Standardized Questionnaire Research Articles

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Pharmacists in Tehran Pharmacies regarding Environmental Health Issues to Increase Good Pharmacy Practice

Background: In addition to being the most accessible medical center in the community, the pharmacy is a center for storing and providing medicines and cosmetics that are directly related to people's health. Therefore, observing environmental health issues in the pharmacy, which is managed by the pharmacist, is considered necessary. In this study, considering the direct and high impact of observing various aspects of environmental health on the good pharmacy practice and its value, it has been tried by examining the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of pharmacists in the pharmacies of Tehran city and presenting it, the necessary ground for promotion The environmental health status of pharmacies should be provided. Methods: In this research, standard researcher-made questionnaires were designed and after checking its validity by clinical pharmacists, environmental health and biostatistics experts and its reliability with Cronbach's alpha test, It was completed by the pharmacists of Tehran community pharmacies in the period of April to September 2022, observing ethical points and preserving their identity, in order to show their knowledge, attitude and performance towards environmental health issues in the pharmacy where they operate. Then the obtained data were analyzed in SPSS version 23.0 statistical software. Results: Examination of the data obtained from this study showed that the pharmacists in the study have the appropriate level of knowledge and attitude, but their performance in pharmacies is different. Conclusion: Observation of the results of the study shows that due to the lack of appropriate practical training and the lack of strict rules by regulatory authorities, despite the appropriate level of knowledge of pharmacists, in practice do not consider themselves very obliged to observe health principles.

Active, passive and hybrid multilocal living practices - towards a classification

AbstractThe accelerated pace of life, increased mobility and the individualisation of society have yielded a variety of postmodern living and housing environments. The proliferation of multilocal living practices can be understood as part of this change. Research on multilocality often focuses exclusively on those who reside in several places. The sedentary members of the same household, who remain at the primary residence and whose lives are significantly influenced by the rhythmic absence of the mobile members, are largely overlooked. Furthermore, the quantitative estimates of the extent of multilocal practices, based on official data, are currently insufficient. The aim of this study is to classify multi-local lifestyles to capture the diversity and complexity of these living practices, thereby expanding scholarly understanding of multilocality in its numerical entirety. To achieve this, a representative survey using a largely standardized questionnaire was conducted in two major city regions in Germany in the spring of 2023. The data from the study identified specific types of multilocality: active, passive, and hybrid multilocals, each exhibiting distinct characteristics. The integration of these multilocality types into the structure of multilocal households enables a classification that provides a framework for understanding how such households are organized and how they manage their mobility and residential practices. It is argued that all members of a multilocal household are significantly influenced by practises of multilocality, leading to a constant negotiation of their everyday lives.

Telehealth pivotal response treatment parent training: A pilot study

ABSTRACT The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility, benefits, and acceptability of a telehealth Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) parent training program. Autistic children (N = 21; 2–6 years) with language delay and their parents participated in the 12-week program. Parent-report measures and parent–child home videos were used to assess changes in parent PRT treatment adherence and child language. Changes in child affect were used to assess intervention acceptability. At the end of the program, treatment adherence improved, and children made more intelligible utterances. Child communication skills as measured by parent-report on several standardized questionnaires also improved. This study demonstrates the benefits of telehealth parent training for improving child language and parent PRT implementation. Our findings also provide preliminary evidence of PRT acceptability. Randomized controlled trials are an important next step to evaluate the impact of telehealth parent training as a tool for overcoming barriers to accessing intervention.

