SPSS Software Research Articles

Comparison of tissue reaction in primary tracheal repair using silk, monofilament absorbable (Polyglecaprone), and multifilament absorbable (Polyglactin 910) sutures (An experimental study on New Zealand rabbits)

Surgical interventions for tracheal trauma include repairing lacerations, reducing and closing cartilage fractures, and performing end-to-end anastomosis in cases of complete transection. One of the potential long-term complications following tracheal surgery is tracheal stenosis. The inflammatory reaction depends on the suture material used, the type of tissue being sutured, and the immune system. Several factors related to the suture material that influence the inflammatory reaction include suture absorbability, the number of filaments, suture size, and tissue reactivity to the suture. This study aimed to compare the inflammatory reaction (tissue reaction) caused by various suture materials in primary tracheal repair in male New Zealand rabbits. This experimental study employed a randomized controlled trial design, conducted on male New Zealand white rabbits. The rabbits were acclimatized for seven days, followed by permuted block randomization, dividing the samples into four groups. After the inflammatory phase (7 days), tissue reactions in the surgical area were examined post-tracheal reconstruction. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software. Each group consisted of six samples, demonstrating homogeneity in terms of age (p = 0.93), preoperative weight (p = 0.87), and postoperative weight (p = 0.88). Macroscopic evaluation showed no wound dehiscence, pus, or tracheal defects caused by suture displacement. Histopathological analysis revealed a significantly different degree of inflammation (p = 0.049) between the two treatment groups. Monofilament absorbable sutures (polyglecaprone) exhibited a lower inflammatory reaction than multifilament absorbable sutures (polyglactin 910) in primary tracheal repair, with silk sutures as the control.

Appraising Economic Development Programmes to Improve the Achievement of Goal 1: Malaysia’s Indigenous Perspective

The economic development programme aims to increase income and reduce indigenous people's poverty while introducing indigenous economic resources. This study appraises indigenous people’s effectiveness of economic development programmes in Perak land development projects (RPS), Malaysia. The researchers adopted a mixed-method approach involving 300 respondents for the questionnaire survey and 15 interview participants in the selected locations in Perak, Malaysia. The qualitative data were analysed by thematic analysis and the quantitative data by SPSS software. Findings show different effects between RPS Legap, RPS Ulu Kinta, and RPS Air Banun. The implementation can be less successful at RPS Air Banun due to the threat of wildlife such as elephants and wild boars. The findings also show that the indigenous people in the area are not carrying out rubber planting projects because of the possible damage from the wild animals. This threatens Goal 1. The situation in RPS Ulu Kinta and RPS Legap is different; the indigenous people enjoy the crop project results by receiving monthly dividends. This study will contribute to informing policymakers to develop a platform for improving Malaysia’s indigenous programmes and, by extension, improve the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 1 (Goal 1).

Anxiety, depression and neurocognitive disorder among HIV-infected people in penitentiary institutions of Azerbaijan.

This study aims to assess neurocognitive impairment, depression and anxiety level in HIV-infected individuals in penitentiary institutions of Azerbaijan. A cross-sectional design was used to recruit incarcerated individuals in penitentiary institutions of Azerbaijan meeting the inclusion criteria (diagnosed with HIV). Participants completed standardized assessments to screen anxiety and depression symptoms, hospital anxiety and depression scale and neurocognitive functioning and mini mental status examination. Demographic and clinical data, including age, gender, HIV disease progression, antiretroviral therapy adherence, history of substance abuse and duration of incarceration, were also collected as covariates of interest. The study was approved by Azerbaijan Medical University Ethics Committee (P.23 / 19.05.2022). Data were analyzed using student-Bonferroni and H-Kruskal-Wallis tests. Variance analysis was conducted using the ANOVA test, while discriminant analyses involved the χ2-Pearson test, through SPSS software, version 26. Of the 88 HIV positive patients who agreed to participate, 99% were male, with a median age of 44 years (range: 30-62), median CD4 count 453.1 cells/µl (range: 153-1,290). The prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder was 72.7%. Occurrence of comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms was found to be 72% and 67%, respectively. Most patients (59.1%) were HIV-positive for more than five years. Increased depression and anxiety levels were identified mostly in first two years after admission to prison (p < 0.05). HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder was most commonly found among depressed patients (p = 0.009). The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the cooccurrence and interrelationships between anxiety, depression and neurocognitive disorders in individuals with HIV in prisons. It highlights the unique intersection of HIV infection, mental health challenges and incarceration in a country where research on HIV-related issues in prisons is still developing. Ultimately, this study seeks to contribute to identify targeted interventions that address the mental health needs of incarcerated individuals living with HIV in Azerbaijan, promoting their overall well-being and quality of life.

