Wilcoxon Test Research Articles

Efektivitas Penggunaan Media Interaktif Berbantuan Quizizz Paper Mode Terhadap Hasil Belajar Siswa pada Mata Pelajaran Tematik Kelas IV SD Sederajat

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of interactive media assisted by quizizz paper mode on student learning outcomes in Thematic Subjects in grade IV elementary school equivalent. This study uses a quantitative approach with the Quasy Experiment type of research. The design of this study uses a type of one group pretest-posttest design. The population in this study is grade IV elementary school students equivalent to sampling using the Purposive Sampling technique. At SDN 01 Koto Tangah Simalanggang with a total of 20 students. The data collection technique is carried out by, namely first conducting an initial test, providing treatment, final test and documentation. The data analysis technique was carried out by comparing pretest and posttest scores using the Wilcoxon Test. The results of the study showed an average score of 70.55 for the pretest while an average score of 83.9 for the posttest. So the data obtained will be analyzed using the Wilcoxon test with decision making if the value of Asymp.sig < 0.05, then the hypothesis is accepted, if the value of Asymp.Sig > 0.05, then the hypothesis is rejected. Based on the output of "Test Statistics", it is known that Asymp.Sig (2-tailed) is worth 0.000. Because the value of 0.000 < 0.05 can be concluded that "Hypothesis Accepted" means that there is a difference between the learning outcomes for the pretest and posttest. So it can be concluded that the use of interactive media assisted by paper mode is effective in improving student learning outcomes

Arthroscopic treatment for femoroacetabular impingement yields favourable patient-reported outcomes and method survivorship at 10-year follow-up.

To compare the outcomes of hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) preoperatively and at minimum 10-year follow-up using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). A total of 128 patients with FAIS were prospectively included. The patients underwent arthroscopic surgery for FAIS between 2011 and 2013 and had a minimum of 10-year follow-up. The International Hip Outcome Tool short version (iHOT-12) was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS), the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions Questionnaire (EQ-5D), the European Quality visual analogue scale (EQ VAS), the Hip Sports Activity Scale (HSAS) for physical activity level, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for overall hip function and a single question regarding overall satisfaction with the surgery. The Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to compare pre- and postoperative PROMs. There was a significant improvement (p < 0.001) of iHOT-12, HAGOS subscales, EQ-5D, EQ VAS and VAS for overall hip function. A total of 83% of the patients were satisfied with their surgery. The survivorship of hip arthroscopy, defined as nonconversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA), at the end of the follow-up period was 77%. Patients undergoing arthroscopic treatment for FAIS reported statistically significant and clinically relevant improved outcomes at 10-year follow-up. Case series, level IV.

A comparative analysis of game-based learning and conventional learning in dental education.

To evaluate the efficacy of traditional teaching versus traditional teaching supplemented by serious gaming in imparting knowledge of periodontal indices among dentistry students. Additionally, the study seeks to measure the level of satisfaction among students engaging with the assessed teaching method. This comparative study was approved by the ethics committee of the University of Valencia with file number: 2479311. A sample of 61 subjects was divided randomly into two groups: the test group (n=36) and the control group (n=25). Baseline knowledge of community index of periodontal treatment need was assessed through a questionnaire completed by both groups before receiving a comprehensive explanation of the topic. The test group, in addition to the conventional explanation, received supplementary training via an educational gaming experience. Both groups underwent a final evaluation and, subsequently, a satisfaction survey was completed by the test group. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using a non-parametric Brunner-Langer model. The relationship between scores was examined using Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests, with a significance level set at α=0.05. The training, in general, was effective as both the test group (p=0.003) and the control group (p=0.015) demonstrated an increase in scores with both teaching modalities, but no significant difference was observed between the groups. The test group expressed a high level of satisfaction with the instructional approach. No statistically significant difference in learning outcomes was identified between the traditional lecture teaching method and the approach supplemented by gaming. There was an elevated level of student satisfaction with the gaming method.

Recommendation for Clinical T Staging in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Volumetric Measurement: A Retrospective Study from Turkey.

