Significant Mean Differences Research Articles

Entrepreneurial inclinations among student-teachers in the School of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a statistically significant mean difference in various entrepreneurial tendencies (including the need for achievement, need for autonomy, creative tendency, calculated risk-taking, and internal locus of control) between student-teachers who have received university entrepreneurship education (Bachelor of Education in Commerce) and those who have not (Bachelor of Education in Adult and Community Education) at the School of Education, University of Dar es Salaam. The study focused on a total sample size of 36 participants, utilizing an independent sample t-test (two-tailed) to compare mean differences. Given the limited sample size, the study's findings are applicable only to student-teachers at the Bachelor's degree level at the School of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Mlimani Campus. Except for the need for autonomy, no statistically significant mean difference was observed among the target population. The study recommends further research to investigate the reasons behind the statistically significant mean difference in terms of the need for autonomy between recipients and non-recipients of university entrepreneurship education at the study location

Development and validation of a rapid multicompartment body composition model using 3-dimensional optical imaging and bioelectrical impedance analysis

Background & AimsThe multicompartment approach to body composition modeling provides a more precise quantification of body compartments in healthy and clinical populations. We sought to develop and validate a simplified and accessible multicompartment body composition model using 3-dimensional optical (3DO) imaging and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). MethodsSamples of adults and collegiate-aged student-athletes were recruited for model calibration. For the criterion multicompartment model (Wang-5C), participants received measures of scale weight, body volume (BV) via air displacement, total body water (TBW) via deuterium dilution, and bone mineral content (BMC) via dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. The candidate model (3DO-5C) used stepwise linear regression to derive surrogate measures of BV using 3DO, TBW using BIA, and BMC using demographics. Test-retest precision of the candidate model was assessed via root mean square error (RMSE). The 3DO-5C model was compared to criterion via mean difference, concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), and Bland-Altman analysis. This model was then validated using a separate dataset of 20 adults. Results67 (31 female) participants were used to build the 3DO-5C model. Fat-free mass (FFM) estimates from Wang-5C (60.1 ± 13.4 kg) and 3DO-5C (60.3 ± 13.4 kg) showed no significant mean difference (-0.2 ± 2.0 kg; 95% limits of agreement [LOA] -4.3 to +3.8) and the CCC was 0.99 with a similar effect in fat mass that reflected the difference in FFM measures. In the validation dataset, the 3DO-5C model showed no significant mean difference (0.0 ± 2.5 kg; 95% LOA -3.6 to +3.7) for FFM with almost perfect equivalence (CCC = 0.99) compared to the criterion Wang-5C. Test-retest precision (RMSE = 0.73 kg FFM) supports the use of this model for more frequent testing in order to monitor body composition change over time. ConclusionsBody composition estimates provided by the 3DO-5C model are precise and accurate to criterion methods when correcting for field calibrations. The 3DO-5C approach offers a rapid, cost-effective, and accessible method of body composition assessment that can be used broadly to guide nutrition and exercise recommendations in athletic settings and clinical practice.

