Quantitative Data Research Articles

Transforming higher education in Tanzania: unleashing the true potential of AI as a transformative learning tool

PurposeThis study aims to explore AI’s potential impact on the broader landscape of higher education in Tanzania. This study contributes to the ongoing discussion of AI’s potential to transform higher education and highlights the ethical considerations and challenges that must be addressed to ensure its successful implementation. This study informs future research and policy decisions in education and technology by providing a detailed understanding of AI’s perceived benefits and challenges in higher education.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods approach was used, which involves collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data to understand the research problem comprehensively. This approach allowed data triangulation and led to a more robust and detailed understanding of this study.FindingsIn this study, it was discovered that enhanced assessment, time-saving, personalized learning, improved accessibility and detecting cheating are the perceived benefits of AI as a tool for enhancing learning in higher education, while cost and infrastructure, academic misconduct, data privacy and security, bias and ethical concerns and lack of human interaction are the perceived challenges of AI as a tool for enhancing learning in higher education. Further, it was revealed that students are more accepting of using AI tools in the classroom because they think they are more effective and engaging. On the other hand, faculty were more cautious and skeptical about employing AI tools in the classroom because they worried about how it would affect their teaching methods and job security.Research limitations/implicationsThe data collection was not conducted face-to-face. To fully capture respondents’ emotional responses, feelings, facial expressions, reactions, or body language was challenging. However, a sufficient number of individuals who participated were very cooperative, and their knowledge was very beneficial in understanding the topic.Originality/valueA unique view of this study is a clear understanding of the perceived benefits and challenges of using AI as a tool for enhancing learning in higher education, as well as the variations in these perceptions among students and faculty. By examining the perspectives of both groups, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex role of AI in higher education. Understanding the broader implications of AI in higher education can inform policy decisions and ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically.

An In-Home Withdrawal Service for individuals with low-to-moderate substance dependence: implementation and program evaluation.

Background Sonder's In-Home Withdrawal Service (IHWS) has been providing a unique home-based, multidisciplinary, wraparound withdrawal option for people with low-to-moderate levels of substance dependence since September 2019. This paper provides an evaluation of the service's overall impact on reducing substance use among clients through the delivery of this innovative service model. The evaluation explores the acceptability and feasibility of the service via client, stakeholder, and staff perspectives. Methods A mixed-method design was used to evaluate the IHWS. Descriptive analysis of quantitative data was conducted using clinical assessments from client records and online feedback surveys. Qualitative data from client, staff, and stakeholder feedback surveys were analysed thematically. Results Overall, 1166 referrals were received over the lifespan of the service, and a data set of 96 clients was included in the analysis. Self-reported measures showed that most clients decreased their substance use (89%), improved their psychological health status (75%), improved their physical health (65%), improved their quality of life (69%), and improved their understanding and ability to manage their alcohol and other drugs (AOD) use (84%). Client feedback suggests the service is providing a unique option for AOD withdrawal. Stakeholders commend the service's home-based setting, multidisciplinary and person-centred approach to care, and recommended expansion of the service to increase access for clients and reduce demand on inpatient settings. Conclusions The IHWS is having a significant impact in reducing substance use and highlights the need for increased access to holistic approaches to withdrawal. This includes pre- and post-withdrawal support and the inclusion of multidisciplinary teams, and engaging lived experience practitioners. A focus on funding primary-based services is required to meet the rising costs of tertiary-based care and to better meet the needs of consumers.

Redisplacement rate after bony hip reconstructive surgery in nonambulatory patients with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Up to 90% of nonambulatory patients with cerebral palsy (CP) experience hip displacement during their lifetime. Reconstructive surgery is recommended. Redisplacement rate is an outcome parameter. In a systematic literature review (MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL databases) until January 2023 we searched for reports with redisplacement rates after bony hip reconstructive surgery in nonambulatory patients. Quantitative data synthesis, subgroup analysis and meta-regression with moderators were carried out. The pooled mean redisplacement rate was 16% (95% CI: 12-21%) with a prediction interval of 3-51% (Q: 149; df: 32; P < 0.001; I2: 78%; τ2: 0.67 and τ: 0.82) in 28 studies (1540 hips). Varus derotation osteotomy (VDRO) alone showed a higher redisplacement rate than VDRO + pelvic osteotomy (30% vs 12%, P < .0001). Mean age in the VDRO-alone subgroup was 7.1 years and in the combined group 9.5 years (P = .004). In meta-regression, lower redisplacement rates were observed with higher preoperative migration index (MI) (correlation coefficient: -0.0279; P = .0137), where comprehensive surgery was performed. Variance in true effects are explained by type of bone surgery (57%), preoperative MI (11%), age (5%) and MI for definition of failure (20%). No significant reduction in the redisplacement rate could be observed over the mid-years of studies (1977-2015). Our pooled data support the more extensive surgical approach in patients with high preoperative MI and emphasize the superiority of combined surgery. Studies should report a coordinated set of parameters and outcome classifications according to internationally accepted gradings to reduce redisplacement in future.