Currently, clinical T staging in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is based on the largest radiological diameter observed on computed tomography (CT). Under this system, tumors with varying shapes-such as spherical, amorphous, or spiculated tumors- can be assigned the same T stage even with different volumes. We aimed to propose a 3-dimensional (3D) volumetric staging system for NSCLC as an alternative to diameter-based T staging and to conduct comparative survival analyses between these methods. We retrospectively analyzed data from patients who underwent surgery for pT1-4N0M0 primary NSCLC between January 2018 and May 2022. Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine data from patient CT scans were uploaded to 3D Slicer software for volumetric tumor measurement. Using the paired samples t-test or the Wilcoxon test, we compared the expected tumor volumes, calculated by tumor diameter, with the actual volumes measured by 3D Slicer. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was employed to determine the cut-off value for tumor volume. Kaplan-Meier analysis was utilized to assess overall survival, while the log-rank method was applied to compare survival differences between groups. The significance of changes in T stage was evaluated using the marginal homogeneity test. The study included 136 patients. Significant differences were observed between expected and actual tumor volumes (p=0.01), and associated changes in T stage were also significant (p=0.04). The survival analysis performed using tumor volume (p=0.009) yielded superior results compared to that based on diameter (p=0.04) in paients with early tumor stage. T-factor staging based on tumor volume could represent an alternative staging method for NSCLC.

A Systematic Investigation of Tobacco Industry Sourced Data Relating to Illicit Tobacco Trade Featured in Pakistan's Media Coverage (2015-2020).

Previous evidence suggests the tobacco industry uses media to disseminate misleading narratives relating to illicit tobacco trade (ITT) as part of efforts to influence policy outcomes. Such evidence is largely high-income countries (HIC) focused, resulting in a literature gap for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Pakistan and its annual budget cycle are used as a case study for addressing this gap. Electronic English-language articles from newspapers in Pakistan (328) were sourced from LexisNexis and a sub-sample of Urdu-language electronic articles (12) were identified through internet searches. The articles were published between 2015 and 2020 and included claims/estimates relating to ITT, which were coded to identify cited data sources. Changes in media coverage before and after Pakistan's annual budget announcements were explored via Wilcoxon signed rank and Poisson regression tests. Of the 357 claims/estimates analyzed, 66 (20%) were industry-funded. The most prevalent sources were national government bodies (36.6%) and tobacco companies or their representatives (15.1%). Wilcoxon signed-rank and Poisson regression tests on the frequency of English-language articles both created a p-value of < .05 for the frequency of relevant articles between the months of April and May, compared to the other months, indicating statistical significance. There was a statistically significant increase in the number of English-language articles featuring claims/estimates relating to Pakistan's ITT in the months leading up to the annual budget each year. The government should consider measures to improve transparency standards within media coverage and promote factcheck journalism to safeguard against industry tactics to manipulate public discourses. This paper is, to the best of our knowledge, the largest exploration of the use of data sourced from the tobacco industry within a country's media that has been undertaken to date, utilizing a team of seven coders across the United Kingdom and Pakistan. Our findings reveal weaknesses within media coverage of ITT in Pakistan, both in English and Urdu language publications. We encourage the government to consider new standards to enhance transparency and promote factcheck journalism within media coverage in the country.

The Influence of Prenatal Yoga Exercise on Mother Anxiety Pregnant

Anxiety during pregnancy not only affects the health of pregnant women but can also have an impact on the delivery process such as premature labor, prolonged labour, cesarean delivery, low birth weight. Based on WHO data, there are around 10% of pregnant women with psychological disorders and about 13% of postpartum women worldwide. This incidence is higher in developing countries in pregnant women, namely 15.6% and 19.8% in postpartum women. The purpose of this study is The Effect of Prenatal Yoga Exercise on the Anxiety of Pregnant Women at TPMB Mamah Suhaeriah in 2022. Research method This type of research uses the Pre-Experimental method with a one group pretest-posttest design approach. Sampling using total sampling with a total sample of 20 respondents. The research instrument used was an observation sheet. The data analysis used is the Wilcoxon Sign Rank Test statistical test. Research results based on the results of statistical tests using the Wilcoxon Sign Rank test, the p-value (0.000

Risk of poor nutritional status and nutrition-related complaints in individuals attending a primary care dietitian after a COVID-19 infection: A prospective cohort study.

