Results Of Focus Group Discussions Research Articles

Exploration of the Utilization of "LAYAR" as a Means of Assessment of Dentistry Education during the Covid-19 Pandemic

Introduction: The pandemic of COVID-19 has impacted all areas of life, as well as in education. Learning and evaluation of learning (assessment) outcomes must be transformed into online methods. Faculty of Dentistry Universitas YARSI used YARSI e-learning (LAYAR) as the most widely used media in the assessment of distance learning outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to explore the learners' perceptions related to the experience of using LAYAR as an assessment media during distance learning period at Faculty of Dentistry Universitas YARSI. Material and Methods: The study used a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. Data collection was conducted through FGD (Focus Group Discussion) with academic and clinical stage students. The results of FGDs were written in the form of verbatim transcripts and then thematic analysis was carried out. Results: FGDs were conducted with 2 groups of academic stage students consisting of 8 students each and 1 group of clinical stage students consisting of 8 students. Three main themes were identified: the utilization of LAYAR, the assessment method used during distance learning through LAYAR, and the constraints of using LAYAR in the assessment. Conclusion: The use of LAYAR as an assessment media is considered quite user friendly but the limitation of the range of questions needs to be reviewed. The clinical stage students feel that the utilization of LAYAR was still insufficient. In addition, it was necessary to further utilize LAYAR for formative assessments that can further help students' understanding of learning.

The dilemma of work-family balance for the dual-career couples with child/children: qualitative evidence from Bangladesh based on Family Systems Theory

Purpose The purpose of this qualitative study is to identify and highlight the challenges faced by the dual-career couples with one or multiple child/children in maintaining their work–family balance based on family systems theory. Design/methodology/approach The author purposely selected 26 families (52 participants) in Bangladesh where both husbands and wives work on a full-time basis having one or multiple child/children. The author used focus group discussion (FGD) technique to identify the challenges encountered by them. Findings After summarising the FGD results, the study identified several challenges faced by those dual-career couples, such as inability to differentiate between professional and family lives, lack of quality time for partners/children, challenges to raise children, lack of childcare centres and lack of professionalism of care workers; and tension and anxiety for their child/children while at offices. Originality/value The author expects the results of this qualitative study to be conductive as groundwork for upcoming research studies concerning dual-career couples with child/children. The author also hopes that such results will assist the human resource managers in efficiently crafting and executing some policies regarding dual-career couples with one or multiple child/children.

Qualitative Study of Anxiety Facing Block Examinations Among Medical Students at Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan

Background: Medical students face examinations more frequently compared to students from other faculties. Examinations are one of the causes of anxiety commonly experienced by medical students, leading to both physical and psychological responses. Effective coping mechanisms in response to stressors are necessary for medical students as a defense mechanism. Objective: This research aims to explore the causes of exam anxiety, the contributing factors to anxiety and the coping mechanism used by medical students. Methods: The research adopts a qualitative descriptive design, the sample consist of active medical students from Faculty of Medicine, Ahmad Dahlan University who have faced block examinations. Sample selection was done using a test- anxiety inventory, with participants chosen from each academic year and divided into focus group discussion (FGD) sessions. The FGD results were subsequently analyzed using content analysis in the form of research problem categories. Results: The discovered data consists of the main research issues, which are student’s anxiety when facing block exams, the factors causing anxiety, and student’s coping mechanisms. Conclusion: The high anxiety group portrays block exams as a subjective matter and tends to lead to anxiety, students in low anxiety group predominantly utilize problem-focused coping mechanism.

