Search Results (126)

Background: The interaction between prosthetic restorations and periodontal health is a critical factor for the long-term success of dental treatments. A biologically compatible prosthetic design supports periodontal stability, whereas neglecting periodontal principles can compromise treatment outcomes. This study aimed to validate a questionnaire designed to assess dentists’ perceptions regarding the influence of prosthetic restorations on the periodontium. Material and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to licensed dentists across Romania. The questionnaire underwent expert review, pilot testing (n = 50), and statistical validation, including the Content Validity Index (CVI), Cronbach’s alpha for internal consistency, and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with Varimax rotation. The final sample included 39 respondents. Data was analyzed using SPSS v26.0. Results: The questionnaire demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.900; standardized alpha = 0.917). Most items had corrected item-total correlations > 0.40. EFA revealed eight coherent factors explaining 81.68% of total variance, with high communalities (0.549–0.966), strong Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin test (KMO) values, and significant Bartlett’s test values, confirming construct validity. Descriptive statistics showed predominantly positive attitudes among dentists regarding the periodontal considerations in prosthetic treatment. The highest-rated items emphasized oral hygiene, periodontal stability, and biological adaptation of restorations. Lower scores were associated with routine use of periodontal indices and recognition of failures due to insufficient evaluation. Conclusions: The validated instrument proved reliable and demonstrated strong psychometric properties in this exploratory validation, supporting its use in research and education. Romanian dentists demonstrated a favorable perception of the role of periodontal health in prosthetic success. This tool can inform curriculum development and interdisciplinary clinical protocols in prosthodontics and periodontology. Full article

Food addiction is characterized by compulsive consumption and impaired control over highly palatable foods, with neurobiological mechanisms analogous to substance use disorders. The Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 (YFAS 2.0) is the most widely used instrument to assess these symptoms; however, its psychometric properties have not been validated in Mexican adults. This study aimed to perform the cross-cultural adaptation of the YFAS 2.0 and validate its psychometric properties for the identification of food addiction in the Mexican adult population. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 500 Mexican adults aged 20 years or older. Participants completed the cross-culturally adapted YFAS 2.0. Exploratory and hierarchical factor analyses were conducted. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and omega coefficients, and model fit was evaluated through global fit indices. The scale showed high internal consistency (α = 0.88; ωt = 0.87; ωh = 0.89). The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin index was 0.815 and Bartlett’s test was significant (χ² = 4367.88; df = 595; p < 0.001). Exploratory factor analysis supported a unidimensional structure, with the first factor explaining 21.3% of the total variance. In the hierarchical model, all items loaded substantially onto the general factor. Fit indices indicated excellent model fit (CFI = 0.99; TLI = 0.98; RMSEA = 0.001; RMR = 0.004). The YFAS 2.0 is a valid and reliable instrument for identifying food addiction symptoms in Mexican adults. It may be useful in clinical practice and research on eating disorders. Full article

Objectives: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the obstructive sleep apnea knowledge and attitudes (OSAKA) questionnaire among dental professionals in Colombia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Manizales, Colombia, between January and June 2024. A total of 120 dental professionals, including general dentists, specialists, residents, and academic clinicians, were selected through stratified random sampling. Participants completed the Spanish-adapted OSAKA questionnaire and a structured sociodemographic survey. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha (α) and McDonald’s Omega (Ω). Construct validity was examined through exploratory factor analysis (EFA), with Kaiser Meyer Olkin (KMO) values and Bartlett’s test. Results: The knowledge subscale (18 items) showed good reliability (α = 0.83; Ω = 0.83), while the attitude subscale (5 items) showed near-acceptable reliability (α = 0.68; Ω = 0.59). KMO values were 0.79 for knowledge and 0.57 for attitudes; Bartlett’s test was significant in both cases (p ≤ 0.001). EFA supported structural validity: six components with eigenvalues >1 explained 61.66% of the variance for knowledge, and two components explained 79.49% for attitudes. Significant differences in attitude scores were found among professional groups (p ≤ 0.001, η² = 0.13), with specialists scoring highest ($\overline{X}$ = 17.66) and general dentists lowest ($\overline{X}$ = 14.62). Knowledge scores did not significantly differ between groups (p = 0.47). Conclusions: The Spanish OSAKA questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool to assess knowledge and attitudes toward obstructive sleep apnea in Colombian dental professionals. Its use may support improved education, screening, and interdisciplinary collaboration in dental settings. Full article