To report the changes in nutritional status, nutrition-related complaints and risk of sarcopenia in individuals attending a primary care dietitian in the Netherlands after a COVID-19 infection. The study was registered on the clinicaltrials.gov registry (NCT04735744). Nutritional status and nutrition-related complaints were assessed with the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form and body composition measurements when possible. Risk of sarcopenia was assessed with the Strength, Assistance with walking, Rise from a chair, Climb stairs and Falls questionnaire. Dietitians reported on treatment goals, content and volume of dietetic treatment. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the study population and outcomes at baseline and end of treatment. For continuous variables, paired samples t-tests were used to compare scores at the start and the end of dietetic treatment. For dichotomous variables. McNemar tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to determine differences between the start and end of treatment. A total of 222 participants were included [mean age 50 (SD 13), 58% female, 34% overweight, 40% obese]. Malnutrition risk decreased from 44% (medium risk) and 20% (high risk) to 29% and 12% by the end of treatment (p < 0.001). The risk of sarcopenia decreased from 31% to 22% (p < 0.001). There was an imbalance between fat-free mass and fat mass in about half of the participants. The most commonly reported nutrition-related complaints were fatigue, no appetite, the feeling of being full and changed or loss of taste. Median treatment duration was 21 weeks [interquartile range (IQR) 13-26] and 5 consultations (IQR 4-7). Most participants (46%) aimed to maintain weight, with others aiming to lose (14%) or gain (14%) weight. At the end of treatment, 57% had achieved the goals. Significant improvements in nutritional status and risk of sarcopenia were observed after dietetic treatment in primary care, and most participants achieved the treatment goals. Nevertheless, nutrition-related complaints and the risk of malnutrition or sarcopenia remained prevalent.

Visual Status in Children with Dyslexia at the Integrated Special Education Program in Selangor, Malaysia

Objective: Dyslexia is a learning disorder, characterized by difficulties in recognizing, decoding, and spelling words. Studies on visual status of individuals with dyslexia have yielded mixed findings. This study aimed to assess visual acuity and refractive errors in dyslexic children in Selangor, Malaysia.Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the integrated special education program (PPKI) for secondary schools across three randomly selected districts in Selangor. Children with dyslexia from 15 schools were enrolled. Distance and near visual acuity were measured, and non-cycloplegic refraction was performed to identify refractive errors. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the distribution of visual acuity and refractive errors. The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test was used to compare habitual and corrected visual acuity (VA).Results: 137 dyslexic children, aged 13 to 19 years, participated in the study. 60% of the participants had good habitual distance VA. Meanwhile, the percentage of good habitual near VA were higher than distance VA. The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test showed that corrected VA was significantly better than habitual VA. The most common ametropias observed were myopia and astigmatism.Conclusion: Dyslexic children in the PPKI program generally have good visual acuity and are emmetropic. However, uncorrected refractive error and suboptimal optical refraction were the primary causes of unsatisfactory habitual vision in some children. Findings highlight the need to screen for refractive errors and provide appropriate optical correction to this population to prevent further hindrance to their reading ability.

Effects of motor and cognitive dual tasks on walking and balance in children with diparetic cerebral palsy.

This study investigates the effects of motor and cognitive dual tasks on walking and balance in Children with diparetic cerebral palsy. The subjects of this study were 12 children (experimental group n = 6, control group n = 6) who were medical diagnosed with diparetic cerebral palsy. They aged 8-12 years. Experimental group was administered treatment for 30 min, 2 times a week for 8 weeks, with the experimental group performing motor and cognitive dual task, while the control group did not have such a training. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was performed to analyze changes in balance, gross motor function in the group, and the Mann-Whitney test was conducted to compare the differences between the two groups before and after intervention. In This study, the mean time for completing the Timed Up and Go Test in single and dual tasks and mean cognitive responses, there was a significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Considering that many activities in daily life are dual tasks, these difficulties they experience in performing dual tasks show that children's daily lives are also affected. Therefore, dual task evaluations are very important for individuals to be independent in daily life.

