Statistical Significant Negative Correlation Research Articles

Does migraine affect central auditory processing abilities?

ObjectiveMigraine is a neurological disease associated with an altered cortical excitability level. Several studies have investigated the relationship between migraine and central auditory processing (CAP), with deficits in CAP being common among migraine patients. However, studies on the factors affecting these CAP changes observed in migraine patients are still few and controversial. This study aims to investigate CAP changes in migraine patients with Duration Pattern Test (DPT) and Frequency Pattern Test (FPT), which have not been used in previous studies. MethodsSixty subjects were divided into two groups and one migraine subgroup: control group, twenty normal healthy subjects, fourty subjects diagnosed with migraine. They were evaluated using the CAP test including DPT and FPT. To identify the variables and possible effects of the variables, a questionnaire describing the characteristics of migraine features was administered to participants with migraine. ResultsNo significant difference was found the between the control and study group in CAP tests scores. No significant correlation was found between migraine characteristics and CAP tests scores. Males had significantly higher FPT scores in both ears than females (p<0.05). Significant statistical negative correlation was found between age and FPT scores for both ears and left DPT scores (p<0.05). ConclusionAlthough migraine patients generally showed lower CAP ability than the control group, no significant difference was observed between them. This was also valid for subgroups of migraine. However, as age increased in the migraine group, a significant decrease in CAP performance was observed. It was observed that male migraine patients had better CAP ability, especially FPT scores. Migraine may affect performance in CAP depending on gender and age factors.

Effect of sevoflurane versus propofol on early cognitive functions in elderly patients after lumbar disc surgery

ABSTRACT Background Post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is an important issue that is associated with substantial morbidity and increased mortality, especially in elderly patients who have undergone major surgical procedures under general anesthesia. The symptoms of POCD may last for several months after surgery, leading to extended hospital stays, a decline in life quality, an increased need for social assistance, and significant financial strain on the patients. Settings and Design It was a Prospective Randomized interventional study. Methods A total of 120 patients (≥65 years) were divided into two groups of 60 each for this study at Alexandria Main University Hospital and planned for elective lumbar disc surgery under general anesthesia. Either propofol or sevoflurane was used to maintain anesthesia after it was induced. MMSE score, S100β levels and hemodynamic measures were all evaluated. Results Incidence of POCD was not statistically significant different between the two studied groups. There was a statistical significant negative correlation between S100β level and MMSE score in early post-operative period. Conclusion In terms of POCD, both propofol-based and sevoflurane-based anesthesia have the same effects on cognitive functions in early post-operative period.

Posterior femoral cutaneous nerve sensory conduction study in a sample of apparently healthy Egyptian volunteers

BackgroundPosterior femoral cutaneous nerve (posterior cutaneous nerve of the thigh) is a sensory nerve arises from the sacral plexus. Its terminal part supplies the skin of the posterior surface of the thigh and popliteal fossa, and it extends for a variable length below the popliteal fossa till the mid-calf region. The aim was to assess the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve antidromic sensory conduction technique and estimate its different sensory nerve action potential parameters’ reference values in a sample of apparently healthy Egyptian participants. One hundred and twenty lower limbs of 60 apparently healthy Egyptian volunteers were included. Clinical evaluation and sensory conduction study for the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve were done.ResultsPosterior femoral cutaneous nerve sensory nerve action potential was elicited in 98 lower limbs (81.6%) of 52 individuals (86.7%). The obtained results of different parameters of posterior femoral cutaneous nerve sensory nerve action potential were as the following: onset latency (2.04 ± 0.21 ms), peak latency (2.86 ± 0.25 ms), conduction velocity (59.45 ± 6.36 m/s) and amplitude (6.16 ± 2.29 μV). No significant differences between the two genders were found regarding different parameters of posterior femoral cutaneous nerve sensory nerve action potential except for amplitude which was significantly larger among male participants (P = 0.030). No significant differences between the right and left lower limbs were found regarding different parameters of sensory nerve action potential. There was a statistical significant negative correlation between age and posterior femoral cutaneous nerve conduction velocity (P = 0.008). There was a statistical significant positive correlation between height and peak latency (P ≤ 0.0001), as well as, a statistical significant negative correlation between height and conduction velocity (P ≤ 0.0001). There was a statistical significant negative correlation between body mass index and posterior femoral cutaneous nerve peak latency (P = 0.008).ConclusionsThe research provides a reliable electrophysiological antidromic sensory conduction study for the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve and normal cut-off reference values for posterior femoral cutaneous nerve sensory nerve action potential parameters. This is essential for the evaluation of suspected posterior femoral cutaneous nerve lesions.

