Self-administered Questionnaire Research Articles

Knowledge assessment of respiratory therapists on endotracheal tube suctioning in intensive care units of public hospitals in Sana'a, Yemen

Background Endotracheal suctioning involves the insertion of a suction catheter into the patient's trachea to remove and prevent the accumulation of secretions in the lungs of patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. Respiratory therapists are responsible for this procedure, so they must have strong knowledge of airway clearance in general, and endotracheal tube suctioning specifically, to implement the suction procedure without complications and with maximum benefit. Methods A descriptive study was conducted, including all respiratory therapists working in public hospitals in Sana'a City, Yemen, who were invited to participate. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Twenty questions were used to assess the participants' knowledge. Scores were classified as high if above 80%, intermediate if between 70-80%, and low if below 70%. Descriptive statistics were used to interpret demographic data and descriptive measures. The chi-square test for categorical data was used to find the association between knowledge level and demographic characteristics, with a P-value ≤ 0.05 considered significant. Results About two-thirds (68%) of participants were male, and 69% were between 21 and 30 years old. 98% of participants had a three-year diploma degree, and 78% had 1-5 years of experience. More than four-fifths (83%) of participants had training courses in airway clearance, and three-quarters (75%) had training in endotracheal tube suctioning techniques. 5% of participants had a high level of knowledge about ETT suctioning and answered the study questions correctly, while 11% had moderate knowledge. More than two-thirds (84%) of participants had low-level knowledge, as defined by the study questionnaire results. There was a significant association between the level of education and knowledge of the respiratory therapists toward endotracheal tube suctioning with p–value (0.025). In contrast, there was no association between each of the variables ( Age, years of Experience) and the level of knowledge and endotracheal tube suctioning. Conclusions There is a significant association between educational level and the level of knowledge of respiratory therapists regarding endotracheal tube suctioning. We recommend that respiratory therapists advance their knowledge in airway clearance, specifically endotracheal tube suctioning, through continuous training based on evidence-based best practices. Keywords: Endotracheal tube suction, knowledge, Respiratory therapists

Knowledge and Attitude Influence on Oral Hygiene Practices among University Dental Students with Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

Fixed orthodontic appliances can complicate oral hygiene maintenance, increasing the risk of dental caries and periodontal diseases. This study aimed to assess the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and oral hygiene practices among university dental students undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. A cross-sectional study was conducted among dental students at Universitas Prima Indonesia. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that included questions on oral hygiene knowledge, attitude towards oral health, and oral hygiene practices. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to analyze the data. A total of 40 dental students participated in the study. The majority of the participants (95%) had good knowledge about oral hygiene. A positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitude (p=0.027), indicating that students with better knowledge exhibited more positive attitudes towards oral health. Furthermore, students with good knowledge were more likely to perform proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice daily (95%), using interdental brushes (97.5%), and visiting the dentist regularly (52.5%). In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of oral health knowledge and positive attitudes in promoting proper oral hygiene practices among dental students with fixed orthodontic appliances. Educational interventions aimed at improving knowledge and shaping attitudes may be beneficial in enhancing oral hygiene behavior and ensuring successful orthodontic treatment outcomes.

Evaluation of the correlation and effects of different types of smoking on a sample of Iraqi students

This paper aimed to establish the correlation between various forms of smoking and the health risk perception in order to reveal the challenges to quitting smoking. A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out among 269 students via self-administered questionnaires that captured their demographic characteristics, smoking status, health issues, and quit efforts. Pearson's correlation and chi-square tests were used in comparing and determining the relationships between several variables. Therefore, findings revealed a high level of smoking initiation in late adolescence with use of the regular cigarettes being most prevalent. There was substantial knowledge on the dangers of smoking but most of them were engaged in smoking due to the influence from their peers and social pressure. Importantly, half of the participants stated that they tried to quit smoking; however, only a minority used effective cessation services. The study indicates that as much as students have information on the negative effects of smoking decisions and options available to them act as barriers to quitting the vice. Therefore, it was established that there is a scientific warrant for culturally tailored public health practices, which focus on the significant and distinctive Iraqi cultural and social factors contributing to the youths’ smoking habits. Thus, the stakeholders can contribute to the health improvement of this vulnerable population by supporting cessation initiatives and improving educational programs