Ventral hernia repair with permanent mesh for non-Hispanic black versus white patients: access and post-operative outcomes in the era of robotic surgery.

Robotic ventral hernia surgery may provide better patient outcomes. Whether it is provided equitably based on race remains unknown. We examined whether patients from the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative who were Black had equitable access to robotic surgery for ventral hernia repair with permanent mesh compared to white counterparts from 2013 to 2023. We performed propensity-score matching to address confounding and then chi-squared testing to examine access to robotic, laparoscopic, and open approaches. Secondary outcomes included 30-day readmissions, complications, and death and 1- and 2-year hernia recurrence and quality of life measured by HerQLes Summary and PROMIS Pain T-Scores analyzed with chi-squared, Fisher exact, and Wilcoxon testing. 2397 patients identified as Black, and 21,900 identified as white. Our propensity-score matched cohort included 2374 Black patients and 7122 white. Black and white groups had the same rates of laparoscopy (15% vs 15%). Patients who identified as Black were more likely to undergo robotic surgery (36% vs 32%). Open approach was 49% for Black and 53% for white (p = 0.005). For 30-day complications, we found Black patients were more likely to experience reoperation (2% vs 1%, p = 0.005) and less likely surgical site infection (1% vs 2%, p < 0.001). Hernia recurrence scores and perceived abdominal health based on HerQLes were not statistically significantly different. At 2years, absolute reported T-Scores were higher for Black patients (median 40 (IQR 31-49) vs 36 (31-46), p = 0.031). This is the first large-scale study examining access to robotic surgery, complications, and quality of life measures. We found patients who identified as Black were more likely than white counterparts to undergo robotic surgery, but they were more likely to require reoperation and had higher pain scores. Our data suggest equitable access still may not translate to equitable patient outcomes.

Outcomes from a Driving and Community Mobility Intervention Designed for Novice Drivers with Autism from the Perspective of the Participants and Their Parents.

To examine change in driving and community mobility outcomes for teens and young adults with autism as a result of participating in an occupational therapy intervention designed as a Bootcamp as perceived by the participants and their parents. Matched questionnaires were completed by novice drivers with autism as well as their parents prior to and immediately after the intervention. The intervention consisted of a 5-day (32h) intervention using interactive driving simulators, role playing, and highly interactive learning experiences. Sixty-seven participants and their parents completed the pre and post surveys. Of these, 52 (80%) were male and 13 (20%) were female, with a mean age of 17.8 ± 3.03 years. Wilcoxon signed rank tests was used for the Likert scale questions and paired t test for ratio level data. Results demonstrated participants perceived significant improvement in knowledge, skills and abilities related to both driving and community mobility. There were also significant differences in perception from the parents' perspective, but not as evident as the participants. Only a few significant changes were perceived in terms of executive functioning, which support accuracy of the results. Findings also showed significantly improvement in anxiety and confidence.As driving and community mobility is critical for young adults with autism to be successful in adult roles, intervention for improving knowledge, skills, and abilities in this complex daily task is essential. This study demonstrates statistically significant outcomes of a driving and community mobility occupational therapy intervention from the perspective of the participants and their parents.

Intravenous Line Labels For High-Alert Drugs Administered To Critically Ill Patients: A Simulated Experimental Assessment.

