Significant Weak Correlation Research Articles

Correlation of Foot Posture, Dynamic Balance and Gait Speed in Community-dwelling Older Individuals

Introduction: Foot posture is crucial in maintaining stability and balance during movement. It encompasses the position and alignment of the feet and ankles, significantly impacting overall body stability and reducing the risk of falls. Dynamic balance refers to maintaining balance while in motion, encompassing walking, running, and jumping. Aim: To find a correlation between foot posture, dynamic balance and gait speed in community-dwelling older individuals. Materials and Methods: The correlational study included 100 community-dwelling older individuals who met the specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Foot Posture Index was utilised as the outcome measure for foot posture, the Modified Four-Square Step Test (MFSST) for dynamic balance, and the Gait Speed Test for gait speed assessment. Results: The results revealed a weak positive correlation between gait speed and foot posture, with a statistically significant weak positive correlation observed in individuals with normal foot posture. In contrast, a statistically significant moderate positive correlation was found between gait speed, dynamic balance, and pronated foot posture (r= 0.63, P < 0.05). Furthermore, a weak negative correlation was observed between gait speed and supinated foot posture, with a statistically significant moderate negative correlation between dynamic balance and supinated foot posture. Conclusion: Pronated foot posture demonstrated a stronger association with gait speed and dynamic balance than supinated and normal foot posture. These findings suggest that older adults with pronated foot posture experience greater effects on gait speed and dynamic balance. Keywords: Foot posture, Gait, Balance, Elderly

Comparison of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS-4D) and Child Health Utility Index (CHU-9D) in children with oral diseases.

Accurate assessment of child oral health is important for guiding economic evaluations and informing healthcare decision-making. Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS-4D) is a preference-based instrument that measures the oral health-related quality of life of young children. The aim of this study was to compare the utility scores of ECOHIS-4D and Child Health Utility Index (CHU-9D), against an oral health indicator to evaluate which utility score corresponds better with the oral health indicator. The ECOHIS-4D and CHU-9D were applied to 314 parent/child dyads from preschools in a primary healthcare setting in Perth, Western Australia. Four parameters were used to assess which instrument corresponds better with the oral health indicator (decayed, missing and filled teeth score-dmft score): (i) discrimination, the ability to discriminate between different clinical severity groups, (ii) external responsiveness, how much the utility values relate to the changes in dmft scores, (iii) correlation, the association between the two instruments and the related dimensions and (iv) differences in the utility values across the two instruments. Most participants (81%) were 2-6 years old, and nearly 50% had a dmft score <3. ECOHIS-4D demonstrated a superior ability to differentiate between dmft severity groups and respond to changes in dmft scores. A significant weak correlation was observed between dmft and ECOHIS-4D (-0.26, 95%, CI -0.36 to -0.15) compared to a non-significant very poor correlation between dmft and CHU-9D (0.01, 95% CI -0.12 to 0.10). The utility scores of the two instruments had relatively good agreement towards good health and weak agreement towards poor health. ECOHIS-4D, the oral health-specific instrument, is more sensitive in assessing children's oral health-related quality of life than the generic CHU-9D. Thus, ECOHIS-4D is more appropriate for utility estimates in economic evaluations of oral health-related interventions and resource allocation decision-making.

B - 63 Relationship between Executive Functioning and Trauma Symptom Report in Healthy Older Adults.

The study investigated the relationship between trauma symptoms and executive functioning (EF) in healthy older adults, emphasizing the importance of assessing the trauma history of those with subclinical trauma and stressor-related disorders in neuropsychological evaluations. It was hypothesized that age is negatively correlated with trauma symptoms, and trauma symptoms are negatively correlated with EF performance. This cross-sectional investigation included 520 adults ages 50-85 (67.9% Female; Education: 15.95(2.31); 87.9% White, 7.7% Black, 3.3% Asian, 0.6% Native American, 0.6% Other) from the Nathan Kline Institute's Rockland Sample. Trauma was measured by the total raw score of the Trauma Symptom Checklist-40 (TSC-40) and six subscale scores. EF was measured by performance on selected D-KEFS measures. Separate Pearson correlations were used to compare age to trauma scores, and EF performance to trauma scores. The anxiety subscale of TSC-40 showed a significant weak correlation with age, r (518) = -0.138, p = 0.001. Age was not correlated with any other TSC-40 subscales. The TSC-40 sexual abuse (SA) subscale showed a significant weak correlation with Color-Word Inhibition r(518) = -0.096, p = 0.031 and Trail Making-Switching r(518) = -0.106, p = 0.016. The remaining TSC-40 subscales were not correlated with other EF measures. The study demonstrated that the overall severity of trauma symptoms is not associated with age in older adults. Older adults with fewer symptoms associated with SA showed higher EF abilities. Future investigations will assess how gender and socioeconomic status affect the association between trauma and EF in older adults.