The influence of childhood trauma on social media-induced secondary traumatic stress among college students: the chain mediating effect of self-compassion and resilience

ABSTRACT Background: Studies have shown that media exposure to critical public events can lead to secondary traumatic stress (STS). Personal trauma history, self-compassion and resilience are important factors influencing STS in healthy professionals. However, whether these variables are associated with social media-induced STS in college students and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the complex relationship linking childhood trauma to social media-induced STS in a large sample of college students. Methods: A total of 1151 Chinese college students from Chengdu, Sichuan Province of China completed a web-based cross-sectional survey, which included standard assessments of childhood trauma, self-compassion, resilience and social media-induced STS, as well as sociodemographic questionnaires. The chain mediation model was tested using the PROCESS macro programme in SPSS software. Results: There was a moderate correlation between childhood trauma and social media-induced STS (r = 0.34, p < .001). This association was significantly mediated by self-compassion (indirect effect [95% CI] = 0.14[0.11, 0.17]) and resilience (indirect effect = 0.03[0.01, 0.04]), respectively. Further, a chained mediating effect was observed with self-compassion and resilience consecutively mediated the relationship between childhood trauma and social media-induced STS (indirect effect = 0.02[0.01, 0.03]). These results persisted after sociodemographic characteristics were included as controlling variables. Conclusions: Early life trauma impacts STS induced by exposure to traumatic materials on social media through self-compassion and resilience among Chinese college students. Psychological interventions targeting self-compassion and resilience can be implemented to reduce the risk of STS, especially in vulnerable individuals.

Determining factors affecting flood risk perception among local communities in Iran

Although climatic and environmental factors primarily determine the intensity of flood events, their impacts on residents are significantly influenced by human-related elements. Since the most floods are highly variable and unpredictable, it is crucial to enhance the capacity and resilience of residents to withstand and coexist with these disasters. To increase the resilience and adaptability of rural households in the face of floods, it is essential to first address individuals’ risk perception as a critical issue. This study was conducted with two primary. Objectives (1) to assess the current status of risk perception and (2) to identify the factors influencing flood risk perception (FRP) among local communities. The research population comprised all rural households in the Shushtar County (Southwest Iran) who had experienced at least one flood event. The primary research tool was a questionnaire, and data analysis was performed using SPSS software. Correlation coefficient results indicated significant relationships between age, frequency of flood occurrence, education, distance of water channels and rivers from properties, flood exposure, housing quality, risk information, flood coping information, and financial incentives for recovery with dimensions of risk perception, namely preparedness, worry, awareness, and experience. Additionally, hierarchical regression results demonstrated that these variables could explain 55.4% of the variance in FRP. Overall, the findings of this study can significantly assist policymakers in designing flood risk reduction programs and facilitating safer living conditions in flood-prone areas.

Frequency of Polymorphisms of rs2274907 of Omentin Gene and rs9770242 of Visfatin Gene in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in an Iranian Population