Cephalometric changes in pharyngeal airway dimensions after functional treatment with twin block versus myobrace appliances in developing skeletal class II patients: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundSeveral appliances have been used for correction of developing skeletal Class II, including different myofunctional appliances as Twin block (TB)as well as the new pre-fabricated Myobrace (MB) appliance. However, the effects of these devices on the pharyngeal airways have not been compared in the literature. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the effects of two Class II correction appliances; TB and MB on the sagittal pharyngeal airway dimension (SPAD), including the nasopharyngeal airway area (NPAA), the oropharyngeal airway area (OPAA), and the laryngopharyngeal airway area (LPAA).MethodsThis is a two parallel arms randomized comparative clinical trial. Twenty-six children of 9–12 years with Skeletal Class II malocclusion due to mandibular deficiency and normal maxillary growth as confirmed by lateral cephalometric X-ray readings (ANB angle > 4° and SNB angle < 78) and Cervical vertebral maturational index (CVMI) 1 or 2 were randomly assigned into two equal groups. Group I: TB, Group II: MB (prefabricated functional appliance, Myofunctional Research Co., Australia). Lateral cephalograms were taken for all patients in both groups before treatment (T1) and after treatment (6 months later) (T2). The primary aim was to assess pre and post treatment changes in the SPAD in each group, and compare between the two study groups. The secondary aim was to evaluate the sagittal skeletal measurements such as the SNA, SNB, ANB, Wits appraisal, as well as vertical skeletal measurements represented by the Frankfurt-mandibular plane angle (FMA) measured pre- and post-treatment. The independent samples t-test was used to compare the two study groups, and the mean difference and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed. The paired samples t-test was used to compare various parameters between T1 and T2 within each group. The cutoff for significance was p-value < 0.05. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS for Windows (Version 26.0).ResultsBy Comparing changes in airway measurements within each group, it was found that NPAA, OPAA, and LPAA increased significantly after treatment within each group of MB and TB. TB group showed significantly higher mean difference (T2-T1) in both NPAA and OPAA than MB group with 28.39 (± 56.75) and 40.46 (± 52.16) respectively. The increase in LPAA values was not statistically significant at (T2-T1) between both groups. Regarding skeletal changes, there was a significant increase in the SNB values between T1 and T2 within each group with 2.82 (± 3.32) for MB group and 3.79 (± 3.06) for TB group Moreover, there was a significant decrease in the ANB values between T1 and T2 within each group by 2.42 (± 2.70) for MB group and 3.06 (± 1.14) for TB group. Similarly, there was a significant decrease in the ANB values between T1 and T2 within each group by -2.13 (± 0.62) for MB group and − 2.46 (± 0.72) for TB group. No significant differences were found between both groups in SNA, SNB, ANB and Wits appraisal at p = 0.06, p = 0.45, p = 0.43 and p = 0.22 respectively. FMA did not show significant difference between T1 and T2 within each group, nor showed a significant mean difference between both groups at T2-T1.ConclusionsTB was more effective than MB in improving the upper (NPAA) and middle (OPAA) airways, while no difference was found regarding the lower airway (LPAA). Both TB and MB reduced the severity of developing skeletal class II due to mandibular retrognathism by forward posturing of the mandible. Thus, patients with airway problems would benefit more from TB than MB.

The psychological contract and staff retention among South African higher education employees: The influence of socio-demographics

Orientation: The global skills crisis, ‘the great resignation’, and technological advancements have impacted the higher education (HE) sector in South Africa. Staff retention is at risk because of the specialised skills sought by institutions, making employment relationships and skill retention top priorities.Research purpose: The aim of this study was to explore the influence of socio-demographic differences on the relationship between psychological contract preferences and staff retention among South African HE employees.Motivation for the study: High staff turnover in South African HE sector and inability to retain crucial skilled employees pose challenges for HE institutions (HEIs) in a complex and diverse environment.Research approach/design and method: A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted on a purposively selected population of full-time employees, both academic and administrative, with a final random sample of participants (N = 493) employed in an open-distance HEI in South Africa. Inferential statistics, specifically tests for significant mean differences, were performed.Main findings: Higher education employees from different race, gender, age, job level and tenure groups differ considerably in terms of their psychological contract preferences and their satisfaction with organisational retention practices.Practical/managerial implications: Interventions for HE staff retention should prioritise strengthening diverse employees’ psychological contracts, meeting their needs, and ensuring fulfilment of promises and commitments in the employment relationship.Contribution/value-add: This paper’s unique contribution lies in the new insight it provides into the psychological contract and retention-related preferences of diverse employees in the South African HE context.

Risk of Diabetes Mellitus in Carotid Artery Involvement Among Coronary Artery Disease Patients Including History of Infection and Antibiotics Uses