Handgrip strength is associated with length of stay and functional outcomes at 1-year follow up in fragility hip fracture patients

Background/Purpose Fragility hip fracture (FHF) is the most prevalent fragility fracture, causing deterioration in ambulatory ability and disability. Early detection of patients who are at risk of prolonged hospitalization and functional decline after FHF is crucial as this facilitates post-operative management and healthcare resources allocation. Handgrip strength (HGS) is an easily-administered and cost-effective tool to assess whole body strength. The objectives of this study were to examine the relationship between pre-operative HGS, length of stay (LOS) and functional outcomes at 1-year follow up in patients with FHF in Hong Kong. Methods Patients aged 65 years old or above who were admitted to a local acute hospital from April 2017 to March 2020 due to FHF that were treated operatively, and subsequently attended the multidisciplinary fragility fracture clinic at 1-year follow up were evaluated. HGS measured at pre-operative physiotherapy initial assessment, post-fracture total LOS, Modified Functional Ambulation Classification (MFAC) and Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS) at 1-year follow up were retrieved for analysis. Correlation between HGS and LOS was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Correlations between HGS and MFAC, and HGS and EMS were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Results One hundred and nineteen patients (mean age = 80.8 ± 7.3 years) (33 males, 86 females) were evaluated. Statistical significant negative correlation between HGS and LOS was found ( r = -0.245, p = 0.007), implying that the lower the HGS, the longer the period of hospitalization. HGS also showed statistical significant positive correlation with MFAC ( r = 0.358, p &lt; 0.001) and EMS ( r = 0.507, p &lt; 0.001), suggesting that the greater the HGS, the better the functional outcomes after 1 year. In short, pre-operative HGS measured by physiotherapists was shown to be associated with LOS and functional outcomes at 1-year follow up. Conclusion HGS is significantly associated with patient's LOS, MFAC and EMS after FHF. HGS is an easily-administered and cost-effective tool to facilitate frontline practitioners to determine and stratify patients’ rehabilitation potential and subsequently establish customized rehabilitation and discharge plan, such as intensive training, caregiver education and potential prediction of discharge destination. Key Messages HGS is significantly associated with patient's LOS, MFAC and EMS after FHF. HGS is an easily-administered and cost-effective tool to facilitate frontline practitioners to determine and stratify patients’ rehabilitation potential and subsequently establish customized rehabilitation and discharge plan.

Correlation between cardiac index(CI) and cardio ankle vascular index(CAVI) at different degrees of head up tilt table

Background: Cardio Ankle Vascular Index (CAVI), a new index for arterial stiffness that can be measured by VaSera VS-1000 CAVI device. This is a new method for estimating the level of arteriosclerosis, which is relatively uninfluenced by changes of blood pressure. An association between some arterial fitness indices and cardiac function has been recently demonstrated. CI: is Cardiodynamic measure based on the Cardiac output (CO)which is normalized according to body size ,this is gained by dividing CO on body surface area. Aim: To establish if any significant interrelationship exists between indexed cardiac output (CI) and Cardio ankle vascular Index (CAVI). Further, to introduce a new index as a haemodynemic parameter, notably CI/CAVI. . Method: This study was carried out at Dr.Akeel Zwain private clinic, on 20 healthy male volunteers of a mean age of 30±5 year and BMI of 23.1±1.1 Kg/m². Measurement of cardiac output (CO) is accomplished by estimation of aortic diameter (D) and calculating the velocity time integral (VTI) of aortic flow by Doppler echocardiography, then utilizing the equation: CO=(VTI*D2 *0.785)*heart rate. Measurement of arterial stiffness index (CAVI) can be generated by VaSeraVS-1000 device. A motorized tilting table of incremental degrees; at 0º, 30º and 60º of head up tilt (HUT), was used to bring about peripheral sympathetic outflow modifications, together with postural changes in stroke volume, hence CO and CI. Results: This study demonstrated that there was a statistical significant negative correlation between CI and the degree of head up tilt. CI is significantly decreased relative to increase of HUT degree, in a stepwise manner; CI is significantly lower at 30 and 60 degrees than that at zero degree, (Pearson's correlation coefficient: r=0.63 for 0ºand 30º; r=0.81 for 0ºand 60º, p&lt;0.001 for both; r= 0.71for 30ºand 60º; p&lt;0.05 ). On the other hand, CAVI showed a statistical significant positive correlation relative to the degree of HUT. CAVI was significantly increased, in a stepwise fashion, at 30 and 60 degrees, than that at supine zero degree (Pearson's correlation coefficient: r =0.88 for 0º and 30º; r=0.83 for 0ºand 60º; r=0.81 for 30º and 60º ; p&lt;0.001 for all). Correlation between CI and CAVI at different degrees of HUT was studied, the results demonstrated a significant negative correlation exists between CI and CAVI (r = - 0.47; p&lt;0.05). The result of dividing the two indexes, by each other, CI/CAVI, yielded significant inverse inter relationship with respect to degree of HUT; being lower at 30ºand 60º than that obtained at 0ºtilt. It was significantly lower, in a slope wise pattern, at 60º than that at 30º of tilt (r =0.65 for 0º and 30º; r =0.78, for 0º and 60º; r =0.68, for 30º and 60º; p&lt;0.001 for all). Conclusion: the present investigation reveals an inverse interrelationship between CI and CAVI; a decrease of CI is consistently associated with an increase of CAVI. A new index CI/CAVI may be proposed; it can be employed to early detect subclinical atherosclerosis impact on cardiac muscle pump function. This new integrated parameter could possibly serve for fitness assessment, and for cardiovascular risk stratification. Abbreviations: CAVI, cardio ankle vascular index; HUT: head up tilt; CI: cardiac index; CO: cardiac output; VTI: velocity time integral ; D: aortic diameter; SV ,stroke volume; HR, heart rate; Dd :change of diameter ; PS, systolic pressure ; Pd, diastolic pressure

