Test For Equality Of Variances Research Articles

Paravertebral Blocks in Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction Do Not Induce Increased Postoperative Blood or Drainage Fluid Loss

Background: Women undergoing a mastectomy often suffer severely from the sequelae of losing one or both breasts. Implant-based breast reconstruction restores female body integrity but can result in significant postoperative pain. The use of paravertebral catheters has been shown to aid significantly in pain management during the postoperative recovery. However, the vasodilation that is induced by paravertebral blocks may lead to prolonged drainage fluid secretion, blood loss and increased likelihood of revision surgery. Therefore, we analyzed the effects of paravertebral blocks after combined mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction. Methods: We analyzed 115 breast surgeries at the department of Plastic Surgery at the University clinic of St. Poelten between 1 August 2018 and 31 December 2022. Patients were analyzed regarding postoperative hemoglobin loss and drainage fluid volumes and their correlation with paravertebral blocks. Statistical analyses were performed using Levene’s Test for Equality of Variances within our cohort. Results: The postoperative hemoglobin loss did not differ significantly between our groups (p = 0.295). Furthermore, a paravertebral block did not increase the amount of postoperative drainage fluid volumes (p = 0.508). Women receiving paravertebral blocks also did not stay longer in hospitals (p = 0.276). No paravertebral block-associated complication was seen. Conclusions: In this study, we demonstrated paravertebral blocks to be safe adjuncts in breast reconstruction to minimize pain without leading to increased blood loss or seroma formation. This indicated that vasodilatation induced by paravertebral blocks did not negatively influence the postoperative recovery. In conclusion, postoperative pain management using paravertebral blocks can be a beneficial therapeutic adjunct in surgical management of breast cancer patients.

Assessing The Role of Continuous Professional Development in Curriculum Adaptation Among Secondary School Teachers in Awka South Local Government Area

In today’s rapidly evolving educational system, the ability to adapt curricula to meet different student needs is more important than ever. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) has been suggested as a key factor in empowering teachers to enhance their curriculum adaptation skills. Hence, this study assessed the role of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in enhancing curriculum adaptation among secondary school teachers in Awka South Local Government Area. Using a descriptive correlational research design, the study surveyed 117 teachers from both public and private schools, with a balanced representation of gender. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire, which was validated by three experts and tested for reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha (0.87). The data analysis method began with descriptive statistics, which included calculating the variables for gender, sample size (N), mean, standard deviation (Std. Deviation), and standard error of the mean (Std. Error Mean). The hypotheses testing method employed involved conducting an Independent Samples t-test, preceded by Levene's Test for Equality of Variances. The findings revealed that CPD significantly influences teachers’ ability to adapt the curriculum, providing them with innovative strategies, updated knowledge, and practical tools. The study highlighted that CPD plays an important role in addressing challenges faced by teachers, such as diverse student needs and curriculum changes. It concluded that CPD is essential for curriculum innovation and teacher professional growth. The study recommends continuous investment in CPD programs to enhance curriculum adaptation practices in secondary schools.

The effect of python programming language teaching on 7th grade students programming self-efficacy skills

This study aimed to investigate the impact of teaching the Python programming language on the programming self-efficacy of 7th-grade students. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a one-group pretest-posttest model. The study sample consisted of 10 students enrolled in the 7th grade at a public school located in a rural district of northern Turkey during the spring semester of the 2023-2024 academic year. These students attended a school affiliated with the Ministry of National Education. The study group was selected using the convenience sampling method, a type of purposive sampling. Data for this research was collected using the Programming Self-Efficacy Scale for Secondary School Students, developed by Kukul, Gökçearslan, and Günbatar (2017). The collected data were analyzed using the Jamovi software. To assess the suitability of the data for normal distribution, skewness and kurtosis coefficients, as well as Shapiro-Wilk test values (a normality test), were examined, alongside an inspection of histogram plots. The results indicated that the data were normally distributed with respect to both research questions. For the first research question, a paired sample t-test was conducted to determine whether there was a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores. The analysis revealed that Python instruction did not have a significant effect on the programming self-efficacy of the 7th-grade students. Regarding the second research question, the homogeneity of the data was assessed. Levene's test for equality of variances was performed, confirming that the assumption of homogeneity was met. Consequently, independent sample t-tests were conducted to examine the significance of the difference in pre-test and post-test scores based on gender. The results indicated no statistically significant difference in programming self-efficacy scores between male and female students.