Exploring Gender Differences in Internet Addiction and Psychological Factors: A Study in a Spanish Sample

Background/Objectives: Internet addiction (IA) and related behaviors, such as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and social media addiction (SMA), have gained increasing research attention. Studies show gender differences, with males more likely to develop gaming-related addictions and females more prone to social media and phubbing behaviors. This study aimed to explore gender differences in Internet addiction and related behaviors in a Spanish sample, with the goal of identifying predictors and gender-specific patterns of IA. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 585 participants (265 male, 320 female) aged 18 to 35 years (M = 22.11, SD = 3.08). Data were collected using standardized questionnaires to assess IA, IGD, SMA, phubbing, Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), emotional dysregulation, personality traits, and prosociality. Correlation and regression analyses were used to identify gender-specific predictors of IA. Results: Males exhibited significantly higher scores for IA and IGD, while females showed higher scores for SMA and the “phone obsession” dimension of phubbing. No significant gender differences were found in the “communication disturbance” dimension of phubbing or in FoMO. Correlation analyses revealed significant associations between IA and psychological as well as technological variables. Gender-specific predictors of IA included social media engagement and emotional regulation for females, while gaming behaviors and communication patterns were more relevant for males. Conclusions: These findings highlight gender differences in IA, suggesting that tailored interventions should address unique online behaviors and emotional regulation challenges in males and females. Future research should refine gender-specific patterns to develop more effective, targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Association between the composite dietary antioxidant index and risk of infertility: Evidence from NHANES 2013-2020 and a Mendelian randomization study.

The Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) measures the antioxidant capacity of the diet, which is believed to provide protection against various diseases, including depression, osteoporosis, and papillomavirus infection, by neutralizing harmful oxidative stress. However, the relationship between CDAI and infertility is not well understood. This research aims to explore the potential correlations between CDAI and the risk of infertility. This research harnessed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to execute a cross-sectional analysis involving 8263 US women aged 20-45. Each participant was subjected to two distinct 24-h dietary recall interviews. We calculated the CDAI using average daily antioxidant intake. Infertility was assessed using a standardized questionnaire. The association between CDAI and infertility was examined using weighted multiple logistic regression models, while nonlinear correlations were explored through restricted cubic splines. To affirm the robustness of our findings, sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed using unweighted logistic regression. Additionally, to ascertain the causal influence of circulating antioxidant levels on infertility, a two-sample univariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted, using the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method as the primary analytic approach. Participants who were infertile exhibited lower CDAI levels compared to their fertile counterparts. When confounding variables were accounted for in the multivariate weighted logistic regression model, an inverse relationship was observed between CDAI and infertility, with the odds ratio for the highest versus lowest quartile being 0.55 (0.33-0.90, P = 0.02). However, the IVW method indicated that genetically predicted elevated levels of CDAI did not significantly correlate with infertility. Cross-sectional observational studies indicate that antioxidants from diets might diminish infertility risks. However, findings from MR studies do not confirm a causal connection. Additional prospective research is required to elucidate this association further.

Gender differences in the use of an upper-extremity exoskeleton during physically and cognitively demanding tasks- a study protocol for a randomized experimental trial.

Upper limb exoskeletons are recommended to alleviate muscle fatigue, particularly in working conditions inducing musculoskeletal discomfort like overhead work. However, wearing an exoskeleton might introduce cognitive-motor interference, affecting performance. Understanding its neural impact and potential gender differences in design effects is crucial. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine exoskeleton effects addressing cross-gender comparisons, and exploring the impact on cognitive and physical workload in real-world scenarios. The research questions address the impact of exoskeleton use on muscle synergies, upper body posture, cognitive resources, comfort/discomfort, acceptance and usability. The cross-sectional study integrates a multifactorial mixed-measure design. Participants are grouped by gender (female vs. male) and working condition (with vs. without exoskeleton). Motor performance and underlying neuronal correlates (fNIRS) will be analyzed. Based on an a priori sample size calculation, 80 participants (40 female/40 male) will be recruited. Working performance will be assessed by 1. Physical Performance Task (PILE task) and 2. Precision Task (following the Fitts paradigm), while body postures will be monitored with an Xsens motion capture system. Brain activation will be captured with an fNIRS system comprising 32 active optodes. Postural comfort/discomfort, acceptance, and usability will be reported via standardized questionnaires. The study will gain insights into potential gender differences in exoskeleton use and will contribute to designing and optimizing the implementation of exoskeletons by considering muscle synergies, movement variability and cognitive resource allocation. Additionally, the study also highlights user discomfort, a crucial factor that could impede widespread adoption, particularly among females, in real-world scenarios.

