Statistical Analysis Software Research Articles

Factors Associated with Treatment Receipt in Medicare Beneficiaries Diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Background: The treatment a patient with AML receives may be influenced by where the patient is diagnosed and the physician making the initial diagnosis. Such factors could be targeted for intervention to help ensure patients receive optimal treatment; however, data constraints have previously limited a complete examination of patient, physician and hospital factors associated with treatment for AML. This study aimed to investigate the association of patient, hospital, and physician factors with treatment receipt for patients diagnosed with AML. Treatment receipt included allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (alloHCT) or chemotherapy without alloHCT among patients who received a National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) donor search (search). Methods: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Medicare administrative claims data from 2010 to 2018 were linked to NMDP Donor Search data and to publicly available CMS and National Provider Identifier physician and hospital datasets. Patients aged 65-74 diagnosed with AML between 2010 and 2017 and enrolled in fee-for-service (Part A and B) Medicare for at least one year after diagnosis or until death, were included. The treatment groups (alloHCT and search) were identified using diagnosis and procedure codes. A multivariable hierarchical logistic regression procedure was performed to determine factors associated with treatment receipt, with hospital as a random effect. Models were adjusted for patient, hospital and physician characteristics identified at the time of diagnosis. Patients missing physician and hospital characteristics were excluded. Individuals with a racial/ethnic background of Black/African-American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, American Indian/Alaska Native, and Other were grouped due to small numbers. All analyses were performed using Statistical Analysis Software (SAS ®) Enterprise Guide 7.1. Results: A total of 916 patients met eligibility criteria: 554 (60%) received alloHCT; 362 (40%) received search. The majority of patients in both groups were Non-Hispanic White and were age 65-69 years. A multivariable model demonstrated the variables associated with receipt of alloHCT (Figure 1). Characteristics significantly associated with decreased odds of receiving alloHCT were sex (male compared to female), race/ethnicity (a combined category of Black/African-American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, American Indian/Alaska Native, and Other compared to Non-Hispanic White), living in an area with a lower percentage of population with a college education, age (71-75 compared to 65-69 years), and chemotherapy provision (chemotherapy not compared to provided by staff). Conclusion: This study used novel linked datasets to identify the association of patient, hospital, and physician characteristics at time of diagnosis with receipt of alloHCT, compared to patients who received a search but not an alloHCT. Notably, patient characteristics, and the hospital characteristic of provision of chemotherapy by hospital staff were associated with alloHCT receipt. Donor availability may contribute to the decreased odds of alloHCT by race/ethnicity, but studies to increase HLA-mismatched unrelated alloHCT are helping to decrease this barrier. Neighborhood education attainment was used as a proxy for socioeconomic status (SES), and SES has been associated with access to care. Ensuring treatment information is accessible and available in plain language may help patients considering different treatment options. Claims data is not collected for research, and has some inherent limitations, including the lack of disease severity, cytogenetics, patient preferences, and an algorithm was used to identify diagnosing physician and hospital. Additionally, this analysis includes patients who were able to access a transplant center to receive a search or alloHCT. Next steps will compare characteristics of those who received chemotherapy but did not receive a search to those who received a search and those who received an alloHCT. Study results will be used to help inform strategies aimed at improving access to treatment for patients diagnosed with AML.

Analysis on the Increase of Efficiency at the Reception, Using the Data Volley Statistical Analysis Software

The aim of the present research is to increase the serve reception efficiency for the players in the C. S. Arcada Galaţi team, by means of the statistical software program called “Data Volley”. As the coaches of this team, we had the opportunity to use such a tool by means of which we collected the necessary data for the study. We studied all the 12 teams during 36 official plays selected from the initial part of the Masculine National Volleyball Championships where the analysis focused on the serve reception of 48 players, so that we could get a clear image of the play efficiency of this technical procedure at a national level. The research methods used in the present article were the study of bibliographical material, the statistical-mathematical method, the video analysis and the graphical representation. As a result of the statistical analysis and video analysis, we found that the efficiency at a national level is 56%, as compared to the 52 % efficiency in the Arcada Galaţi team. The ample analysis of each player at serve reception evinced the reception deficiencies, where we noticed a 30% efficiency for the perfect reception (#) as compared to 33% at national level, and 22% for a positive reception (+) as compared to 23 % at a national level. The final results showed that the use of such a software during the entire sports training led to a noticeable increase of the serve reception efficiency, i.e. 32% for the perfect reception (#) and 27% for positive reception (+) at a total efficiency of 59%, which means a 7% increase as compared to the original analysis.

