Study Sample Research Articles

Superior hypophyseal artery aneurysm: microsurgical vs. endovascular treatment.

This study aimed to provide an updated evidence of superior hypophyseal artery (SHA) aneurysms management, including their clinical implications, predictive factors for rupture, therapeutic approaches, and post-treatment outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis, following PRISMA guidelines, assessed the literature on superior hypophyseal artery aneurysms. Studies were selected based on predefined criteria, focusing on coiling and clipping interventions. Data were extracted and analyzed using SPSS and Cochrane RevMan, with assessments of heterogeneity, sensitivity, and publication bias. Study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and RoB2. A total of 20 studies involving 316 patients were included. The clipping group had a mean age of 53.8 years, while the coiling group had 50.3 years. Most aneurysms were smaller than 7mm. Aneurysm remnants occurred in 1.1% after clipping and 2.8% after coiling. Clipping was associated with lower recurrence rates (0% vs. 9.3%) and fewer visual disturbances and vasospasms. Mortality was equal (1%) for both groups. The coiling group had better outcomes on the modified Rankin Scale (94% vs. 73% for clipping). Meta-analysis confirmed that clipping had better recurrence and functional outcomes, with no significant differences in aneurysm size or mortality. Surgical clipping is a viable treatment for SHA aneurysms but carries risks, while coil embolization offers a safer, effective alternative. Early intervention, especially for larger aneurysms (> 7mm), is crucial to prevent rupture. Future research should focus on personalized treatment strategies, as this study's small sample size and study limitations warrant further investigation.

Relationship Between Waist Circumference, Smoking, and Physical Activity with Hypertension at Lenek Community Health Center

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, are a major problem and cause of premature death in developing countries. Data on hypertension in NTB is 282,970 with the most sufferers in East Lombok Regency. Non-modifiable hypertension risk factors include age, gender, and heredity, as well as modifiable risks include smoking, alcohol use, obesity, nutrition, and physical activity. The purpose of this study at the Lenek Health Center is to evaluate the link between waist circumference, smoking, and physical activity with hypertension. This study employs a cross-sectional approach and is observational quantitative analytical in nature. Purposive sampling is done using the Slovin formula. This study's sample size was 106 samples. The data was examined using the chi-square test. The findings revealed 106 respondents, the majority of whom had hypertension (74 people, 69.8%), while 32 people (30.2%) did not have hypertension. There is a substantial correlation between waist circumference and hypertension (p = 0.001). Smoking is significantly associated with hypertension (p=0.001). There is a strong link between physical activity and hypertension (p=0.001). The conclusion is that waist circumference, smoking, and physical activity all influence the prevalence of hypertension at the Lenek Health Center.

Pengaruh Core Service Quality, Peripheral Service dan E-Health terhadap Kepuasan Pasien pada Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah di Kabupaten Halmahera Utara

Finding out how e-health, core service quality, and peripheral service quality impact patient happiness is the aim of this study. By using these criteria, it is expected that the North Halmahera District General Hospital will be able to address patient concerns. The study's sample consisted of 100 patients who had undergone treatment in the preceding six months. The study's sample was selected using a random sampling technique. The data analysis method used to investigate the relationship between e-health and patient happiness as well as the caliber of core and auxiliary services is multiple linear regression analysis. According to the study's findings, core service quality, peripheral services, and e-health all have a substantial impact on patient satisfaction at the North Halmahera District Hospital. Core service quality, peripheral services, and e-health all have a positive impact at the same time.

Leveraging business intelligence and analytics for strategic success in the hospitality industry: Insights from hotels

This research strives to offer valuable insights into business intelligence and analytics utilization. Besides, its expansion encompasses essential success factors for business intelligence and strategic management in the hospitality industry. The study's sample comprises 387 hotel managers from the Jordanian hospitality industry. Data collected to support the research goal was examined using multiple regression analysis through SPSS, with the assistance of PROCESS Macro v3.5. The results of this study reveal that business intelligence and analytics can serve as a bridge to connect crucial success factors for business intelligence and strategic management. These findings have implications for existing literature and stakeholders. Hotels that have integrated business intelligence and analytics acknowledge the advantages of enhancing their strategic management capabilities and decision-making processes.