Evaluate the effect of IV line labels on nurses' identification of high-alert medications in a simulated scenario of multiple infusions for critically ill patients. Randomised crossover simulation experimental study. A study was conducted on 29 nurses working in intensive care for over 6 months. They were given two critical scenarios in a simulated environment, one with labels and the other without labels, involving multiple intravenous infusions. The nurses had to identify the medications infused into the critical patients' intravenous lines and disconnect a specific line. The data were collected and analysed to evaluate the errors made by the nurses in identifying and disconnecting the medications and the time they spent carrying out the tasks. The Wilcoxon test was used to analyse the variation in outcome before and after the intervention. Approximately one-third of the study participants incorrectly identified the intravenous lines in both scenarios. There was no significant difference in the average number of errors between the scenarios with and without labels. However, the time taken to perform the tasks in the scenario with labels was 1 min less than in the scenario without labels, suggesting a potential efficiency gain. The labels on the intravenous lines allowed for quick drug identification and disconnection. The professionals performed similarly in correctly recognising the high-alert medication intravenous lines, in the scenarios with or without labels. The label can be used as a technology to prevent misidentification of high-alert medications administered to critically ill patients through intravenous lines, thereby enhancing medication safety in healthcare institutions. No Public Contribution.

Comparison of Four Methods for Measuring Heterophoria and Accommodative Convergence over Accommodation Ratio

The study aimed to assess the agreement between OptoTab SERIES, alternating Cover Test, Modified Thorington test, and Von Graefe method in measuring heterophoria and accommodative convergence over accommodation (AC/A) ratio. In an initial step, heterophoria was assessed at both distance and near in a cohort of 76 healthy young volunteers using the previously described tests. Subsequently, to determine the AC/A ratio, near-vision measurements were repeated with +1.00 D and −1.00 D lenses. All tests were performed in a randomized order across participants under consistent conditions. Significant differences were found between the Modified Thorington test and all other tests at distance (Wilcoxon test, all p ≤ 0.001) and between Von Graefe and all other tests at near (Wilcoxon test, all p ≤ 0.005). Regarding the AC/A ratio, significant differences were observed between all methods in +1.00 D AC/A ratio, except for the Modified Thorington test vs. the alternating Cover Test (Wilcoxon test, p = 0.024). In the −1.00 D AC/A ratio, differences were observed between OptoTab POCKET and all the other tests (Wilcoxon test, all p ≤ 0.001). The results indicate that all methods are interchangeable except the Modified Thorington test at distance and Von Graefe at near. For the AC/A ratio, only the Modified Thorington test is interchangeable with the alternating Cover Test using +1.00 D lenses and all are interchangeable using −1.00 D lenses except OptoTab POCKET.

EEG-based optimization of eye state classification using modified-BER metaheuristic algorithm

This article introduces the Modified Al-Biruni Earth Radius (MBER) algorithm, which seeks to improve the precision of categorizing eye states as either open (0) or closed (1). The evaluation of the proposed algorithm was assessed using an available EEG dataset that applied preprocessing techniques, including scaling, normalization, and elimination of null values. The MBER algorithm’s binary format is specifically designed to select features that can significantly enhance the accuracy of classification. The proposed algorithm and competing ones, namely, Al-Biruni Earth Radius (BER), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WAO), Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) were evaluated using predefined sets of assessment criteria. The statistical analysis employed the ANOVA and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and assessed the effectiveness and significance of the proposed algorithm compared to the other five algorithms. Furthermore, A series of visual depictions were presented to validate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithm. Thus, the MBER algorithm outperformed the other optimizers on the majority of the unimodal benchmark functions due to these considerations. Different ML models were used for classification, e.g., DT, RF, KNN, SGD, GNB, SVC, and LR. The KNN model achieved the highest values of Precision (PPV) (0.959425), Negative Predictive Value (NPV) (0.964969), FScore (0.963431), accuracy (0.9612), Sensitivity (0.970578) and Specificity (0.949711). Thus, KNN serves as a fitness function and is optimized by the utilization of Modified Al-Biruni earth radius (MBER). Finally, the accuracy of eye state classification achieved 96.12% using the proposed algorithm.