Lack of Correlation Between Segmental Trabecular Meshwork Pigmentation and Angiographically Determined Outflow in Ex Vivo Human Eyes.

Trabecular meshwork (TM) pigmentation is not correlated with angiographically determined aqueous humor outflow (AHO) in an ex vivo perfusion model using human eyes. To evaluate whether segmental TM pigmentation is correlated to segmental AHO in human eyes. Postmortem human eyes were acquired, and anterior segments were dissected. TM pigmentation was photographed 360-degrees around the eye. The anterior segments were then mounted onto a perfusion apparatus and perfused with Dulbecco's phosphate buffered saline (DPBS) until a stabile baseline outflow facility was achieved. Aqueous angiography (AHO angiography) was performed using fluorescein (2%), and segmental AHO was documented around the limbus using an angiographic camera (Spectralis HRA+OCT). Circumferential and nasal TM pigmentation were compared with respective angiographic outflow imaging using a Pearson correlation analysis. Segmental TM pigment distribution and segmental AHO were seen. TM pigment was statistically greatest in the inferior quadrant. AHO angiographic outflow was numerically greatest in the nasal quadrant, but this was not statistically significant. No statistically significant correlation was observed (r=-0.083, P =0.06) between segmental TM pigmentation and segmental AHO angiographic signal. Analyzing just the nasal quadrant, a significant weak negative correlation was found (r=-0.296, P =0.001). Segmental TM pigmentation circumferentially around the eye is not a good proxy for segmental AHO circumferentially around the eye and should not be used to guide trabecular minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries.

Diagnostic Value of Labial Minor Salivary Gland Biopsy: Histological Findings of a Large Sicca Cohort and Clinical Associations.

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to analyze labial minor salivary gland biopsy (MSGB) findings of a large sicca cohort and to examine their associations with Sjogren's syndrome (SS)-associated laboratory markers, phenotypic characteristics and systemic manifestations. Moreover, we sought to explore the ability of MSGB to identify SS patients among subjects with pre-diagnosed fibromyalgia (FM). (2) Methods: Included were all patients of three rheumatology departments having undergone a diagnostic MSGB within 9 years. Next to the examination of histological and immunohistochemical findings, we focused on activity and chronicity parameters of the underlying disease, autoantibodies, presence of systemic and hematologic involvement, as well as chronic pain and SS comorbidities. (3) Results: Among the 678 included patients, 306 (45.1%) had a positive focus score (FS). The remaining patients (n = 372) served as control subjects. There were significant correlations between FS and hypergammaglobulinemia (p < 0.001), ANA and rheumatoid factor positivity (both; p < 0.001), a weak significant correlation with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (rho = 0.235; p < 0.001) and a negative correlation with nicotine use (p = 0.002). Within the primary SS subgroup, FS was associated significantly with glandular enlargement (p = 0.007) and systemic hematologic manifestations (p = 0.002). Next to FS, CD20 cell staining showed an excellent diagnostic performance in the diagnosis of SS by an area under the curve of 0.822 (95%CI 0.780-0.864; p < 0.001). Interestingly, 42.1% of all patients with fibromyalgia (FM) having received an MSGB could be diagnosed with SS. (4) Conclusion: By examining one of the largest cohorts in the literature, we could show that MSGB histological and immunohistochemical findings not only play a key role in the classification and diagnosis of SS but could also provide important information regarding SS phenotype and systemic manifestations. Furthermore, MSGB may help differentiate patients with FM from patients with subclinical SS who suffer primarily from chronic pain.