A Future Perspective for Digitalization of Egyptian Ports (Opportunities and Challenges) Case Study: Alexandria Port Authority

Abstract The adoption of digital technologies at ports has emerged as a key trend in maritime industry, as nations endeavor to achieve economic prosperity through the process of digital transformation. This trend is consistent with worldwide movement towards digitization in various domains. Digitization is an essential element in process of converting surroundings into an intelligent environment. Automated procedures in port operations and trading enables development of advanced and automated terminals, as well as independent port control operations. The aim of paper is to present a proposal to transform port of Alexandria into a smart port and execute necessary measures. The analysis began by classifying Digital revolution into three separate epochs, covering period from 1980 to 2022. An abridged chronicle of crucial occurrences in every generation and their importance. The challenges faced, scientific progress made, and data processing techniques employed in each era. A clarification of the purpose of information technology. In order to improve port operations and maximize efficiency, the analysis also considered the impact and scope of each generation, as well as conducting a comprehensive examination of the concept of smart ports. The BOX-JENKINS methodology, ARIMA models and EVIEW software were used to analyze the time series for the years 2012–2021 through the statistical center of Alexandria Port Authority. The steps of this package were then applied to the study's sample data in the following stages: Identification Phase Model Estimation Phase Forecasting Phase and Prediction of Performance Levels from 2022–2026. In order to establish the requirements for Alexandria Port's transformation into a smart port, a comparison was done between the smart port application already in place at Damietta Port and what was implemented at Singapore, Tangier Med Port and Rotterdam.

The Impact of Health Promotion Using Leaflet Media on Mothers' Knowledge of the Early Stimulation of Toddlers' Development and Growth.

Children who get inadequate stimulation will develop slower than those who receive regular and purposeful stimulus. Toddler-age toddlers face a variety of growth and development issues as a result of their mother's lack of information about stimulating their development. The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of health education using leaflet media on mothers' knowledge of early stimulation for toddler-age kids from Gunung Tua village, Subang Regency. This study's research design is a quasi-experiment using a one-group pretest-posttest approach. This study's population consists of moms with toddler-aged children living in Gunung Tua village, Subang. The study's sample size is 80 moms, including criteria for inclusion and exclusion. The data collecting method employs a questionnaire derived from the SDIDTK (Stimulation, Detection and Early Intervention of Growth and Development) book Ministry of Health, which contains 20 questions. The data received from the outcomes of collecting data will be evaluated using univariate analysis, searching for the distribution of frequencies and averaged distributions of the variables studied, and using bivariate analysis via the Wilcoxon rank Test. Women with children aged 1-1.5 years. Of the 25 respondents in this category, 19had a good level of knowledge, while 6had a sufficient level of knowledge. After health education, the post-test findings showed that 24 participants had a good level of knowledge and 1 person had sufficient knowledge. Of the 30 mothers surveyed who have children aged 1.5-2 years, the majority (20 respondents) showed a good level of knowledge. Of the responses received, only one had a low level of knowledge, while the other nine had a sufficient level of knowledge. After the health education, the post-test results showed that 26 participants showed a good level of knowledge. Of the 25 respondents who are mothers with children aged 2-3 years, the majority (13 respondents) showed a good level of knowledge. Only one respondent had a low level of knowledge while the other 11 respondents had a sufficient level of knowledge. After health education, the post-test findings showed that 18 participants showed a good level of knowledge. Following healthcare learning, the post-test results revealed that 26 participants had a good level of understanding. The findings using the non-parametric in Wilcoxon Test, the significant values for respondents, particularly mothers with children ages 1-1.5 a long time, 1.5-2 years, and 2-3 years, are 0.002, 0.000, and 0.000, respectively. In summary, before and after health education using leaflet media can increase mothers' knowledge about stimulation of toddler growth and development in Gunung Tua the village, Subang Regency.