Introduction: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common chronic disease, frequently occurring in various instances; if left undiagnosed and untreated, it will progress to cirrhosis and, in some cases, result in death. This disease is related to obesity, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome and diseases and treatment. The Omentin gene consists of 8 exons and 7 introns, producing a protein made up of 313 amino acids. Visfatin is another adipokine. The Visfatin gene is located on the big arm of chromosome 7. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between rs2274907 omentin and rs9770242 visfatin polymorphisms with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in an Iranian population. Methods: This study was carried out through a case-control study involving 70 patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and 70 healthy individuals. The level of fasting blood sugar, triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL, and LDL was measured by standard methods; the amount of Omentin was measured with an ELISA kit. Genotype was determined by PCR-RFLP method. The data were analyzed by SPSS software version 16. Results: The two investigated groups showed a significant difference in terms of age, BMI, LDL, HDL (P&lt;0.05). The levels of triglycerides, omentin and average body mass profile were higher in the individuals with NAFLD; the level of HDL-C was lower than healthy individuals. Omentin had a significant relationship with the body mass level of LDL-C and HDL-C. Conclusion: The current research demonstrated a notable connection between omentin and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This polymorphism of rs2274907 in the omentin gene has a significant relationship with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

The Influence of Principal Leadership and Organizational Culture on School Excellence in Vocational Schools in Ende City: Case Study at SMK Negeri 1 Ende

This study aims to determine and analyze the magnitude of the influence of the principal's leadership on the excellence of the State Vocational High School 1 Ende. In addition, to determine and analyze the magnitude of the influence of organizational culture on the excellence of the State Vocational High School 1 Ende. As well as, to know and analyze the magnitude of the influence of the principal's leadership and school organizational culture on the excellence of the State Vocational High School 1 Ende. This study used a quantitative approach with a survey research design. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to teachers and employees at SMK Negeri 1 Ende. Furthermore, the data were processed using SPSS software version 25 for windows 2010 including descriptive, correlative, and simple regression analysis. Based on the analysis, it is known that school excellence at SMK Negeri 1 Ende is good. This is indicated by the accreditation score owned by SMK Negeri 1 Ende. Through simple regression analysis, it is found that the principal leadership variable (X1) and organizational culture (X2) have an effect of 50.2% on school excellence, and the coefficient of determination is 0.502. Based on the results of the study, it is concluded that school excellence is influenced, among others, by the leadership of the principal, school organizational culture. However, outside of these two variables, there are still many other factors that influence. For this reason, it is recommended that the principal of Smk Negeri 1 Ende improve human resources by continuing studies for teachers, trainings, leadership training, motivating students and teachers who excel, revitalizing cultural values as well as filtering potential children's input.

Fluid intake, fiber consumption, and physical activity related to constipation among elderly, which one is more important? A cross-sectional study in Iran

Background: Chronic constipation is a common, self-reported, and symptom-based disorder which can significantly influence an individual’s health-related quality of life and imposes several financial costs. Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of water consumption, fiber intake, and physical activity (PA) on constipation, and which one is more critical by considering the mediating effect of BMI. Subjects and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 400 older adults in 2019 referring to the comprehensive health service centers in Karaj, the capital of Alborz province. The data were collected using the questionnaires of demographic and anthropometric characteristics, PASE (Physical activity for elderly), fluid intake, FFQ (Food Frequency questionnaire), Wexner constipation, and Persian lifestyle questionnaire analyzed using SPSS and LISREL software. Results: Based on the final fitted model, PA is the most critical constipation-related factor compared to the fluid intake and fiber consumption. In addition, fiber consumption is the second crucial factor affecting constipation, and there is a negative association between constipation and fiber intake. Conclusion: As price is one of the barriers to fiber consumption among the elderly, the recommendation to do physical activity such as walking to solve constipation is efficient and inexpensive for individuals with different socio-economic status. Keywords: Physical activity, Wexner constipation, fiber consumption, elderly, Iran.

MLH1 Methylation Status and Microsatellite Instability in Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Background/Objectives: The purpose of the current study was to compare the methylation of five regions of the CpG island of MLH1 with the presence of microsatellite instability (MSI) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Methods: The study analyzed 138 CRC tumor samples. DNA extraction was performed, followed by bisulfite conversion. MLH1 gene methylation was assessed by methylation-specific PCR (MS-PCR), and the resulting fragments were analyzed using polyacrylamide gels. MSI was evaluated using multiplex PCR, and the fragments were run through capillary electrophoresis. R studio (v4.4.1) and SPSS (v29.0) software were used for the statistical analysis, and values of p &lt; 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The study showed 75.4% unmethylated, 21% partially methylated, and 3.6% fully methylated samples, with region A frequently methylated. MSI was observed in 7.2% of cases (MSI-H: 5.8%, MSI-L: 1.4%). BAT-26 was the most unstable marker. A significant difference between MLH1 methylation and MSI-H (p &lt; 0.01) was identified, but there was no relationship with specific MLH1 regions. Conclusions: No differences were identified when analyzing specific methylation regions in relation to MSI. This study is the first to describe MSI frequency in Mexican patients regardless of age.