Background: Diabetes mellitus causes involvement of coronary artery diseases. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to determine the risk of diabetes mellitus in the involvement of carotid artery among coronary artery disease patients. Methodology: This case-control study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2013 to June 2015 for a period of two years. Patients who had coronary artery diseases or ischemic heart diseases and diabetes mellitus undergoing coronary angiography were selected as case of this study. In control group, age, sex match patients of IHD undergoing CAG not having DM were included. Every patient was clinically examined by detailed history and physical examination during entry into study. ECG, chest X-ray, echocardiogram, blood sugar (fasting), blood 2 hrs. after 75 gm of glucose and or breakfast were analyzed. Coronary angiography was done in all patients through femoral approach by modified Seldinger technique. Carotid arteriography was performed selective and non­selective method by Hunter head or right Judkin's catheter in standard AP, lateral and oblique views. Results: A total number of 100 patients were included in this study. Of them 50 patients were coronary artery disease with diabetes mellitus and another 50 patients were coronary artery disease without diabetes mellitus. The mean height of the DM was 163.4±8.5 cm and in NDM was 160.6±7.1 cm, mean weight of DM 63.5±7.2 kg, in NDM was 62.0±15.4 kg and mean BMI in DM was 26.24±2.36 kg/m2 and in NDM was 26.38±2.05 kg/m2. The mean total cholesterol in DM was 236.9±34.1 mg/dL and in NDM was 208.0±36.4 mg/dL, mean serum TG in DM 240.5±76.3 mg/dl and in NDM was 207.6±57.8 mg/dl and mean serum IDL in DM was 166.1±130.6 mg/dL and in NDM was 142.8±30.4 mg/dL, no significant mean difference was observed between DM and NDM in height, weight and BMI (P&gt;0.05). Concussion: In conclusion, significant mean difference is observed between DM and NDM in total cholesterol, serum triglycerides. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Microbiology, July 2023;17 (2):82-87

Quality equivalence and in-vitro antibiotic activity test of different brands of amoxicillin/clavulanic acid tablets in Mwanza, Tanzania: A cross sectional study

BackgroundEach film coated tablet of amoxicillin/clavulanic acid contains 500 mg of amoxicillin as an active pharmaceutical ingredient and 125 mg of clavulanic acid. Different brands have the same active ingredients but different excipients, which may cause differences in efficacy. With the emergence of generic antibiotics post-patent expiration, the antibiotic activity of generics is in question in comparison to the innovator. This study aims at determining the pharmaceutical quality and in-vitro antimicrobial activity of different brands of amoxicillin/clavulanate. Methodology: The study was a cross-sectional laboratory-based experimental study conducted at the TMDA (Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority) Lake Zone laboratory and the CUHAS Microbiology Laboratory from in May 2021. The study samples were four brands of amoxicillin/clavulanate and sixty archived isolates, thirty of which were E. coli and the remaining thirty K. pneumoniae. Determination of minimum inhibitory concentrations, assay and dissolution test results were used to make conclusions for the study. ResultsAll tablets samples complied with the British pharmacopeia (BP) specifications, however sixty archived isolates which were tested in this study showed resistance towards the standard AMC disc (68 %). The innovator brand (AC1) showed significant mean difference from 2 out of 3 generics (p-values <0.05) while the first generic brand (AC2) showed significant superiority among the generics. ConclusionThus, the four samples that were used all complied with the specifications according to BP on dissolution and assay tests but there was an overall resistance towards amoxicillin/clavulanate, and this was moreover seen by generic brands in comparison to the innovator which proved to be of superior activity.

Characterizing Opioid Prescribing Trends of Medical Oncologists From 2013 to 2019: Analysis From the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Part D Prescribers Database.

Opioid prescribing trends in medical oncology are poorly defined past 2017, the year after the CDC updated opioid prescription guidelines in noncancer settings. We aim to characterize pain management by medical oncologists by analyzing opioid and gabapentin prescribing trends from 2013 to 2019, identify physician-related factors associated with prescribing patterns, and assess whether CDC guidelines for nononcologic settings changed prescribing patterns. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Part D Prescribers-by Provider, CMS Medicare Part D Prescribers-by Provider and Drug, and CMS Medicare Physician National Downloadable files from 2013 to 2019 were merged by National Provider Identification. The database included physicians' sex, years of practice, regions, and practice settings. Multivariable binary logistic regression identified significant predictors of total opioid, long-acting opioid, and gabapentin prescriptions. Binary logistic regression modeling revealed no significant difference in mean daily total opioid prescriptions from 2013 to 2017. Daily opioid prescriptions by medical oncologists decreased significantly after 2017 (P < .001). Increased opioid prescribing was associated with physician male sex (P < .001), practicing over 10 years (P < .001), and practice in nonurban areas (P < .001). Opioid prescribing was greatest in the South and Midwest United States (P < .001). The same patterns were observed with total long-acting opioid prescriptions, whereas gabapentin prescribing increased from 2013 to 2019 (P < .001). Opioid prescriptions by medical oncologists decreased significantly from 2013 to 2019, but this decrease was most substantial from 2017 to 2019. These results may imply that the 2016 CDC guidelines influenced medical oncologists, particularly more junior physicians in urban settings, to manage chronic cancer pain with alternative therapies.