Differentiating idiopathic inflammatory myopathies by automated morphometric analysis of MHC-1, MHC-2 and ICAM-1 in muscle tissue.

Diagnosis of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) is based on morphological characteristics and the evaluation of disease-related proteins. However, although broadly applied, substantial bias is imposed by the respective methods, observers and individual staining approaches. We aimed to quantify the protein levels of major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-1, (MHC)-2 and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 using an automated morphometric method to mitigate bias. Double immunofluorescence staining was performed on whole muscle sections to study differences in protein expression in myofibre and endomysial vessels. We analysed all IIM subtypes including dermatomyositis (DM), anti-synthetase syndrome (ASyS), inclusion body myositis (IBM), immune-mediated-necrotising myopathy (IMNM), dysferlinopathy (DYSF), SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination-associated myopathy. Biopsies with neurogenic atrophy (NA) and normal morphology served as controls. Bulk RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) was performed on a subset of samples. Our study highlights the significance of MHC-1, MHC-2 and ICAM-1 in diagnosing IIM subtypes and reveals distinct immunological profiles. RNASeq confirmed the precision of our method and identified specific gene pathways in the disease subtypes. Notably, ASyS, DM and SARS-CoV-2-associated myopathy showed increased ICAM-1 expression in the endomysial capillaries, indicating ICAM-1-associated vascular activation in these conditions. In addition, ICAM-1 showed high discrimination between different subgroups with high sensitivity and specificity. Automated morphometric analysis provides precise quantitative data on immune-associated proteins that can be integrated into our pathophysiological understanding of IIM. Further, ICAM-1 holds diagnostic value for the detection of IIM pathology.

"Estuvimos en una hielera": Migration trauma and detainment among newcomer Latinx adolescents.

Exposure to migration-related traumatic events may increase the risk for immediate distress upon arrival and complex trauma following resettlement. Record numbers of Latinx immigrant youth are being held in detainment facilities at the border and around the country. However, little research examines the psychological sequelae of trauma among detained youth. Through addressing these gaps, this article can inform policies and best practices that adhere to human rights and foster acculturative adjustment. This article describes community collaborative research with newcomer Latinx adolescents enrolled in public high schools. Study 1 (n = 127) used quantitative data to examine whether time in detention and trauma exposure were associated with psychosocial adjustment. Study 2 (n = 46) used qualitative data to explore the lived experiences of detainment and related trauma. Study 1 results found that over a third of participants had been detained for at least 4 weeks (36%) and nearly half the participants witnessed or experienced a traumatic event (46%). Although time in detainment was not related to internalizing or externalizing symptoms, exposure to trauma was associated with more internalizing and more externalizing symptoms. Study 2 results illustrated specific detainment-related stressors, including multiple relocations, inhumane conditions, legal concerns, and family separation, as well as complex psychological sequelae, both during detainment and after resettlement, as well as some satisfactory experiences. Results contribute new understanding of the unique experiences of immigration detainment and its psychological sequelae and can inform legal, policy, and educational practices that directly impact recently resettled Latinx youth. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

A national evaluation of Project Cautioning And Relationship Abuse (‘CARA’) awareness raising workshops for first time offenders of domestic violence and abuse: protocol for a concurrent mixed-methods evaluation design