Long-term outcomes and cost-effectiveness evaluation of robot-assisted stereotactic hematoma drainage for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage

BackgroundTo investigate the long-term follow-up and economic estimation outcomes of hematoma drainage for spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH) with the assistance of neurosurgical navigation and positioning planning system (referred to as robot).MethodsData were retrospectively obtained from consecutive patients with SICH who were admitted to our single-center between March 2019 and March 2022. Different minimally invasive surgery (MIS) procedures were performed according to the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The different groups were sampled and matched using the propensity score method, with age, sex, history of stroke, hypertension, bleeding volume and site of bleeding as matching variables, and matched with inverse probability weighting using R statistical analysis software. From the time of discharge up until 1 year after the surgery, records were gathered on clinical results and medical expenditures. An analysis was conducted to compare the costs and health outcomes of both robot-assisted stereotactic hematoma drainage and neuro-endoscopic surgery, considering both short-term and long-term effects. Health outputs were measured using modified Rankin scale (mRS) and quality adjusted life years (QALYs).ResultsOf the 142 patients, there were 77 patients in the robotic surgery group and 65 patients in the neuro-endoscopic surgery group. Propensity score sampling was matched, resulting in a balanced and comparable group of 37 patients in each, with the robotic surgery group [mean age (57.29 ± 12.74) years, 27 males (72.97%), hematoma volume (44.54 ± 10.49 ml), 22 deep location (59.46%)] and the neuro-endoscopic surgery group [mean age (57.27 ± 11.12) years, 27 males (72.97%), hematoma volume (44.70 ± 10.86 ml), 23 deep location (62.16%)]. At both three-month and one-year postoperative follow-up, the proportion of mRS scores ≤3 was higher in the robotic surgery group (45.95%,70.27%) than in the neuro-endoscopic surgery group (35.14%, 62.16%), but there was no statistically significant difference (P = 0.344, 0.461). One year after surgery, the robotic group demonstrated cost savings of ¥36,862.14 per individual and a gain of 0.062 QALYs compared to the neuro-endoscopic group.ConclusionOur calculations based on a model for SICH suggest that robotic-assisted stereotactic drainage offers health economic benefits due to its lower cost and higher effectiveness. However, to confirm these findings, more data from multicenter, prospective randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are needed.

Statistical analysis software

Purpose. Analysis of existing software to perform statistical analysis for further use as part of the selection of the necessary software for data processing. Methodology. To conduct a software review, an analysis of scientific articles and open sources on statistical analysis software was conducted. Findings. Choosing the right statistical software is a key decision in the field of data analysis, with numerous options to meet a variety of needs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of five leading statistical software tools: IBM SPSS Statistics, RStudio, Stata, Minitab, and Python. This paper reveals key insights into the capabilities, functions, and suitability of each tool for various analytical tasks. This review concludes that the choice of statistical software should be consistent with specific project requirements, data complexity, and user experience. Researchers and analysts should consider their analytical goals and preferences when choosing the most appropriate tool. In addition, to make informed decisions in this dynamic field, it is important to stay abreast of new trends in data analysis and machine learning. Originality. The conducted analysis revealed the possibilities and application of the most popular software for solving problems of statistical analysis. The work provides a comprehensive overview of current trends and innovations in the field of software for statistical analysis, offering readers a deeper understanding of existing tools. Practical value. The conducted analysis will allow to choose software for solving a specific task of statistical analysis based on its characteristics and existing requirements. This work helps to identify the practical benefits of statistical analysis software and promotes the implementation of these tools in various fields of activity, providing improvements in analysis and decision-making processes.