Development of self care agency based-independent nursing guidance in tuberculosis patients at public health center, North Sumatera

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that causes health problems and is the main cause of death in the world. TB caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis bacillus can spread in the air if a patient who is sick with TB exhales coughs containing TB bacteria. One of the supporters of the success rate of TB recovery is the patient's ability to carry out independent care consisting of treatment, prevention and transmission, fulfillment of nutrition, and increasing the patient's self-confidence. PurposeThis study aims to produce agency-based self-care guidelines for TB patients with output in the form of self-care guidelines for tuberculosis patients at the Sentosa Baru Health Center, North Sumatera. MethodThe method of this research is action research which consists of the stages of reconnaissance, planning, acting observation, and reflecting. Data collection methods used patient knowledge questionnaires about tuberculosis self-care, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), and In-depth Interviews for participants' knowledge. The participants involved in this study were 22 participants using a purposive sampling technique from October 2018 to January 2019. Data analysis used qualitative methods. Qualitative data were obtained through the results of FGDs and in-depth interviews about self-care. ResultsThis study has produced self-care agency-based self-care guidelines for tuberculosis patients. This study produced four themes, namely 1) the development of self-care guidelines for TB patients, 2) the benefits of self-care guidelines for TB patients, and 3) factors in supporting self-care for TB patients. ConclusionThe successful treatment of TB patients at the Sentosa Baru Public Health Center, North Sumatera, requires agency-based self-care guidelines to produce maximum tuberculosis care.

PERSEPSI UMAT KATOLIK TERHADAP KUALITAS PENDIDIKAN SEKOLAH KATOLIK DI KEVIKEPAN YOGYAKARTA BARAT DAN KEVIKEPAN YOGYAKARTA TIMUR

Perception is a view formed by an individual through information and experience that is received through the process of sensing. In this process, the individual provides an interpretation and assessment of a certain stimulus or object. This research aims to analyze the perceptions of Catholics about the quality of Catholic school education in The Episcopal Vicariate of Yogyakarta. The method that was used in this study is qualitative with a realist approach. Data collection in this study was done with a combination Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with survey form that was given through google Forms which were transmitted to the WhatsApp Group from June to August 2023. The subjects in this study are Catholics who are in 23 parishes in the Episcopal Vicariate of West Yogyakarta and 25 parishes in the Episcopal Vicariate of East Yogyakarta. Catholics who are involved in FGD are those in the parish who have experience with or are involved with Catholic school education, such as parents, students, teachers, or educators, to school employees in the Episcopal Vicariate of West Yogyakarta and the Episcopal Vicariate of East Yogyakarta. Subjects perform FGD using several instrument questions that have been prepared, then the FGD results are recorded into google Forms. The results were analyzed using thematic techniques and found that Catholics in the Episcopal Vicariate of Yogyakarta have a positive perception of Catholic schools. The results of these perceptions also found a mismatch between the positive perception of Catholics and the reality of new admissions data, which decreased in some Catholic schools.

PKM Transformasi Koperasi Siswa melalui Pendampingan Digitalisasi pada Pengelola Koperasi di Madrasah Ibtidaiyah se Kota Batu

Conventional management raises technical problems that have a big impact on managing cooperatives. The aim of this service is to provide planning, action, observation and reflection on the transformation of student cooperatives through digitalization assistance to cooperative managers in madrasah ibtidaiyah throughout Batu City. The method used in service is PAR-based, described in a cycle consisting of planning, action, observation and reflection. The results of the service were obtained from (1) Activities at this planning stage, namely the preparation of training activity materials. This activity was carried out in the form of a focus group discussion (FGD) involving the chairman of the Batu City KKMI, researchers and resource persons. The agreed FGD results. (2) The action stage is actualized with the facilities of the research team. The training will be carried out offline on 11 and 12 July 2023. (3) Observations were carried out to understand the successes and weaknesses of school cooperative digitalization training. The results of observations carried out during the training revealed weaknesses and strengths experienced by researchers, coordinators and teachers both in terms of attitudes and obstacles in training such as facilities and infrastructure. (4) Training activities can be reflected on and evaluated. Evaluation activities were carried out in the field on August 18 2023 at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah in Batu City. Reflection and evaluation in the form of conveying supporting and inhibiting factors during training activities and appreciation to participants..