An advanced RIME Optimizer with Random Reselection and Powell Mechanism for Engineering Design

Abstract RIME is a recently introduced optimization algorithm that draws inspiration from natural phenomena. However, RIME has certain limitations. For example, it is prone to falling into Local Optima (LO), thus failing to find the Global Optima (GO), and has the problem of slow convergence. To solve these problems, this paper introduces an improved RIME algorithm (PCRIME), which combines the random reselection strategy and the Powell mechanism. The random reselection strategy enhances population diversity and helps to escape LO, while the Powell mechanism helps to improve the convergence accuracy and thus find the optimal solution. To verify the superior performance of PCRIME, we conducted a series of experiments at CEC 2017 and CEC 2022, including qualitative analysis, ablation studies, parameter sensitivity analysis, and comparison with various advanced algorithms. We used the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Friedman test to confirm the performance advantage of PCRIME over its peers. The experimental data show that PCRIME has superior optimization ability and robustness. Finally, this paper applies PCRIME to five real engineering problems and proposes feasible solutions and comprehensive performance index definitions for these five problems to prove the stability of the proposed algorithm. The results show that the PCRIME algorithm can not only effectively solve practical problems, but also has excellent stability, making it an excellent algorithm.

Obesity and Left Ventricular Function in American Indian Adolescents: Strong Heart Family Study.

Obesity is a known risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). American Indian (AI) children have the highest obesity rates of all racial/ethnic groups in the United States (US). However, cardiometabolic health among AI adolescents is understudied. The purpose of this study was to describe the cardiometabolic characteristics of AI adolescents enrolled in the Strong Heart Family Study (SHFS), a longitudinal study of CVD from 12 AI communities, and associations with the development of abnormal left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and ejection fraction (EF). This study included AI youth ages 14-22years. Primary outcome variables were depressed EF (< 55%) and abnormal LVMI at 6-year follow-up. The primary predictor variable was BMI. Covariates included sex, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and hemoglobin A1c. Wilcoxon signed-rank test for matched pairs evaluated cardiometabolic trends over time. Stratified univariate logistic regression by obese/nonobese categories evaluated associations with depressed EF and abnormal LVMI. There were 384 subjects, 58% of whom were overweight (n = 87) or obese (n = 122) at baseline. Among overweight/obese subjects, cholesterol and triglyceride levels were elevated. At 6-year follow-up, BMI increased while EF decreased among overweight/obese males, with 3.6 times the odds of having depressed EF (95% CI 1.22-10.98, p = 0.021) compared to normal-weight males. There were no significant cardiometabolic associations with LVMI. This is one of the largest longitudinal evaluations of CVD in AI adolescents. Concerning trends in BMI and depressed EF among AI males suggest the importance of culturally competent interventions to promote healthy weight and reduce cardiometabolic risk.

Cervical Lordosis Correction and Segmental Height in Anterior Cervical Surgeries; The Role of Implant Choice

This study aims to compare the impact of three surgical techniques-stand-alone cage placement (SAC), anterior cervical plate (ACP) fixation, and total disc replacement (TDR)-on cervical lordosis restoration and segmental height after anterior cervical discectomy at C5-6 level. To eliminate the effect of lordosis between different levels, patients operated on at the same level were included in the study. Restoring cervical lordosis is crucial for improving patient outcomes, including pain reduction and preventing mechanical complications. A retrospective screening of 89 patients who underwent single-level C5-6 surgery between 2011 and 2021 was analyzed. Patients were categorized into three groups based on the surgical technique used: SAC, ACP, or TDR. Lordotic angles and segmental heights were measured preoperatively, first-month follow-up, and at the 24-month follow-up. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank test and ANOVA, with a significance threshold set at P<.05. All three techniques resulted in significant early and late postoperative increases in both global and segmental lordosis. The early postoperative height gain was most pronounced in the ACP group. However, no significant differences in lordosis or height preservation were observed among the groups at the 24-month follow-up. These findings align with previous studies, indicating comparable long-term outcomes across these surgical approaches. Stand-alone cage placement, anterior cervical plate fixation, and total disc replacement all effectively restore cervical lordosis and segmental height after anterior cervical discectomy at the C5-6 level. Despite early differences, the long-term results were similar, suggesting that the choice of technique should be based on individual patient needs and specific surgical considerations.

