Quasi-experimental Research Articles

The Role of Stress Management with dhikr-based relaxation techniques in Reducing Teacher Burnout in the Era of Independent Learning Curriculum

This study investigates the effectiveness of a stress management technique using Islamic spiritual practices, known as dzikir, to reduce burnout among high school teachers in the context of an increasing administrative workload under the implementation of the new curriculum. Teachers frequently face high stress levels due to administrative demands, leading to emotional exhaustion, reduced job satisfaction, and lower teaching quality. This research aims to assess the impact of dzikir on alleviating stress and improving emotional and spiritual well-being among teachers. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group involving 60 high school teachers divided into experimental and control groups. Quantitative data were collected through standardized burnout inventories, and qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews. Results indicated that the experimental group, which practiced dzikir, experienced a significant reduction in emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, as well as improved personal accomplishment and job satisfaction compared to the control group. This study concludes that integrating spiritual-based stress management practices is highly effective in addressing burnout among educators, contributing to healthier teaching environments. By emphasizing culturally and spiritually relevant approaches, this research offers a practical solution for enhancing teacher well-being and supports the broader goals of improving educational quality in modern learning systems. These findings underline the importance of incorporating holistic, culturally sensitive interventions into education policy and teacher training programs.

"Broadening Perspectives Activities" Improve LGBTQ+ Student Experiences and Religious Students' Content Comprehension.

Curricular content in undergraduate biology courses has been historically hetero and cisnormative due to various cultural stigmas, biases, and discrimination. Such curricula may be partially responsible for why LGBTQ+ students in STEM are less likely to complete their degrees than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. We developed Broadening Perspective Activities (BPAs) to expand the representation of marginalized perspectives in the curriculum of an online, upper-division, undergraduate animal behavior course, focusing on topics relating to sex, gender, and sexuality. We used a quasiexperimental design to assess the impact of the BPAs on student perceptions of course concepts and on their sense of belonging in biology. We found that LGBTQ+ students entered the course with a better understanding of many animal behavior concepts that are influenced by cultural biases associated with sex, gender, and sexuality. However, LGBTQ+ students who took the course with the BPAs demonstrated a greater sense of belonging in biology at the end of the term compared with LGBTQ+ students in the course without BPAs. We also show that religious students demonstrated improved comprehension of many concepts related to sex, gender, and sexuality after taking the course with BPAs, with no negative impacts on their sense of belonging.

Investigating the Effectiveness of Neuropsychological Rehabilitation on Stroke Patients

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate neuropsychological rehabilitation’s effectiveness on stroke patients’ cognitive status. Methods: This quasi-experimental study examined 22 adults with ischemic stroke of the left hemisphere (with an average age of 64.31 years) before and after the intervention. The patients had fluent aphasia (10 people) and non-fluent aphasia (12 people), along with cognitive disorders such as memory or attention disorder. Medical examination and para-clinical diagnosis of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with different causes, along with the Persian diagnostic aphasia battery bedside version (P-DAB-AQ1, 2016), were conducted. The severity of language disorder and type of aphasia were investigated using the Persian diagnostic aphasia battery (P-DAB-1) and Persian picture naming battery tests. Also, the mini-mental state examination (MMSE) test checked the cognitive dimensions. Verb network strengthening therapy, treatment of underlying forms, Persian verb, and sentence production protocol, and semantic feature analysis (SFA) for patients were also used. Results: Findings show that the participants’ average aphasia quotient (AQ1) score increased from 74.80 to 80.12, and the average MMSE score increased from 17 to 22.59. The main variables do not follow a normal distribution (P<0.05), but the difference between scores before and after the intervention follows a normal distribution (P<0.05). Both the AQ1 and MMSE variables significantly differ before and after the intervention, according to the Wilcoxon test. The non-fluent aphasia group has a higher increase in MMSE scores than the fluent aphasia group. Discussion: Neuropsychological rehabilitation interventions can effectively improve AQ1 and MMSE. In addition, further research on neuropsychological rehabilitation interventions with two intervention and control groups and the treatment methods used during this study can be suggested for the treatment of stroke patients.