Examination of Microbial Levels in Students' Bed Linens

Purpose: This paper determined the microbial content of bed linens used by students based on period of usage, gender of user and types of fabrics. Design/Methodology/ Approach: Laboratory tests were conducted on bed linens used by students. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were employed to select 32 each male and female participants living alone for the study. 32 pieces of bed linens, each 100% cotton and cotton/polyester blend, were used for the experiment. Two categories of gender (male and female) and two different periods of usage (one week and two weeks) were also employed. The statistical software employed to analyse the data collected was the Statistical Package and Service Solution (SPSS) for Windows version 26. Means and standard deviations of microbial load of bed linens were determined. Independent samples t-test and analysis of variance were employed to determine if differences existed between and among the variables studied. Findings: The study found no difference in microbial load in terms of duration and gender of the user. The results also showed more bacteria load on 100% cotton bed linen than on cotton and polyester blends. Research Limitation: The study's sample was confined to a specific group of students at one university, limiting the generalizability of the findings to a broader student population or diverse living conditions. Practical Implication: The study's outcome is significant for public health and daily hygiene practices. The Ghana health service can use the information to educate individuals on the dangers they will likely be exposed to using bed linens for an extended period without washing and raise awareness about the often-overlooked issue of microbial contamination in everyday environments. Social Implication: The study highlights the need for increased awareness and responsibility regarding personal hygiene within living environments. Originality/Value: This study advances the understanding of microbial contamination in students' bed linens by identifying the roles of usage period, user gender, and fabric type.

Impact of Updated Invasive Right Ventricular and Pulmonary Hemodynamics on Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With Mitral Valve Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair

Right-sided cardiac catheterization (RHC) is selectively recommended in mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge (M-TEER) workup because right ventricle (RV) hemodynamic parameters predict adverse outcomes. This study examines the impact of RV hemodynamics and the prognostic value of the 2022 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) pulmonary hypertension definitions on outcomes after M-TEER. Of 152 patients treated with M-TEER for symptomatic severe mitral regurgitation (MR) between December 2014 and February 2024 at our tertiary center, 71 underwent elective RHC before the procedure. The primary outcomes assessed were all-cause mortality and a composite of heart failure hospitalization and death at the longest available follow-up. In a cohort of 152 mostly male patients (64%) with a median age of 79 years who were treated for symptomatic severe MR, 71 underwent elective RHC. The causes were categorized as degenerative (47%), functional ventricular (41%), and atrial (12%). Pulmonary hypertension (PH) was common, with 74% showing mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) >20 mm Hg and 39% with pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) >2 Wood Units. Success rates were high, with technical, device, and procedural success at 97%, 88%, and 84%, respectively. At a median follow-up of 681 days, all-cause mortality was 50%, and the composite outcome (death or heart failure hospitalizations) occurred in 61%. Key hemodynamic parameters, including mPAP, PVR, and the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/systolic pulmonary artery pressure ratio, were independently linked to mortality risk. Kaplan-Meier analysis found significant associations with mPAP >20 mm Hg and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure >15 mm Hg for long-term mortality, whereas the 2022 ESC PH thresholds showed greater sensitivity, correlating with increased mortality risk. In patients with severe MR who undergo M-TEER, most RV invasive hemodynamic parameters are linked to adverse long-term outcomes, with mPAP, PVR, and the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/systolic pulmonary artery pressure ratio identified as independent predictors of mortality. Despite the study's limited sample size, the updated ESC PH definitions enhance prognostic assessment.

Adoption of AI writing tools among academic researchers: A Theory of Reasoned Action approach.