The impact of mindfulness on academic achievement of students with the mediating role of adaptability: a structural equation modeling approach

IntroductionExamining the factors influencing students’ academic achievement can lead to improved educational planning and enhanced teaching and learning outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of mindfulness on academic achievement with the mediating role of adaptability among students at Jiroft University of Medical Sciences in southern Iran in 2024.MethodsThis descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 290 students from various fields at Jiroft University of Medical Sciences in southern Iran from January to April 2024. To select these 290 individuals, a stratified sampling proportional to size was first carried out based on the year of university entry and field of study. After the sample size was determined for each entry year and field of study, students were randomly selected using their student numbers and a random number table. The data collection instruments were the standard mindfulness, academic achievement, and adaptability questionnaires. Descriptive tests and structural equation modeling using the Partial Least Squares (PLS) method were employed for data analysis, utilizing Smart PLS3 and SPSS26 software.ResultsThe findings indicate that students’ mindfulness positively affects their academic achievement (p < 0.001, β = 0.59). Additionally, mindfulness positively influences students’ adaptability (p < 0.001, β = 0.65). The results also show adaptability positively impacts students’ academic achievement (p = 0.001, β = 0.57). Finally, students’ mindfulness has a significant positive effect on their academic achievement through the mediating role of adaptability (p < 0.001).DiscussionAccording to the results, a favorable state of mindfulness and adaptability among students can improve academic achievement. Therefore, it is recommended that university administrators facilitate the enhancement of students’ mindfulness and adaptability by organizing relevant courses and workshops. This approach can contribute to their academic progress.

Perspectives of healthcare providers around providing family planning services to women living with HIV attending six HIV treatment clinics in Lusaka, Zambia

ABSTRACT While international guidelines recommend integration of family planning (FP) and HIV services, limited research has been done to explore how healthcare providers perceive the feasibility and utility of integrated services. To address this gap, we administered a standardized questionnaire to 85 providers from 6 HIV clinics in Lusaka, Zambia, before (April–May 2018) and after (May–June 2019) implementing an enhanced model of FP/HIV service integration. We tested for differences in FP knowledge, attitudes and practices between the two time periods with tests appropriate for paired observations. The proportion of providers self-reporting direct provision of contraceptives increased significantly for several methods including oral contraceptives (14% vs. 26%, p = 0.03), injectables (9% vs. 25%, p < 0.001), implants (2% vs. 13%, p = 0.007) and intra-uterine devices (2% vs. 13%, p = 0.007). In-depth interviews were also conducted post-integration with 109 providers to solicit their feedback on the benefits and challenges of offering integrated services. While providers were highly supportive of integrated services, they identified several challenges including widespread belief in FP myths among female clients, the need to consult a male partner prior to starting FP, lack of trained staff and space, and frequent stockouts of contraceptives and equipment. Addressing these challenges will be critical in designing future services.

Co-workers’ Solidarity and Citizenship Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Work Engagement

ABSTRACT The work environment plays a detrimental role in shaping workplace behavior of employees. Recent studies focused on the influence of work environment factors on individual and organizational level outcomes. We extend this work by exploring the impact of coworkers’ solidarity on organizational citizenship behaviors through work engagement in private universities in Ethiopia. A survey method was used to collect data from 335 employees selected using a proportionate stratified sampling method. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect primary data from employees composed of academic and administrative staff. The data collected was examined using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling through Smart PLS 3.0 software. A bootstrapping path analysis algorithm with a resample of 5000 was employed to generate direct and indirect effects and significance of path coefficients in testing hypotheses. The study found that solidarity among coworkers affects citizenship behavior of employees positively and significantly and work engagement played a partial mediating role in this relationship. The study recommends that private universities should give due attention to cultivating coworkers’ solidarity to derive the required behavior on the part of employees.