Comparing two online learning activities addressing interprofessional approach on health science students’ attitudes towards teamwork

BackgroundPhysical distancing restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic led to the transition from in-person to online learning for many health sciences educators. This study was conducted to compare the effects of two online learning activities addressing interprofessional teamwork on health science students’ attitudes towards teamwork. MethodsThis study was designed as a randomized quasi-experimental study. The nursing (n = 30), physiotherapy and rehabilitation (n = 30), and nutrition-dietetics (n = 30) students were assigned to either online standardized patient simulation (n = 45) or online case analysis (n = 45) groups. Students’ attitudes towards interprofessional teamwork were collected pre- and post-test evaluation using the TeamSTEPPS Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire (T-TAQ). ResultsNo significant differences were found between T-TAQ mean scores prior the intervention (p > .05). However, following the intervention, whilst the T-TAQ mean scores were not found to be statistically significant between the two groups (p > .05), the students’ pretest and posttest T-TAQ mean scores did show a statistically significant difference (p < .05). ConclusionWe found online learning activities to be a successful alternative to physical interprofesional education activities and a worthwhile opportunity to develop health science students to interprofesional teamwork.

Using simulation for cross-curricular integration of adverse childhood experiences knowledge in a baccalaureate nursing program

BackgroundAdverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are prevalent in the United States, significantly impacting public health and well-being. Despite calls for integrating ACEs education into nursing programs, limited evidence exists on effective methods. This study addresses this gap by employing didactic and simulation-based education to teach baccalaureate nursing students about ACEs and Trauma-Informed Care (TIC). MethodsThis longitudinal quasi-experimental study examined the impact of integrating ACEs education into theory and high-fidelity simulation experiences. Students progressed from foundational ACEs knowledge to advanced topics, engaging with simulated patients. ResultsSignificant improvements in ACEs knowledge were observed across various domains, including awareness and prevention, resilience, and informing policy. Self-assessment responses also indicated improved understanding. The study demonstrated the reliability of the survey instrument (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89). ConclusionIntegrating ACEs education through didactic and simulation approaches in nursing education enhances students' knowledge and understanding of the adverse effects of childhood trauma.

Effects of a Good Sleep Program on Sleep Quality, Stress, and Functional Health in Old-Old Women with Insomnia: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Purpose: This study evaluated the effect of the a good sleep program on sleep quality, stress, and functional health in old-old women, that is women over the age of 75 years, who had insomnia. Methods: This quasi-experimental study used a non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest design. The participants were 35 old-old women with insomnia: 18 in the experimental group and 17 in the control group. Data were collected from August 24 and October 12, 2020. The experimental group, participated in a six-session good sleep program consisting of multiple components, including sleep health education, aromatherapy (lavender scent inhalation), abdominal breathing, sleep hygiene, and walking exercises was conducted. The Good Sleep Program was developed based on Cox’s interaction model of client health behavior. The control group received only a booklet on good sleep. The scales used for pre and post-intervention measurements were the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Perceived Stress Scale, and Functional Health Pattern Assessment Screening Tool. Results: Compared to the control group, the experimental group exhibited significant improvements in the quality of sleep (t=-3.92, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;&lt;.001), perceived stress (t=-3.35, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;=.002), and functional health (t=2.97, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt;=.005). Conclusion: The Good Sleep Program can be used to reduce stress and improve sleep and overall health in old-old women.

The Effect of Family Support in Nutrition Education on Dietary Adherence and Blood Glucose Levels of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Inpatients at Panti Rapih Hospital Yogyakarta

Diabetes mellitus is included in the group of metabolic diseases with characteristics of hyperglycemia that occurs due to abnormalities in insulin secretion and function or both. According to the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, there are 7 pillars of diabetes mellitus management that can be done, one of which is providing nutritional education. The purpose of this study was to determine an effect of family support in nutritional education on dietary compliance and blood glucose levels of type 2 diabetes mellitus at Panti Rapih Hospital, Yogyakarta. This study used a quantitative research design with a quasy experiment design with an accidental sampling method with a sample size of 34 diabetes mellitus inpatients divided into control and experimental groups. The variables of this study will be analyzed using SPSS, with the T-Paired Test and T-Independent Sample Test. Based on the statistical results, the effect of education on dietary compliance in the control and experimental groups showed a p value of 0.000 &lt;0.05. While the statistical results of the effect of education on blood glucose levels in the control group showed a p value of 0.002 &lt;0.05, in the experimental group the results of the p value were 0.001 &lt;0.05. However, based on the results of the statistical test on the difference in compliance scores, a p value of 0.000 &lt;0.05 was obtained. While the results of the statistical test of blood glucose levels obtained a p value of 0.315&gt; 0.05. It can be concluded that family support in providing nutritional education can influence the increase in compliance scores for following a diet but does not affect blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients at Panti Rapih Hospital, Yogyakarta.