This research explores the determinants affecting academic researchers' acceptance of AI writing tools using the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA). The impact of attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived barriers on researchers' intentions to adopt these technologies is examined through a cross-sectional survey of 150 researchers. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is employed to evaluate the measurement and structural models. Findings confirm the positive influence of favorable attitudes and subjective norms on intentions to use AI writing tools. Interestingly, perceived barriers did not significantly impact attitudes or intentions, suggesting that in the academic context, potential benefits may outweigh perceived obstacles to AI writing tool adoption. Contrarily, perceived barriers do not significantly affect attitudes and intentions directly. The TRA model demonstrates considerable explanatory and predictive capabilities, indicating its effectiveness in understanding AI writing tool adoption among researchers. The study's diverse sample across various disciplines and career stages provides insights that may be generalizable to similar academic contexts, though further research with larger samples is needed to confirm broader applicability. Results offer practical guidance for tool developers, academic institutions, and publishers aiming to foster responsible and efficient AI writing tool use in academia. Findings suggest strategies such as demonstrating clear productivity gains, establishing AI Writing Tool programs, and developing comprehensive training initiatives could promote responsible adoption. Strategies focusing on cultivating positive attitudes, leveraging social influence, and addressing perceived barriers could be particularly effective in promoting adoption. This pioneering study investigates researchers' acceptance of AI writing tools using a technology acceptance model, contributing to the understanding of technology adoption in professional contexts and highlighting the importance of field-specific factors in examining adoption intentions and behaviors.

Prediction of Non Invasive Ventilation Failure in Critically Ill COVID 19 Patients

Background: Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is recognized as a practical and effective method for assisting selected patients with respiratory issues. The HACOR scoring system evaluates heart rate, acidosis, consciousness, oxygenation, and respiratory rate and has proven to be predictive of NIV failure in critically ill patients like COVID-19 patinets. Aim: To determine the predictibility of HACOR score to identify NIV failure early in patients with respiratory failure linked to COVID-19. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at the ICU of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) and Dhaka Medical College Hospital over a one-year period. It involved 40 patients who were administered NIV via a conventional ventilator in spontaneous mode and selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Informed written consent was obtained from each patient’s guardians. Upon admission to the ICU, the HACOR score of each patient was measured after one hour of NIV treatment, assessing factors such as heart rate, pH levels for acidosis, and oxygenation through the PaO2/FiO2 ratio, along with respiratory rate. Analysis was performed with both manual methods and software SPSS version 24. Results: NIV failure occurred in 33 (82.5%) patients with only 7 (17.5%) achieving psuccessful NIV. Older patients experienced NIV failure significanly higher compared to those with successful outcomes (average ages 61.79±17.28 vs. 47.57±11.92 years, p=0.045), and male patients were predominant (66.66%). The predominating comorbidities were diabetes mellitus (57.5%). The HACOR scores were significantly higher in patients who failed NIV compared to those who succeeded (8.18±2.18 vs. 4.71±1.5, p=0.002). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis established a HACOR score cutoff value of 5 after one hour of NIV treatment for predicting NIV failure in the study population, demonstrating a sensitivity of 93.9% and a specificity of 57.1% (AUC: 0.905). Conclusion: Despite the study's limited sample size, findings suggest that the HACOR score may serve as an early indicator of NIV failure in critically ill patients with COVID-19-related respiratory failure. Future research on a larger scale is anticipated to validate and expand upon these important insights.

Job Satisfaction of University Teachers: A Comparative Study of Gender, Age and Marital Status

This study's major aim was to compare university teachers' job satisfaction regarding gender, age, and marital status. The current study was descriptive in nature, and data was gathered by survey methods. 164 University of Kotli teachers made up the study population. The researcher chose 113 teachers to serve as the study's sample. The study's research tool was a standardized instrument. The researcher gathered the data through in-person visits to university instructors. The data was analyzed using SPSS, a statistical software for social science. In order to analyze the data, the researcher used the independent sample t-test, frequency, percentage, mean, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). It was found that teachers receive recognition from their immediate supervisors, and they give assistance when needed. Moreover, the immediate supervisor appreciates good teaching and assists in improving instruction. On the other hand, the immediate supervisor does not provide backup to teachers, and they are not willing to listen to suggestions from teachers. It is also recommended that immediate supervisors avoid giving meaningless instructions to the teachers so that they do not feel bored/ill.

Surgical approach for lower postoperative anal stenosis.