Examination of Gender Performance in Physics in Mankranso Senior High School

Despite ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity in science education, the persistent gender gap in physics remains a pressing concern. This study investigated potential gender differences in physics performance among senior high school students at Mankranso Senior High School in Ghana. A descriptive survey design was employed, utilizing student physics test scores from a stratified random sample (N = 111; 79 males, 32 females) from a population of 184 students. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests were used to analyse the data. Descriptive statistics revealed a slightly higher mean score for females (M = 43.65, SD = 21.78) compared to males (M = 39.39, SD = 21.15). However, a two-sample t- test (t = - 0.721, df = 56, p = 0.474) showed no statistically significant difference in mean physics test scores between male and female students. Levene’s test for equality of variances (F = 0.210, p = 0.649) confirmed that the variability of scores was not significantly different between genders. The following conclusion was made, while females have a slightly higher average score (42.31) compared to males (41.29), the difference is not statistically significant. The study emphasizes the importance of creating equitable learning environments, focusing on individual student needs, and promoting inclusive practices that encourage all students to thrive in STEM fields. The following recommendations was made; be aware of potential unconscious biases that might impact how you interact with or perceive students of different genders. Offer students opportunities for enrichment, advanced coursework, or participation in science competitions. Further investigation and consideration of other potential factors influencing performance is recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

Automatic measurement of stimulation to maximum negative dv/dt in V5 and V6 leads to confirm left bundle capture for conduction system pacing

Abstract Introduction Left bundle area conduction system pacing is obtained when the ventricular pacing lead is implanted into the right ventricular septum and captures the left bundle branch, demonstrated by right bundle branch morphology in the lead V1 and short stimulation to R-wave peak time (SRWPT) in leads V5 or V6. Manual measurements are challenging and result in significant variability. Maximum negative dv/dt in leads V5 and V6, occurring immediate after maximal lateral wall depolarization, represents the ideal measurement of synchronicity of left ventricular depolarization, as suggested by the guidelines. Objective To test feasibility of automatic algorithm to measure the maximum negative dV/dt in comparison to manual SRWPT measurement in V5 and V6. Method Data was collected from 7 patients with confirmed left bundle branch capture. Three trained operators manually measured SRWPT in leads V5 and V6 (Figure A). An algorithm capable of automatically measuring stimulation to maximum dv/dt was retrospectively applied to the same measured beats. Variability and correlation of measurements was compared between manual and automatic using the Bartlett Test for equal variance. Results In total, 137 individual beats were measured in the 2 leads by three operators resulting in 822 manual measurements. The mean variability of SRWPT in V5 and V6 was 2.9 ± 0.7 msec and 3.1 ± 1.1 msec, respectively (inter-operator correlation of 0.83). In contrast the stimulation to max negative dv/ dt mean variability in V5 and V6 was 1.3 ± 0.4 msec and 1.2 ± 0.5 msec, respectively (P < 0.001). The comparison of variation in measurement between manual and automatic measures are shown in a box and whisker plot in figure 2. Conclusion Manual measurement of SRWPT can be challenging resulting in higher variability compared to an automatic algorithm measuring max negative dv/dt. This study demonstrates the feasibility of automatic interval measurement in conduction system pacing; however, further studies are required to validate the reliability of such tool.Fig 1.Example ECG interval measurement

Scrapbook Media On Increasing The Knowledge Of Mother Todders In Stunting Prevention In Lipah Rayeuk Village Jeumpa District, Bireuen Regency

