Use Of Chi-square Test Research Articles

The effect of educational intervention based on social support theory on the perceived stress caused by the covid-19 pandemic in patients with diabetes in hormozgan (2020–2021)

BackgroundPeople with diabetes are more at risk of covid-19. Perceived social support plays an important role in maintaining people’s health and reducing the negative effects of stress caused by the environment and society. The present study was designed and implemented with the purpose of determining the effect of educational intervention based on social support theory in reducing stress caused by the covid-19 pandemic in people with diabetes.MethodsThe current investigation was an interventional and semi-experimental study conducted on 212 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Eligible participants were diabetic individuals capable of utilizing virtual platforms and not afflicted with COVID-19. Exclusion criteria encompassed unwillingness to continue study participation, absence from multiple training sessions, and development of a specific illness during the study period. Random allocation placed patients into either the control or intervention group. The intervention group received educational materials via WhatsApp, while the control group did not receive any intervention. The researcher administered a questionnaire to collect demographic information and assess perceived social support among the patients. Data analysis involved the use of chi-square tests, independent and paired t-tests, as well as ANCOVA.ResultsThis study revealed that the mean age of patients in the control and intervention groups was 46.35 ± 14.15 and 51.72 ± 11.57, respectively. Most of the diabetic patients in both groups were female, married, had a diploma, were housekeepers, and had an income between 2 and 5 million Tomans. According to the results obtained in all subscales of social support theory as well as the perceived stress score due to the corona pandemic after the educational intervention, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups (P < 0.05), so that the score of all subscales of social support theory in the intervention group was higher than the control group. But the perceived stress score caused by Corona in the intervention group was significantly lower than the control group.ConclusionThe results of this study illustrate the noteworthy influence of social support training in lessening perceived stress among patients with diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, healthcare providers are encouraged to integrate social support education programs into comprehensive care initiatives for diabetic patients, particularly during periods of heightened stress like the current coronavirus pandemic.

Outcomes of Antithymocyte Globulin and Cyclosporine for Severe Aplastic Anemia

Background: Aplastic anemia (AA) is mediated by T cell destruction of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells causing pancytopenia and bone marrow hypoplasia. The current standard of care for severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or immunosuppressive therapy (IST) with antithymocyte globulin (ATG) plus cyclosporine (CsA) with or without eltrombopag (Epag), a thrombopoietin receptor agonist. HSCT is preferred for SAA in young adults as a curative option, but only a small proportion of patients have histocompatible siblings and mortality increases with age. The IST plus CsA combination with or without Epag has led to survival rates comparable with those observed with HSCT recipients. However, complete hematologic remission is rare with IST and there is a considerable risk of clonal complications, including PNH evolution and progression to MDS. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of ATG plus CsA therapy in a large cohort of SAA patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed medical records of 156 patients with SAA, aged ≥2 years treated with ATG plus CsA with or without Epag at our institution between July 2000 and January 2023. Hematologic responses were evaluated at 3-, 6- and 12-months post therapy initiation. Super response (SR) was defined as hemoglobin ≥12 g/dL, platelet count ≥150x10 9/L and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) ≥1.0x10 9/L; complete response (CR) was defined as hemoglobin ≥10 g/dL, platelet count ≥100x10 9/L and ANC ≥1.0x10 9/L. Partial response (PR) was defined as not meeting the criteria for CR and SAA. Overall response encompassed SR, CR, and PR. Statistical analyses were performed with the use of Chi-squared test and Kaplan Meier method. Results: The median age at diagnosis was 52 (IQR 30-66) years, 47% were male, and 86% were Caucasian. Twenty three percent of the cohort had coexisting paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Most patients were treated with ATG plus CsA (92%), the remaining 8% additionally received Epag. Overall response rates were 70%, 67%, and 77% at 3-, 6- and 12-months post-treatment initiation, respectively. CR was achieved in 10%, 15%, and 18% at 3-, 6- and 12-months, respectively. SR was achieved in 16.3% of patients at 12 months, as shown in Figure 1. Patients who achieved SR were young with median age at diagnosis of 28 years, while those who achieved PR or no response had a median age of 54 and 56 years, respectively. Patients who responded to the ATG + CsA therapy had significantly higher baseline ANC (p=0.04), absolute reticulocyte count (ARC) (p&amp;lt;0.001) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) (p&amp;lt;0.001). Pre-treatment median values of ANC, ARC and ALC were higher for patients who achieved SR compared to the rest of responders. With a median follow up time of 4.5 years, the estimated median relapse free survival was 9.2 years (95% CI, 3.2 - not reached [NR]) (Figure 2). Of the entire cohort, 21 (13%) patients progressed to acute myeloid leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome. At data cut off, a total of 66 patients had died; the estimated median OS was 11.6 years (95% CI, 8.4 - NR). In particular, 30 patients died within the first 12-months, 13 within 3-months of ATG initiation from treatment-related complications, 6 from pneumonia and the rest from unknown causes. Conclusion: The findings of our study demonstrate that ATG plus CsA is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with SAA, especially in the older patient population where HSCT-related toxicities can lead to high mortality. Those with higher baseline ALC, ANC and ARC were more likely to respond to therapy compared to those with lower counts. A small percentage of patients progressed to myeloid neoplasia. Mortality within the first 12-months was high, indicating the need for close monitoring to avoid treatment-related mortality.