Burnout among the non-government secondary school teachers in Bangladesh: Prevalence, causes and effects

Nowadays, psychological burnout is prevalent in all professions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence, causes, and consequences of burnout among non-government school teachers in Panchagarh. This study used an explanatory sequential mixed approach. A stratified random selection methodology was employed to pick 25 schools, and 242 teachers were chosen using a simple random sample procedure. Finally, a purposive sample technique was used to select 15 teachers. Data was acquired using a standardized questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educator Survey (MBI-ES) was used to assess the prevalence of burnout. Data was analyzed by descriptive statistics and thematic analyses. The study found a high prevalence of burnout in non-government school teachers in Panchagarh, with 48.35% experiencing high emotional exhaustion, 51.24% high depersonalization, and 45.04% low personal accomplishment. Also, the study found that low salary are the most contributing factor to burnout. Furthermore, 78.6% of respondents agreed that teacher burnout has negative effects on student academic achievement. Finally, the presence of teacher burnout in education is a challenging issue, as it negatively affects every aspect of the learning and teaching process. This study has implications for policymakers to develop plans to reduce teacher burnout and enhance teachers’ overall well-being.

Language Profiles of School-Age Children With 16p11.2 Copy Number Variants in a Clinically Ascertained Cohort.

Individuals with proximal 16p11.2 copy number variants (CNVs), either deletions (16p11.2DS) or duplications (16p11.2Dup), are predisposed to neurodevelopmental difficulties and disorders, such as language disorders, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder. The purpose of the current study was to characterize language profiles of school-age children with proximal 16p11.2 CNVs, in relation to the normative sample and unaffected siblings of children with 16p11.2DS. Standardized language tests were conducted in 33 school-age children with BP4-BP5 16p11.2 CNVs and eight unaffected siblings of children with 16p11.2DS to evaluate language production and comprehension skills across various language domains. A standardized intelligence test was also administered, and parents completed a standardized questionnaire to assess autistic traits. Language profiles were compared across 16p11.2 CNVs and intrafamilial pairs. The influence of nonverbal intelligence and autistic traits on language outcomes was investigated. No significant differences were found between children with 16p11.2DS and those with 16p11.2Dup, although both groups exhibited significantly poorer language skills compared to the normative sample and unaffected siblings of children with 16p11.2DS. Severe language deficits were identified in 70% of individuals with 16p11.2 CNVs across all language subdomains, with significantly better receptive vocabulary skills than overall receptive language abilities. In children with 16p11.2DS, expressive language deficits were more pronounced than receptive deficits. In contrast, only in children with 16p11.2Dup did nonverbal intelligence influence their language outcomes. The current study contributes to the deeper understanding of language profiles in 16p11.2 CNVs in a clinically ascertained cohort, indicating generalized deficits across multiple language domains, rather than a syndrome-specific pattern targeting specific subdomains. The findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and monitoring of language skills in children with 16p11.2 CNVs. https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27228702.

The prevalence, course, and risk factors of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among students in vocational education

BackgroundWorldwide, suicide is one of the leading causes of death among adolescents and young adults. Given that suicide in this age group is common within vocational students, this study aims to provide insights into the prevalence, course, and risk factors of suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SA) among students in vocational education over the past 10 years.MethodsThis study has a repeated cross-sectional design, utilizing data from 2013 to 2023 provided by the ‘Testjeleefstijl’ foundation in the Netherlands (‘Test Your Lifestyle’). In total, 101,182 students in vocational education completed a web-based standardized questionnaire. Univariate logistic regression was used to test the predictive value of risk factors separately (anxiety and depression, gender, age and school year) on SI and SA. In addition, a machine learning model (Berkelmans et al., 2023) ​was used for high-risk identification of combined risk factors (multivariate models).ResultsWithin vocational students, 12-month SI and SA prevalence increased from respectively 17.7% and 2.3% in schoolyear 2013–2014 to 23% and 3.2% in 2022–2023. Although female gender significantly predicted SI and SA in the univariate analyses, the multivariate models revealed that female gender decreased the likelihood of both SI (OR 0.9) and SA (OR 0.7). A high risk for anxiety and depression was the strongest predictor in the multivariate models for SI (OR 42.8) and SA (OR 19.0).ConclusionOver the past decade, the prevalence of SI and SA increased in students in vocational education, with the risk of anxiety and depression being the strongest contributing factor. While females had a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression, the results suggest these conditions tend to lead to SI and SA more quickly among male students. Early intervention in suicide prevention is crucial, highlighting the need to identify and address anxiety and depression. Vocational education schools have a critical role in this, emphasizing early screening and intervention, with specific attention to gender-specific factors.