The incidence of short toddlers or often called stunting is one of the main nutritional problems faced by toddlers in Indonesia today. The results of the 2022 Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI) for each province throughout Indonesia, Aceh is in the fourth highest position for stunting cases with a percentage (31.2%). The first position is the province, namely West Sulawesi (35.0 %), second is Papua (34.6%), third is West Nusa Tenggara (32.7%). The lowest position is the province of Bali (8.0 % ) and followed by the second lowest, namely DKI Jakarta (14.8%). This research method is quantitative using a Quasy Experimental design method with a Two-Group Pretest-Posttest Design. The sampling technique was the total population as 41 people in the intervention group and 41 people in the control group. The research results showed that the average value of knowledge about stunting in the intervention group was 28.1465 and the control group was 21.5854. Thus, from descriptive statistics it can be concluded that there is a difference in the average knowledge of mothers of toddlers about stunting between the intervention group and the control group. Sig value. Levene's Test For Equality of Variances is 0.557 > 0.05, so it is guided by the value contained in the "Aqual variances assumed" table, namely the Sig value. (2-tailed) of 0.000 < 0.05, meaning that there is an influence of the use of scrapbook media in health promotion on increasing the knowledge of mothers under five in preventing stunting in Lipah Rayeuk Village, Jeumpa District, Bireuen Regency in 2024. The conclusion is that there is an influence of the use of scrapbook media in health promotion on Increasing the knowledge of mothers of toddlers in preventing stunting in Lipah Rayeuk Village, Jeumpa District, Bireuen Regency was declared effective.

Applying an augmented reality game-based learning environment in physical education classes to enhance sports motivation

This research investigates the impact of an Augmented Reality (AR) game-based learning environment on enhancing motivation and physical activity levels in sports education. The study involved two groups of 30 students each, with one group using the AR-enhanced environment and the other participating in traditional sports education methods. Over the course of one semester, data were collected on physical activity levels and motivation through structured questionnaires and activity monitoring. The analysis, which included independent samples t-tests and Levene's tests for equality of variances, revealed that students in the AR-enhanced group exhibited significantly higher levels of physical activity and motivation compared to the control group. These findings suggest that AR can transform sports education by making learning experiences more engaging and interactive, thereby increasing student participation and enthusiasm. This study supports the integration of AR technologies in educational curricula to enhance the learning dynamics and outcomes in sports education. It also underscores the need for further research to explore the scalability and long-term impacts of AR applications across various educational settings and disciplines. The outcomes of this research advocate for a systematic inclusion of innovative technological solutions to meet the evolving needs of learners and educators in the increasingly digital and interactive learning environments of today. Keywords: augmented reality, game-based learning, sports education, physical activity enhancement, motivational improvement, educational technology integration, interactive learning environments.

Cardiomyopathy Classification System

Cardiomyopathy encompasses various types and refers to a condition affecting the heart muscle, which impairs the organ's normal pumping function. When diagnosing cardiomyopathy, it is crucial to identify the specific type of the disease. This paper outlines the benefits and implications of a new classification system for cardiomyopathy, highlighting its potential to improve diagnosis and treatment, as well as its impact on research and clinical trials. The methodology section details the research design, data collection methods, and sample selection process. The data analysis section explains the techniques used for data processing and statistical analysis. Finally, the evaluation and validation section describes the expert review process and the testing andvalidation methods applied. This research adopts an interpretive paradigm, which emphasizes the importance of individual experience in understanding social realities. The statistical analysis assessed the diagnostic capability of genetic testing across genders using ROC curves, revealing strong performance for both males (AUC=.856, p < .001) and females (AUC=.835, p < .001), surpassing pure chance. A one-way ANOVA test was conducted to examine age differences among four genetic patient groups. The assumption of homogeneity of variance was satisfied, as indicated by Levene's test for equality of variances, F(3,156) = 1.277, p > .05. Significant age differences were found among the groups, F(3,156) = 5.537, p < .005. An evidence-based classification system would enhance diagnostic accuracy, treatment efficacy, and research quality, thereby improving outcomes for patients with cardiomyopathy.

Gaussian Mixtures with common Variance

The interest in Gaussian mixtures has grown significantly in recent years, primarily owing to their adaptability and widespread applications across various fields of knowledge. A specific category within these mixtures is Gaussian mixtures with common variance, wherein the assumption is made that the variances of all subpopulations are equal. This study delves Gaussian location mixtures family, exploring their applications, characterizations, and the challenges associated with estimation. Following this, we introduce an approximation to the beta distribution. When addressing scenarios involving two subpopulations, a novel test for equality of variances is proposed, employing the beta distribution approximation. This paper presents a new test for variance equality which is a novelty in the Gaussian mixture context. Practical applications for the proposed test are provided and discussed.

Brain morphometric changes in children born as small for gestational age without catch up growth.