Complementary and alternative medicine use among people living with HIV in Shiraz, Southern Iran.

Living with HIV requires lifelong care to support engagement with and adherence to antiretroviral therapy. The Middle East and North Africa region provides access to ART, but research is lacking on the lived-experiences of people living with HIV. Globally, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasingly used by patients who need support alongside receiving medical treatment for chronic conditions. This study aims to examine the frequency and reasons behind the use of CAM, as well as identify its associated factors among people living with HIV in Shiraz, Iran. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 320 patients (aged 18-70 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of HIV residing in Fars province and diagnosed between 1999 and 2019 were recruited randomly through their clinical record numbers from five HIV treatment centers. They were surveyed on their quality of life and CAM use via the Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) and a semi-structured survey of "CAM use." The data analysis for this study involved the use of Chi-squared test, independent t-test, and multiple logistic regression model. Of 287 patients, 89.22% reported using CAM in the previous year. CAM use was more prevalent among those with a family history of CAM use (94.3% vs. 81.8%, p = 0.023). Frequent reasons for using CAM were reported to be sexual dysfunction (32.4%), depression (28.3%), thirstiness (23.3%), and nausea (17.5%). Quality of life, as measured via the SF-36 questionnaire in all its 8 sub-domains, did not differ among those who used CAM versus those who did not (61.5 ± 27.6 vs. 58.1 ± 30.9, p = 0.626). CAM was used among a majority of people living with HIV in Shiraz, Iran. People who used CAM appeared to experience a similar quality of life relative to those who did not use CAM. Future studies on the modalities of engagement with CAM can improve patient-physician shared decision-making and increase lifelong care options for people living with HIV.

P-055 Four decades of sperm donation: Motivation and attitudes among donors

Abstract Study question How has the attitudes and motivation towards donation among sperm donors developed through the years from 1992, 2002, and 2012 to 2022? Summary answer Altruism and economic compensation remain the primary motivations, but there are significant changes in responses for certain life and attitude-questions from current to previous years. What is known already The growing application of medically-assisted reproduction (MAR) has made treatment with donor sperm commonplace, and in recent years more people have been seeking pregnancy using donor sperm. With the global shortage of sperm donors, it is important to seek the opinion of the donor population on the perspectives of anonymity, motivations, information-sharing, and feelings towards the donor-conceived children, as well as the psychological factors related to being a donor. Previous studies have shown that altruism is the primary motivation and changing aspects of the donor population is of interest to all who seek to maintain the application of sperm donation. Study design, size, duration The study was based on the same questionnaire from the three preceding decades with a few updated modifications in the 2022-setup. Active sperm donors from the Danish sperm bank Cryos International were invited by email to participate in the study in the period June 9th to July 1st 2022. This is one of the largest studies of its kind to seek the opinion of sperm donors. Participants/materials, setting, methods Results from 173 donors were compared with previous answers from donors in the same sperm bank: 1992 (n = 39), 2002 (n = 58), and 2012 (n = 91). In 2012 and 2022, donors could choose between being ID-release (formerly known as non-anonymous) and non-ID-release (anonymous). Anonymized answers provided from the questionnaires were analyzed statistically to compare ID-groups and investigate changes in responses from previous surveys with the use of Chi-Squared tests and logistic regression. Main results and the role of chance There was a significant increase in the proportion of donors being ID-release from 29% in 2012 to 54% in 2022. The altruistic motivation of helping childless people was the most important factor to both ID-release donors and non-ID-release donors. Still, economic compensation was an invariable term of condition. In general in 2022, donors were willing to donate sperm to same-sex couples (80%) and single women (68%), and 55% were positive towards donation to transgender males. Logistic regression showed that ID-release donors were more likely to want information about donor offspring (OR = 1.80, [95% CI 1.02, 3.16]), while there was no association with having a partner. Also, a positive association between ID-release status and intending to inform current or future children about their sperm donation (OR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.10, 6.85) was observed. Having a partner was not significantly associated with the chance of donors wanting to inform current or future children about donations (OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.90, 1.05). The findings of this study presented evidence that the donor population was not homogeneous in relation to several aspects of donation and had diverse opinions towards mutual information sharing. Limitations, reasons for caution The number of participants increased from 39 in 1992 to 173 in 2022. In 1992, donors who were not yet approved for donation were included, unlike the following years. All donors were anonymous in 1992 and 2002 due to legislation. Only in 2012 and 2022, donors could differentiate between ID-types. Wider implications of the findings The questionnaire clearly shows that the needs and attitudes of donors have developed across years. Different attitudes between ID-release and non-ID-release donors suggest that donor profiles fit people with different requirements. It is advisable to continually update provided services to fit the donors’ needs and opinions concerning mutual information. Trial registration number Not applicable