Introduction Interventions related to the perpetration of Domestic Violence and Abuse (DVA) have gained traction over the past several years, in response to dissatisfaction by victims, an inadequate response from the criminal justice system, increased demand on police time and a lack of rehabilitative responses to the perpetration of domestic abuse. The CARA model is a conditional diversionary caution, offered by police for first time offenders of ‘standard’ or ‘medium risk’ domestic abuse, that engages perpetrators in awareness raising workshops and signposts them onto further services. Although quasi-experimental studies have indicated that CARA showed promise at reducing reoffending, the CARA model has yet to be evaluated nationally and there is no qualitative evidence related to understanding or learning about the lived experience of perpetrators and victims as they engage with the intervention. Methods Using a concurrent pragmatic mixed methods design model we will undertake a national evaluation of CARA by triangulating quantitative data from up to nine police forces, and routine data from service providers, with qualitative data from workshop participants, victims and professional stakeholders to: (1) understand the long-term impact of CARA implementation on DVA reoffending and engagement with services and (2) explore perceptions and experiences of both delivery and receipt of CARA. We will use qualitative methodologies that draw on interpretivist and phenomenological perspectives, as well as quantitative methodologies using interrupted time series models, Poisson regression models, Geo mapping and a cost benefits analysis. Ethics and dissemination Where currently the CARA model is being introduced as a national option for standard risk first-time offending, we will engage with policymakers and academics nationally in the live debate on its effectiveness and suitability during its roll-out. Ethical approval was approved by the University of Southampton on the 1st June 2022 (Ref: ERGO ID: 71818.A1).

Spatiotemporal Variation of water quality in the context of Suspended Particulate Matter in Laguna Mar Chiquita Lake, Argentina using ACOLITE

This study investigates seasonal variations in water quality at Laguna Mar Chiquita Lake, Argentina, by employing remote sensing techniques to analyze Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) which offers valuable insights into the lake's environmental health. Landsat 8-9 OLI/TIRS data from 2014-2023 was utilized for spectral analysis of water quality, processed using ACOLITE software for accurate quantitative data. Results show SPM concentrations ranging from 0.823 to 44.172mg/l, with significant seasonal variations. Higher SPM concentrations post-monsoon indicate increased anthropogenic influence, particularly in the northern area. Pollution from tourism and industrial activities is lower pre-monsoon but spikes post-monsoon and during monsoon, suggesting unfavorable conditions. Effective management and continuous monitoring are crucial for maintaining lake quality and ecosystem health.

Extraocular muscle Diffusion Weighted Imaging as a quantitative metric of posterior orbital involvement in thyroid associated orbitopathy

ObjectivesThe clinical activity score (CAS) and European severity scale (ESS) are established clinical tools to assess thyroid eye disease (TED) but are limited in terms of subjectivity and their reliability in non-Caucasian individuals, and can underestimate significant disease in the posterior orbit. Preliminary data from pilot studies have shown that diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) using extraocular muscle (EOM) apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements may provide complementary information in TED. This study expands on previous research to assess for correlations between clinical scores and EOM-ADCs in stratifying disease activity and severity in a large patient cohort from an ethnically diverse population.MethodsA retrospective review of TED clinics between 2011 and 2021 identified 96 patients with a documented CAS and ESS and an orbital MRI that included DWI. From regions of interest manually placed on EOM bellies, the highest ADC was computed for each patient and analysed for correlations and associations with CAS and ESS using Spearman Rank correlation and Mann–Whitney U tests, and any potential discriminatory cut-offs using Receiver Operator Curve analyses. A p-value < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.ResultsEOM-ADCs showed a positive association with CAS (p ≤ 0.001). EOM-ADCs were higher in sight-threatening compared to mild disease (p ≤ 0.01). A cut-off of 995 mm2/s achieved AUC = 0.7744, equating to 77% sensitivity and 67% specificity for discrimination between mild-moderate and sight-threatening disease.ConclusionEOM-ADCs correlate with higher scores of disease severity and activity in TED. Besides providing quantitative data to support clinical tools, EOM-ADC cut-offs may identify patients at risk of developing sight-threatening diseases.Critical relevance statementThis study critically evaluates the limitations of conventional clinical assessment tools for TED and demonstrates the utility of DWI scans with ADC measurements in identifying active disease, offering valuable insights to advance clinical radiology practice.Key PointsConventional tools for TED assessment have subjective limitations.ADCs from non-echoplanar diffusion-weighted imaging correlate with clinical activity.Non-echoplanar diffusion-weighted imaging offers quantitative assessment to aid clinical practice reliability.Graphical