Advancing Rheumatic Heart Disease Management in Indonesia: Strengthening Early Detection, Targeted Screening, and Prevention Strategies

Background: Indonesia ranks fourth globally in rheumatic heart disease (RHD) prevalence, with a mortality rate of 4.8 per 100,000—higher than malaria. Despite global progress in RHD management, Indonesia lacks a comprehensive national prevention program. Secondary prevention strategies could significantly improve outcomes in high-risk populations by targeting disease progression. Method: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the impact of secondary prevention on echocardiographic outcomes in Indonesian RHD patients. The review included randomized controlled trials, observational studies, quasi-experimental designs, and case-control studies, emphasizing the role of secondary prevention in mitigating disease progression. Results: Six studies meeting inclusion criteria underwent full-text analysis, with four eligible for meta-analysis. These studies revealed that secondary prevention improved echocardiographic markers, demonstrating its potential to alter disease trajectories in resource-limited settings. Conclusion: Indonesia faces challenges in RHD management due to geographical and healthcare constraints. Echocardiographic screening, a sensitive and specific diagnostic tool, is vital for early detection and monitoring. With technological advancements, cost-effective screening is increasingly feasible, even in remote areas. Strengthening early detection, targeted screening, and secondary prevention strategies is critical for reducing the RHD burden in Indonesia.

The Influence of a Community Science Technology Learning Model Based on a Scientific Approach to Improve Science Learning Outcomes

The science and technology model is learning to teach science and technology in the context of experience and everyday life, focusing on societal issues, whether local, regional, national, or global, with science and technology components. Meanwhile, the scientific approach is an approach to learning science process skills. It uses a scientific approach where students are directed and guided in observing, asking, trying, reasoning, and building networks to disseminate the learning results obtained. Learning outcomes are a path to mastering knowledge or skills in a subject, usually indicated by test scores or numbers given by the teacher. Learning outcomes are obtained from learning to master knowledge, usually developed and shown by numbers. This research aims to determine whether implementing a science and technology learning model based on a scientific approach affects the science learning outcomes of grade IV students at SDN Pemongkong. Researchers are implementing technology in science learning at SDN 1 Pemongkong. Still, many obstacles exist, such as internet signals and technological stupors; only some have a laptop or cellphone. Therefore, the idea that emerged in this research was the use of technology that can be accessed by all students, namely the community science technology model based on a scientific approach, which is expected to improve student learning outcomes. The method used in this research is experimentation. This type of experimental research uses Quasi-Experimental Design or quasi-experiments. The experimental plan used in this research is a Nonequivalent Control Group Design. Hypothesis testing is carried out using uji t (independent samples test). Comparison of the average learning outcomes of the experimental class and the control class for the two classes experienced an increase compared to before learning; namely, the average value of the control class at the pretest 54.82 and increased to 73.10 after learning, while the average value of the experimental class is at posttest 58.07 and rose to 74.42 on posttest. The average learning outcomes are similar between the control class and the class experiment. However, the average learning outcomes of the experimental class are still higher than those of the control class. The class that was taught used the community science and technology learning model. Namely, two students got a score of 90 in the control class, and in the conventional class, only one got a 90. By hypothesis testing, face H0 accepted that the scientific approach-based community science and technology learning model influences the learning outcomes of class IV students at SDN 1 Pemongkong. In this case, it can be interpreted that the community science and technology learning model positively impacts student learning outcomes.

THE MOTIVATIONAL EFFICACY OF SELF-REGULATED ICT RESOURCES ON INTEREST IN BIOLOGY AMONG HIGH, MEDIUM, AND LOW ACHIEVING SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS

This study examined the impact of technological software on learning from an interactive hypermedia. It explores participants’ learning interest and engagement, analyzing variations based on their score levels. The mixed method study adopted a pretest, posttest, quasi-experimental design using 3x2x3 factorial matrix, a Semi-Structured interview guide, and a Students’ interest inventory, entitled Questionnaire on the effect of ICT Resources on the Interest of Students in Biology (QEIISB) utilized to elicit responses on students’ interest. Post-hoc analysis was used to determine the direction of difference and findings revealed were discussed in the context of perfect understanding across achievement levels, because participants showed better interest and engagement more in the group of medium Scorers. The medium score level students showed significant interest and benefitted most from the software. By evaluating the efficiency of Information and Communication Technological (ICT) tools, influence students with varying performance or achievement levels, the study aims to provide insights into the effective these resources influence achievement and foster better interest in teaching and learning.