Investment Opportunity Set of Telecommunication Companies Reviewed from Financial Performance Aspects

The telecommunications industry in Indonesia has a strategic role in supporting economic development, especially in supporting economic activities between regions. This study aims to analyze the effect of Return on Asset (ROA), Debt to Equity Ratio (DER), and Sales Growth on Investment Opportunity Set (IOS) in telecommunications companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the period 2015-2020. This study uses a quantitative method with secondary data obtained from the companies financial statements through the official IDX website. Data analysis was carried out using multiple linear regression with the help of SPSS software. The results of the study show that ROA and DER have a significant effect on IOS, while Sales Growth does not have a significant effect partially. Simultaneously, the variables ROA, DER, and Sales Growth have a significant effect on IOS. This study provides implications that the companies financial performance, especially in increasing ROA and managing DER, can increase investment opportunities. Further studies are expected to expand the research variables by using intervening variables for a more comprehensive understanding.

Analysis of the Codon Usage Bias Pattern in the Chloroplast Genomes of Chloranthus Species (Chloranthaceae)

Background: The codon preference of chloroplast genomes not only reflects mutation patterns during the evolutionary processes of species but also significantly affects the efficiency of gene expression. This characteristic holds significant scientific importance in the application of chloroplast genetic engineering and the genetic improvement of species. Chloranthus, an ancestral angiosperm with significant economic, medicinal, and ornamental value, belongs to the basal angiosperms. However, the codon usage patterns among Chloranthus species have remained unclear. Methods: To investigate codon usage bias and its influencing factors in Chloranthus chloroplast genomes, we utilized CodonW, CUSP, and SPSS software to analyze the chloroplast genomes of seven Chloranthus species. Results: In this study, we reported and characterized the complete chloroplast genome of the Chinese endemic species Chloranthus angustifolius. The phylogenetic tree based on the whole chloroplast genomes showed that C. angustifolius is sister to Chloranthus fortunei, and the genus Chloranthus is divided into two major clades, consistent with previous studies. Our results revealed that the GC content at different codon positions across all seven Chloranthus species was less than 50%, with GC1 &gt; GC2 &gt; GC3. Additionally, the average effective number of codons (ENC) values exceeded 45. A total of 10 shared optimal codons were identified, nine of which end with A or U. PR2-plot, ENC-plot, and neutrality plot analyses indicated that natural selection primarily influenced codon usage bias in the chloroplast genomes of Chloranthus. Conclusions: We newly obtained the chloroplast genome of C. angustifolius and proposed that natural selection played a key role in codon usage patterns in Chloranthus species. These findings contribute to our understanding of evolutionary history and genetic diversity within this genus.

Pengaruh Learning Capability and Integration Capability terhadap Kinerja Karyawan Perhotelan di Kota Bitung

The development of business competition in Indonesia is one of the most interesting phenomena to observe, especially with the globalization in the economic sector which increasingly opens up business opportunities to compete in various business fields and industries. One of the industries affected by globalization is the service industry such as hotels, telecommunications, transportation, manufacturing and banking. This study aims to analyze and describe the effect of learning capability and integration capability on the performance of hotel employees in Bitung City. This is done to improve the performance of hotel employees which will later have an impact on improving services and increasing tourist visits to Bitung City. This study uses a quantitative approach by distributing questionnaires to hotel employees in Bitung City. Data processing and analysis are carried out using SPSS software to maintain the objectivity of the research data. The analysis used in this study is descriptive statistical analysis and hypothesis testing. The results of the study showed that the multiple correlation value was 0.745, this indicates that there is a significant positive relationship between Learning Capability and Integration Capability together on employee performance. Furthermore, from this correlation value, a determination coefficient value (R2) of 0.529 was obtained, which means that 52.9% of the employee performance variable is influenced by the Learning Capability and Integration Capability variables, the remaining 58.1% is explained by other variables.