Evaluation of the Effects of Educational Interventions on the Modification of High-Risk Job Behaviors in Patients with Brucellosis in Rural Areas of Arak County based on the Family-Centered Empowerment Model (FCEM)

Background and Objectives: Brucellosis is a common disease worldwide. Family-centered empowerment model is a model for empowering patients to modify high-risk behaviors. Given the wide range of health and economic complications caused by the prevalence of brucellosis in society, we sought to evaluate the effect of this model in modifying the high-risk behaviors of patients with brucellosis. Methods: The present study was a quasi-experimental interventional study that examined 88 patients with Brucellosis in Arak County in 2021. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire based on the family-centered empowerment model in six constructs, namely knowledge, attitude, perceived severity, self-esteem, self-efficacy, and behavior at two stages before and two months after the educational intervention. Independent t-test, paired t-test, and chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05 were used to analyze the data. Results: The mean of patients' age was 42.19±19.79. The results of the paired t-test indicated that the mean scores of knowledge (P&lt;0.001), attitude (P&lt;0.001), perceived severity (P&lt;0.001), self-esteem (P&lt;0.001), self-efficacy (P&lt;0.001), and behavior (P&lt;0.001) significantly increased in the intervention group after education. but changes in mean scores of knowledge (P=0.71), attitude (P= 0.53), perceived severity (P=0.26), self-esteem (P=0.18), self-efficacy (P=0.21), and behavior (P=0.41) were not significant in the control group. Conclusion: The results indicated that educational intervention based on the family-centered empowerment model could be effective in increasing knowledge, thereby improving Brucellosis prevention behaviors.

Immersive Decision-Making : A Quantitative Analysis of Metaverse Applications in Tourism Marketing

This article investigates the transformative impact of metaverse-based virtualization on tourism marketing and consumer experiences. Through quantitative analysis of data collected via standardized questionnaires, we examine how virtual reality tours, 3D representations, and simulated experiences in the metaverse influence tourist decision-making processes and pre-travel engagement. Our findings reveal that metaverse applications significantly enhance tourists' ability to make informed decisions, reduce travel anxiety, and engage with personalized marketing content. The article demonstrates a positive correlation between virtual destination previews and increased consumer confidence, with 78% of respondents reporting higher satisfaction in their travel choices. Moreover, the study identifies a 35% reduction in pre-travel uncertainty among first-time visitors to unfamiliar destinations who utilized metaverse-based virtual tours. These results underscore the potential of metaverse technology to revolutionize tourism marketing strategies, offering implications for industry practitioners and paving the way for future research in digital tourism experiences.

Influence of Technology on Business Sustainability in Petroleum Firms in Nairobi, Kenya

Purpose: Sustainability is gaining more interest among several strategic management scholars. Technology provides a disruptive competitive advantage that is essential for businesses to thrive in a difficult environment where rules and strategies change from time to time. There is little competition among the oil marketers in Kenya because the government controls pricing strategy. The study's main aim was to determine the influence of technology on business sustainability in petroleum firms in Nairobi, Kenya. The study was underpinned by dynamic capability theory. This study adopted a descriptive research design in its investigation. Study design/methodology/approach: The study's total population was 60 oil marketing companies in Nairobi. The study selected heads of business development units from each oil marketing company. Since the population was small, a census was adopted because it was the most appropriate approach. The primary data was collected using questionnaires, where standard questionnaires with closed-ended questions were administered to capture important information about the respondents. Simple linear regression was employed to determine the effect of technology on business sustainability in petroleum firms in Nairobi. Findings: Technology had a positive and significant effect on the business sustainability of oil marketing companies. The study concluded that strengthening technology enhances competitiveness and thus results in business sustainability among oil marketing companies. Originality/value: The study recommends adopting improvised technology for all the processes and services of oil marketing companies.