Bacterial count and somatic cell count in milk from community tanks in Alagoas

Milk is a highly nutritious liquid produced by the mammary glands of cows, serving as a crucial food source for a significant portion of the population. Therefore, ensuring its quality and safety is essential. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the Plate Count and Somatic Cell Count of raw milk from community expansion tanks in the state of Alagoas. For the research, 160 milk samples were collected from mammary quarters in the months of January, February, May, and August 2013, across 23 municipalities covering the three mesoregions of the state of Alagoas. The samples were sent in appropriate containers to the Milk Quality Network Laboratory for Somatic Cell Count (SCC) and Plate Count (PC) analysis. After analysis, it was found that 79.4% (127/160) of the samples met the criteria established by legislation for SCC, while 20.6% (33/160) did not. For PC, 100% (160/160) of the samples were non-compliant with the limits set by legislation. The study highlighted a higher percentage of samples outside the SCC standard in August and the PC with the highest percentage of non-compliance occurring in May. The average SCC and PC for the studied regions showed a significant difference in SCC mean (748,235.3 cells/mL) in the East region, with no significant difference in PC, having the lowest mean (1,853,029.4 CFU/mL) compared to other regions. It was noted that 12.5% of the samples had a fat measurement outside the allowed range, total proteins ranged from 2.4 to 3.86 (g/100g), and the amount of lactose ranged from 3.42 to 5.42 (g/100g). Thus, it can be concluded that all samples were non-compliant with legislation for PC, particularly in the eastern region of the state, indicating issues with the milk extraction, preservation, or cooling process. Implementation of corrective and educational measures is suggested to improve the quality of the product.

A Pre-Experimental Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Structured Teaching Programme on Knowledge regarding Ventilator Associated Pneumonia among staff nurses at selected hospital, Udaipur

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a leading cause of death from healthcare-associated infections, particularly in critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation. Nurses' knowledge of measures to reduce VAP rates is crucial for timely intervention and decision-making. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Structured Teaching Programme on VAP knowledge among 50 staff nurses in a selected hospital in Udaipur. A pre-test knowledge assessment was conducted using a structured questionnaire, followed by the implementation of the teaching programme. After 7 days, a post-test was conducted using the same questionnaire. Results indicated that pre-test knowledge was poor in 58% and average in 42% of nurses, while post-test knowledge improved significantly, with 74% showing good knowledge and 26% having average knowledge. The mean knowledge score increased from 11.78±4.147 in the pre-test to 21.46±2.689 in the post-test, with a significant mean difference (t=16.15, df=59, p=0.001). Demographic variables, such as age, gender, professional qualification, years of experience, area of work, and in-service education on VAP, were not significantly associated with pre-test and post-test knowledge levels. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that the Structured Teaching Programme effectively improved nurses' knowledge of VAP and emphasized the need for continuing education in critical care units to enhance VAP-related knowledge.

EFFECTS OF RECOMBINED HUMAN BONE MORPHOGENETIC PROTEIN-2 AS ALVEOLAR RIDGE PRESERVATION ON PAIN REDUCTION AND SOFT TISSUE HEALING PROCESS: A SPLIT MOUTH DESIGNED PILOT STUDY

Background: The alveolar ridge undergoes physiological bone resorption following tooth extraction. Several alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) techniques have been researched and developed in an effort to reduce this process and maintain a favorable volume and morphology of the alveolar ridge for appropriate implant placement. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are proteins derived from a subgroup of the transforming growth factor  family that accelerates ossification by controlling essential factors of the bone induction cascade, resulting in the proliferation of osteoblasts from mesenchymal stem cells and the biosynthesis of bone matrices. One of these BMPs is recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) that has been authorized to be used for ARP. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effect of rhBMP-2 on the healing process and the level of pain following dental extraction. Methods: In this split-mouth pilot study, 11 patients underwent extractions of a minimum of two teeth, and randomly, one of the alveolar sockets was filled with a hemostatic sponge while the other was filled with a hemostatic sponge embedded with rhBMP-2. Both sockets were sutured using the X technique. Wound healing measurements were done on days 3, 7, and 14, and each participant was requested to document his pain experience using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Results: In accordance with clinical evidence, it was observed that the mean pain score was at its peak on day 0 and progressively diminished in the subsequent days. Notably, this decline was more pronounced in the rhBMP-2 group compared to the control group. Importantly, a statistically significant reduction in pain level was detected on day 3 within the rhBMP-2 group, in contrast to the control group (P-value &lt; 0.05). This indicated that the application of rhBMP-2 led to a noteworthy and meaningful alleviation of pain on the third day after treatment, surpassing the impact observed in the control group. For the wound healing changes, it uncovered statistically significant mean differences across various time intervals: day 0 and day 3, day 0 and day 7, day 0 and day 14, day 3 and day 7, and day 7 and day 14 (P-value &lt; 0.0001). These significant differences strongly suggest dynamic changes in wound closure rates over time. Furthermore, the observed differences were more pronounced in the rhBMP-2-treated group compared to the control group. This augmentation of differences indicates that the utilization of rhBMP-2 for ARP within a fresh socket site resulted in a heightened acceleration of the wound healing process. Conclusion: Our results suggest that rhBMP-2 can decrease post-operative pain after tooth extraction and accelerate the soft tissue healing process.