Morphometry of the Scapular Notch and Its Clinical Implication in Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment

Background/Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between the type of scapular notch (SN), the morphometry of the SN, and the area of the suprascapular nerve (SSN). In addition to determining whether scapular notches other than Type VI, according to the classification of Rengachary, can generate a predisposition to SSN entrapment neuropathy. Methods: One hundred and sixty-nine dry scapulae were examined, the scapular notches were classified, according to the classification of Rengachary, and for each SN, the superior transverse diameter (STD), longitudinal diameter (LD), and area of the SN were determined. The SSN was dissected in five shoulders and its area was calculated. The data were analyzed in the statistical software SPSS. Results: The values for the STD, LD, and area of the SN showed significant differences between the types of scapular notches (p &lt; 0.0001). Along the same lines, a considerable positive correlation (r = 0.79; p &lt; 0.0001) was established between the area of the SN and the STD. Similarly, a very strong positive correlation (r = 0.87; p &lt; 0.0001) was established between the area of the SN and the LD. This indicated that, as the STD and the LD increase, the area of the SN increases. Conclusions: Although different studies have reported an association between SN Type VI and the compression of the SSN by the formation of a bony hole that reduces the area of the notch, we have found that SN Type IV presented a smaller area among the types of notches and a smaller area than the SSN, which exposes the SSN to be closer to or in contact with the superior transverse ligament of the scapula, potentially subjecting the nerve to greater pressure and potentially resulting in SSN entrapment. This is evidence that should be considered in the clinical diagnosis of patients with entrapment neuropathy, since the type of SN and the area of the SSN can be determined by ultrasound, which contributes to a more accurate preoperative evaluation and diagnosis.

Body image and sexual life satisfaction in women considering female genital cosmetic surgery in Iran

BackgroundFurther attention to genital organs has become a concern for women in line with changes in society’s culture. In recent years, the number of surgeries has grown increasingly. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between body image and satisfaction with sexual life of female genital cosmetic surgery volunteers in reproductive age women in Shiraz.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was performed on 160 women referring to Shiraz Health and Medical Centers willing to undergo female genital cosmetic surgery. Data collection was performed using Demographic Information Questionnaire, SWBI and Enrich Marital Satisfaction Questionnaire. The data were analyzed through Spss24 software using Pearson statistical methods of correlation coefficient and one-sample t-test.ResultsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 160 women (average age of 30.83 ± 5.48) willing to undergo genital cosmetic surgery at Shiraz health and medical centers. The results of this study showed that women willing to undergo female genital cosmetic surgery are satisfied with their physical appearance. Correlation coefficient test between body image and satisfaction with marital life also showed that there is a significant relationship between these two variables (p < 0.001). This means that with the satisfaction of body image, the level of satisfaction with marital life also increases.ConclusionThe most important findings of this study included no correlation between women’s negative perceptions of their bodies and dissatisfaction with sexual life with a tendency to cosmetic surgery on the genital area. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the factors influencing this decision.

CMV Reactivation Following Allogeneic Transplantation in Children From a High-Seroprevalence Population: A Single-Center Experience in Colombia.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a frequent complication among hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. Data regarding CMV reactivation in children in underdeveloped countries is scarce. This is especially notable considering the increasing utilization of haploidentical-related HSCT with the post-transplant cyclophosphamide platform. This study aimed to describe the incidence, clinical characteristics, and evolution of children with CMV reactivation after HSCT and the possible impact of unmanipulated stem cells with PTCy for GvHD prophylaxis. Retrospective cohort study of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from January 2012 to June 2022. Baseline characteristics and the clinical course were described. Duration of treatment, initial viral load, and time to clearance of DNAemia by type of transplant were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Survival analysis was performed with the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test. All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 20.0. One hundred sixty-six children were included. Among them, 87% of recipients and 88% of donors were CMV positive. The cumulative incidence of cytomegalovirus DNAemia was 28% at 100 days post-transplantation. There were no differences between different donor types. Overall survival at 1 year was 60%, and non-relapse mortality was observed in 28%. CMV reactivation did not appear to negatively impact 1-year overall survival (OS). Our study found no differences in CMV reactivation rates, treatment duration, viral clearance times, co-infections, or 1-year overall survival across different HSCT donor types. Studies are needed to establish more precise criteria for monitoring recipients, particularly in regions where unmanipulated stem cells with PTCy for GvHD prophylaxis are increasing.