Menstrual Hygiene Management among School Girls

In Nepal, menstruating women are considered impure, and adolescent girls are not allowed to do household chores and restrict to participate in religious or cultural events during menstruation. Menstruation is an important event in the life of an adolescent girl, which indicates that signs of maturity. Detail information about menstruation that begins in early adolescence will improve safe practices and alleviate suffering for millions of women. Quantitative data were collected by self-administered questionnaire was completed by schoolgirls in four schools, two were private and two were community. A survey was conducted among adolescent girls (10-19 years) residing in Banke District. Four schools were selected purposively. A purposive sample of 100 female students were selected from grades 9 and 10 from the out of 233 students (Grade 9 = 10, Grade 10 = 15, total 25) was selected by quota sampling method. The questionnaire survey was used as a research tool and data collection was obtained consent from both school principals and respondents before taking the data. The data were analyzed using a simple frequency table and to interpret the results descriptively. Study found that Shyness, high costs and prices, lack of prior knowledge, and unavailability in local shops among others were significant factors that were not promoting girls to use disposable sanitary pads which neglected the Menstrual hygiene management. Despite the cultural stigma on menstruation, a considerable number of girls attend the regularity to schools, with or without notice if they are on their periods.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding blood exposure accidents and eHealth literacy among Tunisian medical students: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundGood knowledge, attitudes and practices towards Blood Exposure Accidents (BEA) are essential for their prevention with a significant correlation found between e-health literacy and KAP levels. We aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) and e-health literacy levels towards BEA and their potential associations among medical students at a Tunisian medical school.MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive cross-sectional study among undergraduate medical students at Ibn Al Jazzar Medical School in Sousse, Tunisia, using an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire. Students’ e-health literacy was assessed using the validated French version of the Electronic Health Literacy Scale (eHEALS).ResultsA total of 580 medical students were enrolled with a mean age of 21.6 ± 1.2 years and female predominance (sex ratio = 0.36). Most respondents (70%) had received no BEA training, and almost the quarter (24.3%; CI 95%:20.7-27.9%) reported having been victims of BEA. Overall, the mean score of medical students’ KAP was 19.98 with almost half (49.1%, CI95%:45-53.2%) achieving a good score. The mean eHEALS score was 28.22 ± 6.85. More than half (55.7%, CI95%:51.7-59.7%) achieved a high level of e-health literacy. Being enrolled in the second cycle of medical studies (AOR = 2.50, 95%CI: 1.40–4.30), and having inadequate knowledge of standard precautions (AOR = 1.58, 95%CI: 1.04–2.39) were the predictors of BEA, while having good KAP regarding BEA was a negative determinant (AOR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.39–0.89). In addition, having adequate knowledge of standard precautions (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.10–2.23) and having good knowledge of BEA (AOR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.17–2.27) were the determinants of high levels of e-health literacy on BEA. Similarly, being adequately informed about the risks of BEA (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.01–2.06) was a positive determinant, whereas having a history of BEA (AOR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.43–0.93) was a negative determinant of high levels of KAP.ConclusionMedical students showed good levels of e-heath literacy and KAP. E-health literacy appears to play a critical role in preventing BEA by understanding standard precautions and follow-up protocols.

Attitude towards Working in Rural Areas among Nursing Students in a Medical College of Kaski District

Nursing manpower shortage is a worldwide problem and it is vital for a nation to have nurses in all level of the health care delivery system. This study aims to assess the attitude towards working in rural areas after graduation among nursing students of Kaski. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted for the study which was conducted in Gandaki Medical College; Rithepani among 75 undergraduate female nursing students of Gandaki Medical College. Total enumerative sampling technique was used. Structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed by employing both descriptive (frequency, mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistical methods (Chi-square test). The p≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. The study found that more than half (53.3%) of the respondents had positive attitude. However, nearly half (46.7%) had negative attitude towards working in rural areas after graduation. There was statistically significant association of age (p=0.04) and having a family member in rural service (p=0.02) with attitude towards working in rural areas after graduation. Nursing students of age less than 24 years (65.7%) and those with their family member in rural service (72.0%) were more likely to choose working in rural areas after graduation. Nearly half of nursing students had negative attitude to work in rural areas after graduation. This study concludes that having a family member in rural service and those with age less than 24 years had positive attitude to rural service.