Psychiatric Symptoms in Patients with Immune-Related Mucocutaneous Lichen Planus

Background: Lichen planus (LP) is one of the most common chronic mucocutaneous diseases with an underlying immunological component. Although the pathogenesis of this condition is not exactly known, numerous studies have been conducted due to the significance of this disease and its high prevalence. Several risk factors and various contexts have been identified for this condition; however, the primary cause is still not fully understood. Some genetic and environmental factors may be involved in the development of the disease. The present study was conducted to examine psychiatric symptoms in patients with cutaneous-oral LP (COLP) referred to the dermatology clinic of Sina Hospital of Tabriz city, northwest of Iran. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 31 patients with LP and 31 healthy individuals referred to the dermatology clinic of Sina Hospital in Tabriz. The information required was collected using the SCL-90-R standard questionnaire, and the data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the help of SPSS v.23 and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Results: The results showed that people with COLP do not suffer from serious psychiatric conditions but may have merely mild to moderate psychiatric symptoms. However, the MANOVA test indicated that the symptoms had a significantly higher incidence in patients with oral LP compared to matched control subjects (F (12,47)=13.86, P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: As shown by the SCL-90-R standard checklist, patients with oral LP expressed significantly more psychiatric symptoms than normal individuals, reflecting the need for these patients for more regular assessments.

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment and its long-term development in patients with breast cancer: results from the observational CICARO study.

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI) is a well-recognized side effect of breast cancer treatment. However, prospective long-term evaluations of CICI using standardized neuropsychological tests are scarce. This prospective longitudinal cohort study investigated cognitive dysfunction and its impact on quality of life and everyday functioning in patients with breast cancer receiving first-line chemotherapy compared to patients with breast cancer without chemotherapy. Assessment occurred prior to chemotherapy, postchemotherapy (median 6 months), and 2-3 years later. We used standardized neuropsychological tests, questionnaires, and scales to assess patients' quality of life and functioning. Additionally, serum analysis for neurodegenerative markers and autoantibodies was conducted. We included n = 53 patients. Overall cognitive function declined statistically significantly (P = .046) postchemotherapy compared to control patients, mostly driven by a reduced figural memory (P = .011). Patients who received chemotherapy showed a greater reduction in quality of life (increased fatigue symptoms, P = .023; reduced Karnofsky index, P<.001); however, without a statistically significant effect on cognitive decline. The neurodegenerative markers Neurofilament light chain (NfL) and phosphorylated Neurofilament heavy chain (pNfH) increased statistically significantly (P<.001) postchemotherapy and pNfH correlated with overall cognitive function. After 2-3 years, both cognitive performance and quality of life were comparable between chemotherapy-treated and control patients. Our findings suggest that chemotherapy statistically significantly contributes to overall cognitive dysfunction in patients with breast cancer, which disappears after 2-3 years, indicating a recovery in both objectively measurable cognitive function and subjective quality of life. Future research should examine larger sample sizes and explore screening indicators, particularly pNfH.

Is unassisted smoking cessation choice and success associated with high mental stress? Evidence from six cities in China.