KORELASI HbA1c DAN GULA DARAH PUASA TERHADAP RASIO TG/HDL-K PASIEN DIABETES MELLITUS TIPE 2 BERETNIS JAWA

Background : Most of the causes of death in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are coronary heart disease (CHD) with dyslipidemia as one of its risk factors. The best marker for early detection of dyslipidemia is the ratio of triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C). In T2DM patients, glycemic control in the form of Fasting Blood Sugar (GDP) and HbA1c can be done to avoid the risk of CHD. This study aims to identify the correlation of Hba1c and GDP with the ratio of TG/HDL-K in T2DM patients with Javanese ethnicity.Methods : This research was a cross sectional study involving 107 respondents from several health centers in Semarang City with consecutive sampling method. GDP, HbA1c, and TG/HDL-K ratio were obtained from medical records. Spearman correlation statistical test was used with a significance value of p &lt;0.05. Results: The average HbA1c (7.86 ±1.97%), GDP (160.36± 76.82gr/dL), and the TG/HDL-K ratio (3.50± 2.22) exceeded the normal number. There was a weak significant correlation between GDP and the TG/HDL-K ratio (p=0.020; r=0.224) and there was no correlation between HbA1c and the TG/HDL-K ratio (p=0.549; r=0.059) in T2DM patients with Javanese ethnicity.Conclusion: The GDP of Javanese T2DM patients is weakly correlated with the TG/HDL-K ratio but not with HbA1c. Glycemic control is needed as an early marker of CHD risk in T2DM.&#x0D;

Endobronchial ultrasound sonographic characteristics of mediastinal lymph node in the evaluation of lung cancer.

Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) are essential components of lung cancer evaluation. Features of mediastinal lymph nodes on EBUS and CECT can help in predicting metastatic disease. Clinical, radiological, and EBUS data of patients with clinico-radiological suspicion of lung cancer who have undergone EBUS with no transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) or nonyielding EBUS-TBNA were retrospectively collected from medical records. EBUS features of lymph nodes for metastatic disease [size >1 cm, round shape, heterogeneous echotexture, indistinct margin, coagulation necrosis (CN), absence of central hilar structures (CHS), and grade II-III vascularity] were noted. CECT findings were noted from CECT films and reports to analyze and compare with EBUS findings. Scoring criteria of EBUS sonographic characteristics from previous studies for discriminating benign and malignant lymph nodes were also assessed for possible prediction. 31 patients [male: 18 (58.1%), female: 13 (41.9); age (mean ± standard deviation): 52.9±15.7 years] with CECT findings suggesting lung cancer were studied. EBUS showed mediastinal lymphadenopathy at 82 lymph node stations in 29 patients. Size >1 cm, round shape, heterogeneous echotexture, distinct margin, CN, absence of CHS and grade II-III vascularity at 33 (40%), 28 (34%), 31 (38%), 55 (67%), 3 (4%), 77 (94%), and 6 (7.3%) lymph nodes, respectively, were found. The malignant or benign status assigned to lymph nodes using different scoring criteria was highly discordant. Compared to EBUS, CECT revealed abnormal mediastinal lymph nodes in significantly fewer patients [21 (67.7%) versus 29 (93.5%), p=0.01] involving a lower number of lymph node stations (37 versus 82, p<0.001). Lymphadenopathy frequency at different LNS on EBUS and CECT showed a weak positive but significant correlation (r=0.356; p=0.0426). EBUS characteristics and related scores have limited accuracy in differentiating benign and malignant nodes. CECT underestimates lymphadenopathy in comparison to EBUS. A larger prospective study of EBUS features with cyto/histopathology correlation may elicit its clinical significance and help to create better and more composite scoring criteria.