Unraveling the Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent and debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus, leading to sensory abnormalities, decreased balance, and increased risk of foot problems. Although tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) has emerged as a potential factor in the pathogenesis of DPN, its role remains contested. This study intends to thoroughly analyze the association between TNF-α and DPN by combining data from various global studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and included 23 articles investigating TNF-α levels in DPN patients for systematic review and 11 articles for meta-analysis. Data were extracted, and heterogeneity was examined. A random-effect model was chosen due to high heterogeneity. The major outcome measure across studies was serum TNF-α levels. The meta-analysis found a significant mean difference of 15.2464 (95% confidence interval = 4.4963; 25.9965) under the random-effect model due to the substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 98.1%) among included studies. The meta-analysis indicates a consistent elevation in TNF-α levels in individuals with DPN compared to those without neuropathy. This underlines the potential of TNF-α as a biomarker and contributor to diabetic neuropathy. Despite heterogeneity, the study's extensive scope and systematic approach enhance the trustworthiness and generalizability of the findings.

The role of smoking with some salivary parameters, dental caries and gingivitis

Back ground: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of smoking on oral health including the caries rate and gingival conditions, and salivary parameters.Materials and Methods: This study done on 50 healthy volunteers, 25 smokers and 25-non-smokers. Dental caries was recorded using DMFS (Decayed, Missed, and Filled) surfaces index teeth and gingival parameter recorded by G.I (gingival index). Stimulated saliva was collected before clinical measurement then salivary pH estimated by using pH meter.Results: The statistical analysis for the DMFS in both smokers and non smokers groups showed no significant difference in mean 0.48 (P&gt;0.05). This is corresponds with the salivary pH and flow rate in both smokers and non- smokers groups 0.75, 0.91 respectively (P&gt;0.05) and similar to the result of GI between both groups 0.37 (P&gt;0.05).Conclusion: the long term use of the tobacco smoking have not any effect on the dental caries and not cause any changes in the salivary flow rate and salivary pH, and not give rise to any remarkable gingival changes.

Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Shoulder Pain, Functional Disability and Range of Motion in Patients with Type II Slap Tear

BACKGROUND: Low-level lasers may occasionally replace surgery or medications without adverse effects, so studying them stands to reason. It heals, regenerates tissue, reduces inflammation, discomfort, and boosts immunity. Research is continuing. It may help physical therapy, healthcare, and the community by being cost-efficient, simple, and successful. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of low-level laser therapy and routine physical therapy on shoulder pain, functional disability, and range of motion in patients with Type II SLAP tear. METHODS: It was a Randomized Controlled Trial conducted at Physical therapy department, Sialkot Medical and Physiotherapy Center Branches Pasroor and Sambrail. The estimated sample size is 52, and adjusting for an expected 20% dropouts, the sample size was 62, allocated 31 in each group. Both male and female patients with Age between 50-70 years having Type II SLAP tear, Visual analogue scale (VAS) score above 3 and the patients diagnosed by physician, orthopedic physician or surgeon or rheumatologist were included. The included patients were allocated in group A, routine physical therapy, and Group B low level laser. All the patients were assessed at baseline, at 4th week of Treatment and at 8th week of Treatment for pain, shoulder pain and disability index and shoulder ranges. RESULTS: The results regarding age showed mean and standard deviation to be 1.8387±.77875 in routine physical therapy group while 1.8065±.79244 in low level laser therapy group. The comparison of mean SPADI total score at 8th week of assessment it was found to be respectively 58.3226±4.57083 and 50.3871±4.85577 with a significant mean difference of 7.935 in favor of low-level laser therapy as shown by p value 0.000. Other outcome measures including pain and shoulder ranges were also significantly improved in low level laser therapy group, p value &lt; 0.05. CONCUSSION: The findings of the study concluded that low level plays the therapy is significantly more effective improving pain disability and shoulder range of motions in patients with slap tear, except for abduction range of motion which was improved equally in both groups. Moreover, within routine physical therapy and low-level laser therapy group showed significant improvement at pre and post level of assessment except that of total shoulder and pain disability index score which was not improved significantly in routine physical therapy group without combination of low-level laser therapy.