(212) Do Women with Remittent-Recurrent Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) have Higher Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction? A Transversal Analytic Study of Brazilian Patients

Abstract Introduction Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) which is characterized by inflammation, demyelination, axon loss and gliosis. More than 2.8 million people worldwide are affected by MS, mainly young people at reproductive age with significant lifelong repercussions. Among several MS symptoms, sexual dysfunction (SD) is one of the most neglected during routine clinical care. Objective We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of SD in female patients diagnosed with Remitting-Recurrent MS (RRMS), compared with a control group of women without comorbidity and to stratify the different causes and factors that can lead to SD. Methods This transversal analytic study was carried out by Santa Casa de São Paulo, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, São Paulo/SP, Brazil, between November 2020 and November 2021. Our sample included 80 patients diagnosed with RRMS and 106 control group. We have collected demographic data and all participants underwent neurological examination. Questionnaires about sexual dysfunction (Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire - MSISQ-19- and Female Sexual Function Index - FSFI) and about depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale – HADS, Beck's Depression Inventory – BDI- and Beck anxiety inventory-BAI) were applied. Baseline characteristics were reported as proportions and mean ± SD or median ± IQR as appropriate according to data distribution. The presence of SD was described according to the evaluated qualitative parameters and the association with the use of Chi-square tests or exact tests was verified and the quantitative characteristics were compared according to the presence of dysfunction with the use of t-Student tests or Mann-Whitney tests. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM-SPSS for Windows versão 20.0 Results We observed high prevalence of SD in both groups (43.4% and 38.8%, respectively, patients with RRMS and control group) according to FSFI analysis. A higher statistically prevalence (56.3%) of sexual dysfunction in patients with RRMS was observed when using the MSISQ-19 as a tool for assessing sexuality in this population, in comparison with FSFI scale (p = 0.016). The presence of anxious (53.2% to RRMS and 47.2% to control group by BAI) and depressive symptoms (37.2% to RRMS and 38.8% control group, by BDI) were statistically similar between the groups (p &amp;gt; 0.05). Both groups revealed high rates of anxious and depressive symptoms. There were no other statistically significant factors associated with RRMS on the prevalence of SD. Conclusions We did not find a higher prevalence of SD in MS patients when compared to the control group. Nevertheless we found a higher prevalence in both groups and the specific tool (MSISQ-19) was able to reveal that MS patients did have higher prevalence of SD. Besides that, anxious and depressive symptoms were also statistically significant in MS patients and are related to SD, so we strongly suggest that healthcare providers assess and treat these comorbidities in all RRMS patients in paralel with sexual dysfunction approach and we also suggest the use of the specific questionnaire to deal with their sexual function. Disclosure No

EFFICACY OF TOPICAL TRANEXAMIC ACID TO REDUCE BLOOD LOSS AFTER CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFTING (CABG)