Correlation of serum biochemical parameters and saliva pH in healthy individuals

Saliva has the potential to work alongside needles in standard medical diagnosis. Yet the number of studies aimed at deciphering the biochemical communication between saliva and the rest of the body’s systems is still very limited. The aim of this study is to investigate the interfluid interaction between saliva and serum by determining the correlation between saliva pH and serum biochemical parameters under mild conditions. Ultimately, using saliva may provide a stress-free diagnostic tool, but more ambitiously, the pH of saliva could present a genuine cost-effective screening tool that may immensely benefit areas with limited access to health care and diagnostic labs. Saliva and blood samples were collected from 43 randomly selected children (7–12 years), living in Jeddah, free from obesity and chronic or systemic body and mouth diseases. A complete serum biochemical analysis was performed, and the salivary pH of all samples was measured immediately at the time of collection. The correlations between saliva pH and serum biochemical parameters were investigated using Univariate and multiple linear regression models. Our results showed that pH has a weak significant positive correlation with total protein and a negative weak significant correlation with urea. Weak correlations suggest the existence of more serum factors to be investigated for their effect on the pH using a stepwise multiple linear regression. The multiple linear models’ calculated saliva pH values were close to the measured values, demonstrating its possible capacity to predict saliva pH using serum parameters. The regression model’s successful prediction of saliva pH using serum biochemicals reflects the significant correlations between the body fluids’ parameters and invites more research to elucidate these relationships.

The effects of alarm fatigue on the tendency to make medical errors in nurses working in intensive care units.

Alarm fatigue resulting from exposure to multiple alarms is an important problem that threatens patient safety. The fact that each device in intensive care units works with different alarm systems increases the number and variety of alarms. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of alarm fatigue on the tendency of nurses working in intensive care units to make medical errors. A cross-sectional and correlational design were used in this study. The study was carried out with 382 intensive care nurses who could be reached via an electronic questionnaire. Data were collected using a 'Personal Information Form', the 'Alarm Fatigue Scale (AFS)' and the 'Medical Error Tendency Scale in Nursing (METSN)'. The mean age of the nurses who were included in the study was 31.52 ± 5.66. While 70.2% of the participants were women, 67% had bachelor's degrees, and 65.4% had been working in the intensive care unit for 1-5 years. The mean total METSN score of the participants was 229.29 ± 15.32, and their mean total AFS score was 20.02 ± 6.15. A negative and weak significant correlation was found between the total mean AFS and METSN scores of the participants (r = -0.275; p < .001). As the alarm fatigue levels of the participants increased, their medical error tendencies increased. It was determined that a one-unit increase in the alarm fatigue level of intensive care nurses increased their tendency to make medical errors by 0.263 units (p < .001). It was found that the nurses had a low tendency to make medical errors and moderate levels of alarm fatigue, and an increase in their alarm fatigue levels significantly increased their medical error tendencies. Institutions should establish alarm management procedures in units with multiple alarm systems, such as intensive care units, and examine the effects of alarms on employees.

Anxiety in adults with asthma during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: a Canadian perspective

BackgroundAsthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease that affects millions of Canadians and often contributes to higher levels of anxiety among patients. Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was a time of increased anxiety and fear among the Canadian population, it was thought that those with asthma may experience heightened anxiety levels due to uncertain access to care, the potential to misinterpret asthma symptoms for symptoms of COVID-19 (or vice versa), and the concern about being treated differently by those around them when experiencing asthma symptoms. Therefore, this study sought to perform a cross-sectional analysis of the asthma-anxiety relationship in adults with and without asthma in the unique context of the COVID-19 pandemic from a Canadian perspective.MethodsThis study employed the COVID-19 Associated Anxiety in Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma patients Experiencing Symptoms (CAAARES) survey, consisting of COVID-19-specific questions, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment-7 (GAD-7) and the Asthma Control Questionnaire-6 (ACQ-6). Data collection occurred through the Qualtrics XM platform and data analyses were conducted with the IBM SPSS Statistics 28 software.ResultsA total of 741 valid responses were collected (asthma group, n = 244; control group, n = 497). 31.6% and 26.2% of respondents in the asthma and control groups, respectively, met the diagnostic criteria for GAD. There was no significant difference (p = .067) in mean GAD-7 scores between the two groups. A Hierarchal Multiple Regression (HMR) model was developed, and neither asthma status nor ACQ-6 score had a significant predictive effect on the GAD-7 score. There was a statistically significant (p < .001) weak positive correlation (r = .22) between GAD-7 and ACQ-6 scores. In a simple mediation (SMM) model, perceived COVID-19 stress of others was not identified as a significant mediator of the relationship between ACQ-6 and GAD-7 (indirect effect β = 0.014).ConclusionOur study of a Canadian cohort demonstrates elevated levels of anxiety overall, amongst both asthma and control groups. While AR status was significantly greater in the asthma group, it was not a significant predictive variable of GAD-7 score. Our data suggests that COVID-19-specific factors appear to have a greater contribution to anxiety than asthma status or control.