Impact of Arts Education on Holistic Development: A Case Study of Elementary Students at SD Melong Mandiri 4, Cimahi

Arts and culture education should be addressed in elementary school curricula, even though it has great potential in developing essential skills for students. This research explores the benefits of arts education for elementary school students at SD Melong Mandiri IV, Cimahi. This research involved three classes of samples using a quasi-experimental design. Data collection methods include observation, interviews, and skills tests, which are analyzed using multivariate analysis. The research results show that arts education significantly develops students' creativity, imagination, and social, cognitive, and fine motor skills. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating arts education in the elementary school curriculum to support students' holistic development. The implications of this research indicate the need for inclusive education policies, comprehensive teacher training, and further research with more rigorous designs to strengthen empirical evidence regarding the benefits of arts education

A systematic review and meta-analysis of sleep hygiene implementation and its effect on sleep quality and fatigue in patients undergoing hemodialysis

Introduction: The prevalence of patients undergoing hemodialysis who experience sleep disturbances and fatigue is high. Pharmacologic management has consequences and adverse effects, therefore, integrative intervention is important to be investigated. Sleep hygiene is one such integrative intervention that improves comfort including enhancing sleep quality and reducing fatigue. However, none have synthesized the effect of sleep hygiene intervention, particularly in the hemodialysis setting. This systematic review aims to synthesize the effectiveness of sleep hygiene in improving sleep quality and fatigue in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies. Relevant studies were gathered by searching five databases from 2008-2023 using several keywords, such as sleep hygiene, sleep quality and fatigue. Quality assessment was conducted using relevant tools from the Joanna Briggs Institutes (JBI). Following that, synthesis of research findings was conducted using Review Manager version 5.4. Results: Seven studies of 3,633 screened were included, with one high-quality study (88%) and six studies of moderate quality (61-76%). The review indicated a significant difference in sleep quality (MD = -2.36; 95% CI = -4.28, -0.44; p=0.016). However, there was no significant difference in fatigue (SMD = -0.08; 95% CI = -0.40, 0.24; p=0.61). Conclusions: The evidence supports that sleep hygiene is effective in enhancing sleep quality. This systematic review contributes evidence to support the inclusion of sleep hygiene into holistic nursing to assist patients in improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue.

Effectiveness of integrated program on clinical care pathway for patients with heart failure upon competency of nurses

Cardiovascular disease is still the most common cause of death and disability in industrialized nations, and its prevalence is rising rapidly. Heart failure (HF) is increasingly common and incurs a substantial cost, both in terms of quality and length of life. Clinical pathways provide a means of implementing the most up-to-date guidance into clinical settings to improve the value and efficiency of the care provided. Methods: This study was conducted using the A Quasi-Experimental Time series Research design to assess the level of competency and to determine the effectiveness of clinical care pathway on management of patients with heart failure among 60 nurses (30 in Control and 30 in Intervention Group) from selected hospitals who were selected by consecutive sampling technique. The data was collected using pretested and validated tools such as background variables proforma of nurses, structured knowledge questionnaire and Observation Checklist on Practice of Integrated Program on Clinical Care Pathway for Heart Failure through self-administration method. Results: The study findings revealed that the mean knowledge score for heart failure management was significantly higher in the intervention group (25.50 ± 1.61) compared to the control group (17.87 ± 1.83). Additionally, their practice scores also were significantly higher across all components, days, and global scores in the intervention group (127.97 ± 3.43) than the control group (76.90 ± 7.60) with a p &lt; 0.001. Conclusion: An empowerment of nurses focusing on clinical pathway could improve knowledge on heart failure, which could lead to better patient care including patient education and could reduce patient readmission for heart failure.