Bridging the Gap Between Supply Chain Risk and Organizational Performance Conditioning to Demand Uncertainty

This study aims to explore the impact of supply chain risk (SCR) on organizational performance (OP) within the Pakistani auto sector, focusing on the mediating role of supply chain integration (SCI) and the moderating effect of demand uncertainty. The research investigates how effectively managing SCR and integrating supply chain functions can enhance organizational resilience and performance, especially in the context of a volatile market environment. A quantitative research design was employed, with data collected through self-administered questionnaires distributed to 400 supply chain managers and decision-makers in the auto industry. A total of 320 completed questionnaires were returned, resulting in a response rate of 80%. The data were analyzed using Smart PLS to test the proposed hypotheses and examine the relationships between SCR, integration, demand uncertainty, and organizational performance. This study found that SCR negatively impacts organizational performance, while SCI mediates this relationship, enhancing performance outcomes. Additionally, demand uncertainty was found to moderate the relationship between SCR and integration, highlighting the importance of flexibility and adaptability in supply chain management. All hypotheses were supported, confirming the significant role of integration and uncertainty in managing risks effectively. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence from a developing economy, offering valuable insights for practitioners in the automotive industry. This study is a contribution to the supply chain management literature in that it provides empirical evidence regarding supply chain integration as a mediator and demand uncertainty as a moderator of the relationship between the supply chain risk and organizational performance.

A cross-sectional study of evidence-based practice and association factors among nurses in public health facilities of Dessie city, Northeast Ethiopia

BackgroundEvidence-based practice (EBP) is essential in modern healthcare to improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of care. Nurses play a crucial role in implementing EBP in clinical settings, yet its utilization remains suboptimal in many healthcare facilities, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, nursing practice in Ethiopia often relies on experience, tradition, intuition, common sense, and untested theories. Additionally, there is a lack of information on the implementation of EBP by nurses in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area. However, there is limited empirical evidence assessing the level of EBP implementation and the associated factors among nurses in these facilities. Therefore, this study aims to assess evidence-based practice and association factors among nurses in public health facilities of Dessie city, Northeast Ethiopia.MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 442 nurses in public health facilities of Dessie City from January 17 to February 17, 2023. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select participants. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were calculated, and statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05.ResultsThe prevalence of good Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) utilization among nurses was 37.6% (95% CI: 32.9–42.2%), indicating a low level of adoption. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 41.34 (±12.86) years. Key factors significantly associated with EBP implementation included: Knowledge of EBP: Nurses with good knowledge were six times more likely to implement EBP (AOR = 6.01; 95% CI: 3.78, 9.55). Type of Health Facility: Nurses working in hospitals were nearly three times more likely to practice EBP compared to those in health centers (AOR = 2.89; 95% CI: 1.45, 5.76). Attitude towards EBP: Nurses with a favorable attitude were 3.4 times more likely to engage in EBP (AOR = 3.41; 95% CI: 2.04, 5.71). Additionally, barriers to EBP adoption included limited resources (34.4%), high workload (27.5%), and lack of internet access at the workplace (68.7%). Less than 10% of nurses reported using nursing journals as sources of evidence, while 73.4% relied on information from coworkers.ConclusionThis study highlights a low prevalence of EBP utilization among nurses in Dessie City. The strong association between EBP adoption and factors such as knowledge, attitude, and type of health facility suggests the need for targeted interventions. Improving nurses’ access to EBP training, research resources, and institutional support could significantly enhance EBP implementation, leading to better patient care and health outcomes.

Colorectal cancer knowledge and screening awareness in Syria: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer globally, with rising incidence in developing countries due to lifestyle and dietary shifts. CRC often presents with late-stage symptoms, leading to higher mortality. Early detection through screening can significantly improve survival rates. In Syria, CRC is the second most common cancer, but screening rates remain low, especially following the decade-long war. This study aims to assess the knowledge of CRC and evaluate the awareness of CRC screening among Syrians to guide prevention and detection strategies.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey was conducted from September 27 to October 21, 2023, across six governorates: Damascus, Homs, Aleppo, Latakia, Hama, and Tartus, using a self-administered questionnaire distributed via social media. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v28.0, with a Chi-square test to explore differences in knowledge based on socio-demographical factors. Multicollinearity was assessed using the Variance Inflation Factor (VIF), and multinomial regression was performed to confirm relationships established by the Chi-square analysis.ResultsThe study included 772 participants, 42.6% of whom were aged 30–35 years. The majority were female (64.4%) and married (56.3%). Only 27.8% considered themselves informed about CRC. While 54.8% had heard of colonoscopy, only 15.4% had undergone the procedure. Significant knowledge gaps were identified, particularly regarding the link between adenocarcinoma polyps and CRC (29.9%), the role of diet (33.2%), and the protective effect of aspirin (17.7%). Individuals aged 50 and above demonstrated higher awareness levels, particularly in recognizing CRC’s hereditary nature (p-value = 0.033) and the potential for cure (p-value = 0.012). Education and economic status were also strongly associated with better CRC knowledge, and males generally exhibited higher awareness than females.ConclusionThis study highlights significant gaps in CRC knowledge and screening awareness among Syrians, emphasizing the need to integrate education and complimentary screening into national health policies. Targeted campaigns, nonprofit collaboration, and media engagement are essential to bridge these gaps. Future research should address limitations like sampling bias and the cross-sectional design through longitudinal and comparative studies to guide tailored interventions.