Simulating the annual energy demand to meet non-visual health recommendations from a luminaire level lighting control system

This paper introduces a digital simulation workflow that calculates annual eye-level illuminance and energy demand from daylight and electric lighting sources for an array of view positions across 9-channels of spectral data. This Radiance-based workflow combines parts of the LARK spectral lighting code to offer better spectral resolution and accuracy when computing melanopic lx to evaluate the non-visual health potential for view positions within a digital model. The authors have implemented a series of annual climate-driven simulations and post-processed time-series of resulting data using the R statistical analysis software to compute Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML) and energy demand (kWh) for an array of view positions and view directions in a digital model. This allows us to compute the energy demand of a given lighting and shading control scenario, which is optimized by hourly daylight availability to meet a recommended level of melanopic lx. This combined workflow uses digital models of an interior space to evaluate the annual potential of non-visual light exposure under different architectural, lighting, and shading control scenarios. This paper demonstrate the utility of this workflow by evaluating a luminaire-level lighting controls (LLLC) system to meet eye-level light exposure recommendations from the WELL Building Institute Feature L03 Circadian Lighting Design and compare the energy demand between targeted melanopic lux thresholds and shading control scenarios.

National estimate and associated factors of myopia among schoolchildren in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionMyopia is a global public health concern that has a significant socioeconomic and psychological impact on schoolchildren. If Myopic patients are not detected early, they are exposed to retinal detachment, cataracts, and glaucoma. There have been previous studies conducted in Ethiopia, but there is significant inconsistency among studies. Hence, the aim of this study was to provide a single figure as well as associated factors for Myopia among Ethiopian schoolchildren. MethodThe national and international databases and gray literature were searched for important research articles. This review included school-based cross-sectional studies that were reported in English. The data were extracted using Microsoft word and exported to Stata™ Version 17.0 statistical software for further management and analysis .The presence of heterogeneity was checked using Cochrane Q test via fixed effects model and presented by forest plots with 95% CI. Due to the presence of substantial heterogeneity, I2 test using random effects model was computed to estimate the effect size. The existing heterogeneity among studies was explained by regional difference. To identify factors associated with myopia, meta regression was computed and significant factors was reported using OR with 95% CI. ResultsIn this systematic review and meta-analysis, 12 studies with a total of 9688 schoolchildren were included. The national estimate of myopia among schoolchildren in Ethiopia was 6.49% (95%CI: 4.86, 8.12). Having family history of myopia (OR: 9.18, 95%CI: 3.5,24.02) and being female (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.50, 0.98) were the identified factors associated with myopia. ConclusionMyopia is one of the most prevalent childhood health condition in Ethiopia, which affects about one in every fourteen schoolchildren. Schoolchildren who had family history of myopia and being female were the identified risk factors of myopia among schoolchildren. Clinical and public engagement activities are needed to address the burden of myopia.

Predictors of Stunting among 6–35 Months Old Children in Assosa Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: Unmatched Case–Control Study

Background. In 2020, globally, 149.2 million under 5 years old children were stunted. In Africa, 61.4 million and 79 million under 5 years old children in Asia were also stunted in 2020. Stunting is a major public health problem in Ethiopia, where more than 5.5 million children under 5 years old are stunted. Stunting has irreversible and intergenerational health consequences, including impaired cognitive and physical growth, poor learning capacity, and reduced work productivity. Efforts to end stunting need comprehensive and context identification of risk factors. For this reason, this study aims to identify the predictors of stunting among children 6–35 months of age in Northwest Ethiopia. Method. A community-based, unmatched case–control study was employed in the Assosa zone, Benishangul Gumuz, west Ethiopia. A multistage and simple random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires using validated structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Data were entered into Epidata version 3.1 and exported to SPSS 25.0 statistical software for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were computed. Finally, an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to identify independent predictors of stunting using a multivariable logistic regression model. Result. The study included 544 mother–child pairs (181 cases and 363 controls), with a 100% response rate. The majority of the mothers, 85 (47.0%) in the case and 153 (42.1%) in the control group, were in the 25- to 29-year-old age group. This study revealed that mothers who had no formal education (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI (1.436, 4.180)), short maternal height (<150 cm) (AOR = 4.25, 95% CI (2.714, 6.663)), exclusive breastfeeding for less than 6 months (AOR = 3.16, 95% CI (1.97, 5.10)), minimum dietary diversity (AOR = 3.09, 95% CI (1.97, 5.01)), additional food during pregnancy (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI (1.44, 3.5)) and food security (AOR = 3.08, 95% CI (1.79, 5.26)) were found to be independently statistically associated with child stunting. Conclusion and Recommendation. This study revealed that the predictors of stunting among children aged 6–35 months were multifactorial, which calls for an integrated and multisectoral intervention to reduce or eliminate stunting. Mothers’ factors, educational status, additional food during pregnancy, and child feeding, including dietary diversity and exclusive breastfeeding, were modifiable predictors of child stunting. Therefore, we call for promoting mothers’ education, creating awareness among mothers about optimum infant and young child feeding, specifically exclusive breastfeeding, and promoting mothers’ practices of dietary diversity feeding.