Most infants born as small for gestational age (SGA) demonstrate catch up growth by 2-4 years, but some fail to do so. This failure is associated with several health risks, including neuropsychological development issues. However, data on the morphological characteristics of the brains of infants born as SGA without achieving catch up growth are lacking. This study aims to determine the structural aspects of the brains of children born as SGA without catch up growth. We conducted voxel- and surface-based morphometric analyses of 1.5-T T1-weighted brain images scanned from eight infants born as SGA who could not achieve catch up growth by 3 years and sixteen individuals with idiopathic short stature (ISS) to exclude body size effects. Growth hormone (GH) secretion stimulation tests were used to rule out GH deficiency in all SGA and ISS cases. The magnetic resonance imaging data were assessed using Levene's test for equality of variances and a two-tailed unpaired t-test for equality of means. The Benjamini-Hochberg procedure was used to apply discovery rate correction for multiple comparisons. Morphometric analyses of both t-statical map and surface-based analyses using general linear multiple analysis determined decreased left insula thickness and volume in SGA without catch up growth compared with ISS. The brain scans of patients with SGA who lack catch up growth indicated distinct morphological disparities when compared to those with ISS. The discernible features of brain morphology observed in patients born as SGA without catch up growth may improve understanding of the association of SGA without catch up growth with both intellectual and psychological outcomes.

Experimental and Statistical Study of Flexural Strength in Concrete using Novel Kaolinite Coal

The purpose of this research is to measure the flexural strength of both traditional and newly modified concrete beams with kaolinite coal added. Two sets of eighteen samples each were ready for the data collection. Two sets of specimensare prepared: 18 specimens of one set using modified concrete that has been treated with kaolinite coal, and the other set of 18 specimens using traditional concrete beams. The preparation and examination of the samples involved the use of flexural strength test equipment. The beam specimen size was taken as 100 x 100 x 500mm. The SPSS software version 29 has been utilized to conduct the independent sample T-test. The statistical analysis included Levene's test for equality of variances and a t-test for equality of means to assess the flexural strength of two groups. Levene's test revealed a significant difference in variances between the groups (F=2.909, p=0.097). Subsequently, the t-test assuming equal variances indicated a highly significant difference in means (t=-16.954, df=34, p=0.000). The mean difference in flexural strength was -1.43578, with a standard error of 0.08469 and a 95% confidence interval ranging from -1.60788 to -1.26367. The t-test assuming unequal variances corroborated the significant difference in means (t=-16.954, df=29.822, p=0.000), with a consistent mean difference and confidence interval. The modified concrete beam sample with kaolinite coal added has a mean flexural strength of 4.75 N/mm2, while the standard concrete beam sample has a mean flexural strength of 2.73 N/mm2.

Discharbing Phobia and Panic Disorders through Therapeutic Photography: Towards Righting Undergraduates Emotions for Performance in FCE, Kontagora.

This study on “Discharging Phobia and Panic Disorders through Therapeutic Photography: Towards Righting Undergraduates Emotions for Performance in FCE, Kontagora” deals with utilization of photographic skills for emotional expression and processing in therapeutic setting. The study adopted Mixed Method design with qualitative and Art-Based methods adopting interview, observation and focus group, while quantitative design adopted quasi-experimental study, with 2×2 factorial design with pretest-posttest non-randomized control group design. Four research questions and four hypotheses were formulated for the study, which 11 students were sampled, using nonprobability sampling technique of convenience sampling, while 14 students who also failed the Instructional Technology test, but did not accept the phototherapy voluntarily, as a way of helping them release emotional struggles were used as control group. Paired and Independent t-test were used to analyse the data, while Levene’s test for equality of variance was adopted to determine the degree of freedom at 0.5 degree. The research questions answered showed a significant difference between pretest and post-test scores among participants, but females were seen to have a high degree of emotional responses – discharging phobia and panic disorders. The stated hypotheses did not recognise significant differences in both emotions and academic performances; thus, the study recommends, among others that photographic component of Educational Resource Centers of tertiary institutions should be expanded to also cater for therapeutic interactions for students.