A Comparative Study for the Impact of IFRS Convergence on Accounting Quality between Malaysian PLC and Chinese PLC

The purpose of this research is to examines whether Malaysian PLC (fully converge to IFRS) could achieve better accounting quality as compare with Chinese PLC (non-fully converge to IFRS) or otherwise. And then further study on the relationship between the PLCs’ characteristics with accounting quality. Full samples of both groups consist of 2510 PLC and 17570 observations. Group FC (Malaysian PLC) consist of 420 PLC with 2946 observations and Group NFC (Chinese PLC) consist of 2090 PLC with 14204 observations. This research used the Modified Jones model to estimate the absolute value of discretionary accruals (ABSDACC); a proxy for earnings management practice. Accounting quality decrease as earnings management practices in a PLC increase and vice versa. This research used OLS to test the hypotheses. Which includes earnings management (ABSDACC) as the dependent variable, and IFRS Convergence (CONVERGE) and some other variables (PLC’s characteristics) as the independent variables. The result clearly stated that the nexus between CONVERGE (IFRS Convergence) and accounting quality is negative and statistically significant. Hence, Malaysian PLC with full convergence to IFRS practising a lower accounting quality as compare to Chinese PLC. Furthermore, there is a statistical significant negative correlation between the accounting quality with leverage (LEV), profitability (ROA), earnings growth (GROWTH), and prior-year loss (LAGLOSS). Variable firm’s size (SIZE) is significantly positively associated with accounting quality. Percentage change in company shares (EISSUE) is significant but has no relation with accounting quality; while percentage change in company debts (DISSUE) also reported no relationship with accounting quality but insignificant. This study contributes to the literature by examining IFRS convergence in China and Malaysia are useful in evaluating whether fully converged to IFRS achieves its stated objective of fulfilling the financial reporting needs of emerging economies. And add to the literature by identifying the potential PLCs’ specific characteristics that are associated with accounting quality.