Association of Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviour on Sleep Quality among Students of Faculty of Architecture, Planning, and Surveying in Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Selangor

Introduction: Inadequate sleep among undergraduate students might have an impact on their bodies and everyday activities. This study aims to investigate the association of physical activity and dietary behaviour on sleep quality among students of Faculty of Architecture, Planning, and Surveying in UiTM Selangor. Method: This research was conducted using a cross-sectional research and convenience sampling. The data were collected through the use of self-administered questionnaires from May to June 2022. Data analysis was done using Statistical Analysis Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Results: A total of 321 students responded the questionnaire. The prevalence of poor sleep quality among undergraduate students of Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying was 93.5%. It was found that physical activity was not associated (p>0.05) with sleep quality using Pearson’s Chi-square test. Pearson’s Chi-square test revealed that sleep quality was associated (p<0.05) with dietary behaviour which is Western fast food, sweets, water and breakfast skipping, gender, years of study and residential. Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of poor sleep quality among students of Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying. This information may be helpful in creating programs to treat and promote good sleep hygiene practices that may improve students’ physical and mental health.

Strategic Procurement Practices and Performance of Investment Firms Listed in Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya

The overall goal of the proposed study was to lay out the impact of key obtainment rehearses on acquisition execution of venture companies recorded in the NSE, Kenya. The specific objectives were to investigate how investment firms listed on the NSE’s procurement performance is affected by strategic supplier relationship practice; to determine how strategic contract management practices affect investment firms listed on the NSE procurement performance; To determine the impact of strategic sourcing on the procurement performance of NSE-listed investment firms in Kenya and; to ascertain how the practice of strategic negotiation affects investment procurement performance firms listed in the NSE, Kenya. This research problem was studied through the use of a cross-sectional research design. The units of observation constituted the 104 top and middle management staff working in the offices of investment firms listed in the NSE. This study used Yamane’s method to understand the sample size. Following this sample determination formula, the calculation generated a sample of 83 respondents from which the study sought information from. This study utilized both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data was gathered using research questionnaire as the research instrument. To complement the primary data, secondary data collection sheet was employed in collecting the secondary data from audited reports of the Company, NSE and other reliable sources. The researcher dropped the questionnaires physically through face-to-face method requesting them to fill them promptly and pick them up once filled up. The structured questions were used in an effort to conserve time and money as well as to facilitate in easier analysis as they are in immediate usable form; while the unstructured questions were used so as to encourage the respondent to give an in-depth and felt response without feeling held back in revealing of any information. Before processing the responses, the completed questionnaires were edited for completeness and consistency. The raw primary data collected was coded prior to being input into SPSS statistical analysis software. Once coded, the data was then cleaned to ensure accuracy and completeness of the information obtained. The data collected was both quantitative and qualitative and it was analyzed descriptively and inferentially. In addition, correlation analysis was conducted to the indicated the nature (positive or negative) and significance of the relationships between the variables in the study. Regression analysis was used to test the direction and magnitude of the relationship between the study variables. The study found that strategic supplier relationship affects procurement performance of investment firms listed in the NSE to a great extent. Utilization of strategic contract management practice was found to affect the procurement performance of the investment firms to a great extent. The study found that strategic sourcing practice affects the procurement performance of investment firms to a great extent. Strategic negotiation practice affects procurement performance to a moderate extent.It is imperative that Investment firms listed in the NSE reviews their existing procurement systems in order to identify the weak points and fasten them. Investment firms listed in the NSE should adopt customer orientation and then implement customer integration in order to receive a high level of procurement performance. Investment firms listed in the NSE should try as much as possible to tailor make their processes to best suit their unique needs.