Prefectural Survey on Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Associated Myocarditis at the Start of the Basic Plan to Promote Cancer Control Programs - Phase 4.

In 2023, collaboration between cardiologists and oncologists was recommended as part of Japan's Basic Plan to Promote Disease Control Programs for both cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This study explores the extent of this collaboration in Niigata Prefecture. Self-administered questionnaires about immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated myocarditis (ICIAM) and anthracycline-related cardiomyopathy (ARCM) were distributed to all cardiologists and leading oncologists in hospitals across the Prefecture, of whom 124 cardiologists and 41 oncologists across 29 hospitals responded. Clinical experience with ICIAM was reported by 31.8% of cardiologists and 24.4% of leading oncologists, significantly lower than experience with ARCM (80.0% of cardiologists, P<0.001, and 58.5% of leading oncologists, P=0.009, respectively). Senior cardiologists reported less experience with ICIAM compared with their young counterparts (18.6% vs. 38.5%, P=0.018). Of the 20 hospitals providing immunotherapy, 12 (60%) reported "no consultation" between the cardiology and oncology departments, and only 5 hospitals (25%) had matching answers for consultation after ICIAM onset between these departments. Conversely, only 4 hospitals (20%) answered "no consultation", and 12 hospitals (60%) had matching answers, for interdepartmental consultation before or after ARCM onset. Compared with ARCM, cardiologists and oncologists had less experience, fewer organized measures in place, and increased interdepartmental collaboration vulnerability with ICIAM. Collaboration between cardiologists and oncologists should be promoted in hospitals.

Disaster management knowledge and practices among nurses: A cross-sectional study

Objectives Disasters significantly disrupt human life and societal structures worldwide, necessitating robust disaster preparedness systems. Nurses play a crucial role in disaster response; however, ongoing training and specialized skills are essential due to the dynamic nature of these events. This study aims to address the lack of data on nurses’ perceptions of disaster education and preparedness. Understanding these perceptions is vital for improving nursing education and enhancing the effectiveness of disaster response. Material and Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 60 nursing staff working in the OPD, emergency, and ICU wards of Guru Teg Bahadur (GTB) Hospital in Delhi. A self-administered questionnaire on knowledge and practices related to disaster management was provided to the participants, and their responses were recorded. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: questions pertaining to participant and baseline information, knowledge, and practices. Additionally, there was a separate section for participants to offer suggestions on how to improve their knowledge and practices. Results The results indicated a significant level of awareness and knowledge (70.9%) among the participants regarding disaster management. However, notable gaps exist in specific expertise and experience related to disaster preparedness and response. It was observed that only 32 participants (53.3%) regularly or occasionally participated in disaster drills, highlighting a lack of practice among them. Conclusion The assessment of disaster management practices among hospital staff revealed both strengths and areas for improvement. While there is a general awareness and understanding of disaster management principles, gaps in practical engagement and procedural knowledge remain. There is a strong consensus on the need for more workshops and simulated training. To address these issues, it is essential to implement regular mandatory drills and enhance training programs. These measures will help hospitals cultivate a more resilient workforce capable of effectively responding to disasters and ensuring the safety of patients and the community.