ЦИТОКИНОВЫЙ СТАТУС ПАЦИЕНТОВ С ХРОНИЧЕСКИМ ПАРОДОНТИТОМ, АССОЦИАЦИИ И КОРРЕЛЯЦИИ

Subject. The subject of this research is the immunological parameters of the blood serum and the oral fluid.&#x0D; Objectives. The objective of this research is to study the levels of serum and oral cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-4, MCP-1 in women with secondary amenorrhea for at least one year.&#x0D; Methodology. There were 109 women under the supervision of the Ural State Medical University Department of Preventive Dentistry and Propedeutics of Dental Disease. The main group consisted of 76 women with generalized moderate chronic periodontitis (K05.31)and secondary amenorrhea for at least one year. The control group consisted of 33 post-menopausal women with generalized slight chronic periodontitis in remission. The patients of the both groups underwent laboratory serum and oral fluid testing using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-4, MCP-1 were measured in samples using Vector-Best’s tests systems (Vector-Best, Koltsovo, Novosibirsk Region, Russia). The systemic bone mineral density was measured using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) with Discovery W QDR Series X-Ray Bone Densitometer (Hologic Inc., USA).&#x0D; Conclusion. The levels of interleikins TNF-α, IFN-γ and chemokine MCP-1 were found to be elevated in the blood serum and the oral fluid of women generalized moderate chronic periodontitis against the background of secondary amenorrhea for at least one year. In contrast, the serum values of IL-4 revealed statistically lower levels in comparison with the same values of IL-4 in the patients from the control group. We defined the statistically significant (at 0.05) correlation between parameters of salivary IL-4 levels and spine bone mineral density, and also the statistically significant (at 0.05) weak negative correlation between parameters of blood IFN-γ levels and right-hip bone mineral density.

An evaluation of the relationship between clinical requirements and tests of competence in a competency-based curriculum in dentistry

BackgroundThe development of competencies in dentistry is a complicated process that calls for the development of not just cognitive and psychomotor abilities but also behaviors and attitudes that change as technical proficiency increases and meaningful patient encounters occur. This study examined the relationship between the number of clinical requirements completed by dental students and subsequent performance on tests of competence. The null hypothesis stated there would be no significant linear relationship different from zero between absolute clinical requirements and grades attained in various tests of clinical competence.MethodsRetrospective assessment data for 81 students were used in this analysis. Data included the amounts of clinical requirements completed for operative dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, and fixed prosthodontics together with data on the respective performance in tests of competence. Correlation was ascertained between grades for tests of competence and the corresponding clinical requirements using a non-parametric Spearman’s Rho test at an alpha level of 0.05.ResultsFixed prosthodontics and posterior endodontics were the least common procedures completed by dental students. Statistically significant weak correlations were found between the amounts of clinical requirements performed for posterior endodontic(p = 0.005) and operative procedures (p = 0.006) and associated performance in tests of competence. A moderate correlation was found between the number of fixed prosthodontic procedures completed and associated performance in tests of competence. This latter correlation, however, was not statistically significant (p = 0.654). A significant weak correlation was found between requirements completed for periodontics and the associated test of competence (p = 0.04). A highly statistically significant moderate correlation was found between clinical requirements for anterior endodontics and the associated performance in the tests of competence (p < 0.001).ConclusionThe null hypothesis was rejected since a positive correlation was found between the absolute clinical requirements completed and grades in tests of competence. However, only a weak to moderate degree of correlation was found between the completion of clinical requirements and performance in tests of competence for common clinical procedures that new dental graduates should be able to perform.