Preparing nursing students for clinical placement using synchronous role-play telesimulation: A descriptive survey study

BackgroundContemporary teaching modalities in nurse education include teaching clinical skills via telesimulation. The effectiveness of this modality has not been evaluated. ObjectiveTo evaluate undergraduate nursing students' and clinical facilitators' perceptions of student preparedness for placement when clinical skills are taught via role-play telesimulation using home equipment packs. DesignA descriptive survey study was employed to measure and explore perceptions using Likert scales and open-structured questions delivered via an anonymous online survey. SettingClinical placement after undertaking preparation via role-play telesimulation for students at an Australian university. ParticipantsData were collected from 180 undergraduate nursing students and 22 clinical facilitators. MethodsQuantitative data were analysed using statistical analysis software, SPPS. Open ended responses to survey questions were analysed through the application of Elo and Kyngas (2008) three phases of content analysis. ResultsSeventy-eight percent of students felt prepared for placement, and 86 % of clinical facilitators believed that students were adequately prepared. Three major categories were identified from students' responses: sense of community, learning logistics, and sense of comfort. Three categories emerged from clinical facilitators' responses: nervous and anxious, confidence and preparedness. ConclusionsFindings from this study suggest that role-play telesimulation with home equipment packs is a viable, achievable, sustainable and effective modality for teaching hands-on practical skills to prepare undergraduate nursing students for industry placement.

PSI-2 Evaluation of Sorghum Pericarp Varieties on Blood Parameters and Antioxidant Capacity in Healthy Adult Dogs

Abstract Ingredients that provide health benefits are popular in the pet food industry. Sorghum contains polyphenols which are found in the pericarp. These polyphenols may provide health benefits due to their antioxidant properties, which increase the benefit of sorghum in pet food. Few pet food studies have evaluated the antioxidant capacity of sorghum differing in pericarp color. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of sorghum varieties on blood parameters and antioxidant capacity in dogs. Nutritionally complete experimental diets were extruded with a 50% inclusion of either rice, white sorghum A, burgundy sorghum, or white sorghum B. Twelve dogs were fed dietary treatments in a replicated 4 x 4 Latin square design consisting of 14-day periods. Three milliliters of blood were taken from each dog prior to starting the trial for baseline antioxidant capacity. At the end of each period, 3 mL of blood were taken from each dog and stored at -80°C until further analysis. Blood samples were analyzed for complete blood count (CBC), chemistry profiles (Kansas State University Veterinary Diagnostics Lab, Manhattan, KS), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) was measured by kit in blood plasma. Data were analyzed using a mixed model with statistical analysis software (SAS version 9.4, SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC) with treatment and period as fixed effects and dog as a random effect. Red blood cell distribution width was greatest in dogs fed white sorghum A at 12.9% and least in dogs fed white sorghum B at 12.7% (P < 0.05). The anion gap was highest for dogs fed the rice treatment at 24.6 mmol/L and lowest for dogs fed white sorghum A at 22.8 mmol/L (P < 0.05). Cholesterol was greater (P < 0.05) in dogs fed the rice treatment at 246.0 mg/dL compared with the three sorghum varieties (average, 225 mg/dL). Despite the few differences in blood parameters, all were within normal ranges for healthy dogs. There was no difference in plasma ORAC between treatments (P > 0.05). In conclusion, sorghum resulted in normal blood profiles and did not alter plasma antioxidant capacity compared with the rice control when fed to dogs. If antioxidant potential is desired, a concentrated pericarp (bran) extract may be necessary.