Background: Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass technique has a coagulopathy issue. Many factors act on the coagulation process such as heparin level, thrombocytopenia, increased fibrinolysis and acquired platelet dysfunction. The human body responds to stress with dramatic resilience. For example, bleeding diathesis is common with on pump, after injury clotting mechanisms are immediately activated to reduce blood loss, the blood volume is restored by shifting the fluids from extracellular compartment and redistribution of blood flow occurs. Fibrinolytic cascade is activated with CPB usage. Before it was thought that excessive bleeding after CPB was due to platelet dysfunction and depletion. Recently, it was suggested by many lines of information that fibrinolytic cascade activation leads to bleeding during postoperative period. Multiple agents like Tranexamic acid and Aminocaproic acid etc are anti-fibrinolytic agents that can be administered to minimize the bleeding postoperatively.&#x0D; Objectives: To compare the efficacy of topical application of Tranexamic acid to reduce blood loss after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG).&#x0D; Methods: It is randomized controlled trial. This research program was carried out at the Unit of Cardiothoracic &amp; Vascular Surgery, Institute of Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore from December 6th, 2017 to December 5th, 2018. First patient evaluated on 11th December 2017. Seventy patients were enrolled, who were eligible for this study, achieving the inclusion criteria. Two groups of the selected population were made by randomization. Group A comprised 35 patients to whom 1 gm of diluted Tranexamic Acid using 100 ml normal saline solution is poured to the pericardial cavity. Group B involved 35 patients as well, whom were given standard of care treatment which in this case is 100 ml normal saline. Since 100ml normal saline did not contain any active ingredient for treatment, therefore it was considered as placebo. Intervention (Placebo or TXA) was considered efficacious if it resulted in blood loss of less than 500ml in 72 hours from immediately post-op to 72 hours post-op. The efficacy of drugs within groups is compared by the use of Chi-square test. Independent sample t-test was applied for data analysis of blood loss with p-value ≤0.05 being taken as significant.&#x0D; Results: In our study, total70patients were enrolled. Group-A (Tranexamic Acid) and Group-B (Placebo) were made. In group-A, there were 30 (85.7%) male and 5(14.3%) female patients. In group-B, 28(80.0%) were male and 7(20.0%) were female. In our study population, mean age of patients were 52.4±9.9 years and 53.6±10.1 years in group A&amp;B respectively. In group-A, there were 22(62.9%) patients in which the intervention showed efficacy (blood loss &lt;500ml), while only 09(25.7%) patients in group-B showed blood loss of &lt;500ml, p-value of 0.002 being statistically significant.&#x0D; Conclusion: Topical application of Tranexamic Acid reduces blood loss after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG).

Application of forensic accounting techniques in the South African banking industry for the purpose of fraud risk mitigation

The purpose of this study is to investigate the application of forensic accounting techniques in relation to fraud risk mitigation. This study employed an explanatory research design and a qualitative approach accompanied with a purposive sampling method. A primary data source was devised with a focus on the 17 licensed commercial banks registered in South Africa. By obtaining a true reflection of the situations in the banks, a conclusion was drawn following the outcome of the inferential statistical analysis. The research was conducted at the individual and organisational levels, with the bank consultants presenting their views. One hypothesis was formulated and non-parametric statistical analyses involving the use of Chi-square test, Fisher's Exact test and Spearman’s correlation were carried out. The results obtained substantiate that the loopholes created as a result of non-effective application of forensic techniques are partly responsible for some cyberfraud incidents in the banking industry. There is no sufficient evidence to ascertain whether the fraud risk assessment and management in the banking industry has a relationship with the effective application of forensic accounting techniques in terms of the identified causes of cyberfraud. However, the findings establish a positive correlation between fraud risk assessment and management as it relates to forensic accounting implementation. This study provides an insight into the significance of forensic accounting applications for fraud risk mitigation. There is still a death of information regarding the forensic accounting for fraud risk mitigation; hence, it is envisaged that this study will add to the existing literature in this regard.