Study for Assessment of Mental Health in Survivors of COVID-19

Background: The authors aimed to study the levels of anxiety, depression, and stress in survivors of COVID-19, and to correlate their level with severity of COVID-19 infection. Methodology: This study was conducted on a total of 200 survivors of COVID-19 as an observational cross-sectional study. The cohort reported to the Hamidia Hospital, Bhopal, India, during the study period of 21 months. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS21) was used for assessment of mental health. Results: Overall, depression, anxiety, and stress were observed in 38.5% of cases, 38.5% of cases, and 11.0% of cases, respectively. The authors reported a significant association of worst saturation recorded with depression and severity of depression (p&lt;0.05); significant association of depression and severity, and anxiety and its severity; and severity of stress with moderate-to-severe high-resolution CT findings (p&lt;0.05). The authors also documented a medium positive and significant correlation of the severity of COVID-19 infection with stress and DASS21 overall score (analysis of variance: r=&gt;0.40; p&lt;0.05). However, a weak positive but significant correlation of severity with depression and anxiety was noted (r=0.20–0.40; p&lt;0.05). The authors reported a weak positive correlation of worst saturation with depression and anxiety, as well as overall DASS21 score (r=0.20–0.40; p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: COVID-19 has long-term effects, especially in the form of psychological morbidity. Patients have recovered from the physical illness, but psychological distress and mental problems are still persistent among the survivors as the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress is reported to be high among them.

The motivational factors and the perceived effects of attaining higher education among post-diploma graduate nurses and midwives in Kumasi, Ghana: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundGlobally, there has been increased demand for higher education in nursing and midwifery to support evidence-based practice. It is believed that higher education in nursing leads to improved quality of care. The motivation for pursuing higher education, the choice of institution for learning and the effects of higher education programs have not been given much attention in research literature in Ghanaq ObjectiveTo assess the motivating factors, reasons for the choice of institution and the perceived effects of attaining higher educational qualifications among post-diploma graduate nurses and midwives. Study designDescriptive cross-sectional study. SettingKumasi. ParticipantsConvenience and snowball sampling were used to select 523 nurses and midwives who had pursued higher education after their Diploma in Nursing or Midwifery education. MethodA researcher-developed questionnaire was used to collect data on motivation, choice of institution and perceived effects of higher education by nurses and midwives. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and linear regression at 0.05 significance level. ResultsThe greatest motivation for higher education by nurses/midwives was to improve clinical judgment. Academic quality and reputation of the institution were the main reasons for the choice of institution (n = 458, 92.7 %). There were weak but positive significant correlations between the perceived effects of higher nursing and midwifery education and pressure from the workplace (r = 0.204, p < .001), and increasing new demands from clients (r = 0.284, p < .001). Increasing demands from clients (β = 0.203, p < .001) and improving social status (β = 0.264, p < .001) were the motivating factors that influenced the perceived effects of higher nursing and midwifery education. ConclusionThe desire for improved professionalism and increased expertise are the reasons nurses and midwives seek higher education. Health managers should support nurses and midwives to attain higher education to improve the quality of care.

The Impact of Neighborhood and Socioeconomic Disparities on Distal Radius Fracture Follow-Up Adherence.

The aims of this retrospective cohort study were (1) to assess whether the Area Deprivation Index (ADI), a novel neighborhood-level socioeconomic disparities metric, is associated with follow-up nonadherence, and (2) to determine the individual-level socioeconomic factors associated with follow-up nonadherence after treatment of distal radius fractures (DRFs). The authors included all patients who underwent nonoperative or operative management of DRFs at an academic level I trauma center between 2019 and 2021. A manual chart review was performed to collect data on ADI, sociodemographic factors, injury characteristics, conservative and surgical interventions, and health care utilization. There was a significant weak negative Spearman-ranked correlation between ADI state deciles and clinic attendance rates ( rs [220] = -0.144 [95% CI, -0.274 to -0.009]; P = 0.032). Socioeconomic factors associated with significant differences in clinic attendance rates were having a spouse or partner (protective) ( P = 0.007), Medicaid insurance ( P = 0.013), male sex ( P = 0.023), and current smoking ( P = 0.026). Factors associated with differences in no-show rates were having a spouse or partner (odds ratio [OR], 0.326 [95% CI, 0.123 to 0.867]; P = 0.025), Medicaid insurance (OR, 7.78 [95% CI, 2.15 to 28.2]; P = 0.002), male sex (OR, 4.09 [95% CI, 1.72 to 9.74]; P = 0.001), and cigarette use (OR, 5.07 [95% CI, 1.65 to 15.6]; P = 0.005). ADI has a weak, negative correlation with clinic attendance rates after DRF treatment. Significant disparities in clinic follow-up adherence exist between patients on the basis of marital status, insurance, sex, and cigarette use. Risk, III.