Six‐Month Consistency of NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery Scores in Healthy Older Black Women with Subjective Cognitive Decline

AbstractBackgroundInterest in the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery (NIHTB‐CB) for the clinical assessment of older adults is burgeoning. Longitudinal neuropsychological assessments are the most sensitive way to establish cognitive decline and dementia risk of older adults. The psychometric property of measurement invariance is essential to valid interpretations of change. However, few studies have evaluated the stability of NIHTB‐CB scores in a sample of cognitively normal older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). This study aims to analyze measurement consistency of NIHTB‐CB performance over 6 months.Method N = 29 cognitively normal, older Black adult women (65‐81 years of age) with SCD were administered the NIHTB‐CB at baseline and six‐month follow‐up. Diagnostic status was determined via consensus conference following NACC UDS guidelines. We evaluated the mean change by matched‐pairs t‐tests, and measurement consistency by two‐way mixed effects models of intraclass correlations coefficients and Bland‐Altman plots. Uncorrected standard scores and fully corrected T scores were analyzed from NIHTB‐CB Cognition Composites of Total Cognition, Fluid Cognition, and Crystallized Cognition.ResultThere were no significant mean differences from baseline to follow‐up for corrected and uncorrected Total Cognition Scores. The uncorrected Fluid Score significantly increased by 2.5 points at follow‐up (t(28) = 2.18, p = .04), and the corrected Crystallized Score increased by 1.8 points at follow‐up (t(28) = ‐2.25, p = .03). The uncorrected Crystallized Score and the corrected Fluid Score did not differ across assessments. Consistency for the uncorrected and corrected Total scores was good, (ICC(3,1) = 0.83 and 0.80, respectively). Similarly, consistency for uncorrected and corrected Fluid Scores was also good (ICC(3,1) = 0.77 and 0.78). Consistency was excellent for uncorrected Crystallized Scores (ICC(3,1) = .92), but good for corrected scores (ICC(3,1) = .87). Discrepancy scores (baseline vs follow‐up) derived from uncorrected scores for the three composites were unrelated to age and education. Bland‐Altman plots of uncorrected scores for the Composite Scores were consistent with the ICC analyses, showing good agreement between measures.ConclusionNIHTB‐CB corrected and uncorrected composite scores have good longitudinal psychometric properties in a sample of older Black adult women with SCD, a relatively under‐investigated examinee sample. These findings also suggest that change in fluid or crystallized cognition over six months is unlikely in persons with SCD.

Effect of Transforaminal Epidural Corticosteroid Injections in Acute Sciatica A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Transforaminal epidural steroid injections (TESIs) are widely administered for sciatica. The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of TESIs in patients with acute sciatica (<8wk). This study was conducted in two Dutch hospitals. Participants (n=141) were randomly assigned to: 1) usual care and TESI of 1ml of 40mg/ml Methylprednisolone plus 1ml of 0.5% Levobupivacaine (intervention 1); 2) usual care and transforaminal epidural injection with 1ml of 0.5% Levobupivacaine and 1ml NaCl 0.9% (intervention 2); 3) usual care consisting of oral pain medication with or without physiotherapy (control). Co-primary outcomes were back- and leg pain intensity, physical functioning and recovery measured during 6-month follow-up. There were no significant mean differences in co-primary outcomes between groups during follow-up, except for leg pain when comparing intervention group 1 with control (-0.96 95%CI:-1.83 to -0.09). For secondary outcomes, some significant between group differences were found for treatment satisfaction and surgery, but only when comparing intervention group 2 to control. Post-hoc analyses showed a significant difference in response (50% improvement of leg pain [yes/no]) between intervention 1 and the control group at 3 months and that both intervention groups used less opioids. Except for a statistically significanteffect of TESI on leg pain for patients with acute sciatica compared to usual care, there were no differences in co-primary outcomes. Nonetheless, transforaminal epidural injections seem to be associated with less opioid use, which warrants further exploration.