PEOPLE WITH AUTISM AND THE PROPENSITY FOR LAW-BREAKING: A SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS’ PERSPECTIVE

Autism is a subtype of neuro-developmental disorders, that causes the afflicted person to have social skills deficit, which then manifests into their behaviours. Behaviours that are typical among persons with autism, such as obsessions with daily routine, difficulties in understanding abstract matters and codes of conduct may expose them to engage in indecent acts in public or exhibit other forms of risky behaviours that violate social norms and break the law. The objective of this research is to study the behaviour of persons with autism who tend to break the law based on the perspective of teachers at autism centres in Malaysia. Data were collected through focus group discussion (FGD) with 25 special education teachers who were directly involved in the process of early intervention and education of children with autism. Data obtained were then analyzed descriptively and thematic analysis was conducted to obtain the recurring themes. Results of FGD demonstrated that the frequently emerging themes of rule-breaking behaviors committed by persons with autism are physically hurting others, setting buildings on fire (arson), vandalism of public property, theft, sexual and cyber offences which are considered criminal acts under the Penal Code and the Shariah Criminal Offences State Enactment/Act. Most research participants, however, considered these behaviors to be part of the individual with autism behavior and thus do not consider them serious enough to report to law enforcement for investigation and prosecution. Thus, it is recommended that teachers, parents, and caretakers be more attentive to preventing high-risk behavior of persons with autism through ongoing early intervention programs tailored to meet the needs of persons with autism. Research findings can help society tobetter understand autistic behavior that needs timely intervention, so it will not lead to an investigation by the police or criminal prosecution.

A qualitative study on the feasibility and acceptability of institutionalizing health technology assessment in Malawi

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of institutionalizing Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in Malawi.MethodsThis study employed a document review and qualitative research methods, to understand the status of HTA in Malawi. This was complemented by a review of the status and nature of HTA institutionalization in selected countries.Qualitative research employed a Focus Group Discussion (FGD ) with 7 participants, and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with12 informants selected based on their knowledge and expertise in policy processes related to HTA in Malawi.Data extracted from the literature was organized in Microsoft Excel, categorized according to thematic areas and analyzed using a literature review framework. Qualitative data from KIIs and the FGD was analyzed using a thematic content analysis approach.ResultsSome HTA processes exist and are executed through three structures namely: Ministry of Health Senior Management Team, Technical Working Groups, and Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority (PMRA) with varyingdegrees of effectiveness.The main limitations of current HTA mechanisms include limited evidence use, lack of a standardized framework for technology adoption, donor pressure, lack of resources for the HTA process and technology acquisition, laws and practices that undermine cost-effectiveness considerations. KII and FGD results showed overwhelming demand for strengthening HTA in Malawi, with a stronger preference for strengthening coordination and capacity of existing entities and structures.ConclusionThe study has shown that HTA institutionalization is acceptable and feasible in Malawi. However, the current committee based processes are suboptimal to improve efficiency due to lack of a structured framework. A structured HTA framework has the potential to improve processes in pharmaceuticals and medical technologies decision-making.In the short to medium term, HTA capacity building should focus on generating demand and increasing capacity in cost-effectiveness assessments. Country-specific assessments should precede HTA institutionalization as well as recommendations for new technology adoptions.

Development of Academic Atmosphere in Women's Small Enterprises in North Sumatra

This community service aims to develop the academic atmosphere of women entrepreneurs to have entrepreneurial competencies in overcoming challenges and developing their enterprises to become upgraded SMEs. This service was conducted in Medan City and Deli Serdang Regency with a total of 31 women’s small enterprises. This activity was carried out using qualitative descriptive methods from 5 tools, namely documents, focus group discussions (FGDs), interviews, observations, and workshops. The results of FGDs showed that women entrepreneurs needed to collaborate with universities to make affordable and quality products. The results of interviews and observations showed that they ran the enterprises because they wanted to get more income, dared to take calculated risks, had the competence, were able to take advantage of opportunities, and were able to face changes in society. These women entrepreneurs were also given training in the form of workshops to develop the academic atmosphere and increase competence in managing entrepreneurship by creating entrepreneurial journeys, namely the understanding of being successful entrepreneurs. Therefore, they can contribute to large companies.

