Software Research Articles

The Association between Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Metformin Therapy in Libyan Diabetic Patients

Metformin is the first line treatment of diabetic hyperglycaemia. However, numerous studies have shown that long-term use of metformin can result in a vitamin B12 deficiency. In this study, we sought to assess the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in diabetic patients taking metformin on a long-term basis as well as the association between vitamin B12 deficiency and diabetic neuropathy. Across sectional study was conducted on 143 Libyan diabetic patients attending endocrinology outpatient diabetic centre in Benghazi, who are on metformin for at least 6 months, and eligible to the inclusion criteria. Data on metformin intake and confounding variables were collected from questionnaires. Serum vitamin B12 levels were estimated, and vitamin B12 deficiency was defined as serum B12 less than 196pg/ml. Data analysis was performed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 28. The study involved 143 patients, with a majority being women (50.3%) and men (49.7%). The mean duration of diabetes was 10.52 ± 7.260 years. The mean daily dose of metformin was 1435.42 ± 377.766 mg for females and 1495.77 ± 392.678 mg for males. The mean duration of metformin intake was 7.93 ± 5.859 years for females and 7.34 ± 5.780 years for males. The mean serum vitamin B12 level was 469.78 ± 233.477 pg/mL, with males having non-significantly higher levels than females. 59.2% of male patients had vitamin B12 levels ≤420 pg/mL, while 51.4% of female patients had levels ≤420 pg/mL. Nevertheless, no patient had a vitamin B12 deficit. No significant correlation was observed between serum vitamin B12 levels with metformin dose, duration of action, or patient characteristics. Despite the high prevalence of peripheral neuropathy (36.4%), there was no significant difference in B12 levels between patients with and without neuropathy.

The Influence of E-Recruitment and Job Characteristics on Pursuit Job Intention with Company Reputation as Moderator

This study aims to determine the influence of e-recruitment and job characteristics on the pursuit of job intention of graduated student University in Yogyakarta city and company reputation as moderating variable. The study uses multiple linear regression analysis and moderated regression analysis with SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) as a test tool. Sampling was carried out using purposive sampling, and the number of samples was 87 graduated students from 2017 & 2018 at ABC University, especially in the Management Study Program. The result of this research indicates that e recruitment and job characteristics have a positive effect and significance on job pursuit intention. Company reputation as a moderate variable can strengthen the relationship between e-recruitment and interest in applying for work and job characteristics with interest in applying for work. The novelty of this research is that the company's reputation is one of the important variables that can strengthen the influence of recruitment and job characteristics on the interest of job seekers, where the results of previous research are still minimal. This research has theoretical and practical implications that are important to discuss further.

Effect of Retro Walking Combined with Lagos Neuropathy Protocol on Balance and Spatiotemporal Parameters of Gait among Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy: A Prospective Interventional Study

Introduction: Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) clinically manifests as a sensorimotor disturbance that leads to complications in gait alteration and balance impairment. Balance and locomotion are the most critical aspects of an individual’s independence. Aim: To assess the effect of Retro walking with Lagos Neuropathy Protocol (LNP) on balance and spatiotemporal parameters of gait among patients with Diabetic neuropathy. Materials and Methods: The present prospective interventional Study was conducted in the Outpatient Department (OPD), Krupanidhi College of Physiotherapy, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, from October 2022 to June 2023. The sample size was 60 individuals, 30 in each group (experimental and control group). Group 1, the control group, received the conventional LNP. Group 2, the experimental group, received the LNP combined with backward walking. The interventions were given to the patients four times/week for eight weeks. Subjects were assessed at the initial stage and following the end of the intervention. The parameters assessed were balance and spatiotemporal parameters of gait, in which balance was assessed by using the Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest) and gait speed using a 10 m walk test; other gait parameters cadence, step length, and stride length were measured individually using a stopwatch and inch tape. The statistical software used was Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 29.0, and the tests included were paired t-tests and independent t-tests for data analysis. Result: The mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age of the experimental group participants was 51±3.24 years, and the control group was 50.87±3.12 years. A significant improvement was seen in cadence, step length, stride length, gait speed, and balance in the control and experimental group (p-value<0.001) Greater improvement was found in the experimental group when compared with the control group in all the outcome measures. Significant improvement was seen in all parameters in the experimental group when compared to the control group at post-test (p-value <0.05). Conclusion: The study concluded that the LNP combined with backward walking had a significant positive effect on balance and spatiotemporal determinants of gait than the LNP alone among DPN patients.