Experimental and Statistical Study of Flexural Strength in Concrete using Novel Kaolinite Coal

The purpose of this research is to measure the flexural strength of both traditional and newly modified concrete beams with kaolinite coal added. Two sets of eighteen samples each were ready for the data collection. Two sets of specimensare prepared: 18 specimens of one set using modified concrete that has been treated with kaolinite coal, and the other set of 18 specimens using traditional concrete beams. The preparation and examination of the samples involved the use of flexural strength test equipment. The beam specimen size was taken as 100 x 100 x 500mm. The SPSS software version 29 has been utilized to conduct the independent sample T-test. The statistical analysis included Levene’s test for equality of variances and a t-test for equality of means to assess the flexural strength of two groups. Levene's test revealed a significant difference in variances between the groups (F=2.909, p=0.097). Subsequently, the t-test assuming equal variances indicated a highly significant difference in means (t=-16.954, df=34, p=0.000). The mean difference in flexural strength was -1.43578, with a standard error of 0.08469 and a 95% confidence interval ranging from -1.60788 to -1.26367. The t-test assuming unequal variances corroborated the significant difference in means (t=-16.954, df=29.822, p=0.000), with a consistent mean difference and confidence interval. The modified concrete beam sample with kaolinite coal added has a mean flexural strength of 4.75 N/mm2, while the standard concrete beam sample has a mean flexural strength of 2.73 N/mm2.

Biocidal Verification Program for Healthcare Facilities: Evaluation of the Efficacy and Microbial Tolerance of Disinfectants

Context: The disinfection of healthcare facilities is of utmost importance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. In this regard, biocidal activity testing is used to evaluate the efficacy of disinfectants in hospitals. Aim: Establishing a disinfectant efficacy test aimed at combating infections and cross-contamination. Settings and Design: The experiment was carried out in two treatment groups for each of the four microorganisms on ten surface coupons, with a viability control group determined as the baseline inoculum. Methods and Materials: The study used two disinfectants—hydroxyethane (ethylene hydrate) and 2-hydroxypropane (sec-propyl alcohol)—to evaluate their efficacy in reducing bacterial contamination on inanimate surfaces. Statistical analysis used: The data obtained was analyzed using Minitab software, which involved a normal probability plot, a homogeneity of variances test, and a test for equal variances. The statistical significance level was set at α = 0.05. Results: The normal probability plot of microorganism-disinfectant groups with a 95% confidence interval showed improvement in normalization after the logarithmic transformation of datasets. The homogeneity of variances test did not reveal any statistically significant differences between the groups, and all the comparison intervals overlapped for the logarithmically transformed datasets in contrast to the raw datasets. The bacterial reduction after exposure to disinfectants for five minutes compared with the control group in the surface challenge biocidal test expressed as absolute and logarithmic reduction showed a significant reduction in bacterial growth, with Burkholderia cepacia showing greater persistence on the examined sample of the surfaces. Conclusions: The current study showed that the effect of the microorganism tolerance contributed to the variation in responses rather than the disinfectant or the surface types, suggesting the risk of resistant bacteria on the contaminated surface in the dissemination of infections. Thus, monitoring and routine disinfection validation programs for the control of microbial burden in healthcare are crucial for infection and contamination mitigation

Healthcare Providers' Adherence to COVID-19 Prevention and Control Practices in Health Records and Information Management, Ghana.