A Phenomenological Study on the Experiences of Public Elementary School Teachers in Crafting Self-Learning Modules (SLM) in the New Normal

This study aimed to explore and understand the lived experiences of SLM writers in crafting Self-Learning Modules (SLM) in the New Normal in Tagum City Division. It used qualitative research design employing phenomenological approach. It comprised of fourteen beginning public elementary teachers: seven teachers for online in-depth interview (IDI) and seven teachers for online focus group discussion (FGD). This study was limited to describing and understanding the lived experiences of the participants and the data were taken from the results of IDI and FGD. For data analysis, this study employed coding and thematic analysis. For experiences, findings revealed that they lack training and knowledge on the assigned subjects experienced time constraints had hesitations, stress, and anxiety and encountered dilemma on copyright issues and social contents. Participans coped with their challenges by being resourceful in doing research asking supports from experts and colleagues using appropriate and relatable contents avoiding sensitive topics and paraphrasing and citing sources to avoid plagiarism. They also cited insights which revolved around the following themes: becoming a writer as an opportunity for professional growth provision of support for teacher-writers DepEd to select expert teachers give enough time for writing modules teacher-writers to consider learners capacity and grant of rewards and promotion. The results implied that writers should have enough trainings and seminar- workshops about SLM crafting. Also, the study would give awareness and suggestions that could be helpful for teachers, students, and DepEd authorities as well.

Lived Experiences of Untrained Public Elementary School Teachers on the Implementation of Multi- Factored Assessment Tool (MFAT) in Teaching Learners: A Qualitative Inquiry

This study aimed to explore and understand the lived experiences of untrained Grade 1 teachers on the implementation of Multi-Factored Assessment Tool (MFAT) in Tagum City Division. It used qualitative research design employing phenomenological approach. It comprised of fourteen (14) untrained grade 1 teachers: seven (7) teachers for online in-depth interview (IDI) and seven (7) teachers for online focus group discussion (FGD). This study was limited to describing and understanding the lived experiences of the participants and the data were taken from the result of IDI and FGD. For data analysis, this study employed coding and thematic analysis. On their experiences, the findings revealed that they met learners with learning and special needs they lacked information and training on the nature of assessment encountered in-denial and uncooperative parents had time constraints and difficulties in preparing the location and materials. However, to cope their problems, they had set flexible schedules became resourceful provided with coordination and support and established open communication with their parents. Apart from that, their insights were: MFAT as a valuable tool to cater learners needs intensification of parent cooperation provision of financial support and tools and proper time allocation and a call for psychological and medical assessment or treatment to SPED children. The results implied that the implementation of MFAT must be improved as well as the support from the colleagues, Heads, DepEd officials, and parents. Also, the study gives awareness, insights, and suggestions that may be useful for the improvement of MFAT and giving interventions.

Design electronic medical records with clinical decision support system (CDSS) to prevent interaction of drug content in outpatient department

Introduction: Hospitals must provide the best service to patients. The best services include speed in service, being on time, and being safe from medical errors. The best service to patients is to provide electronic medical records. Electronic medical records contain social data and patient medical data. The advantages of medical records are data stored in structured files, timely filling, data can be recalled at any time, patient confidentiality, and patient safety. This study aims to design electronic medical records with Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) to prevent the interaction of drug content in the outpatient department. Methods: General background of the research is the design of electronic medical records with a clinical decision support system to prevent interaction of drug content for outpatient Departement. The design included: Business Process, Data Flow Diagram (DFD), and Entity Relationship Diagram. Five doctors, two nurses, and a pharmacist assistant were respondents. Qualitative data from FGD were analyzed by transcripts looking for similarities or differences, finding themes, and developing categories. The Design of Electronic Medical Record with Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS) was designed based on paper forms and the Result of FGD. Results: Electronic medical records were designed according to the users' needs in the outpatient department. User requirements had been taken by Focus Group Discussion (FGD). User requirements about Electronic Medical records included: Infrastructure Availability, Software (open source and web application because it was easy to develop according to users' needs, and training on electronic medical records. There are steps to designing electronic medical records: Business Process, DFD, ERD, and Data Dictionary. Conclusion: The design of electronic medical records with CDSS in the form of drug content interactions is a novelty that has the potential to be applied. Implementation of electronic medical records can prevent medical errors and support patient safety.