Determination of riding comfort on cycleways using a smartphone application

Well maintained cycleways will encourage more people to cycle, as the condition of cycleways is important for the safety, accessibility and riding comfort of cyclists. Despite the surface condition and quality of cycleways having a significant impact on the cycling experience, only a few models used to describe the quality of service for cyclists take these into account. Objective measuring methods are needed to enable reliable and effective assessment of surface conditions, and measurable performance criteria related to the needs of cyclists should be developed. The purpose of this study has been to test the reliability and validity of using accelerometers in smartphones to assess the riding comfort on cycleways. A smartphone application converting three-dimensional accelerometer measurements into a single indicator for cycleways has been used to assess road surfaces in two field studies, in Sweden and Norway, respectively. Both studies assessed test sections of varying quality. To relate the measurements to subjective riding comfort assessments by cyclists, recruited cyclists collected quantitative data using the app, whilst also rating their perceived riding comfort by completing a survey. Measurements were also related to standard road surface condition indicators, generated from a road surface tester equipped with 19 laser sensors: international roughness index (IRI), mega- and macrotexture. The results show that it is possible to describe the unevenness of a cycleway using the technology present in smartphones. A software application can be used to collect and analyse data from the acceleration sensors in the phone, which can then be used to describe the riding comfort of cyclists. It is mainly the unevenness in the 50–1000 mm size-range that create the greatest discomfort for cyclists, and intermittent vibrations are perceived as more uncomfortable than more evenly distributed vibrations. Due to this and the fact that IRI is developed for cars, we have determined that IRI is not a relevant measurement for describing the riding comfort of cyclists.

The role of telemedicine during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic: shaping our future health organisations and practices

Purpose In France, telemedicine was integrated into the Code of Public Health in 2009, but adoption and use were slow until the beginning of the COVID-19 health crisis, when telemedicine arguably became the only way to ensure continuity of care for non-COVID patients, reduce viral transmission and streamline strained medical resources. Despite growing enthusiasm, criticism persists. Design/methodology/approach User satisfaction will be essential for the sustainability and development of telemedicine, yet this remains an under-researched area. Framed by the first lockdown in France (March–May 2020), this two-step mixed-methods study uses secondary quantitative data (n users = 2,511; n doctors = 254; n nurses = 248) and primary qualitative interviews (n = 5) among healthcare professionals and patients in France to analyse satisfaction levels among telemedicine users. Implementing an inductive approach, it identifies key themes in the adoption and use of telemedicine, the impact on user satisfaction and evolution in perceptions over time. Findings The findings contribute to the literature by identifying and explaining the shift in telemedicine practices and offering recommendations for addressing ongoing obstacles through pragmatic strategies. Originality/value This research addresses a gap in knowledge to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the uptake, perception and satisfaction of telemedicine experienced by users. Recognising telemedicine as a complex innovation in conceptual and practical terms, this paper investigates the degree of acceptance among users and the process of assimilation in the system.

DIALECT PREFERENCES AMONG THE SYRIAN REFUGEES IN JORDAN: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY

Background and Purpose: Taking into account the scarcity of research on Syrian refugees from the perspective of sociolinguistics, this research explored Syrian refugees’ reasons for dialect preferences when they communicate in various domains of life in Jordan. Methodology: The study employed a sequential mixed-methods design, which involved collecting both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data were collected using a questionnaire of 20 items. Qualitative data were collected using the semi-structured interviews which were conducted with 18 Syrian refugees. While the quantitative data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, the transcripts of the semi-structured interviews were coded and analysed thematically. Findings: The results of the study showed that the majority of Syrian refugees use the Syrian Dialect with family members, Syrian friends, and colleagues at work, and Syrian neighbours. Further, the results revealed that most of the Syrian refugees prefer to use the Jordanian Dialect when they communicate with Jordanian neighbours and friends, and with Jordanians at the workplace and in educational contexts. The study revealed that the major reasons for dialect preferences among Syrian refugees are a desire for integration, close connection to their families, a sense of cultural familiarity, comfort in communication, interlocutors, and the importance of the formal context. Contributions: The findings of this research can contribute to research in sociolinguistics in terms of understanding the Syrian refugees’ dialect preferences. Keywords: Syrian refugees, sociolinguistics, dialect preferences, Jordan, integration. Cite as: Samaher, F., &amp; Salasiah, C. L. (2024). Dialect preferences among the Syrian refugees in Jordan: A mixed-methods study. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 9(2), 106-130. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol9iss2pp106-130