The impact of contracting coronavirus on healthcare providers (HCPs) affects their ability to combat the infection. The virus can be transmitted through droplets from sneezing, coughing, and yelling, making it essential for HCPs to plan ahead when dealing with patients with respiratory symptoms. The need to assess healthcare providers' perceived adherence to COVID-19 Prevention and Control Practices (PCP) in Health Records and Information Management is vital for optimizing healthcare operations and ensuring the safety of both patients and providers. This study assesses healthcare providers' perceived adherence to COVID-19 PCP in Health Records and Information Management. Subjects and Method. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data from 1268 HCPs working in eight randomly selected hospitals across five regions in Ghana. The survey was carried out from May 15, 2022, to August 13, 2022. Simple random sampling was used to choose these eight facilities from a total of 204 hospitals. Within each facility, HCPs from various departments were selected using simple random sampling. The EpiInfo 7 software's StatCalc tool was used to choose a total sample size of 1268 from an estimated 4482 HCP-PR from the eight hospitals. Compliance with COVID-19 PCP was assessed using a 3-point scale, ranging from one (Yes always) to three (No). Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient was used to examine the statistical reliability of the variables in the dataset. Cronbach's alpha was 0.73 overall, suggesting strong reliability. Bartlett's test for equal variances was used for comparative analysis of health facility and overall mean COVID-19 PCP in different areas of health facilities. IBM SPSS (version 23) statistical software was used for the data analysis process. A total of 1268 HCP-PR participated in the survey, resulting in a 99.6% response rate. Findings reveal that 760 healthcare professionals who handle patients' records (HCP-PR), constituting 60%, consistently followed COVID-19 protocols in the registration and clinic preparation zones. Another 390 individuals (30.7%) adhered to these protocols occasionally, while 119 (9.4%) failed to comply. Similarly, in the filing area, 739 respondents (58.3%) consistently adhered to COVID-19 protocols, 358 (28.3%) occasionally did so, and 170 (13.4%) did not follow the protocols at all. Regarding handling health records cautiously, 540 participants (42.5%) always did, 448 (35.3%) did so sometimes, and 280 (22.2%) neglected these precautions. Additionally, 520 respondents (41.0%) consistently followed COVID-19 precautions when handling computers and other equipment, 393 (31.0%) did so occasionally, and 355 (28.0%) did not adhere to these precautions. The majority of respondents showed good compliance with COVID-19 protocol in the registration and clinic preparation areas. However, in the filing area, just over four out of every seven respondents consistently adhered to COVID-19 PCP. Additionally, four out of every seven participants did not comply with COVID-19 PCP when handling patients' records. Analysis reveals diverse adherence to COVID-19 PCP, and statistical tests show variable performance, highlighting standout health facilities.

Nerve conduction study: A reliable approach to assess the effect of electromagnetic waves on median nerve

Background: Mobile phones and other touchscreen devices emit dangerous electromagnetic radiation that negatively affect nerve function, with the median nerve being the most vulnerable because it is mostly utilized for mobile phone typing. Nerve conduction studies (NCSs) can be used to successfully diagnose this change in nerve function NCS. Aims and Objectives: The goal of the study was to ascertain the impact of electromagnetic waves from mobile phones on the median nerve’s nerve conduction velocity (NCV). Materials and Methods: 150 young, healthy medical students participated in a cross-sectional (observational) study, and they were split into two groups based on how long they used their mobile phones: Group 1 (<30 min usage) and Group 2 (>30 min usage). The median nerves in both upper limbs were measured for their NCV, and the results were statistically analyzed using the student “t” test for equal variance for various parameters. Results: The research found that Group 1 participants, who use cell phones more frequently and for longer periods of time, had significantly reduced (impaired) sensory NCV of the median nerve. Conclusion: Smartphones and other touchscreen gadgets, depending on time of exposure and usage frequency, can negatively impact nerve function, resulting in a decrease in the median nerve’s conduction velocity, and this can be very efficiently diagnosed with the use of NCSs.

Отношение к своему внешнему облику и конструирование воспринимаемого возраста мужчин и женщин: почему женщины выглядят моложе?

Introduction. This study was conducted to identify the influence of gender- and age-related socio-psychological factors on the construction of perceived age in the process of social cognition. The study aims to investigate the characteristics of attitudes toward own appearance and perceived age in 35-75-year-old men and women. Methods. We used the Photo-video Presentation of Appearance procedure developed by T. A. Vorontsova and five diagnostic tools developed by V. A. Labunskaya to diagnose attitudes toward appearance. The main sample comprised 523 subjects (207 males and 316 females) aged 35 to 75 years. The reliability of the research results was achieved by descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation analysis, Student’s t-test, Levene’s test for equal variances, and Mann-Whitney U test. Results. The results of the study showed that (1) mature women (aged 35 to 59) look significantly younger than men of the same age; in old age (60-75 years), the discrepancy between perceived age and chronological age (“years saved”) is similar for men and women (both look on average 3.5 to 4 years younger); (2) significant gender-related differences were found in cognitive, emotional, and behavioral components of attitudes toward appearance among men and women; in old age, differences were observed in only two parameters of attitudes – the desire to improve appearance and ideas about male friends’ assessments of appearance (significantly higher in women); (3) correlations were found between the parameters of men’s and women’s attitudes toward their own appearance and their perceived age, mediated by the life stage. Discussion. The findings were discussed in the context of the social psychology of appearance, the “multifactorial model of attitudes toward appearance”, gender stereotypes, expectations, and the “double standard of aging” between men and women.