The assessment of the impact of cyberfraud in the South African banking industry

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to assess the impact of cyberfraud in the South African banks with the aim to provide recommendations to effectively mitigate it.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a qualitative approach involving the use of structured questionnaires. The questionnaires were made available to the staff of 17 licensed banks in South Africa who deal with management, operation, administration and banking services. Two hypotheses were formulated and non-parametric statistical analyses involving the use of Chi-square test, Fischer’s Exact test and Spearman’s correlation were carried out. The two hypotheses formulated were tested to draw a conclusion.FindingsThe results obtained indicate that the impact of cyberfraud in the South African banking industry is highly significant and has affected the reputation of some of the banks. This calls for the need to review the diverse ways of curbing cyberfraud to lessen their impact and that of associated fraud risks on the banking operation.Practical implicationsThis study provides an analysis on the relationship cyberfraud occurrences and the reputation of South African banks. The implementation of the recommendations may reinforce the existing security measures in the fight against cyberfraud.Originality/valueThe novelty of this study lies in the fact that the assessment of the impact of cyberfraud on the banking industry in South Africa has not been sufficiently highlighted by the existing literature.

The relative age effect in top 100 elite female tennis players in 2007-2016.

The Relative Age Effect (RAE) has been the subject of many studies, but few have focused on professional athletes in individual sports. The aim of this study was to verify the existence of the RAE among elite senior female tennis players (top 100 players) in the WTA Rankings (n = 1000) in the years 2007-2016. The analysis was performed among top 100, resp. top 10 female tennis players, among players in 4 age subgroups and among left-handed (LH) and right-handed (RH) players. The existence of the RAE was assessed with the use of chi-square test (goodness of fit). More than half of top 100 players were born in first semester: both in individual years (53.0-63.0%) and in the whole observed period (58.4%). Significant RAE (ES medium) was observed in top 100 female players only in 2012 and 2016; significant RAE (ES small) was detected in the period of 2007-2016. Among the top 10 players, significant RAE (ES medium) was demonstrated during the whole period. No significant RAE (ES medium) was detected in the 17-18y subgroups, significant in 19-24y and 25-30y (ES small) as well as in 31-36y (ES medium). Although significant RAE was observed in the subgroups of LH and RH female players, ES was large only in the LH. The results contribute to the expansion of the knowledge about the reduction of the RAE existence in adulthood among coaches, athletes and tennis officials.

Występowanie dolegliwości bólowych kręgosłupa u osób uprawiających amatorsko jazdę konną

Introduction. While riding a horse, proper seat requires the trunk positioning so that the rider's centre of gravity overlaps with the horse's centre of gravity. Seat errors can lead to repeated and cumulative spinal overloads. The aim of the study was to analyse the incidence of back pain in people who practice amateur horse riding. Material and methods. The study involved 88 people aged 40-45 years, associated in equestrian centers. The research tool was the author's questionnaire, Neck Disability Index (NDI) and Oswestry Distability Index (ODI). The collected research results were analysed with the use of Chi-square test and Mann-Whitney U test. Results. Statistically significant relationships were found between the incidence of pain location and gender (p = 0.001), and also between between the gender and the opinion on the need to use physiotherapy in case of back problems (p = 0.049). Conclusions. Women report pain in the lumbar and thoracic spine more frequently, while men report pain in the cervical section and entire spine. Women in a greater percentage than men believe that people who practice horse riding as an amateur should attend physiotherapy in case of pain.

Microfinance Companies on Entrepreneurship Development in Nepal

This is survey based article. It is conducted with different microfinances institutions (MFIs) that branches are located in Bharatpur, Chitwan and Gaidakot, Nawalparasi. Respondents are 120 micro-entrepreneurs and 20 employees of the same MFIs are taken as respondents. Data and information are collected through questionnaires and interview. The questionnaires are distributed among the 120 sample micro-entrepreneurs and 20 employees of MFIs. The relationship between MFIs and entrepreneurships are analyzed through the use of chi square test. The article concluded that MFIs play significant role in enhance micro-enterprises operation. The study concluded that there are various barriers impede entrepreneurs’ development. The major challenges involve negligence of government for the entrepreneurship development and lack of finance for the proper development of the enterprises. Poor financial literacy, poor management of market area and the lack of infrastructure development are also the challenges. Other factors that hindered enterprises growth that was cited by entrepreneurs: Interest rates charged are too high, rigid payment period; local market is not well diversified, high competition among the local entrepreneurs, no support from the local municipality. Despite the various problems and challenges, MFIs have a positive impact on the entrepreneurship development in overall study.