After anorectal surgery, hemorrhoids frequently lead to chronic issues, particularly in patients with mixed hemorrhoids. Liu et al investigated the outcomes of staple removal at the 3- and 9-o'clock positions following modified stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH) in patients with grade III or IV hemorrhoids. This study included patients who underwent standard or modified SH between January 1, 2015, and January 1, 2020. Key metrics assessed included hospital stay duration, blood loss, operation time, and the incidence of minor or major complications. The findings indicated that the modified SH technique is a safe option for advanced-grade hemorrhoids, resulting in a lower rate of postoperative anal stenosis compared to standard SH. Notably, this technique also showed reduced anal stenosis rates in patients with prior hemorrhoid treatments. While the modified SH demonstrates immediate benefits, further research is necessary to evaluate long-term effects. Despite its advantages, the study's limited sample size restricts the generalizability of the findings, underscoring the need for larger, long-term studies to validate these results. Clinically, the modified SH method appears to significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative anal stenosis, a common concern following typical surgeries. If confirmed by larger trials, this procedure may become the preferred surgical approach for hemorrhoids. In conclusion, the work of Liu et al signifies a meaningful advancement in hemorrhoid surgery, enhancing patient safety and outcomes.

Correlation between individual thigh muscle volume and grip strength in relation to sarcopenia with automated muscle segmentation.

Grip strength serves as a significant marker for diagnosing and assessing sarcopenia, particularly in elderly populations. The study aims to explore the relationship between individual thigh muscle volumes and grip strength, leveraging advanced AI-based UNETR segmentation techniques for accurate muscle volume assessment. The study included 49 participants from a cohort of 478 patients diagnosed with hip fractures at Gyeongsang National University Hospital. We recorded Grip strength and height and utilized UNETR-based segmentation techniques on CT scans, to calculate individual thigh muscle volumes. Point-biserial correlation was employed to explore the relationship between sarcopenia and thigh muscle volumes. The research also included a quantile analysis of grip strength. Our findings revealed a strong statistical significance in specific thigh muscles like Rectus femoris, Vastus lateralis, and Vastus intermedius, particularly in males, in relation to sarcopenia. The male cohort displayed a trend where higher thigh muscle volumes correlated with better grip strengths. Meanwhile no such relationship was found within the female group. The findings indicate that stronger grip strength correlates with larger thigh muscles in males but not in females, with specific muscles like the Rectus femoris and Vastus lateralis linked to sarcopenia in men only. The study's small sample size calls for further research with more diverse and gender-balanced groups to verify these results.

Using Paired Reading Method to Improve Tenth Grade Students' Reading Comprehension

The objective of this study was to find out whether or not there was any significant differences of the tenth graders’ reading comprehension between the students who were taught by using paired reading method and those who are not at SMA Muhammadiyah 01 Palembang. this study's sample consisted of 71 students chosen using a purposive selection approach. they were placed into two groups: experimental and control groups. this study used a quasi-experimental design. the data collection tool was reading comprehension a using paired reading method, which was administered twice to the sample (pretest and posttest). there were 30 valid multiple-choice questions. the test resulted in a two-tailed significant difference (p=0,309) above the significance level (0.05). hence, the hypothesis was accepted, signifying a noteworthy distinction in reading comprehension between students was any significant differences of the tenth graders’ reading comprehension between the students who were taught by using paired reading method and those who are not at SMA Muhammadiyah 01 Palembang, the null hypothesis (ho) was rejected and the alternative hypothesis (ha) confirmed. there was a substantial to there was any significant differences of the tenth graders’ reading comprehension between the students who were taught by using paired reading method and those who are not at SMA Muhammadiyah 01 Palembang.

Pengaruh Bauran Pemasaran terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Skincare Aloe Vera XYZ di Kota Pontianak