The Relationship Between the Covid-19 Vaccination Status and the Reliance on Different Sources of Information Among Pre-service Science Teachers from South African and Indonesian Universities

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of a multifaceted public health approach. Promoting health literacy and safe behaviour to reduce disease spread can be an effective social vaccine. However, the role of science teachers as part of a social vaccine is unclear. Similarly, their responses to health crises and the factors affecting such responses are poorly understood. We investigated the relationship between the COVID-19 vaccination status and the reliance on different sources of information among pre-service science teachers from South African and Indonesian universities as a preliminary effort to understand the role that teachers could play in promoting health literacy and safe behavioural practices. We conducted a survey using a comparative quantitative approach to gather data from 87 South African and 93 Indonesian pre-service science teachers through a closed-ended questionnaire. Different statistical tests were performed using SPSS to analyse the data, including the Mann–Whitney U test, Levene’s test for equality of variance, t-test, regression analysis and analysis of variance. The results show that South African pre-service science teachers reported a lower COVID-19 vaccine uptake than Indonesians. Both sets of participants rely on social media, research articles, textbooks and friends and family to learn about COVID-19. However, reliance on these sources is not significantly associated with vaccination status. We conclude that contextual factors may affect vaccination status. We recommend further research into science teachers’ role in promoting health literacy and safe behavioural practices to reduce the spread of diseases. We also recommend using social media to share scientific information for health education.

Analysis Entrepreneurial Characteristic that Supports Culinary Entrepreneurs to Survive During Covid-19 Pandemic

During COVID-19 pandemic, almost all economic sector in Indonesia fell. Accommodation, food and beverage (culinary) sectors were the third largest industry after the manufacturing and construction industry, which laid off workers. There was one interesting point, in this pandemic storm MSMEs were affected quite badly compared to the economic crisis hit in late 90s. Another interesting point was that some of MSMEs suffered from profit decrease to loss and even bankruptcy. However, some MSMEs could survive. What makes them survive? Through researchers observation, we saw that culinary entrepreneurs as respondents consider some behaviors to be the key to their business survival during the pandemic. Based on theory these behaviors are considered as entrepreneurial characteristics. The research objective of this article is to test confirmation among respondents that entrepreneurial characteristic is the key to survival regarding the demographic and experience factors. This research used a descriptive quantitative method and Levane’s test for equality of variances. As the result respondents showed no differences based on their demographic and experience factors to see that entrepreneurial characteristics is the key of their survival during the pandemic.

A Pilot Study of the Effects of Collagen vs. Whey Protein Supplementation on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness in Healthy Individuals

Introduction: Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common condition characterized by muscle stiffness, pain, and inflammation following intense or unaccustomed exercise. Despite its prevalence, the underlying mechanisms of DOMS remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of collagen supplementation on tissue repair and pain associated with DOMS in exercise-trained individuals. Methods: Fourteen exercise-trained men (n=7) and women (n=7) were enrolled in a randomized, counterbalanced, crossover trial. Participants were assigned to either a whey protein group (n=8) or a collagen protein group (n=6). Each participant consumed 40g of their respective protein supplement daily for four consecutive days. Peak soreness was assessed using self-reported ratings and algometer measurements. Statistical analysis included independent samples t-tests and Levene's test for equality of variances. Results: The analysis revealed no significant difference in peak soreness between the whey protein and collagen protein groups at the 24-hour time point (t(12) = 1.33, p = 0.208). Both groups experienced a decrease in peak soreness over the 24-hour period, but the reduction was not statistically different between the groups. No significant differences were observed in other variables measured. Conclusions: These findings suggest that collagen protein supplementation did not significantly reduce peak soreness associated with DOMS compared to whey protein supplementation in exercise-trained individuals. While collagen supplementation has shown potential benefits in tissue repair and joint health, further research is needed to explore its specific effects on DOMS. Larger studies with different dosages and participant populations are warranted to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of collagen's impact on muscle soreness and tissue repair.