This study presents the development of the Plant Perception Scale (PPS), a multidimensional tool designed to assess high school students’ awareness of the ecological, utilitarian, and cultural significance of plants. Positioned within the broader goal of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), the scale aims to identify perception gaps that may hinder students’ engagement with biodiversity and sustainability. Following a rigorous development process—including item generation, expert review, pilot testing, and psychometric validation—the final 21-item scale revealed a three-factor structure: Ecological Awareness and Sustainability Perception (12 items), Utility-Oriented Plant Perception (5 items), and Cultural and Aesthetic Perception (4 items). Exploratory Factor Analysis confirmed data suitability (KMO = 0.920; Bartlett’s χ²(210) = 2245.215, p < 0.001). Confirmatory Factor Analysis supported the structure with strong fit indices (χ²/df = 2.204; CFI = 0.949; RMSEA = 0.055). Internal consistency was high (Cronbach’s α = 0.88 for the total scale; factor α values ranged from 0.823 to 0.939). The PPS contributes to sustainable education by offering a reliable framework to evaluate plant-related awareness among adolescents and can serve as a diagnostic and pedagogical tool to guide curriculum development and educational interventions in support of the SDGs. Full article

Mangrove ecosystems are vital for coastal protection, fisheries, biodiversity, and local livelihoods, yet they are increasingly threatened by land-use changes, climate impacts, and limited conservation funding. This study investigates how much local communities are willing to pay (WTP) to conserve the Chwaka Bay mangrove forest in Zanzibar. Using the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) with a payment card approach, we conducted a structured household survey to assess both monetary contributions and the psychological and socioeconomic factors influencing them. This study is guided by Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), incorporating attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and mangrove knowledge. The results show that 68.2% of respondents are willing to pay for mangrove conservation, while 24.2% are not—mainly due to financial constraints or skepticism about fund use. Key drivers of WTP include perceived ecological and livelihood benefits, environmental awareness, and prior conservation involvement. Statistical validation using the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) test and Bartlett’s test of sphericity confirmed the reliability of the model. The findings demonstrate the value of combining behavioral theory with economic valuation to better understand and support community-based conservation strategies. This approach can inform policymakers in designing targeted, transparent, and inclusive mangrove protection programs. Full article

Sustainable building construction (SBC) contributes immensely to attaining sustainable development initiatives. Nevertheless, SBC is not fully embraced among construction organisations in developing countries due to several challenges, suggesting the need for lasting solutions. However, uncertainty remains about the most vital characteristics/enablers that construction organisations need to adopt SBC. This study investigated the organisational enablers that contribute to SBC’s successful deployment. This study employed quantitative methodology using a structured questionnaire for data collection. With a convenient sample technique, a sample size of 281 was achieved from professionals working in the built environment in the Gauteng Province of South Africa (SA). Data were analysed with a four-step approach, including the relevant descriptive and inferential statistics. Relevant reliability and validity tests of the research instrument/measuring variables were observed, including pilot testing, Cronbach’s alpha test, Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin, and Bartlett’s sphericity test. Mean rankings followed this in conjunction with standard deviations. Likewise, the Kruskal–Wallis H-test was employed to determine statistically significant differences in the responses of the study’s respondents. Furthermore, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to confirm the variables’ goodness of fit in the measurement model or latent construct (organisational enablers), indicating their significance. According to their regression values, the top five variables included commitment to innovative construction, adequate project management culture, support from top management, sound intra-organisational leadership, and social responsibility to protect the environment. Generally, the study’s findings were supported by institutional theory and resource-based view theory. The study recommends carefully considering the findings among construction organisations and policymakers. This will assist in self-assessment and decision-making regarding direct improvement initiatives and curbing unsustainable practices. Similarly, this study is positioned to encourage further investigation of organisational enablers from the perspective of the enlisted theories. Full article

Background: Poor nutrition in childhood can have irreversible impacts on development and health, potentially resulting in cognitive impairments and an increased risk of chronic disease later in life. Aim: This study aimed to develop and validate the Parent Carer-Food Choice Questionnaire (PC-FCQ) to determine the key factors influencing the parental food choices of children aged between two and five years. Methods: A sample of 737 Australian parents and carers completed the questionnaire consisting of 98 items on a 10-point frequency of influence anchored at 1 never to 10 always. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to identify the key factors and refine the questionnaire. Results: The PCA extracted 65 items organized into 12 factors explaining 62.8% of the total variance. The factors were named ethical concerns, nutritional attributes, child preferences, child mood, awareness, parent sensory, convenience, situation, culture, professional advice, accessibility and weight control. The final Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin measure was 0.93, and the Bartlett test of sphericity was statistically significant X2(4753) = 39,643.87, p < 0.001. Moderate intercorrelations were detected between seven factors. Conclusions: This research resulted in a PC-FCQ that includes factors specifically relevant to parental food choice. The PC-FCQ will enable researchers and clinicians to more effectively provide nutrition education and dietary interventions to suit the parent and child. The next phase of this research will be to test the accuracy and reliability of the PC-FCQ in an independent sample via confirmatory factor analysis. Full article