Role of Proangiogenic Tyrosine Kinase with Immunoglobulin and Endothelial Growth Factor Homology Domains 2 Expressing Monocytes in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Background: Globally, highest hematologic malignancy in prevalence is considered chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The expression of angiopoietin-2 (Ang2) and tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin and endothelial growth factor homology domains (Tie1), two critical components of the Ang-Tie2 pro-angiogenic pathway, in CLL cells has been demonstrated. Objective: Clarification of Tie2-expressing monocytes’ (TEMs) involvement in the pathophysiology of CLL is the goal of this study. Patients and Methods: The study was case control, which was performed on 21 CLL patients; their age ranged from 46 to 71 with a mean of 58.2 ± 6.9, in addition to 21 age and sex matched healthy control subjects. Full medical histories, clinical examinations, and laboratory tests were conducted on all individuals. The percentage of TEMs in peripheral blood was determined by flow cytometry and their phenotypic characteristics defined as CD14+/CD16+/Tie-2+ cells. Results: Compared to the control group, there was a statistically significant increase in TEMs in the cases group. Among the cases group there was a statistical significant increase in LDH, uric acid, WBCs, reticulocyte, CD 38 β2 microglobulin and TEMS and statistical significant decrease in Hb with increase Binet stage. There was a statistical significant +ve correlation between TEMs and LDH, WBCs, reticulocytes, CD38 and β2 microglobulin. Also, there was a statistical significant negative correlation between TEMs and Hb and platelets count among the cases group. TEMs percentage had sensitivity, specificity and accuracy (100%) in diagnosis of leukemia at cut off > 20.95%. Conclusion: TEMs could be a part of CLL pathogenesis which can be a predictor of disease progression alongside with other prognostic indicators.

Relationship between Low Back Pain and Stress Urinary Incontinance in Middle - Aged Women

Abstract Background: Low back pain (LBP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) are common problems in women, there are many factors that associated with the development of LBP, but there are a limited research that evaluate the relationship between LBP and SUI. Aim of Study: To determine the relationship between stress urinary Incomitance and low back pain in middle-aged women. Material and Methods: One hundred multipara women participated in this study. 50 women complained from stress urinary incontinence (diagnosed by physician) and 50 women were free from stress urinary incontinence (diagnosed by physician). They were selected from Al-Hussein University Hospital in Cairo, Al-Azhar University from November 2020 to March 2021. Their ages were ranged from 35 to 45 years old. Their body mass index was not exceeding 30kg/m2. They were multipara women. Patients with corrected SUI, previous low back surgery, spondylolisthesis and chronic low back pain were excluded from the study. They were divided ran-domly into two equal groups (AB p-value=0.151. While in group (B). There was a statistical significant negative correlation between oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire (ODI) and pelvic floor muscle strength (PFMS) (r=–0.281; p-value=0.048) and in all studied cases (group A + B). There was a statistical signif-icant negative correlation between oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire (ODI) and pelvic floor muscle strength (PFMS) (r=–0.419; p-value=0.001). Conclusion: Accordingly, it can be concluded that there is a positive relationship between low back pain and stress urinary incontinence and presence of stress urinary inconti-nence is predisposing factor for low back pain.

Pregnant Women’s Perception Regarding Risky Pregnancy And Their Current Pregnancy Risk Condition: Correlational Study

Background : Globally; high-risk’ pregnancies account for a significant proportion of perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Risk perception in relation to pregnancy and birth is a complex process influenced by multiple personal, psychological and societal factors. Aim: This study aimed to assess pregnant women’s perception regarding risky pregnancy and it’s correlation to their current pregnancy risk condition. Design: A descriptive correlational design was utilized in this study. Setting: This study conducted in Al-Hadeka center at Fayoum governorate, Egypt. Sample: A purposive sample of 200 pregnant women was included in this study. Tools of data collection: Four tools were utilized to collect data in this study (1) Structured Interviewing schedule, (2)Modified high risk pregnancy scoring tool, (3) Women’s perception regarding risky pregnancy questionnaire and (4): Perception of pregnancy risk Questionnaire(self-rating) ( PPRQ). Results: This study revealed that the highest percentage of participants was reported low and fair level of perception regarding risky pregnancy (72%). More than half of participants were categorized as high and moderate risk pregnancy (53%), and a significant negative correlation was reported between pregnant women’s perception regarding risky pregnancy and their current pregnancy risk score (P. 0.0001). Conclusions: A statistical significant negative correlation reported between pregnant women’s perception regarding risky pregnancy and their current pregnancy risk condition score (r = -0.42) with (P.0.0001). Recommendations: Designing extensive intervention program is recommended to improve women perception in relation to risky pregnancy, and further studies can be replicated on large sample at different settings to validate and generalize findings of the current study

