.2%). The most common cancer diagnoses were breast (132 [17.4%]), lung (107 [14.1%]), and colorectal (99 [13.1%]) cancers; 369 patients (48.7%) had metastatic disease. The complete SCH intervention including automated self-management coaching and NP follow-up with decision support (group 5) was superior in reducing symptom burden to either of the self-management coaching groups, as shown by the mean group differences in area under the curve (group 1, 1.86 [95% CI, 1.30-2.41] and group 2, 2.38 [95% CI, 1.84-2.92]; both P < .001), and to either of the NP follow-up groups (group 3, 0.57 [95% CI, 0.03-1.11]; P =.04; and group 4, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.14-1.19]; P = .014). Additionally, NP follow-up was superior to self-management coaching (group 1 vs group 3, 1.29 [95% CI, 0.72-1.86]; group 1 vs group 4, 1.20 [95% 12 CI, 0.64-1.76]; group 2 vs group 3, 1.81 [95% CI, 1.25-2.37]; and group 2 vs group 4, 1.72 [95% CI, 1.17-2.26]; all P < .001), but there was no difference between the 2 self-management coaching groups (-0.52 [95% CI, -1.09 to 0.05]; P = .07) or between the 2 NP groups (-0.10 [95% CI, -0.65 to 0.46]; P = .74). In this randomized clinical trial of adult participants undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer, the complete intervention, rather than any individual component of the SCH system, achieved the greatest symptom burden reduction. These findings suggest that a multicomponent digital approach to cancer symptom management may offer optimal symptom burden reduction. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02779725.

Sedentary Behavior Of Elementary School Students Based On Class Teacher Perceptions And Physical Education Teacher, Sports And Health In The District Turen

This type of quantitative research using a comparative causal method was carried out by comparing the perceptions of class teachers and PJOK teachers to determine the sedentary behavior of elementary school students spread across Turen District. Data was collected via an online questionnaire/questionnaire (google form) with 5 Likert answer scales and analyzed using a single mean versus criterion test (one sample t-test) and an independent group mean difference test (independent sample t-test). IBM SPSS Statistics 25 is used to make it easier to calculate analysis results. The findings of this research are (1) The physical activity of elementary school children according to the class teacher has not met the adequate criteria set, (2) The physical activity of elementary school children according to the PJOK teacher has not met the adequate criteria set, and (3) There is no significant difference in mean. between the class teacher's perception and the PJOK teacher's perception of the sedentary behavior of elementary school age children.

759. P02.04 PARAVERTEBRAL VERSUS EPIDURAL ANALGESIA IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE ESOPHAGEAL RESECTION (PEPMEN): A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED MULTICENTER TRIAL

Abstract Background Thoracic epidural analgesia has been the mainstay for pain control in esophageal cancer patients undergoing minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE). Although effective epidural analgesia potentially contributes to achieving enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) goals in patients undergoing MIE, it can have counterproductive side effects such as hypotension, urinary retention and reduced mobility. Paravertebral analgesia may be a promising alternative to epidural analgesia, avoiding potential side effects and improving postoperative recovery. Methods This open randomized controlled superiority trial was conducted across four Dutch centers. A total of 192 patients with esophageal cancer, scheduled for elective transthoracic MIE with intrathoracic anastomosis, were included and randomized to receive either epidural analgesia or paravertebral analgesia. The primary outcome was Quality of Recovery (QoR-40) on the third postoperative day (POD). Secondary outcomes included the quality of life, postoperative pain, opioid consumption, need for inotropic/vasopressor medication, duration of admission, mobilization, complications, readmission, and mortality. Results From December 2019 to February 2023, 94 patients were assigned to epidural and 98 to paravertebral analgesia. QoR-40 score on POD3 did not differ between groups (mean difference 3.7; P=.268). The epidural group had higher QoR-40 scores on POD1 and 2 (mean difference 7.7; P=.018, mean difference 7.3; P=.020) and lower pain scores (1 versus 2; P=&amp;lt;.001, 1 versus 2; P=.033). More patients in the epidural group required vasopressor-medication on POD1 (38.3% versus 13.3%; P&amp;lt;.001). In the paravertebral group, the urinary catheter was removed one day earlier (P=&amp;lt;.001). No significant differences in complications or length of stay were observed. Conclusion This multicenter randomized controlled clinical trial did not show superiority of paravertebral analgesia over epidural analgesia in quality of recovery on the third day after minimally invasive esophagectomy. These results, however, support the safety of paravertebral analgesia as a viable alternative to epidural analgesia, enabling the provision of both techniques to patients in clinical practice.

Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Results in Shorter Navigation Working Time With Similar Clinical Outcomes Compared to Computer-Navigated Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundEarly clinical data are important in the appraisal of newly introduced robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) systems in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, there are few studies to date comparing 1-year clinical outcomes between RAS and computer-assisted navigation (CAS), the forerunner in reducing alignment outliers. The aim of this study was to determine if there was a difference between these two groups in early clinical outcomes, including functional outcome and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). MethodsA total of 158 propensity score-matched patients who underwent primary TKA with either CAS or RAS were retrospectively analyzed. Perioperative outcomes (navigation time, length of stay, complications, readmissions, transfusions, and technical failure), as well as functional outcome measures (range of motion, sit to stand test, timed-up-and-go test, single-leg stance test, calf raises, and step count), and PROMs (Oxford Knee Score, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, 12-item Short Form Survey, Forgotten Joint Score-12, and satisfaction) were compared between those who underwent CAS and those who underwent RAS. ResultsNavigation time was shorter in the RAS group compared to the CAS group (mean difference, 15.4 minutes; P < 0.001). There were 2 complications reported in the CAS group (one patellar clunk, one periprosthetic joint infection), but none in the RAS group. There were no other readmissions, transfusions, or technical failures in either group. Postoperatively, there were no clinical differences in function between groups. Clinically meaningful improvement in PROMs was observed in both groups, with no differences. ConclusionsThe use of RAS resulted in shorter navigation time compared to CAS in TKA. No other differences were observed in early clinical outcomes between patients who underwent RAS and CAS.

High-intensity interval training improves cardiovascular and physical health in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a multicentre randomised controlled trial

ObjectivesPatients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have substantially elevated risk for cardiovascular diseases, and low cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) is a major mediator. The aim of this assessor-blinded, two-armed multicentre randomised controlled...

Association Between Remnant Cholesterol and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Lipid disorders are related to the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Remnant cholesterol (RC), a nonclassical and once-neglected risk factor for NAFLD, has recently received new attention. In this study, we assessed the relationship between the RC levels and NAFLD risk. We searched across PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, with no restrictions on publication languages. Retrospective cohort studies and cross-sectional studies were enrolled from the inception of the databases until August 6, 2023. A random-effect model was applied to construct the mean difference, and a 95% confidence interval was applied to assess the relationship between the RC levels and NAFLD risk. We used two methods to estimate RC levels: Calculated-1 subtracts low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol from total cholesterol; Calculated-2 uses the Friedewald formula for LDL-C when triglycerides are <4.0 mmol/L, otherwise directly measured. A total of 265 published studies were selected through preliminary retrieval. Of these, six studies met the inclusion requirements and were enrolled in the meta-analysis. The RC level in the NAFLD group was significantly higher than that in the non-NAFLD group (mean difference: 0.18, 95% confidence interval: 0.10-0.26, P < 0.00001). We conducted subgroup analyses of computational methods and geographic regions. Notably, in the subgroup analysis of Calculation Method 2, the NAFLD group had significantly higher RC levels than the non-NAFLD group. On the other hand, in Calculation Method 1, the difference between the two groups was insignificant. In both the Asian and non-Asian populations, the RC levels were significantly higher in the NAFLD group than in the non-NAFLD group. The association of RC with an increased NAFLD risk was not dependent on the triglyceride. This meta-analysis suggests that elevated RC levels are associated with an increased risk of NAFLD. In addition to the conventional risk factors for fatty liver, clinicians should be concerned about the RC levels in the clinic.

Pre-Emptive Acetaminophen for Postoperative Pain (PAPP): An Updated Meta-Analysis

PurposePostoperative pain is a common consequence of surgery. Pre-emptive analgesia involves the initiation of analgesics prior to surgical incision. This has been proposed as a simple method to help reduce postoperative pain, which may be more effective in higher-risk populations such as cervical spine surgery. A previous meta-analysis has demonstrated that pre-emptive acetaminophen may be effective in reducing postoperative pain although the certainty of evidence was limited. This present paper is an updated meta-analysis comparing pre-emptive acetaminophen versus postincision acetaminophen in adult patients undergoing surgery. DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis with the inclusion of an unpublished randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. MethodsAn updated meta-analysis was conducted which searched electronic databases to identify randomized controlled trials with the same interventions. FindingsWe included 845 participants and 12 studies in the updated meta-analysis. The meta-analysis (including our trial) found reduced 24-hour morphine consumption in the pre-emptive group (mean difference −2.42 mg; 95% confidence interval −4.26 to −0.59 mg), as well as reduced postoperative vomiting (risk ratio 0.56; 95% confidence interval 0.36 to 0.88). There was no difference between pre-emptive acetaminophen and control groups for time to analgesic request, pain scores at 6 and 24 hours or pruritis. For all outcomes assessed, there was very low certainty of evidence. ConclusionsThis meta-analysis found pre-emptive acetaminophen reduced 24-hour opioid consumption and postoperative vomiting.