Remineralising Effects of L-arginine Fluoride Mouthwash versus Sodium Fluoride Mouthwash: A Protocol of an In-vitro Study

Introduction: Preventing dental caries and maintaining oral health are important for children’s quality of life, as they profoundly impact overall well being, self-esteem and long-term health outcomes. Despite breakthroughs in preventive dentistry, oral infections and tooth decay remain common among children, highlighting the need for novel and efficient preventive interventions. Although fluoride is a proven preventive measure against tooth decay, L-arginine, a naturally occurring amino acid, has shown promising results in enhancing remineralisation and has gained interest due to its role in maintaining oral health. The combination of L-arginine and fluoride in mouthwash may improve dental health. Need of the Study: L-arginine fluoride is utilised in oral care products such as varnishes and toothpastes; however, there are no studies examining the efficacy of L-arginine fluoride as a mouthwash. Aim: To assess the remineralising activity of L-arginine fluoride mouthwash compared to sodium fluoride mouthwash. Materials and Methods: The present in-vitro study will be conducted in the Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Sharad Pawar Dental College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India from September 2024 to December 2025. Forty-two teeth with no white spot lesions or caries will be included, while teeth with lesions, fractures, or wear will be excluded from the study. The teeth will be randomly divided into six groups with different concentrations of L-arginine fluoride, and a control group with sodium fluoride will also be evaluated. The teeth will be assessed for Ca/P ratio using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), mineral density using micro-Computed Tomography (micro-CT), and for mineral gain and remineralisation using a specific formula. The data will be statistically analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22.0; a two-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni post-hoc test, a one-way ANOVA with Student-Newman-Keuls (SNK) test, and Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA will be used. A p-value of <0.05 will be considered statistically significant.

A Retrospective Descriptive Study on Caesarean Isthmocele: A Delayed and Under-recognised Complication of Caesarean Section

Introduction: A caesarean scar defect (isthmocele) is an indentation that represents myometrial discontinuity in the anterior uterine wall, with the base communicating with the uterine cavity at the site of a previous caesarean section scar. It has been linked to a variety of gynaecological symptoms, including abnormal uterine bleeding and secondary infertility. Aim: To describe the demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, management and outcomes in patients with Caesarean Scar Defect (CSD). Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gastrocare Hospital (tertiary care centre), Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India, from February 2020 to February 2023. Data were collected from the hospital records of 43 patients who presented with CSD. The recorded variables included demographic details, clinical presentations, prior treatments, diagnostic interventions, types of surgical procedures performed and patient outcomes. Descriptive statistics, such as means, standard deviations and frequencies, were used to summarise patient characteristics and outcomes. All statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 29.0 software. Results: The majority of the women were in the age group of 30-40 years. Out of 43 patients, eight presented with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB), three had secondary infertility, and 32 presented with Caesarean Scar Ectopic Pregnancy (CSEP) and its complications. All cases were managed either by hysteroscopy or laparoscopy, based on the Residual Myometrium Thickness (RMT). Conclusion: Transvaginal Sonography (TVS) is an effective tool for diagnosing CSD and CSEP. Surgical management can be guided by the RMT as determined by TVS.

Cancer Awareness and its Predictors among the Rural Population of Eastern India: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: The global burden of cancer is increasing rapidly. In India, particularly, there is a low level of health awareness and significant information asymmetry. Improving awareness among the general population will bring about better health-seeking behavior and acceptance of screening methods. The study aims to assess the different aspects of cancer awareness and its determinants among the rural population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2017 to August 2018. Data was collected from 1116 participants using a semistructured questionnaire. Information was collected on awareness about different cancers, sources of information, treatability, preventability, and risk factors of cancer. Data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 (Armonk, NY, IBM Corp.). The level of awareness was presented as a percentage and the Odds ratio was calculated to find out the association between level of awareness and different sociodemographic characteristics. Results: 73.5% of the study participants had heard of cancer. Oral cancer was the most common cancer known to the study participants. Television was the most common source of cancer information. Knowledge about the preventability, treatability, and risk factors of cancer was very low. Tobacco was the most common risk factor identified. Awareness of cancer was found to be significantly associated with educational status. Conclusion: Awareness about general cancers was high, but awareness about specific cancers was low. There is a need to re-look at the health education campaigns about cancer to improve awareness of the rural population. Television and the Internet should be used as an effective medium to generate awareness about cancer.