Enhance Mothers' Knowledge and Skills in Choking First Aid through Self-Directed Learning with Video Resources

Choking represents a life-threatening emergency that necessitates immediate intervention, making bystanders' knowledge and skills essential for practical first aid. Traditional training methods, such as PowerPoint presentations and printed materials, are widely employed; however, technological advancements have prompted the exploration of self-directed learning through video (SDL-V) as a potentially more effective approach. This study aims to evaluate the impact of SDL-V-based choking first aid training on mothers' knowledge and skills concerning toddler choking in Kalisongo village. Employing a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with a control group, 30 participants from the intervention and control groups were selected through simple random sampling. Knowledge and skills were assessed before and after training, and differences were analyzed using independent and paired sample T-tests. The N-Gain Score test was employed to determine the effect size. The results revealed no significant differences in knowledge and skills between the groups before training (P &gt; 0.05). Nonetheless, significant improvements were noted within each group following the training (P &lt; 0.05). The intervention group exhibited significantly higher levels of knowledge and skills compared to the control group after training (P &lt; 0.05), demonstrating a high N-Gain Score (&gt;0.70). In conclusion, SDL-V-based choking first aid training significantly enhances mothers' knowledge and skills in Kalisongo village. Healthcare professionals should consider the integration of SDL-V into public education and training programs.

The effect of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) tuja shuttle run model on agility and speed of female volleyball school athletes bank Jatim Surabaya

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) using the Tuja Shuttle Run model in enhancing agility and speed among volleyball athletes. The research employs a quasi-experimental non-equivalent control group design, involving 24 female volleyball athletes from Bank Jatim Surabaya, consisting of 12 athletes in the treatment group and 12 in the control group. Data were collected through pre-test and post-test assessments to measure changes in agility and speed variables. Data analysis was conducted using paired sample t-test and independent sample t-test. The results indicate that the treatment group experienced an average increase in agility of 3.31% and speed of 5.76% following the HIIT Tuja Shuttle Run intervention, while the control group showed no significant changes. These findings conclude that the HIIT Tuja Shuttle Run model is effective in improving agility and speed among athletes (particularly in speed), thereby supporting the application of this method within training programmed to optimize volleyball athlete performance.

The Effect of Dash Diet Education (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) on Blood Pressure in Hypertension Sufferers in the Working Area of ​​Rumbia Health Center, Rumbia District, Central Lampung Regency in 2024

The DASH diet serves as a valuable educational tool for managing hypertension, benefiting both patients and their families. This study aimed to assess the impact of education on the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet on the blood pressure levels of individuals with hypertension within the jurisdiction of the Rumbia Public Health Center in Rumbia District, Central Lampung Regency, during the year 2024. Employing a quantitative research methodology, the study utilized a quasi-experimental design featuring a one-group pre-test and post-test framework. The target population consisted of 353 hypertensive individuals residing in the Rumbia Health Center area from January to April 2024, with a sample size of 62 participants. Data were analyzed using the independent t-test. Findings revealed that the average blood pressure prior to the DASH diet education in the intervention group was 138/78 mmHg, compared to 149/89 mmHg in the control group. Post-education, the intervention group exhibited an average blood pressure of 126/75 mmHg, while the control group showed 136/82 mmHg. The results indicate a significant effect of DASH diet education on blood pressure among hypertensive patients in the Rumbia Health Center area, with a p-value of 0.000. It is recommended that health centers disseminate information regarding the benefits of DASH diet education on blood pressure management through various media, including leaflets, booklets, and posters, positioning it as a viable alternative treatment for individuals with hypertension.

Pengaruh Model Team Games Tournament Terhadap Hasil Pembelajaran Bahasa Indonesia di Sekolah Dasar

This study aims to determine the effect of Indonesian language learning outcomes using the Team Games Tournament (TGT) learning model on fifth-grade students of SDN Ciracas 06 Pagi semester 2 of the 2023/2024 academic year. The research method used is a quantitative research method with a quasi-experimental design research design using a non-equivalent posttest-only control group design. The determination of the control class and experimental class in the study was carried out by comparing their daily learning values. They are using multiple choice instruments with a total of 25 questions. Furthermore, the analysis of the required data tests was carried out namely, the normality test using the Liliefors test, while the homogeneity test used the Fisher test. In the hypothesis test used the t-test obtained t count 2.005 and t table 0.679 α = 0.05 then H0 is rejected which states that there is an effect on Indonesian language learning outcomes using the Team Games Tournament (TGT) learning model on fifth-grade students at Ciracas 06 Jakarta Elementary School.