PSV-26 Use of Garlic Drench in the Modulation of Galectin Gene Expression in St Croix Sheep

Abstract St. Croix sheep are parasite resistant and can live in a wide variety of climates. Dietary supplements can influence innate immunity. Garlic (Allium sativum) is used as an immune modulator and an alternative antibiotic. Lectins in garlic could interfere with animal lectins such as Galectins (Gals). Galectins bind β-galactosides and modulate pathological processes and immunity. The effect of garlic drench on Gal (1,3,9) gene expression in sheep blood was evaluated. All protocols were approved by the IACUC. Clinically healthy, adult St. Croix sheep were divided into two groups. The treatment group (n = 6) was drenched with 5 mL garlic barrier at a rate of 10 mL diluted in sterile distilled water 1:1. The control group (n = 6) was drenched with 10 mL sterile distilled water for four weeks. Cells and plasma were separated by centrifugation of whole blood. The concentration of total plasma protein was determined using the BCA assay kit (Pierce). Secretion of Galectins 1,3,9 was evaluated using Sheep-specific ELISA(My-BioSource). Data were analyzed using SAS Statistical analysis software 9.4 (SAS Institute). Nucleic acid purity and concentrations were assessed using the Nanodrop spectrophotometer. Galectin gene transcription was evaluated using sheep Gal 1,3 and 9 specific primers commercially sequenced (Eurofins Genomics). The house keeping genes, Ribosomal Protein Lateral Stalk Subunit P0 and Ubiquitin C-Terminal Hydrolase L5, were used as internal controls. Samples were amplified in duplicate using the CFX Connect real-time PCR system. The Livak Method was used to calculate the fold change in gene expression. Galectin 1, 3, and 9 were transcribed and translated. Transcription and translation were differentially affected by garlic. Galectin 1 transcription increased; secretion decreased. Galectin 3 transcription and secretion increased at P < 0.05. There was no change in the transcription of galectin 9, however, secretion was increased. Thus, garlic drench deferentially impacted transcription and secretion of structurally distinct Gal in sheep blood. Further studies are needed to determine the effect of Garlic on Gal-mediated functions important to sheep health and production.

PSV-25 Effect of Garlic on Galectin 3 in Goats

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the effect of garlic extracts on expression of Galectin 3 in goats. Inflammatory diseases such as mastitis and gastrointestinal parasitic diseases cause significant problems for goat production. Galectins (Gal) are a family of highly conserved mammalian carbohydrate-binding proteins that can regulate inflammation. Galectin-3 is the only member of the lectin family with a chimeric structure. It is a potential therapeutic target to regulate the activity of inflammatory cells. Garlic extracts are natural anti-inflammatory agents that are being evaluated for use in goat management. Twelve adult female clinically healthy Boer X Spanish goats were divided into 2 groups. The treatment group (n = 6) was drenched with a 10 mL garlic (Garlic barrier) and the control group (n = 6) was given sterile water for 30 days. Blood was collected weekly from the jugular vein using acid citrate dextrose as an anticoagulant. Blood was centrifuged to separate cells and plasma. Galectin 3 secretion in plasma was determined using goat specific commercial ELISA kits (My-BioSource). Total RNA was isolated from the cell pellet using Trizol and it was then converted into cDNA. Primers specific for goat Gal 3 specific and the housekeeping genes RPLP0 and UCHL5 (Eurofins Genomics) were used in Real-time PCR to evaluate the gene expression. Fold change was calculated using the Livak method. All variables were assessed using SAS Statistical analysis software version 9.4 (SAS Institute) at P < 0.05. Treatment had an effect over time and a significant increase (P < 0.0141) was observed in the GAL- 3 concentrations. Gal-3 was expressed in greater amounts in treatment group animals compared with the control group with a fold change of 1.15. Garlic may be used to modulate Gal 3 expression and secretion in goat blood. It is important to consider the impact of garlic on Gal 3 modulation. Studies needed to define possible impacts on immune function and goat health.

Outcomes of initial 100 cases of laparoscopic nephrectomy at tertiary care center (PKLI).