Survival determinants of Fintech firms in Malaysia-moderating role of Fintech experience

Survival determinants of Fintech firms in Malaysia-moderating role of Fintech experience

Evaluation of medication appropriateness index in cardiovascular outpatient clinic: A cross-sectional study.

Older adults often have polypharmacy and multimorbidity. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the most common multimorbidities in older adults and are linked to wide range of adverse drug effects and drug-related problems. The medication appropriateness index (MAI) has been widely used in several patient settings to assess Potentially Inappropriate Medication (PIM) prescribing in older adults. The purpose of this study was to evaluate PIM prescribing in cardiovascular disease outpatient clinic. It also aimed at assessing the validity of the MAI to detect and quantify PIMs specifically in CVD outpatient clinics. This was a cross-sectional, single-center study in cardiovascular outpatient setting. Demographic, clinical, and medication information from older adults (≥ 65years old) were collected and reviewed. Two clinical pharmacists randomly selected 70 patients, evaluated 539 medications, and assessed their appropriateness using the MAI. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) descriptive and logistic regression analyses was to calculate the number of PIMs, the MAI scores, and factors associated with PIM prescribing. Our data showed that 87.1% of patients had at least one PIM and the number of PIMs per patient was 2.10. Approximately 60% of the patients had an MAI weighted score of zero (no prescription error). The mean MAI score per patient was 17.61 and the mean MAI score per medication was 2.72. The overall agreement between the two raters was 87.3% with moderate chance-adjusted agreement as indicated by the kappa static of 0.43. The factors that were associated with increased PIM prescribing were the total number of medications and being ≥85years old. A relatively high prevalence of PIMs was found in the studied population. The MAI is a reliable and valid tool to detect PIM prescribing in CVD outpatient clinics. It mandates implementing specific measures to reduce PIMs.

Evaluation of traditional and slotted winglets for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency

Minimizing drag is a critical focus in aviation, significantly influencing energy efficiency and performance. Lift-induced drag accounts for approximately 40% of total drag during cruise flight and 80%–90% during takeoff phase. Enhancing the coefficient of lift-to-drag ratio which is also termed as aerodynamic efficiency is a proven approach to reducing energy consumption in aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles. Wingtip devices, such as winglets, offer a practical solution by mitigating induced drag generated by wingtip vortices. This study investigates the aerodynamic performance of three configurations: a plain wing, a wing with a traditional winglet, and a wing with a slotted winglet. The analysis was conducted using computational fluid dynamics software at angles of attack ranging from −4° to 12°, with velocities of 20 and 270 m/s, corresponding to Reynolds numbers of 2.5 × 106 and 3.3 × 107, respectively. Results demonstrated that the traditional winglet achieved a 4% average improvement in aerodynamic efficiency, while the slotted winglet exhibited a 3.16% enhancement over the plain wing. Energy consumption was reduced by 4% and 3.16% with traditional and slotted winglets, respectively. These findings validate the effectiveness of winglets in improving aerodynamic efficiency and provide insight for optimizing wingtip device design.