ORGANIZATIONAL JUSTICE PERCEPTION AND JOB BURNOUT AMONG NURSES AT PORT SAID SELECTED HOSPITALS

Background: Organization justice alludes to the degree to which nurses perceive working environment strategy, cooperation, and results to be reasonable, a major result of low levels of justice in organizations is increasing levels of job burnout among nurses. Study aim: is to investigate organizational justice perception and their relation to job burnout among nurses at Port Saidselected Hospitals. Subjects and Method: Descriptive correlational examination configuration was led in all inpatient divisions at Port-Saidselected Hospitals on 206 nurses. Data collection tools incorporated Colquitt's Organizational Justice Scale and Maslach Burnout Inventory and content validated by a panel of specialists. Results: The study results revealed that around half of nurses had a moderate degree of overall organizational justice and more than one third of nurses had moderate levels of emotional exhaustion. Additionally, less than three quarters of nurses had low levels of depersonalization. Likewise, overall organizational justice and it's all dimensions has a statistical significant negative correlation with total job burnout. Conclusion and recommendations: Nurses' perceived moderate degree of organizational justice, interactional justice scored the highest percentage. Whereas, a moderate level of burnout. Negative significant correlation between organizational justice and job burnout. However, negative significant correlations between all organizational justice and its dimensions with emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and total job burnout. The study recommends that a performance appraisal system with relevant job description should be applied to distributive justice by nurse manager.

Influence of self-compassion, self-efficacy abstinence and suicidal behavior in clients with Substance Use Disorders

Background: Substance Use Disorder destroys economy, health, relationships and career and has several complications including relapse that often remain untreated. The recent massive increase in drug over dose deaths and suicide from Substance Use Disorder highlights the importance of assessing suicide risk in patients receiving poly or mono substances which remains in limbo. Aim: this study aimed to investigate the relation between self-compassion on self-efficacy abstinence and suicidal behavior among patients with Substance Use Disorders. Design and participants: A descriptive correlational design was applied in the present study. This study was conducted at out patient's clinic of The Psychiatric and mental health hospital affiliated to ministry of Health and Population (MOHP). The study subject was composed of a convenience sample of 107 clients. Tools: three tools were used to collect the data for the study: Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), the suicidal behaviors Questionnaire – Revised (SBQ-R) and Alcohol Abstinence Self-efficacy Scale (AASES). Method: The actual study was including interview which lasted between 30 to 45 minutes. Each patient was approached on an individual base and interviewed in privacy by the researcher, signed the informed consent and accomplished the study tools. Results: there was a statistical significant negative correlation between self-compassion and suicidal behavior while a statistical significant positive correlation between self-efficacy and self-compassion was found. Conclusion: Higher levels of self-compassion and self-efficacy may help buffer risk of active suicide among clients with substance use disorders.

Study of nursing interns' needs through their practical competency self evaluation

Nursing needs highly specialized competencies to accurately determine patients' states and cope with the problems that may occur during nursing care. The purpose of the study was to assess nursing interns' needs through their practical competency self evaluation. Design: A descriptive correlational resaerch design was utilized to conduct this study. Sampling: It consisted ofall available nursing interns (380) who were enrolled in internship year within the academic year 2019-2020. Setting: It was conducted at different departments and units at governmental and private hospitals. Instrument: Practical competency self evaluation questionnaire was used for data collection.Results: Showed that more than half of nursing interns (59.2%) were competent, while more than two fifths (40.8%) were incompetent. The highest mean score with the first ranking related to practical competency self evaluation was professional behavior, while the lowest mean score with the last ranking was critical thinking. Also the highest mean score with the first ranking related to practical needs was critical thinking Conclusion: More than two fifths of nursing interns (40.8%) had practical competency needs and there was highly statistical significant negative correlation between nursing interns' practical competency self-evaluations and their needs. Recommendation: hospitals should provide adequate training programs to improve nursing interns' practical competency and their needs to have high competency level.

Do difficulties in emotion regulation impact self-esteem and adult attachment? – the role of trauma