A Mixed Methods Exploration of Young Women’s Agency and Mental Health during COVID-19 in Low-Income Communities in Mumbai, India

Introduction: Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in India face additional health inequities compared to their male peers, as gender norms constrain agency for prevention and self-care. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns deepened health inequities and often worsened mental health, but the impacts on agency are unclear. This exploratory sequential mixed methods paper examined mental health and COVID-19 elements that exacerbated or mitigated adverse consequences for AGYW in low-income communities in Mumbai. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with AGYW (aged 15–25 years; N = 60) and adults (parents, healthcare providers, community-based organization representative; N = 30). We administered a structured survey to AGYW (N = 150) to assess health concerns, depression and anxiety symptoms (using the PHQ-8 and GAD-7 scales), and experiences during COVID-19. We analyzed qualitative data using the constant comparative approach in Atlas.ti, and quantitative data using R and SPSS. Results: Qualitative data revealed that AGYW faced stressors and had limited agency during lockdowns due to limited access to education, financial insecurity, and community violence. Quantitative data indicated that limited agency in the context of COVID-19 was significantly associated with depression and anxiety. Financial resources to address COVID-19 created new employment and leadership opportunities for AGYW to become COVID educators and preschool teachers; participation in these opportunities was associated with less anxiety. Discussion: Pandemic stress was difficult for low-income AGYW in Mumbai. Mitigating programs for COVID-19 control helped address acute needs and enable capabilities. Exploring similar themes among a broader population of youth can help design strategies and opportunities for young people in low-income communities during health emergencies.

Teacher Trainers’ and Curriculum Development Experts’ Perspectives on Information Technologies Curriculum in Teacher Education

This mixed-method study had two purposes: (1) to explore the appropriateness of the learning outcomes of information technologies (IT) course curriculum in teacher education programs based on the opinions of curriculum development experts and (2) to evaluate the opinions of the academics about the adequacy of this curriculum. Curriculum development experts (n = 5) evaluated the learning outcomes of the IT course curriculum followed by the education faculties of 25 universities in Türkiye in terms of their qualitative relevance. We also obtained the opinions of 10 academics in these faculties for the evaluation of the IT course curriculum. To collect data, we used the “Qualitative Eligibility Form for Learning Outcomes” and “Evaluation Form for IT Curriculum”. We employed descriptive statistics in the analysis of quantitative data while qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The results showed that most of the learning outcomes in the IT course curriculum were not sufficient for the criteria of formal spelling conformity, necessity, and encouragement of higher-order thinking. The academics’ perspectives revealed that course sessions and practical learning activities in the IT curriculum were not sufficient. They suggested that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, Web 2.0/3.0 tools, robotics, coding, and augmented/virtual reality should be integrated into the curriculum. The implications for IT curriculum in teacher education programs and recommendations for future research were also discussed.

Self-care styles of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A mixed methods case study

BackgroundIn people affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), self-care is crucial for improving quality of life, decreasing symptom burden, and reducing health care-related costs. Unlike other chronic conditions, little is known about the factors that influence different self-care styles in COPD patients. ObjectivesTo explore the factors that could influence the self-care styles of patients with COPD. MethodsA mixed methods case study design was used. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected at the same stage in a purposive sample of patients with COPD through questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups. Data were analyzed separately and then integrated to compare the cases. ResultsThirty-seven patients with COPD were recruited from an outpatient clinic, pulmonary rehabilitation unit and online in a patient support group. On average, participants scored below the level of adequacy in all self-care dimensions. Self-care maintenance was influenced by patient age, education level, and economic status. Most participants reported performing self-care behaviors, while some did not because they found it difficult or because they did not recognize their importance. When the quantitative and qualitative data of patients with higher and lower levels of self-care were integrated, four different styles of self-care were identified according to COPD severity, psychological distress and level of self-efficacy: proactive, inactive, reactive, and hypoactive. ConclusionsPersonal, clinical, psychological, and social factors not only influence the level of self-care performed by COPD patients but also contribute to the understanding of different self-care styles. This knowledge could support health care professionals in tailoring educational interventions.

Perceptions of ethnoveterinary medicine among animal healthcare practitioners in South Africa.