Unassisted smoking cessation (USC) is a method of quitting smoking driven by self-determination without the support of professional cessation assistance. This approach may contribute to a potential decrease in overall smoking prevalence within a population. However, the factors potentially influencing smokers' choice of USC and their success remain unclear. This study examined the associations between mental stress and USC choice and success. Between June and September 2016, a cross-sectional multistage sampling design was used to interview subjects from six selected cities in China. A standardized questionnaire was used to obtain information on sociodemographic characteristics, USC choice, and success. Mental stress was measured by the Chinese version of the Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the association between mental stress, USC choice, and success, with adjustments for relevant covariates. Among 1647 smokers who had attempted or had quit, 91.6% (95% CI: 90.9-97.5) reported that they had done so without assistance, and 42.1% (95% CI: 32.4-61.3) of them achieved abstinence. While mental stress was not significantly associated with USC success (χ2=2.02, p=0.1547), smokers experiencing high levels of mental stress were 0.34 times less likely (95% CI: 0.23-0.50) to attempt USC compared to those with low levels of mental stress. Moreover, a significant negative linear association was observed between varying levels of mental stress and the prevalence of USC use (R2=0.910, p<0.001). The study findings should help to understand USC and its role in reducing smoking prevalence in the Chinese population. These findings can inform future tobacco control programs and policies in China. Government and social agencies should prioritize understanding smokers' preferences for USC and providing USC services to promote success within the population.

Impact of bariatric surgery on gut microbiota composition in obese patients compared to healthy controls

Bariatric surgery is vital for sustainable weight loss and metabolic improvement in obese individuals, but its effects on gut microbiota and their role in these benefits require further investigation. Investigate the temporal changes in gut microbiota in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery (gastric sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB)) compared to healthy controls, aiming to understand their role in weight loss and metabolic health improvement. A case-control study included 30 obese patients aged 65–95 undergoing bariatric surgery, and 18 matched healthy controls. Selection criteria were based on age, race, BMI, history of antibiotics, probiotics, and prebiotics usage. Stool samples were collected at baseline, three months, and six months post-surgery for DNA extraction and quantitative real-time PCR analysis to assess gut microbiota changes. Physical activity and dietary intake were evaluated using standardized questionnaires. Statistical analyses were performed using R. Post-surgery, patients showed significant reductions in weight and BMI, with changes in dietary habits and physical activity. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed substantial alterations in bacterial groups such as Bacteroides and Fusobacterium. However, some groups showed no significant changes, indicating a complex interaction between gut microbiota and bariatric surgery. Notable correlations were found between body weight, BMI, and specific bacterial groups like the C. cluster IV and Lactobacillus, particularly in RYGB patients. Bariatric surgery significantly alters gut microbiota, aiding weight loss and metabolic regulation in obese patients. Understanding these changes is crucial for developing effective obesity management strategies, requiring further research to optimize outcomes.

Language Learning Strategies of Maritime Students

Language learning strategies for maritime students might differ depending on their individual requirements and programs. In this premise, this study aimed to determine the extent of Language Learning Strategies by Maritime Students in a private school in a highly urbanized city in the central Philippines during the first semester of the School Year 2023-2024 as the basis for the language mastery program. The data needed for this descriptive research framework, coupled with statistical analysis to investigate the language learning strategies, was collected from 438 first-year maritime students using a standardized questionnaire. The results indicate that most parents hold graduate-level education, influencing academic environments. Most students are enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation, with a balanced distribution of private and public school backgrounds. The study examines language learning strategies used by maritime students, finding moderate utilization in both direct and indirect dimensions. The study highlights the importance of tailored language learning support in marine education, enhancing language learning practices and promoting practical communication skills for professional endeavors. Moreover, it reveals notable language learning strategy employment variations among BSMT and BSMarE students. BSMT students showed slightly higher engagement in metacognitive aspects, while BSMarE students showed moderate engagement in affective and social strategies. The overall mean suggests areas for improvement in language learning behaviors. The study compares language learning strategies among maritime students and reveals significant differences based on a program of study. Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation students show higher engagement; in contrast, BSMarE students show no significant difference. The findings suggest tailoring specific language learning strategies to enhance students’ proficiency and academic success. Specialized support programs tailored to academic specializations and collaborative efforts among language teachers and faculty across programs are essential to enhancing language learning in maritime education. Keywords: Education, language learning, maritime, strategies, private school, central Philippines