Identification of University Resources in an Effort to Design a Disaster Resilience Training Module

The current disaster management paradigm emphasizes community empowerment, thus enabling the community to become a helping subject, not an object that needs help. Data shows that Indonesia is a country prone to all sources of natural disasters. The purpose of this research is to compile modules in creating a disaster resilient campus. After the modules are compiled, the next step is to socialize the modules, conduct training of trainers, training and evaluate the training that has been carried out based on the modules that have been prepared. Research methods. Quantitative research design, with a descriptive approach. Aims to identify the potential of higher education institutions in efforts to reduce disaster risk in an effort to develop training modules. The population and sample were FGD (Focus Group Discussion) participants and disaster management experts/experts, and 100 module trial participants.The research variables were obtained from the results of literature studies and FGDs. Furthermore, the identification results are used to develop modules that can be used as Field Rehearsal guides. Modules are obtained in 3 ways: identification, FGD and expert consultation. The variables of this study are the presence of disaster courses, the presence of disaster course lecturers, the competence of lecturer training, the existence of training modules for lecturers, the diversity of potential disaster sources. Result.The results of the analysis test on all variables which are learning activities, are valid and reliable. From the results of the analysis, it can be obtained that the item score with a total score is then compared with the r table value (5% significance with a 2-sided test and n = 110) in the amount of 0.195. The decision was that all the r values from the analysis were more than (>) the r table values. Conclusion. The results showed that the modules that had been developed by conducting literature studies, FGDs and expert consuls had been tried out. The results of the analysis test show that the module can be used for disaster risk reduction (DRR) training for campuses. The importance of conducting training by paying attention to the 10 learning activities as disaster training competency standards.

Secondary Education Students’ and Teachers’ Perspectives on EMI

English-medium instruction (EMI) has become popular and developed as a growing global phenomenon nowadays in International secondary education in Indonesia. By comparison to this phenomenon's rapid growth, the EMI has not indicated immediate effectiveness in its application, in particular. The purpose of this research was to investigate the perspectives of students and teachers of the implementation of EMI at an Indonesian International school called Thursina IIBS Malang and to suggest ways to maximize the advantages of the policy while decreasing its disadvantages. To examine in-depth views and experience of the policy, structured interviews were conducted with 8th graders and academic teachers who were chosen purposively. Focus group discussion (FGD) was then employed to triangulate the data. The interview and FGD results showed that both students and teachers demonstrated strong acceptance of the policy because EMI could facilitate the teaching and learning process better and improve their English skills. However, in the EFL context, it was inevitably difficult to use English fully in the classroom where EMI naturally should be implemented fully in no other languages than English. Therefore, this study is expected to provide suggestions from the perspectives of EFL practitioners to maximize the benefit of the EMI policy in an EFL context.

Faktor Sosial Budaya yang Memengaruhi Kesehatan Ibu dan Anak (Studi Etnografi)

Maternal and child health as a key indicator of community welfare is measured by Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR). The problem of maternal and child mortality is a problem that cannot be separated from the culture or behavior of the community itself. The social and cultural system in the community is an important consideration in health services that can be utilized more optimally. The purpose of this study was to determine what cultural factors affect the health of mothers and children. This research is a rapid ethnographic assessment procedure (REAP) with a qualitative approach. Sampling technique using snowball or chain referral sampling. It is carried out sequentially from one participant to another. Is a variation of the purposive sample. The number of respondents as many as 8 people who fit the inclusion criteria. The data shown were the result of indepth interviews and FGDs (Focus Group Discussion). This study resulted in findings about: (1) Kyai become community role models in responding to life's problems ranging from political choices to choices of access to health. (2) Women do not have sufficient full power or empower themselves to choose health services, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. (3) The element of belief inherited from generation to generation also forms the knowledge system of the Cibitung community. (4) The livelihood system of farm laborers as the main source of the economy in Cibitung. 
 Keywords: Socio-Cultural, Ethnographic, Religious Systems, Kinship Systems, Knowledge Systems, Livelihood Systems