Sustainable futures: leveraging green intellectual capital, HRM, innovation and leadership

PurposeAchieving sustainability goals for manufacturing firms depends on green human resource management practices and green intellectual capital. This study explores how sustainable approaches, such as green human resource management practices, green intellectual capital, sustainable leadership and green innovation, enhance sustainable performance. Therefore, this study aims to determine whether green intellectual capital and innovation mediate between green human resources management practices and sustainable performance in Pakistan’s manufacturing industry.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected from 458 executives representing 155 (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector in Pakistan using a self-administered questionnaire. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was employed for the data analysis.FindingsThe results indicated that green human resource management practices positively impact green intellectual capital, green innovation and sustainable performance. Additionally, green intellectual capital significantly affects both green innovation and sustainable performance. Furthermore, green intellectual capital and innovation mediate the relationship between green human resource management practices and sustainable performance. Results also reveal that sustainable leadership significantly moderates the relationships between green human resource management practices, green intellectual capital and green innovation.Practical implicationsThe results of this study assist practitioners in appreciating and assessing the significance of green intellectual capital and green human resource management techniques. It also emphasizes the importance of green innovation and sustainable leadership in fostering sustainable performance.Originality/valueThis study guides managers and policymakers on how green human resource management practices, intellectual capital, innovation and sustainable leadership enable firms to achieve sustainable performance goals.

Industry 4.0-Enabled Supply Chain Performance: Do Supply Chain Capabilities and Innovation Matter?

Background: The present study investigates Industry 4.0’s (I4.0) impact on supply chain capabilities (SCCs), supply chain innovation (SCI), and supply chain performance (SCP). The influence of SCCs and SCI on SCP is also explored. Additionally, the mediating impacts of SCCs and SCI on the I4.0-SCP relationship are analyzed. Methods: The study’s population consisted of manufacturing companies located in Amman, Jordan. A purposive sample of 211 companies was selected. Self-administered questionnaires were completed by targeted managers in the participating companies. Results: The outcomes indicated that the total impact of I4.0 on SCP was significant and positive. I4.0 positively affected both SCCs and SCI. Additionally, SCCs and SCI were found to positively affect SCP. Finally, the results demonstrated a full mediating impact of SCCs and SCI on the I4.0-SCP relationship, with over two-thirds of the mediation impact attributed to SCCs. Conclusions: This research is among the earliest to examine I4.0’s impact on SCP. It also fills a research gap by exploring I4.0’s influence on both SCCs and SCI. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to investigate the mediation effect of SCCs and SCI on the I4.0-SCP relationship, thus providing a valuable contribution to the existing literature.

Association between mental health and professional quality of life among advocates for victims of sexual assault: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundAdvocates for victims of sexual assault are exposed to the traumatic events of victims, which can lead to occupational stress. Occupational stress specific to advocates who support victims can cause compassion fatigue and burnout, which can worsen their mental health. Furthermore, such exposure could lead to compassion satisfaction, which, in turn, may buffer compassion fatigue and burnout. To improve the mental health of advocates for victims of sexual assault in Japan, this study aimed to evaluate a hypothesized model explaining the effect of occupational stress on their mental health.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire via mail. The sample comprised 560 advocates from one-stop support centers for victims of sexual assault. Questionnaires comprising the components of the hypothesized model, namely, compassion fatigue, burnout, compassion satisfaction, traumatic stress symptoms, and psychological distress, were mailed. After using descriptive statistics, a path analysis was conducted to test the hypotheses and the fitness of the model.ResultsData from 250 participants were analyzed. The prevalence rates of compassion fatigue, burnout, and compassion satisfaction were 30%, 65%, and 4%, respectively. The hypothesized model demonstrated a good fit. Compassion fatigue exerted a significant positive effect on traumatic stress symptoms and psychological distress. Burnout also demonstrated a significant positive effect on psychological distress. However, its association with traumatic stress symptoms was not significant. Compassion satisfaction exerted a significant negative effect on compassion fatigue and burnout.ConclusionsImproving the mental health of advocates, particularly for traumatic stress symptoms, requires not only intervening in burnout but also improving compassion fatigue. Increasing compassion satisfaction contributes to the improvement of compassion fatigue and burnout. Therefore, creating a supportive environment that considered these would help improve the mental health of the advocates.