The South African government recognises the value of traditional healing and supports an integrated healthcare system. In the veterinary field, successful integration depends on the perceptions of different animal healthcare practitioners (AHCPs). This study aimed to determine the perceptions of ethnoveterinary medicine among state-employed veterinarians and animal health technicians in the North West province. A mixed model questionnaire and non-probability sampling gathered quantitative and qualitative data from 53 participants. Statistical and thematic analysis processes were applied to quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Overall, 77.4% of participants were aware of ethnoveterinary medicine practices. Approval of the use of ethnoveterinary medicine by farmers was above-average at a mean of 3.57, standard deviation (s.d.) = 1.016 on a 5-point Likert scale. However, 65.9% doubted the effectiveness of ethnoveterinary medicine, which suggests tolerance but no appreciation of its value. The Chi-square test revealed a significant relationship between district municipality of employment and awareness at χ2= 17.490,df= 3,p= 0.001. Thematic analysis of comments showed that some participants perceived ethnoveterinary medicine as unscientific and interfering with Western veterinary medicine, while some considered it a good complement to Western veterinary medicine. The study also found that 20.8% of AHCPs use ethnoveterinary medicine to treat certain diseases. In conclusion, the lack of appreciation for ethnoveterinary medicine among AHCPs may hinder government-proposed integration, emphasising the need for programmes to improve perceptions among these stakeholders.Contribution:This is first such study to report on perceptions of ethnoveterinary medicine among AHCPs, and assess their readiness for an integrated animal health system.

ANALYZING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CONTENT-BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING (CBLT) APPROACHES IN INTEGRATING LANGUAGE LEARNING WITH SUBJECT MATTER INSTRUCTION IN TEFL CONTEXTS

This study examines the effectiveness of content-based language teaching (CBLT) in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) contexts, focusing on its impact on language proficiency and subject matter learning. CBLT integrates language instruction with academic content, aiming to enhance both linguistic skills and cognitive abilities simultaneously. The research employed a mixed-methods approach across multiple TEFL settings, including primary and secondary schools, to evaluate CBLTs efficacy. Quantitative data from pre-tests and post-tests, supplemented by surveys, measured improvements in language proficiency and academic achievement among students exposed to CBLT compared to traditional methods. Qualitative methods, such as classroom observations, teacher interviews, and student focus groups, provided deeper insights into instructional processes and learner experiences. Findings indicate significant enhancements in students language proficiency across speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in CBLT classrooms. Academic achievement in subjects like science, mathematics, and social studies also showed improvements, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrating language and content learning. Moreover, CBLT fostered higher levels of learner engagement and motivation by linking language skills with practical applications in academic contexts. Teacher perspectives highlighted the benefits of CBLT in promoting interdisciplinary learning and addressing diverse student needs, albeit with challenges related to curriculum integration and varying language proficiency levels. The study underscores the potential of CBLT to promote inclusive education by providing equitable access to language and content learning for all students. These findings contribute valuable insights to educational practices, emphasizing the importance of integrating language instruction with subject matter learning to enhance educational outcomes in TEFL contexts globally.

Improving the Quality of Hospital Services Through the Integration of Servqual, Kano, and Two Iterations of Quality Function Deployment (QFD)

Purpose – This research focuses on the problem of decreasing the number of private hospital visits, one of the causes of which is patient dissatisfaction with the healthcare services provided. This research aims to design recommendations for improving the quality of a hospital's health services based on the perceived needs of patients so that it is hoped that patient satisfaction can be achieved well. Methodology/approach – The literature review defines service quality and patient requirements in this research. Servqual and Kano questionnaires are used in this research, with 150 patients as respondents. After the quantitative data has been obtained and analyzed, the next step is to collect qualitative data by conducting interviews with health service management experts. By using QFD analysis, the relations between patient requirements and service characteristics are obtained. Targeted health service criteria will be chosen to be used as recommendations to improve hospital services. Findings – Some patient requirements are not optimally fulfilled by the hospital. Service characteristics and service critical parts are prioritized for the recommendation in improving the hospital health services. Novelty/value – The research combines scientific disciplines marketing, namely Service Quality (Servqual) and scientific disciplines operations management, namely Kano and Quality Function Deployment (QFD) first iteration (House of Quality) and second iteration (Part Deployment), with the hospital’s health service as the research object. The integration can be used in other service companies, especially in health services.