The skincare sector has many prospects due to the growing public awareness of skin health. Indonesia's cosmetics industry grew by 20.6% between 2021 and 2022, according to data from the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM). The XYZ skincare products, which originated in Pontianak City, West Kalimantan, and are derived from aloe vera, are among the most well-liked items from this trend. This study examined how the marketing mix impacted Pontianak City's purchases of O-degree products. Pontianak City was chosen for this study because it is a hub for aloe vera farming and is renowned for generating high-quality goods. The study's sample size was 100 customers aged 17 and older who had bought skincare products containing aloe vera at least twice in the previous six months. The factors influencing purchase decisions are assessed using the data analysis technique known as structural equation modeling (SEM). Product, pricing, location, and advertising were the characteristics that were being examined. The survey's results showed that most participants were female, between the ages of 21 and 25, working for a private company, college-educated, and making between Rp1,500,001 and Rp3,000,000. The product variable influenced consumers' buying decisions the most of the four factors analyzed. This is due to the distinctive worth and uniqueness of XYZ items, which are native Pontianak commodities. To improve buying decisions, entrepreneurs must focus more on improving product quality and maintaining the features that are the product's main draws. By enhancing product quality and giving local Pontianak products more prominence, XYZ is expected to be able to compete more successfully in the fiercely competitive skincare market.

New Classification System and Defect-Oriented Algorithm for Functional Soft-Palate Reconstruction with Buccinator Myomucosal Flaps.

Background/Objectives: Currently, there is a lack of a comprehensive classification system for soft-palate defects that provides synthetic information to guide functional reconstructive treatment. Our awareness, shaped by extensive experience, of the superiority of myomucosal flaps to fasciocutaneous flaps in functional palate reconstruction has driven us to introduce a new defect-based classification system and propose a new algorithm for reconstructing soft-palate defects using buccinator myomucosal flaps. Methods: Soft-palate defects were classified into five classes. A reconstruction algorithm employing buccinator myomucosal flaps-including axial, island, and tunnelized flaps along with their variants as described in previous studies-was utilized. Clinical records, including tumor stage, location, defect size, and details of the myomucosal flap used, were documented. Postoperative speech intelligibility, swallowing, and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated. Donor-site morbidity and complications were also assessed. Spearman's rank correlation was employed to assess relationships between clinical parameters and functional outcomes. Results: Twenty-two patients who had undergone soft-palate resection and subsequent reconstruction were reviewed. Favorable recovery of swallowing and speech was reported in all cases, with a median deglutition score of 6.04 ± 0.85 and no severe velopharyngeal insufficiency observed (speech score: 0.36 ± 0.58). Quality of life assessments indicated satisfactory recovery across physical, social, emotional, and functional parameters. Donor-site morbidity was low (average score: 8.3), with only minor complications observed. Tumor stage showed a significant correlation with speech score (r = 0.44, p = 0.04). Conclusions: The proposed classification introduces a comprehensive, simple, and user-friendly categorization of soft-palate defects, accompanied by a myomucosal reconstructive algorithm designed to guide surgeons through the reconstructive process, aiming to provide optimal functional reconstruction. The study's small sample size and monocentric design may have limited the detection of meaningful correlations, highlighting the need for larger, multicentric studies with objective methods to validate findings.

The Mediating Role of Empathy in the Relationship between Forgiveness Level and Psychological Symptoms among Psychological Counselor Candidates

The aim of this study is to investigate the intermediary role of empathy in the correlation between the level of forgiveness and psychological symptoms exhibited by candidates for psychological counseling. The study's sample population comprises of students from the Guidance and Psychological Counseling Department of Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Dokuz Eylul University, and Necmettin Erbakan University who were enrolled in the first, second, and third years of the undergraduate program during the academic year of 2017-2018. The Personal Information Form, Heartland Forgiveness Scale, Short Symptom Inventory, and Basic Empathy Scale were employed as data collection instruments. The analysis of the data was conducted using SPSS 21.0 and AMOS 22.0, and confirmatory factor analysis and item analysis (item-total correlation and Cronbach Alpha) were applied to assess the construct validity of the scales. The results indicate that the impact of psychological symptoms on levels of forgiveness is negative and meaningful, yet empathy levels have no significant impact on forgiveness, and psychological symptom levels have no significant impact on empathy levels. Furthermore, empathy levels do not play a mediating role in the relationship between forgiveness levels and psychological symptom levels. The findings are discussed in light of existing literature.