Nutritional Content Analysis Of Yellow Pumpkin Brownies (Cucurbita Moschata L.) With Stevia Sweetener (Stevia Rebaudiana) As A Sugar Cane Substitution

An unhealthy diet that includes sugary snacks may promote a rise in glucose levels and enhance the risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Brownies are high in sugar and should be replaced with healthier ingredients to reduce their sugar content and glycemic index with stevia as natural sweeteners and yellow pumpkin which are low in calories and carbohydrates. To determine the nutritional content of brownies products with the substitution of cane sugar with stevia and yellow pumpkin. This study utilized a quasi-experimental design using completely randomized design (CRD). We experimented to evaluate the effects of four different treatments, comparing the use of cane sugar and stevia in different ratios: 100% cane sugar (P0), 50% cane sugar and 50% stevia (P1), 25% cane sugar and 75% stevia (P2), and 100% stevia (P3). Moisture, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate and energy variables were tested using by different method, gravimetric, kjehdahl, soxhlet, by difference, and atwater which was repeated 3 times. We conducted data analysis using a one-way ANOVA and Duncan test to determine the treatment pairs with the highest significance level. The findings demonstrated that replacing cane sugar with stevia significantly affect the nutritional content of yellow pumpkin brownies products (p&lt;0.05, for all comparisons). The treatments with the highest average of nutritional contents were as follows: P3 had the highest moisture content (48.64±0.04%), ash content (1.06±0.06%), protein (6.93±0.11%), and fat (14.49±0.34%), whereas P0 had the highest carbohydrate content (39.45±0.23%) and total energy (281.19±0.76 kcal/100g). The nutritional content of yellow pumpkin brownies has significantly modified by substituting sugar cane with stevia. However, additional investigation is required to determine other nutritional contents and assess its potential as functional food.

The Effect of the Slow Stroke Back Massage (Ssbm) Technique on Reducing High Blood Pressure in Hypertension Sufferers in the Working Area of ​​the Purwo Agung Community Health Center, Way Kanan Regency in 2024

The DASH diet serves as a valuable educational tool for managing hypertension, benefiting both patients and their families. This study aimed to assess the impact of education on the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet on the blood pressure levels of individuals with hypertension within the jurisdiction of the Rumbia Public Health Center in Rumbia District, Central Lampung Regency, during the year 2024. Employing a quantitative research methodology, the study utilized a quasi-experimental design featuring a one-group pre-test and post-test framework. The target population consisted of 353 hypertensive individuals residing in the Rumbia Health Center area from January to April 2024, with a sample size of 62 participants. Data were analyzed using the independent t-test. Findings revealed that the average blood pressure prior to the DASH diet education in the intervention group was 138/78 mmHg, compared to 149/89 mmHg in the control group. Post-education, the intervention group exhibited an average blood pressure of 126/75 mmHg, while the control group showed 136/82 mmHg. The results indicate a significant effect of DASH diet education on blood pressure among hypertensive patients in the Rumbia Health Center area, with a p-value of 0.000. It is recommended that health centers disseminate information regarding the benefits of DASH diet education on blood pressure management through various media, including leaflets, booklets, and posters, positioning it as a viable alternative treatment for individuals with hypertension.

A comparative analysis of antimicrobial agents in artificial saliva: Scoping review

Background: Artificial saliva should be formulated to mimic the physical properties and composition of the natural saliva. In addition to its moisturizing effects, artificial saliva should also include buffering and antimicrobial properties to adequately substitute the physiological functions of natural saliva. Most artificial saliva products focus on lubrication and moisture retention, with limited exploration of antimicrobial components. The optimal antimicrobial agents in artificial saliva have yet to be determined. Purpose: To identify antimicrobial agents used in artificial saliva. Methods: Article searches were conducted using the PRISMA flow chart in October 2024 using three databases: Scopus, Pubmed, and ScienceDirect. Selected articles were then evaluated for risk of bias using the JBI critical appraisal checklist. Results: Six quasi-experimental studies met the inclusion criteria and included in this review. Conclusion: Antimicrobial agents used in artificial saliva are xylitol, sorbitol, lysozyme, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase with potassium thiocyanate, hinokitiol, protamine, whey protein, dried egg yolk, system of enzymes, fluoride ions, hydroxyethylcellulose, and core-shell magnetic nanoparticles. Various other active ingredients may also serve as antimicrobial agents.