The Effects of Baby Calming Training Provided to Primiparous Mothers on Maternal Role Perception, Maternal Attachment, and Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Mothers of crying babies have difficulty adapting to their roles and problems with breastfeeding and attachment. Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of the baby calming training provided to primiparous mothers on maternal role perception, maternal attachment, and breastfeeding self-efficacy. Methods: The study was conducted in a randomized controlled experimental design between March 2023 and March 2024 in the gynecology and obstetrics services of a public hospital in northeastern Turkey (Clinical Trial Number: NCT05594836). The research was conducted with a total of 84 primiparous mothers, including 41 intervention and 43 control groups, who met the inclusion criteria. The Baby Calming Training was administered face-to-face in the intervention group, utilizing a baby swaddling blanket, a sleep companion emitting white noise, and a training booklet. The control group received routine care. Data were collected through the Mother and Baby Introductory Information Form, Semantic Difference Scale-Me as a Mother, Maternal Attachment Inventory, Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form, and Infant Sleep Activity Record. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-square test, independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon test, mixed design ANOVA analysis, Cohen's d, and 95% confidence interval (CI). This study adhered to CONSORT research guidelines. Results: Mothers in the intervention group exhibited higher mean scores on the perception of maternal role (mean ± SD: 70.37 ± 5.92, t: 8.590, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.347-2.375], d: 1.865, p < 0.001), maternal attachment (mean ± SD: 100.42 ± 1.52, U: 151.500, 95% CI: [0.732-0.892], d: 0.828, p < 0.001), and breastfeeding self-efficacy (mean ± SD: 64.00 ± 5.98, t: 8.109, 95% CI: [1.248-2.258], d: 1.757, p < 0.001) than the control group. It was determined that the total sleep time of the babies in the intervention group was higher, and the total crying duration was lower (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study revealed that infant soothing training for primiparous mothers enhanced maternal role perception, maternal attachment, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and extended infants' sleep duration. Furthermore, infants exhibited reduced crying.

Statistical assessment for reusing permeate from dewatering water treatment sludge process: more sustainability in environmental sanitation.

Sludge from water treatment plants (WTPs) is usually processed by physicochemical clarification followed by thickening, which results in the production of an effluent from dewatering/drying sludge processes that can potentially impact the environment. This paper assessed the viability of employing sludge dewatering water from a water treatment sludge plant (WTSP) in São Paulo State, Brazil, for reuse purposes. Water quality variables were monitored in the effluent and receiving stream. The data were analyzed by paired samples Student t-test (parametric significance test), paired samples Wilcoxon signed rank test (non-parametric significance test), and principal component analysis (multivariate analysis). Despite the distribution of data, typically not Gaussian, both Student and Wilcoxon methods agreed in 9 out of 10 studied parameters regarding the influence of WTSP discharge on waterbody; only for total manganese the Wilcoxon approach provided better fit than Student. Principal component analysis helped to evince correlations among all variables. Results provided useful information for understanding the vocation of WTSP effluent for reuse. For direct non-potable reuse, recirculating the final effluent back to the WTP for two months saved 92,000 m3 of water, the volume of drinking water demanded by the city (n = 292,000 inhabitants) in approximately 30h.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in healthcare workers: a cohort study at a designated COVID-19 hospital in Taiwan.

This cohort study aimed to determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of Metabolic syndrome (MetS) among healthcare workers at a dedicated COVID-19 hospital in Taiwan. This study recruited 397 healthcare workers who completed health checkups before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The differences of MetS and its components prevalence before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were compared using the paired samples t-tests for normally distributed variables, and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests for non-normally distributed variables. The prevalence of MetS among healthcare workers significantly increased from 20.9% to 28.7% during the pandemic (p < .001). Central obesity and hypertension were the primary contributors to the development of MetS. COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an increasing prevalence of MetS in healthcare workers, necessitating health-promoting measures to mitigate this risk.