Potential of Higher Education Institutions in Disaster Risk Reduction

Background. Indonesia is a country that has many potential disasters. Often referred to as the Supermarket Disaster state. Every individual, group and community needs to have preparedness in dealing with disasters. Preparedness can be done through training that is carried out in a planned, academic and periodic manner. So far, there is no habit of conducting disaster simulations or field rehearsals at the Health Polytechnic of the Ministry of Health in Surabaya. The identification of the potential of this higher education institution is the first step in preparing the field rehearsal module plan. The final goal is to develop a disaster preparedness module, design institutional policies and form a community disaster preparedness team. Research methods. In this study, a quantitative design was used, with a descriptive approach. Aims to identify the potential of Higher Education in disaster risk reduction efforts. The population and sample are FGD (Focus Group Discussion) participants and disaster mitigation experts/experts. The research variables were obtained from the results of literature studies and FGDs. Furthermore, the identification results are used to compile a module that can be used for Field Rehearsal guidelines. Modules are obtained in 3 ways: identification, FGD and expert consultation. The variables of this research are the existence of disaster courses, the presence of disaster course lecturers, the competence of lecturer training, the existence of training modules for lecturers, the diversity of potential sources of disaster. The results. The results of the study show as follows: 96% of campuses at the Health Polytechnic of the Ministry of Health in Surabaya have disaster courses. Lecturers of disaster courses are all from within the study program as much as 63%, a mixture of inside and outside the study program as much as 31%, and a mixture of lecturers from inside and from guest lecturers as much as 6%. Lecturers who have never attended disaster training 52%. Campuses that have never been on campus simulations are 43% and have held simulations but not regularly once a year = 31%. As many as 90% of lecturers stated that they strongly agreed to hold disaster simulation training. 34% of campuses that have the potential for 3 kinds of disasters. Conclusion: The identification results in this study indicate the importance of the existence of disaster courses, the presence of disaster course lecturers, the competence of lecturer training, the existence of training modules for lecturers, the diversity of potential sources of disaster. It is necessary to prepare a disaster preparedness training module in an effort to reduce disaster risk.

Pembibitan Jiwa Edupreneurship Pada Guru Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Se Kota Batu Melalui Pelatihan Digital Content Creator

The purpose of this study was to determine the activities of planning, implementing, observing, and evaluating in nurturing the spirit of edupreneurship in non-permanent teachers at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah in other Batu City through digital content creator training. The method used is PAR (Participatory Action Research). The PAR method involves researchers and communities working together to identify and resolve problems. Activities at this planning stage, namely the preparation of training activity materials. This activity was carried out in the form of a focus group discussion (FGD) involving the chairman of the Batu City KKMI, representatives of teachers, researchers, and resource persons. The agreed FGD results. The action stage is actualized with a training event that is divided into two mirrors. First, making learning videos. Both uploads. Observations, observations that have been made in the training obtained weaknesses and strengths experienced by researchers, coordinators, and teachers both in terms of attitudes and obstacles in training such as facilities and infrastructure. Reflection and evaluation activities are in the form of conveying supporting and inhibiting factors during the training activities and giving appreciation to participants

Participatory and Transdisciplinary Studies of Brucella Infection in Humans and Animals in Yunnan Province, China-Lessons Learned.

Brucellosis is an important zoonosis occurring globally. In addition to the risk for disease in humans, the disease causes production losses, since the disease in livestock is characterized by abortion and other reproductive failures. The disease is a public health concern in China, but no information is available on knowledge, perception and awareness of potential risk groups such as farmers, butchers and animal health workers; yet successful control requires compliance of those affected groups to be effective. Following the principles of the Ecohealth approach, emphasis was given to participation of all relevant stakeholders, use of qualitative and quantitative tools, and cross-sectorial collaboration. Data collection included on-farm questionnaires (N = 192) and collection of bulk milk samples of goat (N = 40), cattle (N = 45) and buffalo (N = 41) from farms, as well as serum samples (N = 228) from humans. Milk samples were tested with an ELISA for presence of antibodies, while a serum agglutination test was used for human samples. Qualitative work included 17 focus group discussion (FGD) with villagers and 47 in-depth interviews (IDI) with village animal health workers, doctors, and butchers, focused on knowledge, perception and awareness on zoonoses including brucellosis. Results from questionnaires indicate that abortions are a common problem; cattle with abortion history are kept for further insemination and the milk still consumed or sold. Antibodies against Brucella were detected in cows’ (5/45) and goats’ (1/40) milk samples, and in human samples (5/126) in Yiliang, while in Mangshi, all buffalo (N = 41) and humans (N = 102) were negative. FGD and IDI results showed an alarmingly low knowledge and awareness on zoonoses; particularly, low awareness about brucellosis was noted, even among the professional groups. Collaboration between village animal health workers and doctors was uncommon. No confirmed brucellosis cases were found in retrospective investigation of hospital and veterinary stations. This study demonstrates the presence of brucellosis in livestock and humans in Yunnan, indicating a non-negligible risk for humans. It is also made apparent that there is a need for increased awareness among both farmers and professionals in order to reduce the risk of zoonotic transmissions.