Towards UNAIDS 95-95-95: HIV knowledge and associated factors among young adults of 18 to 24 years age group in Northern Namibia

Background: Young adults have been worst affected by the HIV epidemic, and in many countries, they contribute about 50% of new infections. The infections are driven by lack of HIV knowledge, which contributes to poor HIV testing uptake among the young adults. This study aimed to assess the level of HIV knowledge among young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 years who receive medical services at a private hospital in northern Namibia.Methods: A single centre, hospital based, analytic cross-sectional study design was used for the study. 84 participants were selected using a simple random sampling method. A structured self-administered questionnaire adopted from the HIV-KQ-45 questionnaire was used for data collection. Statistical analysis included the use of Chi-square tests and logistic regression.Results: The findings of the study indicated that respondents who had good HIV knowledge were 58%. Chi-square tests showed there were statistically significant associations between residence and the HIV knowledge of participants, and between education level and HIV knowledge of participants (p&lt;0.01). Logistic regression revealed that participants living in rural areas were statistically significantly less likely to have good HIV knowledge, OR = 0.24, 95% CI (0.10-0.61).Conclusion: The low level of good HIV knowledge among young adults in northern Namibia is concerning, considering that the HIV/AIDS epidemic has been around for more than four decades. Our findings underscore the need for tailored HIV knowledge delivery strategies, especially for rural communities.

Sexual dysfunction and satisfaction in Tunisian couples during postpartum: A prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Introduction Female sexual dysfunction is known to have a huge impact on quality of life and is highly prevalent during the postpartum period. Males are afraid of hurting a female and females are afraid of insufficient satisfaction of a male partner. Several influencing variables were found to be associated with impaired sexual function postpartum. Objective Our study aims to evaluate sexual satisfaction in the postpartum period and identify predictors of postpartum sexual activity. Methods Between November 2018 and December 2019, 150 women in their third trimester of pregnancy were enrolled in a prospective cohort study at gynecology and obstetrics Department-Ben Arous Regional Hospital. after childbirth were evaluated at 6 months postpartum and was assessed using validated self-report questionnaires: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) validated Arabic version. This questionnaire evaluates the different parameters of female sexual function, recommended by the American Foundation for Health and Sexual Function. The collected data were systematically transcribed into a database and database, and their analysis was carried out with the help of the statistical software "SPSS 21" with the use of chi-square tests, and the ANOVA method. Results The mean score on the FSFI satisfaction domain was 3.62 postpartum, compared with 4.38 during pregnancy. After delivery, 30% of women were not satisfied with their sexual activity. At six months postpartum, the degree of satisfaction was significantly associated with the route of delivery (p = 0,01), breastfeeding (p = 0,04) and contraception (p =0,03) Conclusions Our findings indicate that breastfeeding women, vaginal delivery and contraception have an increased likelihood of sexual functioning problems 6-month postpartum Health-care providers need to be encouraged to counsel on postpartum sexuality and influencing factors during prenatal classes to foster a positive approach to postpartum sexuality. Disclosure Work supported by industry: no.

Postpartum dyspareunia and sexual functioning: A prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Introduction Dyspareunia is a common short-term pregnancy complication. Possible risk factors for perineal pain after childbirth include perineal trauma, mode of delivery and breastfeeding. Objective Considering the important implications of dyspareunia on women's quality of life. Our study aims to investigate the prevalence and determinants of dyspareunia and sexual dysfunction before and after childbirth. Methods Between November 2018 and December 2019, 150 women in their third trimester of pregnancy were enrolled in a prospective cohort study at gynecology and obstetrics Department-Ben Arous Regional Hospital. Dyspareunia and perineal pain after childbirth were evaluated at 6 months postpartum and were assessed using validated self-report questionnaires: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) validated Arabic version. This questionnaire evaluates the different parameters of female sexual function, recommended by the American Foundation for Health and Sexual Function. The collected data were systematically transcribed into a database and database, and their analysis was carried out with the help of the statistical software "SPSS 21" with the use of chi-square tests, and the ANOVA method. Results The mean FSFI pain domain score was 3.68 after delivery. Indeed, in our study, 82% of women reported dyspareunia after delivery. Sixteen percent of women rated the degree of discomfort during penetration after delivery as high and 18 % as very high. At six months postpartum, the degree of dyspareunia was significantly associated with the route of delivery (p = 0,005), perineal injury (p = 0,001) and breastfeeding (p = 0,026). Conclusions Our findings affirm that dyspareunia is a very common complaint after childbirth. Given the high prevalence and its impact on a woman's quality of life, special attention should be paid to this common complaint during the postpartum period. Disclosure Work supported by industry: no.