Relationship Self-Management Level of Hypertension Patients Towards Risk of Coronary Heart Disease

Most hypertension sufferers are not very strict in controlling themselves and managing their blood pressure to prevent complications. One of the significant risk factors for heart disease is hypertension. This study aims to ascertain if hypertension patients' degree of self-management and the prevalence of coronary heart disease are related. This specific type of research uses a cross-sectional study design and is quantitative. Purposive sampling is employed. The Slovin formula is used to compute the sample. The study's total sample was 109 outpatients with hypertension from the internal medicine polyclinic of Dr. Moewardi Surakarta Hospital. This study used the HSMBQ (Hypertension Self-Management Behavior Questionnaire) questionnaire by Nargis Akther to measure the level of self-management of hypertension with coronary heart disease. The data analysis used was a univariate test, and the risk level was calculated using the Framingham Risk Score and the chi-square bivariate test. Results show that the study's p-value=0.048 (<0.05) suggests a significant correlation between hypertension patients' degree of self-management and the prevalence of coronary heart disease. Most individuals fall into the category of having an adequate level of self-management. The majority of the 76 people (69.7%) with intermediate levels of self-management had a minor risk of coronary heart disease. The results of the study showed a significant relationship between the incidence of coronary heart disease and the level of self-control in hypertensive patients. Promotive and preventive efforts through educational approaches and structured interventions are essential to improve the quality of self-control in hypertensive patients.

Evaluation of COVID-19 Findings on Thoracic CT: Is There any Correlation with Age and Comorbidity?

Aim: To share insights gained from low-dose thoracic computed tomography (CT) findings of patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate the correlation between the observed CT findings, CT severity index, patient age, and the presence of comorbid conditions. Material and Method: One hundred patients having a COVID-19 diagnosis were included in the study's sample. We meticulously reviewed the thoracic CT image characteristics, the lung severity index, and various clinical data related to the patients. The relationships between these factors were then analyzed to draw meaningful conclusions. Results: The study included 100 patients, consisting of 67 men and 33 women. Among these patients, 30 had at least one underlying comorbid condition, with hypertension being the most prevalent. CT scans were positive in 65 patients. Within this group, 60 patients (93.3%) exhibited ground-glass opacities (GGO), 27 patients (41.5%) showed signs of consolidation, 22 patients (33.8%) had both GGO and consolidation, and 8 patients (12.3%) displayed the crazy paving pattern. The total lung severity score (TLSS) ranged from 0 to 19, with mean score of 3.11±3.71. Each lung lobe was systematically evaluated for the extent of involvement. We found a statistically significant relationship indicating that increasing age correlated with higher grades of lung involvement. Furthermore, significant association was noted between presence of comorbidities and the lung involvement grades. Our analysis revealed a moderate positive correlation between CT lung involvement grade and patient age, alongside a weaker positive correlation between the lung involvement grade and comorbid conditions. Conclusion: CT imaging has proven to be important tool in managing patients suspected of or confirmed to have COVID-19. Notably, the CT lung severity grade was significantly elevated in patients over 65 years and those with comorbidities. These findings underscore the critical role that CT plays in evaluating and managing the severity of COVID-19 pneumonia.

Holding the Line - Mental Well-Being, Stressors, and Coping in Crisis Supporters.

Background: Crisis supporters can experience numerous stressors in their role that can impact their own mental well-being. The area remains underexplored in research, particularly relating to substance use, and new trends in the role such as working remotely or the impact of providing chat-based support. Aims: This study identifies crisis support-related stressors, as well as levels of mental well-being and substance use, and factors associated with mental well-being. Method: Participants (n = 422) were recruited from four leading crisis support services and via social media advertising. They responded to an online survey, assessing demographics, stressors, mental well-being (compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, and psychological distress), substance use, and coping styles. Results: Findings identified several important stressors (e.g., argumentative callers) and moderate to high rates of compassion fatigue and psychological distress. High levels of compassion satisfaction were reported, and levels of risky substance use were low. Problem-focused coping emerged as a key factor related to positive mental well-being, while emotion-focused, avoidant coping, remote work, and providing chat-based support were linked to negative well-being. Limitations: The study's cross-sectional design and convenience sample limit causal inferences and generalizability. Conclusion: The findings reveal significant stressors and challenges in crisis supporters that require consideration and intervention.