Intrathecal Clonidine versus Dexmedetomidine as Adjuvants to Hyperbaric Ropivacaine in Lower Limb Orthopaedic Surgeries: A Randomised Clinical Study

Introduction: Subarachnoid block is the most chosen mode for orthopaedic surgeries in lower limb. Adjuvants such as opioids and α2 agonists are often added intrathecally to improve or prolong the anaesthetic and analgesic effects. Ropivacaine, a novel local anaesthetic agent, is widely accepted as it has better safety profile as compared to bupivacaine and lignocaine. Aim: To compare clonidine and dexmedetomidine as adjuvants to hyperbaric ropivacaine given intrathecally in lower limb orthopaedic surgeries, focusing on haemodynamic changes, sedation, duration of analgesia, and sensory and motor blockades. Materials and Methods: This randomised clinical study was conducted in a teritary care facility at the Operation Theatre (OT) complex in the Department of Anaesthesiology at Dhiraj Hospital, Smt. Bhikhiben Kanjibhai Shah Medical Institute and Research Centre (SBKS and MIRC), Piparia, Waghodia, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. The study duration was 18 months, with a total sample size of 60 patients, comprising of 30 patients in each group. Group RC30 (Ropivacaine+Clonidine) was given 3.5 mL of 0.75% hyperbaric ropivacaine with 30 μg of clonidine, while Group RD5 (Ropivacaine + Dexmedetomidine) was given 3.5 mL of 0.75% hyperbaric ropivacaine along with 5 μg of dexmedetomidine, intrathecally. Results were assessed by comparing the onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade. The absolute and effective analgesia durations were also compared and side-effects and complications along with haemodynamic changes were analysed. Data was analysed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) Software version 26.0. Mean and Standard Deviation (SD) were derived for continuous variables and t-test or Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to evaluate relationship between them, proportions for categorical variables and the Chi-square test was used for categorical variables. Results: The mean for age in Group RD5 was 39.43±10.6 years and Group RC30 was 41.43±13.65 years. The time to S2 regression was longer in Group RD5 (136.10±8.10 min) compared to Group RC30 (102.67±7.69 min) (p<0.0001). Longer duration of sensory and motor blockade was seen in Group RD5 (312.53±23.22 min, 381.40±30.01 min) as compared to Group RC30 (279.90±29.64 min, 321.63±38.82 min) (p<0.0001, respectively). Group RD5 also required fewer analgesic interventions in the first 24 hours. Absolute and effective analgesia was found longer in Group RD5 as compared to Group RC30 (p=0.0006, p=0.0022, respectively). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine offers superior postoperative analgesia compared to clonidine but is associated with a higher incidence of bradycardia and hypotension, both of which are manageable with standard interventions.

Testing the Effects of cosmic Ray Flux Intensity Modulation on Solar Emission Characteristics

Abstract We investigate the relationship between the magnitudes of Forbush decreases (FDs) and solar-geomagnetic characteristics using daily-averaged galactic cosmic ray (GCR) data from Inuvick (INVK) and Magadan (MGDN) neutron monitor (NM) stations to aid in counting the case of Galactic Cosmic Ray (GCR) flux intensity modulation. The FDs obtained with automated new computer software algorithm from daily-averaged GCR data of IZMIRAN common website: http://cr0.izmiran.ru/common, at INVK (224) and MGDN (229) NM stations, from 1998 to 2002, were used in the present work. The associated solar-geomagnetic parameters of the same time range were obtained from the OMNI website. The statistical analytical method was employed to test the link between FD amplitudes and solar-geomagnetic variables. We observed negative trends in FD-IMF, FD-SWS, FD-Kp, FD-SSN and FD-SI, while a positive relation was indicated in FD-Dst at both stations. All are statistically significant at a 95\% confidence level. The results obtained here imply that solar emission characteristics impact the GCR flux intensity modulation.


Data on effect of NPSB fertilizer rates on growth and yield of carrot (Daucus carrota L.) varieties in Gondar district, Northwestern Ethiopia.