P159: Low Cognitive Reserve as a Risk Factor for Delirium in Elderly: A Case-Control Study

Objective:Cognitive Reserve (CR) developed from observation that several individuals show fewer cognitive impairment compared to others with the same brain injuries or neuropathology. Cognitive reserve is a potentially modifiable characteristic. Most of studies on cognitive reserve were conducted on chronic progressive diseases such as dementia. This study aims to define the role of cognitive reserve in geriatric delirium cases.Methods:This case-control study was conducted in the acute geriatric inpatient of Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia on June to September 2019 that consisted of 33 subjects with delirium and 33 controls. The measurement of cognitive reserve was done using the Indonesian adaptation of Cognitive Reserve Index questionnaire (CRIq) with 3 subscales, i.e. Education, Work Activity and Leisure Time.Results:We found that the CRIq scores of delirium patients were lower compared to the non-delirium controls both on total and each subscores, with a statistically significant mean difference (p&lt;0,01). Patients with low-medium cognitive reserve also more likely to develop delirium compared to those with medium-high cognitive reserve (OR 9; 95% CI 2.86 to 28.22).Conclusion:Low cognitive reserve may serve as a risk factor for delirium in the elderly. The measure of CRI in the geriatric inpatients unit can be used to determine those at risk of developing delirium. Further research are warranted to elaborate potentially modifiable variables of cognitive reserve to minimize the risk of delirium.

Abstract B071: Racial differences in vaginal fluid metabolites and associations with systemic inflammation markers among ovarian cancer patients

Abstract Background: Marked racial disparity in ovarian cancer persists, even in equal-healthcare settings or after adjusting for social determinants of health, with disproportionately poor survival for Black women. This suggests an important role for biological factors. One such factor, the vaginal microbiome, is known to differ by race and to contribute to inflammation, but its potential role in ovarian cancer disparities remains poorly characterized. In this cross-sectional study, we examined whether vaginal fluid metabolites differ by race among patients with ovarian cancer, are associated with systemic inflammation, and if associations differ by race. Method: We recruited participants in a population-based setting, as part of the Ovarian Cancer Epidemiology, Healthcare Access and Disparities (ORCHiD) study, between March 2021 and September 2022. Eligible patients were of Black or White race, had a diagnosis of ovarian cancer, were aged 50 – 70 years, and provided biospecimens to ORCHiD. Overall, 36 patients were included in the study cohort, including 20 randomly selected White patients, and all 16 eligible Black patients. The main exposure variable was race, categorized into Black vs. White. We performed targeted metabolomics assays on cervicovaginal fluid. Three compound classes of metabolites were assayed for, including acylcarnitines (N=45 species), sphingomyelins (N=34), and ceramides (N=21). Five conventional metabolites were assayed for (glucose, glycerol, lactate, β-HB and total ketones). Also, we performed inflammatory assays on saliva for four cytokines (IL-1β, IL-10, TNF-α, and IL-6). Results: Seven targeted metabolites showed &amp;gt;2-fold change, three showed significant mean differences (at P &amp;lt; 0.05 but not at false discovery rate &amp;lt; 0.05), and two fairly distinct groups were recovered using partial least squares discriminant analysis and hierarchical clustering on metabolite concentrations. Of the 100 targeted metabolites considered, arachidonoylcarnitine (C20:4), the carnitine adduct of arachidonic acid, stood out as consistently different between Black and White. However, none of the conventional metabolites considered were significantly different by race. Approximately one-third of vaginal fluid metabolites considered and systemic inflammation biomarkers were significantly correlated, with no racial differences in correlations. Conclusion: Our findings show that vaginal fluid metabolites differed by race, with significant correlations between biomarkers of systemic inflammation and targeted metabolites. Our findings are novel and suggest that biological pathways involving mitochondrial dysfunction and sphingolipid metabolism may be relevant to ovarian cancer disparities. Future large-scale investigations are needed to verify these findings and examine their specific biological implication in the context of ovarian cancer disparity. Citation Format: Oyomoare L. Osazuwa-Peters, April Deveaux, Michael J. Muehlbauer, Olga Ilkayeva, James R. Bain, Temitope Keku, Andrew Berchuck, Bin Huang, Kevin Ward, Margaret G. Kuliszewski, Tomi Akinyemiju. Racial differences in vaginal fluid metabolites and associations with systemic inflammation markers among ovarian cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr B071.