Links between medical interns’ perceived stress, workaholism and personality: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMedical interns’ work conditions and individual features make them vulnerable to stress and deterioration in their physical and mental health. Moreover, these factors are associated with a pathological relationship with work, workaholism. Few studies have focused on this population, and its exposure to psychosocial risks and related consequences. We evaluated the perceived stress of medical interns with regard to their personality and the risk of workaholism.MethodsThis cross-sectional observational study was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire, anonymously, assessing perceived stress (PSS-10), personality (BFI-10) and the risk of workaholism (DUWAS-10).Results358 medical interns were included in the study. We found that perceived stress was positively associated with neuroticism and the risk of workaholism and, on the other hand, negatively associated with a conscientious personality. The risk of workaholism increased with perceived stress, number of weekly work hours and conscientiousness trait. Having time for leisure was associated with a reduction in both perceived stress and the risk of workaholism.ConclusionsAmong medical interns, our results further supported that perceived stress, risk of workaholism and personality are intertwined. A better understanding of these mechanisms will contribute to the identification of the most vulnerable interns, to the improvement of targeted screening and prevention tools of psychosocial risks, usable during occupational medicine consultations.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.

Determining the Relationship between Internal Controls and Financial Accountability in Bushenyi District Local Government, Uganda

Implementing Integrated Financial Management Information Systems in terms of internal controls has been essential in recent years for increasing financial oversight, fostering transparency, and boosting resource management in government sectors across the globe. This study examined the effect of internal controls on financial accountability in Uganda's Bushenyi District Local Government after realizing its potential. Financial reporting was found to have a substantial positive correlation with (r = 0.485, P &lt; 0.001) when a sample of 124 respondents from a population of 185 completed self-administered questionnaires using a quantitative technique. According to the study's findings, financial reporting has a positive impact on financial accountability by allowing the government to evaluate the efficacy and efficiency of internal controls as well as adherence to financial policies. This helps the government make well-informed decisions and emphasizes the function of internal controls in stopping and identifying fraudulent activity in government sectors. In order to ensure efficient management of public funds, the study suggests strengthening internal control mechanisms, streamlining financial reporting systems, simplifying financial planning, and offering staff targeted training programs. These actions will improve financial accountability and public resource management in Bushenyi District Local Government.

Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Erosive Tooth Wear Among Students of a Portuguese University: Pilot Survey

Background/Objectives: To assess and compare the knowledge of and attitudes toward erosive tooth wear (ETW) among university students at the Portuguese University Fernando Pessoa (UFP). Methods: Cross-sectional, prospective pilot study approved by the UFP-Ethics Committee for a bilingual (English and Portuguese) online self-administered questionnaire displayed to all UFP students of the 2023–2024 academic year. Two groups were recruited, dental students (DSs) and non-medical students (NMSs), based on a convenience sample of 344 students. Participants voluntarily answered demographic questions, 15 true/false/do not know questions between knowledge of ETW, and 10 positive statements to score the attitude toward ETW based on a 5-point Likert scale. Differences in scores for DSs and NMSs groups by non-parametric tests and the correlation between knowledge of and attitudes by the Pearson coefficient were considered significant for p &lt; 0.05. Results: A total of 251 (72.9%) students participated, but only 245 (71.2%) fulfilled the survey. The knowledge and attitude scores of the DSs (Md = 12.0; IQR 11.0–13.0 and Md = 43.0; IQR 40.0–48.0) were higher (p &lt; 0.001; p = 0.019) than those of NMSs (Md = 8.0; IQR 6.0–10.0 and Md = 41.0; IQR 38.0–46.0). The attitudes score showed similar (p &gt; 0.05) results for gender, age, nationality, and curricular year. Moderate level of knowledge was higher (p &lt; 0.001) for DSs (Md = 12.0, IQR 11.0–12.0) than for NMSs (Md = 10.0, IQR 9.0–10.0) students. DSs and NMSs revealed differences in attitude level distribution (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: This survey highlighted the need for knowledge on ETW among NMSs, but especially the high need for measures to promote more positive attitudes toward ETW among all university students, DSs, and NMSs. It provided valuable insights into the demographic characteristics, response rate, knowledge, and attitude scores of ETW with the implementation of multicenter designs applied to similar populations being important for future research.