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is one of the most important root crops grown worldwide and in Ethiopia. However, its production and productivity are low due to a lack of improved varieties and unbalanced fertilizer rates, among other factors. The field experiment was, therefore, conducted to improve the productivity of carrot varieties through blended fertilizer rates at the horticulture demonstration site of the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of Gondar. Treatment consisted of NPSB nutrient levels (0:0:0:0, 21.3:15.3:2.80:0.04, 42.6:30.6:5.60:0.08, 64:46:8.41:0.12, 85.3:61.2:11.2:0.16, and 106.7:76.7:14.03:0.20 kg ha-1), which were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were collected on crop phenology, growth and root yield (marketable, unmarketable, and total root yield) parameters and subjected to analysis of variance using SAS computer software version 9.4. As described in Montgomery, the residuals were examined to verify the normal distribution and homogeneous variance model assumptions on the error terms for each response variable. Because the twelve treatment combinations were randomized within each block, the independence assumption is valid. When a treatment effect was significant, multiple means comparison was performed at a 5% level of significance using the least significant difference (Fisher's LSD) method to generate letter groupings, and correlation analysis was performed using the Pearson correlation procedure found in SAS. This dataset article, therefore, gives information about the effects of NPSB on the productivity of carrot varieties. The experiment also determines the optimal NPSB fertilizer rate for maximizing carrot root yield in comparable agro-ecological regions, offering valuable insights for researchers to analyze and potentially sparking new research directions. This data can foster collaborations and enhance the visibility of research within the scientific community, enabling widespread access for further exploration and application in related fields.

From Chain to Capital: Supply Chain Risks and Working Capital Management

From Chain to Capital: Supply Chain Risks and Working Capital Management

Tuning a secondary dose verification software for a CT-guided online adaptive delivery system.

Quality assurance (QA) remains unstandardized for CT-guided online adaptive radiotherapy (CTgART) platforms (Ethos, Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA), as they become more clinically prevalent. A secondary dose calculation software (Mobius3D, Varian Medical Systems, Inc., Palo Alto, CA) is provided for this closed CTgART system. However, the clinical impact of tuning dosimetric leaf gap (DLG) correction values for specific delivery techniques for CTgART secondary dose calculations remains uninvestigated. Tuning the DLG correction value for different delivery techniques of the independent secondary dose verification software for adaptive online QA. A total of 31 volumetric arc therapy (VMAT) and 13 fixed-gantry intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plans were selected from representative anatomical sites treated in our clinic. All plans were evaluated on a patient CT dataset and a QA dataset of a solid water phantom with an embedded ion chamber placed at the center in both primary treatment planning systems (TPS) and secondary dose verification software. Primary TPS plan doses were compared with secondary calculation doses on patient CT by calculating 3D gamma passing criteria under different DLG correction values ranging from -2 to 2mm to determine the optimal DLG correction range. Ion chamber verification measurements were then compared to secondary calculation dose to determine the optimal DLG correction value by minimizing the difference for IMRT and VMAT plans, separately. The optimal DLG correction values for VMAT and IMRT techniques were -0.3 and 0.4mm respectively for the selected clinical cohort of patients. The mean gamma passing rate between primary and secondary doses for VMAT and IMRT were 99.0%±1.0% and 99.9%±0.1% with 3%/2mm and excluding 10% low dose criteria. The mean ion chamber agreement for VMAT and IMRT were 0.0%±2.1% and 0.2%±1.4%. DLG correction value should be tuned for each delivery technique (VMAT and IMRT) separately to maximize the robustness of CTgART online QA programs.

A Review on Bridging CAM and Modern Statistical Tools: An Introduction to Bayesian Methods

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) modalities, encompassing practices such as acupuncture, yoga, and herbal therapy, are experiencing a notable increase in their utilization as supplementary or alternative options to conventional medical interventions. Nonetheless, the scientific appraisal of these modalities is frequently hindered by methodological issues, including the personalization of treatments, limited sample sizes, and multifaceted, multidimensional outcomes. Such constraints often render traditional frequentist statistical techniques inadequate for evaluating the efficacy of CAM interventions. This review highlights the potential of Bayesian statistical approaches as a transformative solution for the study of CAM.Through an extensive review of existing literature and the development of hypothetical models, we illustrate the advantages of Bayesian methodologies in tackling the specific challenges associated with CAM research. Review findings include the capacity to integrate prior knowledge derived from historical and observational data, thereby effectively addressing issues related to small sample sizes and facilitating adaptive trial designs that enhance resource allocation.Furthermore, Bayesian hierarchical models adeptly accommodate heterogeneity across varied patient demographics and therapeutic modalities, while allowing for the seamless integration of multidimensional outcomes into a cohesive analytical framework. Despite challenges such as computational intensity and the subjective nature of prior selection, advancements in computational software and educational resources are improving the accessibility of Bayesian methodologies. This paradigm presents a robust, evidence-based framework for the validation of CAM therapies, thereby promoting their incorporation into clinical practice. By effectively addressing methodological intricacies, Bayesian statistics has the potential to elevate CAM research to align with the standards of contemporary evidence-based medicine, thereby encouraging wider acceptance within healthcare systems.