Computer games: from combating anti-deprivation to algorithmic culture and ...digital imbecility

Introduction. Different genres and scenarios of computer games influence the formation of students’ cognitive abilities as well as their mental health. This influence should be taken into account in the scientific and methodological base of the didactic system of modern education. The purpose of the article is to assess the influence of computer games on the formation of the students’ algorithmic culture, to offer recommendations on reducing the extent of deprivation and cyber addiction leading to digital imbecility of teenage gamers in its extreme form. Research methods. The research participants were represented by servicemen who had arrived to a military training unit of Omsk, Siberian Unit of the Russian Federation National Guard Troops, to take part in the general military training programme (60 persons); full-time 1st and 2nd year students of Novosibirsk State University (59 persons); high-school learners of Novosibirsk region (over 2,000 respondents). The used materials included uniquely designed questionnaires, scales, in particular, A.V. Grishina’s questionnaire, along with observation of the young audience involved in computer games. To check the reliability of conclusions, statistical methods of data processing were used with the use of chi-square test. Results. It was found out that the attitude towards video and computer games depended on the social group of the respondent. For instance, “adequate” attitude towards video games was demonstrated by 29% of the students and 60% of the servicemen; “borderline” – by 37% of the students and 28% of the servicemen; and “addicted” – by 34% of the interviewed students and 7% of the servicemen. In addition, a correlation was revealed between the high-school students’ reasons for choosing a particular game and their performance (non-performance) of their social role. The boys were in the lead when it came to modelling conflict situations; however, no quantitative differences were observed between the boys and the girls as to the presented set of computer games and the motives for their choice. No statistically significant differences were found between the frequency distribution within the two groups, χ2 = 2.78 &lt; χ20,05. Conclusion. Computer games contain a didactic potential connected with individualisation of cognitive processes and motivation correlated with the learner’s belonging to a certain subculture. The learners’ passion for computer games is divided into three categories: adequate, borderline and addicted. The respondents perceived the game both as a communication technique and a way of recreation.

Antenatal corticosteroids and neonatal outcomes in preterm birth in the United States.

To determine the impact of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) on neonatal outcomes in a large United States population of preterm births. Retrospective cohort study utilizing the United States Natality Live Birth database from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2016-2017). Women with singleton preterm births were eligible for inclusion. Out-of-hospital births, fetal anomalies, and cases where ACS exposure was unknown were excluded. Neonates from reported live births were divided into two groups based onwhether the mother received ACS before delivery or not.The incidence of several reported neonatal outcomes werecompared between the two groups at each gestational week. Subsequently, comparisons between three gestational age groups (23 0/7 to 27 6/7, 28 0/7 to 33 6/7, and 34 to 36 6/7weeks) were performed. Statistical analysis included use of Chi-squared test and multivariate logistic regression. Of the 588,077 live births included, 121,151 (20.6%) had been exposed to ACS. ACS use was associated with a significantly decreased odds of neonatal mortality and 5-min Apgar score <7, but an increased rate of several neonatal outcomes such as surfactant replacement therapy, prolonged ventilation, antibiotics for suspected neonatal sepsis, and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions. ACS administration prior to preterm birth is associated with a decrease in neonatal mortality and low Apgar scores, and increased odds of several adverse neonatal outcomes.

Online education status at government and private dental college during COVID-19 pandemic in India: A comparative study

Introduction: Pandemic COVID-19 has spread all over the world very profligately in a short interval. This has had disturbed the main determinant of the future economics that is the education sector. India is a country with a vast number of colleges and dental colleges are a part of nurturing budding dentists. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the status of online education at government and private dental colleges of India during a COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study; conducted among the faculties of all Indian government and private dental colleges taking online classes for bachelor of dental surgery students. A pretested and validated questionnaire was sent to faculty members through a Google form. To assess the differences in perception among faculties of different colleges, the use of Chi-square test was done whereas descriptive statistics surveyed the frequency distribution. Results: More than 70% of faculty members both from private and government colleges agreed that tracking of students is difficult during online classes. A laptop was used by the maximum number of respondents, that is, government (77.8%) and private (81.5%) as the mode for taking online classes. About 50% of government faculties and 59.5% of private faculty members used zoom as an online platform tool for taking classes whereas others used the Google meet app for taking classes. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has paved the way for E-Learning in dental education in India. Faculties agree to complete the theory syllabus and conduct sessional examinations as an alternative during the lockdown period. However, they show strong reservations in carrying out practical/clinical simulations and university exams online.