SPIROMETRY EVALUATION OF PULMONARY FUNCTIONS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background and Aims: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) during the chronic stage elicits significant micro and macrovascular complication and imposes mortality and morbidity among the individuals. However, the effect of T2DM on the lung as a target end organ damage was not widely studied. Hence, the present study was done for the spirometry analysis of pulmonary functions in T2DM patients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 50 T2DM patients and they were subjected to spirometry evaluation. The restrictive pattern of lung functions was analyzed by evaluating the following parameters forced vital capacity (FVC) in liters, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC were evaluated. The association between lung function parameters and duration of diabetes, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were also analyzed. Results: In this study among the diabetic patients, the mean FVC was 2.45±0.36 L, the mean FEVI was 1.82±0.12 (L/s) and the mean FEV1/FVC was 87.42±7.54, respectively. Regarding lung complication, out of 50 diabetic patients, 25 (50%) had normal lung functions, 16 (32%) had mild restriction and 9 (18%) had moderate restriction. The FVC, FEVI, and FEV1/FVC were significantly reduced in diabetic patients with moderate lung restriction as compared to normal and mild restriction patterns. Diabetes duration displayed no significant association with a decline in pulmonary function and FEV1/FVC showed weak significant negative correlation (r=−0.412; p=0.02) with HbA1c levels. Conclusion: The study shows that in diabetics patients there was a marked decline in pulmonary function and it might be due to uncontrolled diabetes-related complications.

Microplastic distribution in different tissues of small pelagic fish of the Northeast Atlantic Ocean

The accumulation of microplastics (MP) by marine species of ecological and commercial interest represents a major concern, particularly for those present in human diet. This study analysed the accumulation of MP in three species of coastal pelagic fish with high commercial value, European sardine (Sardina pilchardus), European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) and horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus), collected along the Western coast of the Iberian Peninsula. The gastrointestinal tract (GT), gills and muscle were analysed and a total of 504 particles were observed. MP were found in all target tissues of the studied species. Horse mackerel exhibited significantly higher concentrations of microplastics in GT compared to other tissues. On the other hand, anchovies and sardines had significantly lower microplastic concentrations in their muscle tissue. The accumulation of microplastics in the gills showed a significant difference between species, with anchovy having significantly higher concentrations compared to horse mackerel. Horse mackerel had the highest percentage of individuals with microplastics in their GT (92 %), followed by sardine (75 %) and anchovy (50 %). Horse mackerel was also the species that registered the highest percentage of individuals with particles in the muscle (63 %), followed by anchovy (40 %) and finally sardine (39 %). MP in the gills of European sardines and anchovies were similar to those found in water samples. The majority of MP found measured <0.5 mm and were blue fibers. Furthermore, the presence of MP in the GT showed a weak and moderated significant negative correlation with the Fulton Condition Index in horse mackerel and European sardine. Our study confirms the ubiquitous extent of MP contamination in the ocean and provides baseline evidence of MP tissue distribution in three small pelagic fish species with distinct feeding behaviour, while correlating this with the presence of MP in water. Importantly, the results of this study contribute to improve the understanding of biological partitioning of MP in open sea fish species with high commercial relevance, and the potential deleterious effects of our increasingly MP contaminated world.