Claudin 18.2 determination in locally advanced gastric and gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

492 Background: Gastric and esophago-gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) represent a major unmet need. For tumors amenable with curative intent, prognosis remains poor with 5-year survival rates below 40%. Several strategies have been added to surgery including peri-operative chemotherapy which represents the standard of care for locally advanced GAC. Claudins is a family of transmembrane junctional proteins which acts in paracellular permeability, transport and communication. Claudin 18.2 (CLDN), a tissue-specific variant, is physiologically expressed in both gastric mucosa and gastric cancer. In metastatic GAC, CLDN positivity settles around 40% of cases and the addition of target therapy zolbetuximab to chemotherapy resulted in a significant improvement in overall survival. However, limited data are present about CLDN in early-stage disease. The aim of our study is to assess rates of expression of CDLN in locally advanced GAC treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and correlate it with clinical outcomes. Methods: We conducted a multi-omics prospective trial at IEO enrolling patients with locally advanced GAC treated with peri-operative chemotherapy and surgery. Pre-chemotherapy endoscopic samples were selected for CDLN determination. Positive cases were defined as moderate-to-strong membranous staining in ≥ 75% of tumor cells by IHC using the VENTANA CLDN18 (43-14A) Assay. CLDN expression was analyzed for correlation with pathologic complete response (pCR), tumor regression grade (TRG), event‐free survival (EFS), and overall survival (OS). Survival was calculated using Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank tests. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software (version 29.0.2.0). Results: We included 48 patients, 67% male, median age 62 years (35-78). 31 tumors originated from gastric body, 14 from the junctional region and 4 from distal esophagus. Most frequent histotypes were diffuse (43%) and tubular (39%). Five cases (11%) presented microsatellite instability. All patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, mainly FLOT (92%) and underwent surgery, with 93% of R0 resection. Three patients (6%) achieved pCR and 18 had a TRG 1A or B. Of the total, 20 cases were defined as positive (42%). After a median follow-up of 20 months, 12 patients relapsed and 3 died. No significant association was observed for CDLN positivity and pCR or TRG1 rate, as well as for primary site or histotype. PFS and OS were not statistically different according to claudin status, even though numerically shorter in CDLN positive cases (PFS: 31 vs 33 months, p=.43; OS: 36 vs 39 months, p =.10). Conclusions: In our study of locally advanced GAC, rate of CDLN positivity was 40%, similarly to advanced stage. However, no differences in pCR rate, regression grade and survival outcomes have been observed. Larger studies and longer follow-up are required to assess the impact of CDLN in early-stage GAC.

Facilitating cross-cultural translation with ChatGPT in Moroccan travel agencies: a user satisfaction study

In a context of globalization, interactions between individuals of different cultures have become a lived reality. These cultural exchanges often involve mastering multiple languages, which can be quite challenging in multilingual settings. Hence, the integration of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) tools has emerged as an essential solution to bridge linguistic gaps and facilitate effective communication across cultural boundaries. Building upon this premise, this study delves into the perceptions of ChatGPT users regarding its role in translation and intercultural communication. Specifically, it examines the factors shaping user satisfaction with AI in translation and its contribution to fostering intercultural interactions. To achieve this objective, the study focuses on a sample of Moroccan travel agencies engaged in relationships with international partners. Data collection is carried out through questionnaires sent to heads of agencies randomly selected from a database provided by the Ministry of Tourism in 2022. The rationale behind this selection lies in the travel agencies’ unique position as intermediaries between cultures, frequently requiring translation services to conduct their business effectively. Statistical analysis is carried out using SPSS software. The main findings reveal a significant correlation between user satisfaction with ChatGPT and two key variables: perceived ease of use and the quality of its outputs. Notably, users find ChatGPT more satisfying when it is perceived as user-friendly and delivers satisfactory results. However, the selected variables fail to comprehensively explain users’ perceptions of ChatGPT, highlighting the need for further investigation in this area.