Introduction Experiencing trauma in childhood, adolescence or adulthood has severe negative impact on several areas of individuals' lives. Concerning their psychological health, consequences often arise in terms of emotional deficits, self-esteem and attachment [1]. Strategies of emotional regulation (ER) are extremely important in the individual’s development and have implications in their self-concept and self-esteem [2]. The literature suggests that a better ER is directly associated with better self-esteem [3]. Some studies also show an association between attachment and the level of self-esteem [4]. Better attachment in adults is associated with high and stable levels of self-esteem [5]. The objective of this research is to study the impact of ER, self-esteem and attachment in Portuguese adults (above 18 years old) who have experienced trauma. This study contributes to scientific innovation in this field, considering that we found results never obtained in a Portuguese sample. Materials and Methods This study comprised 137 Portuguese individuals’ (69.3% women and 30.7% men) with ages between 18 and 70 years (M = 39.49, SD = 12.49), of which 74 (54.0%) experienced trauma in the last three years. This study was carried out by filling out online questionnaires and the link to the study was disclosed by e-mail and in social networks. The participants responded to a sociodemographic questionnaire, a checklist of some types of trauma experienced in the last three years, the Difficulties in Emotional Regulation Scale (DERS) [6], the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) [7], and the Adult Attachment Scale (AAS-R) [8]. The study was conducted in accordance with all the ethical principles. Results The results showed a significant negative correlation between the DERS and the total score of the RSES (r = −0.509, p < .001) as well as between the DERS Strategies subscale and the RSES (r = −0.541, p < .001). There was a significant statistical negative correlation between the DERS Awareness and the AAS-R (r = −0.232, p = .006), and a significant statistical positive correlation between the total score of the DERS (r = 0.557, p < .001), the DERS Non-Acceptance (r = 0.500, p < .001) the DERS Strategies (r = 0.516, p < .001) and the AAS-R Anxiety. The results also showed significant statistical differences between individuals who experienced trauma in the Anxiety dimension of the AAS-R [F(1,136) = 8.91, p = .003]. Those who experienced trauma showed higher anxiety (M = 2.19, SD = 0.75). Discussion and conclusions The results showed that if difficulties of emotional regulation and limited access to emotional regulation strategies decreases, self-esteem increases, which corroborates the literature [3]. Concerning the adult attachment, we found that if anxiety increases, difficulties of emotional regulation also increase, as well as lack of acceptance of emotional responses and limited access to emotional regulation strategies. Some studies reveal that attachment styles influence the strategies to express and regulate emotions [9]. All these findings have an impact on clinical and social levels, as they guide therapists to work in these specific areas with individuals who have suffered some form of trauma. Thus, our results help to develop psychological intervention programs to prevent psychopathology. Further studies should focus on the results of preventive and interventive efficacy of therapies implemented in society that focus on emotion regulation, self-esteem, and adult attachment in traumatised individuals.

Effect of Donor Variables on Platelet Yield Among Donor Undergoing Plateletpheresis at Transfusion Medicine Department, Dhaka Medical College Hospital (Experience of 350 Procedures)

Background: The platelet transfusions help in prevention of bleeding related complications and thus prevents morbidity and mortality in thrombocytopenic patients. Platelet transfusion plays an important role in the treatment of haematological, oncological, surgical, and transplant patients. Platelets are transfused by two methods i) by fractionation of whole blood and ii) by platelet apheresis. Over the last decade there has been a trend towards the use of SDPs rather than pooled random donor platelets in thrombocytopenic patients. Optimization of platelet yield is an emerging issue to identify factors which may help in selecting donors to obtain higher platelet yields in shorter time and consequently better clinical outcome.&#x0D; Objective: The quality of single donor platelets (SDP) in terms of yield influences the platelet recovery in the recipient. The aim was to identify the SDP donor factors that influence platelet yield.&#x0D; Methods: The study was undertaken at transfusion medicine department, DMCH from 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2017. The study included 350 plateletpheresis procedures. All procedures were performed according to manufacturer’s manual and standard operating procedure.&#x0D; Results: During the period of study, 350 platelet pheresis donors were studied. All of the donors were male. Platelet yield showed high statistical significance with pre donation platelet count and its indices. (p=0.000). Statistical significant negative correlation was seen between pre donation Hb concentration and the platelet yield. (p =0.005). No statistical significance was seen height (p=0.933), weight (p=0.760) of donor on platelet yield.&#x0D; Conclusion: Platelet recovery in the patient is influenced by the transfused dose of platelets, which in turn is dependent on the quality of the platelet product in terms of yield. Various donor factors such as pre donation platelet count and haemoglobin concentration may affect platelet yield.&#x0D; J Dhaka Medical College, Vol. 28, No.2, October, 2019, Page 179-183

Prevalence of Problematic Pornography Use and Attitude Toward Pornography Among the Undergraduate Medical Students