A STUDY OF EPIDEMOLOGY AND OUTCOME OF SNAKE ENVENOMATION ADMITTED AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE, NORTH KERALA

Aims and Objectives:Snake envenomation is a medical emergency of significant public health concernfaced by rural populations mainly in tropical and subtropical countries with heavy rainfall and humid climate.Although India ia s single large contributor of snake bites,reporting is very poor. Very few studies describe epidemiology and outcome of snake bite from Kerala. Hence, this study was planned to collect information on various aspects of snake bite in a tertiary care hospital.. This tertiary care centre caters to all six districts of Kerala including Kozhikode,Kannur,Malappuram ,Kasargod,Palakkad and Wayanad . Study Setting and Design:This is a descriptive ,observational and crossectional study carried out at Govt Medical College ,Kozhikode Materials and Methods: Sampling Procedure:This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of all patients admitted with snake envenomation at Snake Bite unit, Govt Medical College,Kozhikode.Study period was from July 2017 –June 2018.Patients are included if they had a definite history of poisonous snake bite and developed features of envenomation and are evaluated based on a proforma with detailed history and clinical examination. Data are collected regarding age, sex, occupation, time of bite, symptoms, investigations, mode of treatment given and complications.Sample size is 110. Study Analysis: Data are analysed using computer software, Statitical Package for Social Sciences(SPSS) version 18.Data are expressed in its frequency and percentage .To elucidate the associations and comparisons between different parameters ,qualitative variables are analysed using Chi –square test and quantitative variables by t –test.The Institutional Ethics Committee of Govt. Medical College ,Kozhikode approved the research project. Written informed consent is obtained from all patients who had participated in this study in their vernacular language . Results:Detailed history with special reference to the type of snake, circumstances leading to the bite and clinical consequences are studied and final outcome is noted. Males (n=71) are bitten more often than females (n=31) .46 cases are in the age range of 40-60 years. 57(55%) cases are during the monsoon. Most (n=67) are encountered in the lower limbs. Viper is the most common poisonous snake encountered (73%)(n=75). 49 (48%) cases are from rural area. Among the viper bite Russells viper constitutes 26(25.4%) and Pit viper of 50(49%).Coagulation time is prolonged in 36 cases(35.3%). Hemotoxic symptoms present in 40(39.2%) victims ,neurotoxic features present in 32(31.3%) victims ,both hemotoxic and neurotoxic features are present in 12(11.7%) victims.Polyvalent anti snake venoum (ASV) is given to 66 cases. Hypersensitivity to ASV is noted in 13 cases out of 66 cases.Bite to needle time is >6hrs in all the victims who expired.The mortality rate among snake bite victims is 6.8%.The morbidity and mortality can be reduced substantially by early medical care and providing health education. Conclusion: On the basis of study findings ,Pit viper bites were predominant in our area which was less fatal.Eventhough the antisnake venom doesnot cover Pitviper,it was given empirically if coagulation failure occurs. Death was more in neurotoxic bites .Duration of hospital stay was more in Viper bites .Victims with bite to needle time <4 hrs were recovered earlier without complications. Morbidity and mortality due to this can be reduced by early administration of antisnake venom and management of complications.So prompt referral of victims with poisonous snake bite to centres where facilities in managing snake bite is crucial in preventing mortality.