Is IBD Disk a Reliable Tool to Detect Depression in IBD Patients? A Comparison with Becks’ Depression Inventory

Background: Disability and poor quality of life are frequently reported by patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). There is an increased interest in the use and development of self-administered questionnaires of patient-reported outcomes including depression symptoms, potentially allowing easier and even remote monitoring of health status and permitting treatment adjustments. Aim: We noticed a significant overlap in some of the parameters evaluated by Beck’s Depression Inventory and the IBD Disk, which led to the idea that the IBD Disk might be a useful and easy-to-use tool to assess the mental state and quality of life of patients with IBD. Our objective was to validate the IBD Disk in measuring depression symptoms, as well as the correlation between IBD Disk scores and patient background and disease activity. Methods: Patients included in this study were asked to complete Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) and the IBD Disk. The resulting scores of BDI and IBD Disk were compared and both questionnaires were corelated with the patients’ background and disease activity. Results: Eighty-two patients with IBD, age 43.11 +/− 13.07, 63.4% male, 61.0% with Crohn’s disease and 39.0% with Ulcerative Colitis, were included. The total scores of BDI and IBD Disk significantly correlated (rs(80) = 0.951, p &lt; 0.001), as well as the overlapping questions. Disease remission was associated with lower total scores in both questionnaires (BDI and IBD Disk) (rs(80) = 0.559, p &lt; 0.016; rs(80) = 0.951, p &lt; 0.005, respectively). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that IBD Disk is a useful and easy-to-use tool for screening for depression symptoms and establishing the quality of life of IBD patients. We encourage its routine use in patients during IBD care and follow-up.

Effect of Entrepreneurial Orientation on Performance of non-life insurance in Kenya

This research aimed to investigate the impact of entrepreneurial orientation on the performance of non-life insurance in Kenya. The research was based on the Schumpeter’s Theory. The study used a survey research design. The study's target population included 35 non-life insurance businesses licensed by the insurance regulatory authority, serving as the unit of analysis. Two senior and six middle management officials from the 35 non-life insurance companies were selected as respondents. The study used a census research survey. The primary data was gathered using self-administered questionnaires. The study also collected secondary data using secondary data collection sheet. The data was examined by descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, frequencies and percentages, while inferential statistics were assessed via correlation analysis and regression analysis to evaluate the hypothesis. Reliability and validity assessments were performed to ascertain the internal consistencies of the examined variables. The gathered data was edited, coded, classed, tabulated and input into Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 for analysis. The findings were shown in tables and models. The effect of Entrepreneurial Orientation on the performance of non-life insurance was found to be significant. The study concluded that entrepreneurial orientation plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance of non-life insurance in Kenya. Based on these findings, non-life insurance companies should cultivate a culture that embraces risk-taking, allowing employees to explore new ideas without fear of failure. Empowering employees by granting them decision-making autonomy can lead to increased creativity and problem-solving capabilities.

ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES REGARDING ANTIBIOTIC USE AND RESISTANCE AMONG COMMUNITY PHARMACISTS IN SANA’A (YEMEN)

Objectives: This study aims to assess pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding over-the-counter antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study using a self-administered questionnaire for pharmacists in Sana’a city, Yemen. Results: An arithmetic mean of 2.5 and a standard deviation of 1.25 rated the level of knowledge among community pharmacists in Sana’a, Yemen, concerning antibiotic use and resistance as low. We rated the attitudes toward antibiotic use and resistance among community pharmacists in Sana’a, Yemen, at a medium level, with an arithmetic mean of 3.18 and a standard deviation of 1.25. In addition, we rated the rate of practices concerning antibiotic use and resistance among community pharmacists in Sana’a (Yemen) as medium, with an arithmetic mean of 2.7 and a standard deviation of 1.08. We observed no notable differences in age, educational level, or years of experience among community pharmacists; however, we identified a significant difference in gender at a level of 0.003. There is no significant correlation between the age, educational level, years of experience, gender, and knowledge variables of community pharmacists. There exists a notable correlation between gender and attitude, alongside a weak inverse correlation between gender and practice variables. Conclusion: Community pharmacists in Sana’a, Yemen, rated their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use and resistance poorly, with an arithmetic mean of 2.5 and a standard deviation of 1.25. Community pharmacists in Sana’a, Yemen, assessed their attitudes toward antibiotic use and resistance as moderate, with a mean score of 3.18 and a standard deviation of 1.25. Ultimately, at the 0.05 significance level, there is no statistically significant correlation between the average responses of community pharmacists regarding the research variables (age, educational level, years of experience, gender) and their association with knowledge variables. We observe a statistically significant correlation between the gender variable and attitude, with a significance level of 0.005. A weak inverse correlation exists between gender and practice variables. A statistically significant correlation exists between knowledge and practice.