Influence of socio-economic status on the nutrition status of born to young mothers in Transmara west Narok County, Kenya.

The purpose of this study was to determine influence of social economic status on the nutrition status of born to young mothers in Transmara west Narok County, Kenya. Five health facilities were purposively selected in Transmara West Sub County, Narok County by use of analytical cross-sectional study design. A sample size of 246 infants and 246 adolescent mothers were recruited from the health facilities. Quantitative data was analysed using SPPS for windows version 24.0 and ENA for SMART survey 2011. The relationship between nutritional status and other variables was established by use of chi-square test at a significance level of less than 0.05. Most of the mothers were between 16 to 17 years with the youngest mother being 14 years old. The study concluded that the young teenage mothers depended on their families as the main sustenance and others did casual jobs to fend for themselves and their infants.The majority of the adolescent mothers could be classified as of low socio-economic backgrounds. The study recommends that children of young mothers are more vulnerable to malnutrition hence should be given more priority by the government and other stakeholders.

Morbidity, Health and Nutrition Status of Infants Born to Young Mothers in Transmara West Narok County, Kenya.

The purpose of this study was to examine Morbidity, health and nutrition status of infants born to young mothers in Transmara west Narok County, Kenya. Five health facilities were purposively selected in Transmara West Sub County, Narok County by use of analytical cross-sectional study design. A sample size of 246 infants and 246 adolescent mothers were recruited from the health facilities. Quantitative data was analysed using SPPS for windows version 24.0 and ENA for SMART survey 2011. The relationship between nutritional status and other variables was established by use of chi-square test at a significance level of less than 0.05. Most of the mothers were between 16 to 17 years with the youngest mother being 14 years old. Malnutrition levels were 17.1 per cent 22.0% and 22.0 per cent for wasting, stunting and underweight respectively. Meal frequency, exclusive breastfeeding and infant illness two weeks before the study were significant (p&lt;0.05) factors associated with malnutrition. The study concluded that the most prevalent illnesses were malaria and common cold. Educational level of the mother did not influence infants’ the nutritional status. The study recommended that Infant feeding practices showed a positive significant relationship with nutritional status (underweight); that is exclusive breastfeeding and meal frequency. Infants who attained the minimum meal frequency and those who achieved the minimum acceptable diet were less likely to be underweight.

Analysis of outcome in two different dressing techniques of surgical incisions at tertiary care hospital

Background: Study is conducted to compare surgical site infections (SSIs) at 30 days in early and delayed dressing removal in primary closure of clean and clean contaminated surgical incisions. Also to compare pain, duration of postoperative hospital stay, and cost of dressing in both groups. Study result may change the technique of dressing and reduce the cost of dressing, pain, and hospital stay for patients after surgery. Materials and Methods: This is a Single center, prospective randomized controlled study including 200 patients divided into two groups at tertiary care hospital. Study included patients aged above 15 years who need surgical intervention with abdominal incision. Study compares results of early and delayed dressing removal in laparotomy surgery with clean and clean contaminated wounds. Results: The study shows no significant difference in outcome in relationship to age of these two Groups A and B (P = 0.94). P value for superficial SSI is 0.76, which is statistically insignificant. P value for deep SSI is 0.71, which is also statistically insignificant. Fisher's exact test for SSI with burst abdomen showed P = 1.0, which is insignificant. By applying t test to data in relationship to pain, we find P < 0.001, which is highly significant. With the use of Chi square test, P value for postoperative hospital stay is 0.03, which is statistically significant. The mean cost of dressing is significantly lower in GroupA than in GroupB (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: SSI is same in both early and delayed dressing removal in primary closure of surgical incisions. There are no significant changes in terms of superficial and deep SSIs and burst abdomen, following early dressing removal. Moreover, the duration of hospital stay is significantly lower in patients with early dressing removal as compared to conventional dressing removal of incision following surgery. Postoperative pain and cost of dressing are also reduced in early dressing removal compared to delayed dressing removal of primary incision closure following surgery. As early dressing removal reduces pain and cost of dressing, it can be applied in routine clean and clean contaminated surgical incisions.