Background: There is a notable lack of Communication of Bad News (CBN) training for nurses, along with the absence of validated tools to assess this. The aim of this research is to design and validate an instrument to assess the communication of bad news among nursing professionals in Spain: the “Communication of Bad News in Nursing (CBNN)” tool. Methods: A multilevel nursing panel of experts participated in creating CBNN. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 218 Spanish nurses. Then, an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and a convergent validity study were carried out with the Scale of Communication Skills in Nursing Professionals in the Spanish Environment (EHC), and a reliability study using internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) and Coefficient of Intraclass Correlation (ICC). Results: The KMO test gave an adequate value, and Bartlett’s sphericity test was significant. The EFA identified four components (empathy and perception; environment preparation, invitation, and strategy; information given and the act of communicating; and communication method) that explained most of the variance. A good fit was observed in the CFA for most of the evaluated indicators. CBNN correlated positively with EHC and was statistically associated with considering it necessary to be trained in CBN or degree of preparation. Cronbach’s α value was excellent. The ICC of absolute agreement after 96 h was good. Conclusions: The Communication of Bad News in Nursing questionnaire can be considered an effective tool for assessing the communication of bad news in nursing. It serves as a self-assessment tool for nurses to identify their strengths and areas for improvement in attitudes, knowledge, and skills regarding CBN. Full article

Introduction: Hypoglycemia is a significant complication in diabetes management and presents an even greater risk for older adults. These individuals are particularly vulnerable to hypoglycemic episodes, which can result in serious health consequences. The Hypoglycemia Problem-Solving Scale (HPSS) evaluates problem-solving skills related to hypoglycemia; however, it has not yet been validated in Türkiye. This study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Turkish adaptation of the HPSS. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, methodological, and cross-sectional study was conducted with 623 older adults (aged 65 and above) diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and with a history of hypoglycemic episodes. The HPSS was adapted into Turkish, and its psychometric properties were assessed through content validity, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and reliability analyses. Results: The mean age of participants was 72 ± 5.5 years. Expert agreement on the items was high (Kendall’s W = 0.83, p < 0.05), and all items had a Content Validity Ratio (CVR) above 0.56. The overall Content Validity Index (CVI) was 0.97. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) revealed seven factors explaining 74.22% of the total variance. The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) value was 0.85, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was significant (χ² = 7590.85, p < 0.001). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) demonstrated acceptable model fit (CFI = 0.952; χ²/df = 2.536). The scale demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.88) and excellent test–retest reliability (r = 0.99, p < 0.001). Discussion/Conclusions: The Turkish version of the Hypoglycemia Problem-Solving Scale is a valid and reliable instrument for evaluating problem-solving skills related to hypoglycemia in older adults with diabetes. It can be effectively utilized in clinical practice to support better hypoglycemia management and improve overall diabetes care. Full article

This study statistically classifies Korea’s communal fishing grounds (Maeul-Eojang) to inform tailored fisheries policy. We applied principal component analysis (PCA) to reduce 17 socio-economic and demographic indicators into five core factors, followed by K-means clustering to derive distinct types. The methodology was validated using Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin and Bartlett’s tests. Five communal fishery types were identified, ranging from well-managed, high-income communities to those in severe decline. The results show that about half of fishing communities fall into a “post-fishery” type with diminishing membership and income, while a quarter maintain robust fisheries through diversification. The typology is compared with previous fishing village classifications, and we discuss policy recommendations for each type—including co-management, tourism support, and targeted aid for declining communities. This research provides an empirical foundation for improving communal fisheries governance and sustaining coastal livelihoods. Full article

Despite the importance of criminogenic thinking in addressing criminal behavior, validated instruments to measure these cognitions in Portuguese forensic settings are scarce. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to explore the psychometric properties of the Criminogenic Cognitions Scale (CCS) in a sample of 364 Portuguese incarcerated males (M_age = 37.88, SD = 10.88). An exploratory factor analysis was conducted, indicating a 15-item, two-factor structure (KMO = 0.82; Bartlett’s test, χ² = 1841.2, df = 105, p < 0.001). The CCS dimensions, comprising Short-Term Orientation and Responsibility Evasion and Authority Resistance, demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties, including convergent validity with antisocial traits, moral disengagement, and self-control dimensions, as well as internal consistency (omega coefficient = 0.60–0.77; composite reliability = 74–91; coefficient H = 89–95), and sensitivity of items. The CCS is a valuable tool within prison settings for assessing criminogenic thinking patterns, supporting risk assessment, the development of targeted rehabilitation programs, and monitoring cognitive changes over time to reduce recidivism, thereby promoting inmates’ safer reintegration into society. Overall, our findings suggest the CCS is a promising tool for assessing criminogenic cognitions in the forensic Portuguese population. Full article