Background:There are mixed views on categorizing pornography as addiction or as a sexual compulsivity or a subset of hypersexual behavior. Due to rise in the Internet access and technologies, the possibilities of conduit for sexual interactions, online pornography, and other type of repetitive behaviors have increased.Aims:The current study aimed to find the prevalence of problematic pornography use and attitude toward pornography.Methodology:A cross-sectional study was carried out among 1,050 undergraduate medical students to assess the prevalence of pornography addiction and attitude toward pornography. A Google document containing structured questionnaire in 3 different parts: (a) demographic details of students, (b) Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale, and (c) attitudes toward pornography scale. This Google document was shared with all the undergraduate students through email address and WhatsApp group. Participants who did not respond to the questionnaire were sent 3 reminders at a gap of 3 days. The responses were recorded in Excel sheet and analyzed using Epi-Info software.Results:Prevalence of problematic pornography use among participants was 12.5%. There was statistically high prevalence of problematic pornography use among male participants ( P &lt; .001), nearly daily consumption of pornography per week ( P &lt; .001) and more than 20 min of consumption per day ( P &lt;.001). A statistical significant negative correlation was shown (r = −0.483, P &lt; .001) between age of first exposure to pornography and problematic pornography consumption score. Males, being in a relationship, and those with problematic pornography use had higher score on attitude toward pornography scale.Conclusion:It is important to provide education to students about the effects of problematic pornography use because there is negative correlation between exposure to pornographic imagery on the Internet and levels of genital and sexual esteem; pornography use was associated with poor quality of life, and depressive and anxiety symptoms. Gender-specific discussions so as to promote sexual health and participation in media literacy education would be beneficial for young people in changing attitude toward pornography.

The Effectiveness Of Non Invasive Hemodynamic Parameters In Detection Of Spinal Anesthesia Induced Hypotension During Cesarean Section

ABSTRACT Introduction: Hypotension is the most frequent consequence of spinal anesthesia in cesarean section. It results in harmful effects on mother and newborn. Aim: This study aim was to evaluate the correlation of positional changes in hemodynamic (heart rate and blood pressure) measured before spinal anesthesia in anticipation of occurrence of hypotension throughout cesarean delivery. Methods: 100 ASA grade I parturient were selected for this prospective observational study. Preoperative sociodemographic data, parity, and hemodynamic parameters were recorded including changes in systolic, diastolic, mean arterial blood pressure, and heart rate after positional shift from supine to lateral and sitting positions. Intraoperative, occurrence of hypotension was noted. Results: With hypotension as the dependent variable, the age, parity, heart rate at supine position, and changes in (heart rate, systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressure) from supine to lateral position, and from supine to sitting position had high statistical significant negative correlation with blood pressure as P value <.05. Multivariate logistic analysis to assess predictors of hypotension concluded that changes in hemodynamic variable from supine to lateral position only significant predictor were (∆ heart rate, ∆ diastolic and ∆ mean blood pressure), and changes in hemodynamic variable from supine to sitting position only significant predictor were (∆heart rate and ∆ diastolic blood pressure). Discussion: Elevated sympathetic activity before neuraxial anesthesia was associated with higher risk for post-spinal hypotension. The great variability in hemodynamic after positional change indicates higher sympathetic activity to blood vessels. The high rise in the autonomic activity, the higher the risk for post-spinal hypotension Conclusion: Age, parity, and positional changes in hemodynamic were correlated with blood pressure reading after spinal anesthesia during cesarean delivery.

Effect of Resilience Intervention on Nurses' resilience and Psychological Problems during The COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: Nurses are vital resources for every country. Their mental health and psychological wellbeing are crucial not only for continuous and safe patients care, but also for control of any outbreak. Resilience can be described as the ability to get better after difficult life experiences or overcome change or disasters. So, it is important to help nurses for building their resilience. Objective: the study aimed to evaluate the effect of resilience intervention on nurses' psychological problems, and their resilience during time of coronavirus pandemic. Setting: the present study was conducted at two settings in Tanta city, Egypt: Psychiatry, Neurology,&, Neurosurgery center that is affiliated to Tanta University, and Al-Minshawy General Hospital that is affiliated to Ministry of Health and Population. Subjects: 70 nurses who are caring for patients with corona virus. They were selected by using convenience sampling design. Tools: three tools were used to collect the necessary data:Socio-Demographic Questionnaire developed by researchers, Four Dimensional System Questionnaire (4DSQ) was developed by Terluin .B (2012), and Connor - Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) was developed by Connor &Davidson (2003) .The participants divided into small groups and attended eight sessions of resilience intervention through zoom cloud meetings. Results: there was a statistically significant improvement in nurses' resilience & psychological problems after the intervention, Also, a statistical significant negative correlation was found between resilience and all psychological problems. Conclusion: resilience intervention is proved to be effective in improving nurses’ resilience and psychological health. Recommendations: Continuous training intervention that targeting and enhancing resilience are important to be planned and implemented to improve psychological wellbeing among frontline nurses who are caring with patients infected with corona virus.