Evaluating Strategies Employed in the Implementation of the Bachelor of Education Social Studies Curriculum in Colleges of Education of Ghana

This study evaluated strategies to implement the Four-Year Bachelor of Education in Social Studies Curriculum in the Colleges of Education of Ghana. The study employed a concurrent embedded research design. The study population consisted of College Tutors, HoDs, and Principals from CoEs running the B.Ed. Social Studies Curriculum. Census and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 47 participants for the study. The main instruments for data collection were questionnaires, observation guides and interview protocols. The quantitative data collected were coded, processed using the SPSS software and analysed with descriptive statistics. Qualitative data from the interview and observation sessions were analysed using thematic analysis. The Social Studies curriculum for Colleges of Education was successfully implemented with appropriate strategies planned and executed by the stakeholders to the college tutors who were the grassroots implementers, even though important components of the implementation process, which is the organisation of professional development sessions (PDS) and the preparation of proforma lesson notes, were not successfully carried out. It is recommended that the management of Colleges of Education and other stakeholders in Teacher Education should re-design and adopt pragmatic ways of organising professional development sessions (PDS) for tutors in Colleges of Education for its effective organisation to achieve maximum results. The policy of weekly organisation of professional development sessions should be reconsidered and tailored to fit well into the activities of Colleges of Education for effective implementation of the social studies curriculum.

Factors Influencing Knowledge and Attitudes towards Second-Hand Smoking Exposure Among University Students: An Exploratory Study.

Despite extensive global research on second-hand smoking (SHS) exposure, there is a noticeable lack of studies focusing on the knowledge and attitudes of university students in Bangladesh. This cross-sectional study aimed to address this gap by assessing the levels of knowledge and attitudes towards SHS exposure among university students in Bangladesh. Utilizing a convenience sampling technique, data were collected from 383 university students, encompassing socio-demographic information, as well as knowledge and attitude-related inquiries. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software, including independent t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple linear regression. The findings revealed that participants exhibited a moderate level of knowledge and attitude towards SHS exposure. Multiple linear regression identified age, gender, mother's education, and self-rated health status as significant predictors of knowledge, explaining 12.9% of its variance (R2 = 0.129, F = 6.117, P < .001). Furthermore, age, gender, and living with parents emerged as significant predictors of attitude, explaining 14.7% of its variance (R2 = 0.147, F = 7.165, P < .001). The study highlights the need for interventions aimed at enhancing awareness and fostering positive attitudes towards SHS exposure among university students in Bangladesh. It is recommended that university authorities organize seminars and implement health education initiatives targeting vulnerable populations to address the findings and promote a smoke-free environment on campus.

Noninvasive prediction of coronary artery disease severity: Comparative analysis of electrocardiographic findings and risk factors with SYNTAX and Gensini score.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a significant global health burden, characterized by the narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries. Treatment decisions are often guided by angiography-based scoring systems, such as the Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) and Gensini scores, although these require invasive procedures. This study explores the potential of electrocardiography (ECG) as a noninvasive diagnostic tool for predicting CAD severity, alongside traditional risk factors. This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 348 CAD patients who underwent coronary angiography. Demographic data, ECG findings, SYNTAX, and Gensini scores were collected. The association between ECG findings and demographic information with the severity of coronary artery stenosis, as assessed by SYNTAX and Gensini scores, was investigated using SPSS software, version 23. Significant associations were observed between CAD severity and risk factors such as male gender, diabetes mellitus (DM), and smoking. Additionally, certain ECG indicators, including Q waves and ST depression (STD), showed significant correlations with CAD severity, particularly according to the Gensini score. This study underscores the utility of ECG and clinical factors in identifying severe CAD, offering cost-effective diagnostic alternatives to angiography. Integrating various parameters into a single score is crucial in clinical practice, providing a stronger diagnostic and prognostic tool without increasing costs. Further comprehensive studies are warranted to refine risk prediction models and improve CAD management strategies.