There is no doubt that leadership is one of the most researched and disseminated topics in recent years, and over time, some distinguished models have developed a solid foundation and a reputable structure. From this perspective, this study analyzes the evidence of validity and reliability of a scale that assesses leadership styles in non-profit institutions. The study had an instrumental design. The sample consisted of 272 workers from nine Latin American countries, aged between 19 and 68 years (M = 34.08 and SD = 8.61), recruited through non-probabilistic sampling. A validity and reliability analysis of the scale confirmed the nine items and three original factors (servant, empowering and shared leadership). The KMO test reached a high level (0.898 > 0.70), and the Bartlett test reached a highly significant level (Sig. = 0.000). The scale also showed good internal consistency (α = 0.918 to 0.956; CR = 0.918 to 0.957; AVE = 0.755 to 0.880). Likewise, for the Confirmatory Factor Analysis, a measurement adjustment was performed, obtaining excellent and acceptable fit indices for Model 2 (CMIN/DF = 1.794; CFI = 0.993; SRMR = 0.023; RMSEA = 0.054; Pclose = 0.369). This study provides a brief and useful tool to measure leadership styles in Latin America, as a scale used specifically for this context would allow for a more accurate and valid assessment. This is crucial for generating effective organizational interventions, fostering the development of authentic leaders, and improving the competitiveness of non-profit institutions. Full article

This study examines how YouTube influencers can help shape equity decisions. We used a structured questionnaire with 26 questions to collect data using a purposive sample and the KMO and Bartlett tests to test the adequacy of the sample. Additionally, we used the Cronbach Alpha test to check the reliability of the questionnaire and principal component analysis to identify the factors related to YouTube influencers and their influence on equity investors. Our findings reveal a relationship between YouTube channel influencers and the financial decisions of equity investors. These factors influence credibility, influencer engagement, influencer trustworthiness, influencer investment fit, influencer’s YouTube channel promotion, and influencer-driven equity insights. This study could help investors make better decisions after learning pertinent information regarding equities. Investors can improve their investment strategies by identifying trustworthy and valuable influencer content by having a better understanding of these elements. This study provides novel insights into how digital content creators can shape equity investment decisions. However, a limitation of our study is that our findings do not show causality, only correlations between YouTube influencers and equity investments. Full article

Key performance indicators (KPIs) are crucial for managing business performance and optimization strategies. However, traditional KPIs are inflexible and cannot adapt to changes in staff, business units, functions, and processes. To address this issue, this paper proposes a method that combines statistics, machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI) to augment traditional KPIs with the flexibility of data-driven automation (DDA) techniques. This study builds a model that takes traditional KPIs generated by an integrated ecosystem as input data and assesses the suitability and correlation of the data using statistical techniques, such as Bartlett’s test of sphericity and the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) test of sampling adequacy. The model then employs exploratory Factor Analysis (FA) techniques to identify correlations and patterns, prioritize KPIs, and automatically generate smart KPIs for business optimization. The model is designed to adapt automatically by creating new KPIs as the business evolves and data change. A case study evaluation validates this approach, showing that DDA techniques can effectively create smart KPIs for business optimization. This approach provides a flexible and adaptable way to manage business performance and optimization strategies, enabling organizations to stay ahead of the competition and achieve their goals. Full article

The safe operation of high-speed railways (HSRs) is significantly challenged by strong winds. Accurate wind speed prediction along HSRs is crucial for ensuring the safety of train operations. However, existing research primarily focuses on designing and improving data-driven models, with limited attention given to the characteristics of wind speed specific to HSR environments. To address this gap, this study analyzes the wind speed characteristics of weather stations (WSs) and railway stations (RSs) along an HSR. These characteristics are explored from multiple perspectives, including wind speed variability, amplitude, correlation, wind speed distribution, and turbulence across different time scales. Additionally, the normalized cumulative periodogram (NCP) and Bartlett’s test are employed to quantify wind speed predictability. A wind speed prediction model is then developed based on predictability analysis. The findings reveal that RS wind speeds differ significantly from WS wind speeds, exhibiting higher volatility. The predictability of wind speed is influenced by the sampling interval: as the sampling time increases, the predictability and length of the predictable historical wind speed period decrease. By establishing a prediction model grounded in wind speed predictability analysis, irrelevant historical wind speed data can be excluded, improving the model’s prediction accuracy. Predictability analysis thus provides a robust foundation for forecasting strong winds along HSRs, ultimately enhancing train operation safety. Full article