Correlation between clinical outcomes and spinopelvic parameters in patients with lumbar stenosis undergoing decompression surgery.

The aim of this study is to determine if there is a relation between preoperative sagittal alignment, based on radiographic parameters, and clinical outcomes, after lumbar decompressive procedures, in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). This study enrolled patients with LSS who underwent lumbar decompressive procedures, between January 2016 and December 2017. Preoperative spinopelvic parameters were measured, and patients were divided into radiological groups according to the median of the following variables: relative lumbar lordosis (measured minus ideal lumbar lordosis), relative pelvic tilt (measured minus ideal pelvic tilt) and sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Clinical outcomes were compared between these groups and included the Core Outcome Measures Index, EuroQoL Five Dimension Questionnaire (EQ-5D) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores before and 1 year after surgery. Further correlation statistics between sagittal radiological measurements and the postoperative outcome scores were performed. The study included 104 patients. We did not find any clinically important difference in clinical outcomes between radiological groups. However, in correlation analyses we found a significant but weak statistical correlation between relative lumbar lordosis and both preoperative and postoperative ODI, as well as a significant statistical negative correlation between SVA and postoperative EQ-5D. Preoperative spinopelvic parameters did not significantly correlate with clinical outcomes after decompression surgery for LSS on non-deformity patients. Patients had a comparable improvement after surgery, regardless of their preoperative sagittal alignment.

Occupational Pesticides Intoxication among Agricultural Workers

Background: Pesticide intoxication is a public health problem in many developing countries. Approximately 18.2 per 100 000 agricultural workers worldwide have occupational-related pesticide acute and chronic toxicity symptoms. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the toxic symptoms in pesticide-exposed agricultural workers. Patients and Method: A cross sectional study was conducted on 390 agricultural workers using an interview questionnaire that consists of socio-demographic and exposure data, safety practices and self-reported toxicity symptoms. Physical examination and investigations were done. Results: Among the self-reported toxicity symptoms, cough was the most common acute symptom (59%) while skin problems were the most reported chronic symptoms (11.5%). There was a statistically significant difference regarding age between those with & without blurring of vision [(median, 50 and 39 years respectively) P < .001], muscle spasm [(median, 49 and 40 years respectively) P < .001] and skin problems [(median, 48 & 41 years respectively) P < 0.007]. Regarding duration of exposure, there was a statistical significant difference between those with & without blurring of vision [(median, 10 and 50 years respectively) P < .001], muscle spasm [(median, 10 and 6 years respectively) P < .001] and skin problems [(median, 12 and 6 years respectively) P < .001]. There was statistical significant negative correlation between serum cholinesterase level and age, duration of pesticides exposure and body mass index. Conclusions: The most self-reported pesticides toxicity symptom was cough (59%) while walking problems were the least reported one (5.9%). Age and duration of pesticides exposure are significant risk factors for pesticides toxicity.

Risk factors related to oral candidiasis in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome.

Background Candidiasis is the most frequent mycotic infection of the oral cavity. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of clinical oral candidiasis and Candida albicans yeast in a population diagnosed of primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) and to study the possible factors associated with this infection. Material and Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in 61 pSS patients (60 women, 1 man, mean age 57.64±13.52) where patient based information (demographic and medical, tobacco and alcohol consumption history), intraoral parameters (presence of dentures, clinical signs of candidiasis), salivary analytical information (number of Candida albicans as colony-forming units per millilitre (CFU/mL), salivary pH levels, unstimulated whole saliva (UWS) and stimulated whole saliva (SWS) were collected. Results 13.1% of pSS patients presented oral signs of candidiasis. Denture stomatitis and angular cheilitis were the most common lesions. 87.5% of patients with clinical candidiasis presented reduced pH levels and salivary flow in both UWS and SWS. A significant statistical negative correlation was found between CFU/mL of Candida albicans and levels of UWS and SWS. A negative correlation was found between pH levels and CFU/mL, although not statistically significant. Conclusions A reduced salivary flow may predispose pSS patients to Candida albicans overgrowth, which may show with clinical signs. Preventive measures are of great importance to avoid and to treat this condition promptly. Key words:Sjögren’s syndrome, oral candidiasis, oral lesions, Candida albicans, oral yeast, salivary flow rate, hyposalivation.