Seasonal Variations of pH and Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations in Major Rivers of Uttar Pradesh

The variations in pH and Dissolve Oxygen (DO) concentrations were analysed in surface river water samples for three seasons Pre-Monsoon, Monsoon and Autumn (January to December 2022) for four major rivers Ganga, Yamuna, Gomti and Hindon flowing through Uttar Pradesh, India. For river Ganga pH range varied from 7.65 to 8.47 and DO varied from 6.4mg/l to 9.26mg/l. For river Yamuna pH range varied from 7.31 to 10.5 and DO varied from 0 to 8.1mg/l. Gomti river showed, pH range between 7.2 to 8.48, while DO varied from 0.63mg/l to 8.4mg/l. For, river Hindon, pH varied from 6.8 to 7.66 and DO observed was between 0 to 1.8mg/l. Correlation Matrix showed a significant weak positive correlation between pH and DO for all three seasons for rivers Ganga and Yamuna, while river Gomti showed a significant weak positive correlation in Pre-Monsoon and Monsoon season, and a weak negative correlation in Autumn lastly river Hindon showed weak negative correlation between pH and DO for Pre-Monsoon, and Monsoon and a weak positive significant correlation for Autumn season. Dissolved Oxygen was found in good concentration in river Ganga, and almost nilfor river Hindon. An increasing trend line for DO was observed for rivers Ganga and Yamuna while river Gomti showed a constant trend line lastly river Hindon showed almost nil DO. This study helped to identify the variations of pH and DO, and also to find the correlation between them for Pre-Monsoon, Monsoon and Autumn seasons for the river water samples. The study will prove helpful for designing of water treatment plants accompanying seasonal variations.

The Relationship between Nursing Job Satisfaction and Missed Nursing Care in Critical Care Units

Background: Missed nursing care is a common occurrence that has a negative impact on the standard of patient care. Missed care is indicative of nurses' affected work satisfaction in times of workflow. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of missed nursing care (MNC), and the reasons for its occurrence among Jordanian nurses. The study sought to assess the level of job satisfaction and missed nursing care among Jordanian nurses and their association with demographic variables. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used in this study. A convenience sample of 181 registered nurses working in different critical care units in one teaching hospital and two government hospitals was recruited. Three tools were used to collect the data: a sociodemographic data form, a survey of missed nursing care (MISSCARE Survey) consisting of two parts (part A was designed to measure missed nursing care (MNC), and part B addressed the reasons for MNC), and the nursing-workplace satisfaction questionnaire (NWSQ). Results: The results of the study revealed Jordanian nurses in critical care units to have a moderate level of job satisfaction (45.50±9.09). In addition, the total mean score of the MNC was found to be 2.18±0.40 out of 5, which is a low level of missed nursing care. The most commonly occurring missed nursing care aspects were turning patients every 2 hours (2.53 ±1.43), mouth care (2.37 ±1.36), and teaching patients about illness, tests, and diagnostic studies (2.36 ±1.47). Moreover, among the reasons for missed nursing care with respect to teamwork, the caregiver being off the unit or unavailable was the most significant one (24.3%, n=44); with respect to the material resources, the unavailability of medications, when needed, was the most significant factor (21.5%, n=39) for missed nursing care, and regarding the labor resources, an unexpected rise in patient volume and acuity on the unit was the most significant factor influencing missed nursing care (23.8%, n=43). Finally, a statistically significant weak negative correlation was found between nurses’ job satisfaction and missed nursing care score (R=-0.177, P=0.012). Conclusion: The study concluded that nurses in critical units have a low level of missed nursing care and a moderate level of job satisfaction.

Correlation between body mass index, body perception and physical activity among university students

Background: With the current advancement in technology, sedentary lifestyles, and decreased physical activities, university students are highly prone to distorted body perceptions and obesity. However, limited studies have been conducted about body weight and body perception in university students studying in Pakistan. Objective: This research aimed to determine correlation between BMI, body perception and physical activity in university students. Methods: This is a correlational study. A sample size of 437 was calculated by online sample size calculator. Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. The study was carried out in different universities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi and the tools such as International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Body Mass Index, and Figure Rating Scale were used. Data was analyzed using SPSS 22. Results: BMI and body perception showed significant moderate positive correlation (r=0.472, p=&lt;0.05). Physical activity showed significant weak correlation with body perception and BMI (r=0.125 and 0.024, p=&lt;0.05). Conclusion: It was concluded from the results of current study that students have misperceptions regarding their body weight but weight misperception was not a cognitive barrier in participants for physical activity and majority participants performed moderate to vigorous activities.