Comparison the Results of Humerus Shaft Fractures Treated by Functional Bracing versus Dynamic Compression Plate

Introduction with Objective: To compare the results of humerus shaft fractures treated by functional bracing and dynamic compression plate. Materials and Methods: This experimental study was carried out at the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chattogram from August 2019 to July 2021. All adult patients of closed diaphyseal fracture of humerus attending the Orthopaedics department, Chittagong Medical College Hospital during study period were the study population. Purposive sampling was done according to availability of the patients. Cases were divided in two groups; group A (dynamic compression plate) and group B (functional bracing). All the data were compiled and sorted properly and the quantitative data was analyzed statistically by using Statistical Package for Social Science. The results were expressed as percentage and mean ± SD and p&lt;0.05 was considered as the level of significant. Result: Average mean ± SD age was 40.22 ± 12.451 (range: 19-65) years. The mean age was 37.24 ± 10.686 in plating group and 43.20 ± 13.559 in bracing group. Out of 50 patients, 30 (60%) were male and 20 (40%) were female. Male was predominant in both groups (P=0.564). Regarding time taken for radiological union, average mean ± SD time was 15.32 ± 2.613 (range: 12-22) weeks. The mean time for radiological union was 14.91 ± 2.712 weeks in plating group and 15.76 ± 2.488 weeks in bracing group. Regarding ROM of shoulder &amp; elbow, there was statistically nonsignificant difference found between the groups except shoulder flexion (P= 0.031s), abduction(P=0.025s) &amp; extension(P=0.041s) more on plating group. QUICK-DASH score at 3 month shows highly significant difference between the study groups (p=0.001). At 6 and 12 month significant difference was found between the groups. Out of 44 patients at 12 months follow-up, 19 (43.2%) patient’s functional outcome was excellent and 10 (22.7%) patient’s functional outcome was good. Statistically significant difference was found between the groups (p=0.022). Conclusion: This study observed that functional outcome was relatively better in patients treated by dynamic compression plate in adult diaphyseal fracture of humerus. Medicine Today 2024, Vol.36 (2): 82-86

Æther Coupling Effects on Casimir Energy for Self-Interacting Scalar Field within Extra Dimension

Abstract This paper presents comprehensive calculations for thermal and first-order radiative corrections to the Casimir energy in systems involving self-interacting massive and massless scalar fields coupled with æther in a fifth compact dimension. The method used to compute the radiative correction to the Casimir energy differs from conventional approaches by applying a unique renormalization scheme that is consistent with specific boundary conditions or backgrounds. Despite this divergence from conventional methodologies, our results demonstrate consistency within established physical limits. Furthermore, employing a toy model, we calculated the total Casimir energy density in the bulk, taking into account both thermal and radiative corrections. We also provide a thorough characterization of the total Casimir energy density in the compact dimension, detailing its magnitude and sign using graphical representations and quantitative data.

Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) is a predictor of NAFLD activity score for diagnosing non- alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a spectrum of conditions ranging from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, advanced fibrosis and end stage liver disease. Despite the high prevalence and severity of hepatic illness, NAFLD remains underdiagnosed, because of few symptoms, lack of accurate laboratory markers. The study was aimed at to evaluate a bio-chemical score for diagnosing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. A hospital based cross-sectional observational study was carried out for a period of two years from July 2013 to June 2015 in the Department of Hepatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. The study was conducted among 50 patients of NAFLD attending at department of Hepatology and underwent for biochemical investigations and liver biopsy with NAFLD Activity Score (NAS). All data were presented as mean ± SD and analyzed by SPSS (version 16). Qualitative data were analyzed by Chi-square test and quantitative data were analyzed by student’s t-test. Performance of the test were assessed by sensitivity and specificity test. Statistically significant result were considered when p value &lt; 0.05. Total patients were divided into two groups 25 were NASH and 25 were non- NASH. Mean GGT was found 73.6±48.6 U/L in NASH group and 49.9±25.4 U/L in non-NASH group. There was significant difference in the NAFLD activity score for diagnosing NASH between elevated and normal GGT (P value 0.035). Higher GGT values correlated with higher specificity. The Gamma-lutamyltransferase (GGT) has been proposed as a noninvasive and available marker for assessment of NASH. Bangladesh Med J. 2023 May; 52(2): 6-10