Laparoscopic nephrectomy has been adopted by many centers in the last few decades. However, there are a few inherent challenges while adopting laparoscopic nephrectomy in a new unit. These include a significant learning curve required to adopt this modality. This study aimed to share the initial experience of adopting laparoscopic nephrectomy at our center. In total, 101 patients were analyzed in the study. These patients underwent laparoscopic radical or simple nephrectomy (for renal mass and noncancer renal cases respectively) at Department of Urology, Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute and Research Centre, Lahore from April 2018 till January 2021. Data were entered in the statistical analysis software file. Analysis was attained by utilizing SPSS version 20. Implementation of Mean along with standard deviation values was utilized in the case of the continuous variables. While frequency/percentages represented categorical factors. The mean age of patients was 42.81±15.49 years and their overall BMI was 26.41±5.30 kg/m2. Out of these, 57 (56.43%) were males and 44(43.56%) were female. Eighteen percent of patients had a previous surgical history on the ipsilateral side. Total operative time was 163.98±58.02 minutes while mean hospital stay reached 3.2±0.87 days. The tumor-free margin was attained in all cases of radical nephrectomy. Based on Clavien-Dindo classification, Grade-1 (n=3; 2.97%), Grade-2 (n=6; 5.94%), Grade-3A (n=1; 0.99%), and Grade-3B (n=1; 0.99%) complications were observed. In a newly developed urology center, laparoscopic nephrectomy can be a daunting task. Good teamwork among the surgical team members and careful selection of cases can result in satisfactory procedural outcomes.

A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Taekwondo on Physical Self-Concept.

In this meta-analysis we explored whether Taekwondo practice has improved its participants' physical self-concepts. We also tested the mediating influence of factors in past research such as country, participant age, and measurement properties in their associations with these taekwondo effects. We reviewed extensive data collected from Chinese, English and Korean participants in articles listed in Cnki, Wanfang, PubMed, Web of Science, KISS, RISS, and DBPIA databases. First, we evaluated the methodological quality of these published articles with Review Manager 5.4 software according to the Cochrane System Evaluation Manual. Then, we used Comprehensive Meta-Analysis 3.7 software for statistical analysis. We based these analyses on nine research studies containing a total of 1154 participants. We found a significant association between taekwondo activity and an improved body self-concept (ES = .688, p < .001). Subgroup analyses showed a stronger association between these variables in Korea (ES = .90, p < .001) than in China (ES = .34, p < .001), a stronger association for children (ES = 1.04, p < .001) compared to adults (ES = .46, p < .001), and a stronger association with the modified version of the Physical Self-Description Questionnaire (PSDQ) (ES = .99, p < .001) than with the original PSDQ (ES = .57, p < .001). We concluded that practicing Taekwondo led to improved physical self-concept, especially in a younger population. In addition, the experimental design and measurement methods may influence the apparent link between these variables.

A Practitioner’s Guide to Evaluating Social Change Initiatives for Adults Using Quantitative Methodologies in Excel

Practitioners of adult education have a long history of teaching for social change. They may, however, be uncomfortable using quantitative methods to assess the impact of their learning activities, or they might lack access to statistical analysis software. Quantitative methods help the practitioner determine whether behavioral or attitudinal change among participants is more likely linked to their learning intervention than to chance. This is crucial information for practitioners to secure support or funding for their learning programs. We, therefore, created this guide to try and make quantitative methodologies for measuring social change accessible to practitioners through provision of instruction and resources and by using Microsoft Excel to conduct the analyses.

Anatomical Bases for Aesthetic Costal Surgery: Assessing the Thoracoabdominal Limits.

Knowing the anatomy of the ribs is crucial for understanding various rib procedures. The present study is aimed at describing radiological measurements and ratios of 83 Latin American patients undergoing thoracoabdominal computed tomography (CT). A total of 83 thoracoabdominal computed tomography scans of women aged 18-35 conducted at a medical center in Lima, Peru, were reviewed from January 2022 to January 2023. The resulting measurements and ratios were used to calculate frequency distributions. All data were stored in a Microsoft Excel database and analyzed using statistical analysis software SPSS version 28. Ratios and measures of the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth ribs are shown in the different tables, and costal characteristics with an adequate statistical significance are defined. Using radiological measurements and rib ratios, we were able to find key anatomical relationships with an adequate level of significance, which could help establish objective results in rib procedures.