IMPACT OF ACADEMIC STRESS AND RESILIENCE ON LIFE SATISFACTION AMONG UNDERGRADUATES OF NASARAWA STATE UNIVERSITY, KEFFI

This study examined “Impact of Academic Stress and Resilience on Life Satisfaction among undergraduates of Nasarawa State University, Keffi.” The researcher employed a survey descriptive research design. A total of One hundred and one (101) respondents were randomly selected across 4 levels in Psychology department. Participants were selected through a simple random sampling process. Undergraduate stress questionnaire (USQ), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were used to collect data. The responses of the respondents were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The main hypotheses of this research were tested at 0.05 level of significance. Hypothesis one indicates a negative correlation between Academic Stress and Satisfaction With life: r (99) = -.768, p >.05. Hypothesis two indicates a significant positive correlation between resilience and Life Satisfaction: r (99) = .534, p < .05.Finally, there is a significant gender difference in Life Satisfaction among Students of Nasarawa State University Keffi. The study concludes that Academic stress does not affect student’s satisfaction with life but resilience does. It was recommended that school authority should Conduct and Implement interventions aimed at reducing academic stress and fostering resilience among students. Evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in promoting life satisfaction.

Organizational Culture Dimensions and Employee Commitment: A Correlational Study of Educational Institutions in Pakistan

The work environment affects all aspects of an organization and enables people to perform optimally. The current study investigates the relationship between organizational culture dimensions and employee commitment in educational institutions in Pakistan. It was quantitative research with a survey method research design. A convenient sampling technique was used to select 120 teachers and 30 head teachers at secondary schools. For the data collection, a self-developed 25-item questionnaire was used to measure various dimensions of organizational culture and employee commitment. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 20 was used for data analysis with descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. The findings revealed a strong positive relationship between organizational culture and employee commitment (r=.932), with communication practices showing the strongest dimensional correlation (r=0.72). Moreover, it is indicated that organizational culture is critical in influencing employee commitment. Specifically, effective communication practices, leadership styles, and recognition systems significantly impact employees' emotional and professional attachment to the organization. Organizations should foster transparent communication, recognize employee achievements, and promote collaborative teamwork to enhance commitment. These findings contribute to understanding how organizational culture can be leveraged to improve employee retention and institutional performance in educational settings.

Association of Age Shock Index with Mortality among Trauma Patients in the Emergency Department

Trauma injuries cause significant global morbidity and mortality. While current scoring systems like ISS and TRISS are complex, the Age Shock Index (ASI) offers a simpler, potentially more effective method for estimating patient outcomes. Objective: To evaluate the association of Age Shock Index with 48-hour in-hospital mortality in a trauma population in an Emergency Department (ED). Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted over eight months in the Emergency Department of Ziauddin University, focusing on pre-selected trauma patients aged 18-65 years. Patients were divided into two groups: the exposed group and non-exposed group, with an Age Shock Index (ASI) ≥ 50, and < 50 respectively. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, and independent t-tests with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Results: Patients with an Age Shock Index (ASI) ≥ 50 had significantly higher 48-hour in-hospital mortality (72%) compared to those with an ASI < 50 (12%) (p < 0.001). The exposed group also received more intravenous fluids, inotropic support, and blood products. No deaths occurred in the emergency room among the exposed group, but a trend towards higher overall mortality was observed (hazard ratio 48.584, 95% CI: 0.511 - 4622.17, p = 0.095). Conclusions: The Age Shock Index (ASI) ≥ 50 is associated with significantly higher 48-hour in-hospital mortality in trauma patients. The exposed group required more intensive interventions, indicating a higher severity of injury. ASI may serve as an effective predictor of patient outcomes in emergency settings.

IMPACT OF POOR COMMUNICATION, FATIGUE, AND EXPERIENCE LEVELS ON ACCIDENT RATES: A CASE STUDY OF THE MALAYSIAN MARITIME SHIPPING INDUSTRY

Human error is the primary cause of most accidents, leading to various issues and shipping delays. Previous research has identified three key causes that culminate in human error in the Malaysian shipping industry: poor communication, fatigue, and lack of experience. However, there is limited discussion on effective strategies to mitigate these errors. Therefore, this study aims to propose optimal solutions to reduce human error. Through this study, quantitative research methods were used to obtain important data involving the main objectives of this study. For the quantitative analysis, data was collected through multiple rounds of questionnaires distributed to 25 experts using the Delphi method and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The study stresses the critical factors influencing human error in the industry, with findings identifying fatigue as the primary contributor to accidents. Addressing this issue would help the shipping industry to reduce human errors and accidents, thereby ensuring smoother operations.