ESL Students’ Perception Towards Their Level of Critical Thinking Skills

The ability to think critically is an important skill to be acquired, especially at tertiary level. Nonetheless, it has been found that tertiary students’ level of critical thinking (CT) skills to be at the moderate level. An effective level of CT skills has been proven to be beneficial in navigating real-world challenges. Thus, this study is an attempt to answer these research questions: i) What is the perceived level of CT skill among ESL students?, ii) Is there any significant mean difference in the level of CT skills between male and female students?, iii) Is there a significant mean difference in the level of CT skills between LG240 and LG243 programmes?, and iv) Is there any significant mean difference in the level of CT skills among students with different grades?. This study employed a fully quantitative approach and cross-sectional study as its research design. A questionnaire was distributed for approximately three (3) weeks, and 107 responses were received. The data obtained showed that the students perceived their level of CT skills to be at a high level and they had positive views towards their level of CT skills. Moreover, there was no significant difference between genders and programmes, but there were significant differences between grades. Hence, it is important for educators to know their students’ level of CT skills as to prepare suitable lesson plans and materials to develop and enhance this set of skills. For future research, this study would suggest focusing on the development of materials that would assist both educators and tertiary students in developing a good set of CT skills.

Exploratory Analysis of the Self-Harming Behaviors Among University Students

This study examines the self-harming behavior of some university students and determines the types of self-harming behavior these students engage in. A self-report questionnaire on self-harm was used in this study for 319 students. Results of the study show that the most common self-harming behaviors exhibited by the students were banging the head, abusing alcohol, cutting the self, hitting the self, and scratching the self on purpose, while the least common self-harming behaviors include torturing the self with self-defeating thoughts, being promiscuous, distancing self from God as punishment, driving recklessly on purpose, and engaging in emotionally abusive relationships. There is no significant difference in terms of gender among males and females who engaged in self-harming behaviors. However, exploratory analysis identifies significant mean differences in self-harming behaviors between students from different programs. It is recommended that an intervention program should be prepared in order to protect the mental health of the respondents and the university students in general.

Arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acid supplementation and brain maturation in preterm infants; a double blind RCT

Background&Aim: Arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are important structural components of neural cellular membranes and possess anti-inflammatory properties. Very preterm infants are deprived of the enhanced placental supply of these fatty acids, but the benefit of postnatal supplementation on brain development is uncertain. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that early enteral supplementation with ARA and DHA in preterm infants improves white matter (WM) microstructure assessed by diffusion-weighted MRI at term equivalent age. MethodsIn this double-blind, randomized controlled trial, infants born before 29 weeks gestational age were allocated to either 100 mg/kg ARA and 50 mg/kg DHA (ARA:DHA group) or medium chain triglycerides (control). Supplements were started on the second day of life and provided until 36 weeks postmenstrual age. The primary outcome was brain maturation assessed by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) using Tract-Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) analysis. ResultsWe included 120 infants (60 per group) in the trial; mean (range) gestational age was 26+3 (22+6 - 28+6) weeks and postmenstrual age at scan was 41+3 (39+1 - 47+0) weeks. Ninety-two infants underwent MRI imaging, and of these, 90 had successful T1/T2 weighted MR images and 74 had DTI data of acceptable quality. TBSS did not show significant differences in mean or axial diffusivity between the groups, but demonstrated significantly higher fractional anisotropy in several large WM tracts in the ARA:DHA group, including corpus callosum, the anterior and posterior limb of the internal capsula, inferior occipitofrontal fasciculus, uncinate fasciculus, and the inferior longitudinal fasciculus. Radial diffusivity was also significantly lower in several of the same WM tracts in the ARA:DHA group. ConclusionThis study suggests that supplementation with ARA and DHA at doses matching estimated fetal accretion rates improves WM maturation compared to control treatment, but further studies are needed to ascertain any functional benefit. Clinical Trial Registrationwww.clinicaltrials.gov; ID:NCT03555019.