Evaluation of color stability of bulk-fill restorative materials with different properties

Aims: The present study aims to evaluate the color stability of bulk-fill restorative materials with different properties over different time periods when immersed in a coffee solution.&#x0D; Methods: According to the selected restorative materials, the study groups were formed as follows: CNT/light (Alkasite, Cention N, Ivoclar Vivadent, light cure mode), CNT/self (Alkasite, Cention N, self cure mode) EQF (Glass hybrid restorative, Equia Forte HT, GC Corporation), AU (Single-shade bulk fill, Aura Bulk Fill, SDI), Z550 (Filtek Z550, 3M) (control group). A total of 50 samples (n=10) were prepared using standard molds (2mmx10mm). After finishing and polishing procedures, all samples were kept in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours. The first color measurement (L*a*b ) was performed with Vita Easy Shade V (VITA Zahnfabrik). Samples were added to the coffee solution. Color was measured at times simulating 7 days, 1 month, 6 months and 1 year of clinical service. Color changes (ΔE1, ΔE2, ΔE3 and ΔE4) were calculated according to the CIE L*a*b system. Normality of the data was examined by D'Agostino &amp; Pearson omnibus normality test. One-way ANOVA analysis and Tukey test were performed. Statistical significance level was set at p 0.05 and statistical analysis software (GraphPad Prism 6.0, GraphPad Software, USA) was used for the analysis.&#x0D; Results: According to ΔE1 results; clinically unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) values were observed in CNT/light and CNT/self groups. The color change values of EQF, Z550 and AU groups were statistically similar (p&gt;0.05). According to ΔE2 results; an unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) was observed in all groups except EQF. According to ΔE3 results; an unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) was observed in all groups. According to ΔE4 results; an unacceptable color change (ΔE&gt;3.3) was observed in all groups. The color change values of EQF, Z550 and AU groups were statistically similar (p&gt;0.05). CNT/light group showed the highest color change in all time periods, followed by CNT/self group.&#x0D; Conclusion: The color stability of single-shade bulk fill material and glass hybrid restorative materials is similar to the control group. The color stability of alkasite material needs to be improved.

Predictors of willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccine among adults.

Vaccines are an effective and ultimate solution that can decrease the burden of coronavirus disease 2019 worldwide. However, poor knowledge and unwillingness to accept this vaccine are key barriers to manage the COVID-19 pandemic in different countries including Ethiopia. Control of the pandemic will depend on the acceptance of coronavirus disease vaccine. However, there is a paucity of evidence on coronavirus disease vaccine acceptance in the study area. The current study was aimed to assess willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccine and associated factors among adult clients attending Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital, West Guji Zone, southern Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 385 study participants selected by a systematic random sampling technique. Data was collected through observation and structured questionnaires from April 10 to May 30, 2022. The collected data was cleaned and entered into EpiData 3.1 software before being exported to SPSS 25 statistical software for analysis. Bi-variable and multi-variable binary logistic regression model was used to identify the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. The strength of association was measured using AOR with 95% confidence interval and significance was declared at p- value < 0.05. Magnitude of willingness to accept coronavirus disease-19 vaccine was 67.5% (95%Cl: 63-72). Good knowledge [AOR = 2.07, (1.17-3.64)], history of chronic disease [AOR = 2.59, (1.4-4.78)], being a government employee [AOR = 2.35 (1.1-5)], having a favorable attitude [AOR = 14.15 (5.25-37.46)], and good adherence [AOR = 1.74 (1.02-2.97)] were factors that significantly associated with willingness to accept the coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine. Magnitude of willingness to accept the COVID-19 vaccine was considerable and needs to be improved. Knowledge, attitude, chronic illness, adherence, and being a government employee were factors that associated with willingness to accept the vaccine. Community awareness, advocacy, social mobilization and health education should be given at different levels.

Efficacy of Acupuncture in Clinic Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder --A Meta-Analysis

Objective: Evaluate the clinical effect of acupuncture on generalized anxiety disorder. Methods: Nine databases, including CNKI, Wanfang, Web of Science, and PubMed, were searched for this study. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) of acupuncture for generalized anxiety disorder was selected for inclusion in the study. Hamilton Anxiety Scale, self-Assessment Scale of Anxiety, and clinical treatment effects were Meta-analysed using the dedicated statistical analysis software RevMan version 5.3. Results: According to the comparison of Self-Anxiety Scale scores and Hamilton Anxiety Inventory of treatment in the acupuncture and medication groups, acupuncture was more effective than medication in the clinical treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. Discussion: Although the limited amount of included literature and the high level of bias affected the quality of the analysis, this study could still provide evidence that acupuncture plays a prominent role in the clinical treatment of generalized anxiety disorder.