COVID-19 pandemic in Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region: implication for capacity strengthening at Point of Entry.

Free movement between countries without a visa is allowed within the 15-country Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region. However, little information is available across the region on the International Health Regulation (IHR 2005) capacities at points of entry (PoE) to detect and respond appropriately to public health emergencies such as Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). ECOWAS and the member states can better tailor border health measures across the region by understanding public health strengths and priorities for improvement at PoEs. A comprehensive literature review was combined with a self-assessment of capacities at PoEs across the fifteen member states from February to July 2020. For the assessment, the member states completed an adapted World Health Organization (WHO) self-assessment checklist by classifying capacity for seven domains as fully, partially, or not implemented. The team implemented three focus group discussion (FGD) sessions and 13 key informant interviews (KII) with national-level border health stakeholders. Univariate analysis was used to summarize the assessment data and detailed content analysis was applied to evaluate FGD and KII results. Of the 15 member states, 3 (20%) are landlocked; 3 (20%) have more than one seaport. Eleven (73%) countries have 1 designated airport, 3 (20%) have two airports, and only one country (6.7%) has three airports. Two hundred and seventy-eight designated ground crossings were identified in 12 countries (80%). Strengths across the PoE were existence of decrees and ministerial acts in some ECOWAS countries and establishment of national taskforces for the COVID-19 response at PoE in ECOWAS. Major challenges were porous borders, poor intersectoral coordination, lack of harmonized traveler screening measures, shortage of staff, and inadequate financial resources. Despite all these challenges, there are opportunities such as leveraging the regional cross-border poliomyelitis coordination and control mechanism, and existence of networks of infection prevention and control specialists and field epidemiologists. However, political instabilities in some countries pose a threat to government commitments to PoE activities. The capacity to respond to public health emergencies at PoE in the ECOWAS region is still below IHR standard. Public health capacities at a majority of IHR-designated PoE in the 15-country region do not meet required core capacities standards.

Entry level nursing graduate students' perception and readiness toward online component of blended learning: A mixed method study.

BACKGROUND:Blended learning (BL), the integration of online with face to face teaching, is established as a teaching method in higher education. Understanding the learner's readiness toward online component of BL is important in designing and delivering BL. Nursing students require proficiency in interpersonal relationship and social interaction apart from knowledge and skills. BL may provide an opportunity to acquire the professional skills better than the traditional face to face sessions. The objectives of this study were to identify the nursing student's readiness toward BL and perceptions about the online learning component of BL.MATERIALS AND METHODS:First- and second-year entry level graduate nursing students of Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education, Chennai, India, were the participants of the study. This study used a mixed method approach. An online questionnaire, developed based on the literature and expert consensus, was used in the first phase. A focus group discussion (FGD) with ten random participants of the survey was conducted to understand the perceptions and readiness to adopt the online component of BL. The present study was conducted from December 2019 to January 2020. Survey results were analyzed through descriptively. Content analysis was carried to summarize FGD results.RESULTS:A total 158 students of entry level nursing graduate programme participated in the survey. 53.8% of felt BL will have positive effect on their learning and 70% of the respondents were ready to adopt BL. The FGD identified two themes: (I) Readiness to adopt online learning as a component of BL and (II) perceived barriers and challenges in adopting online contents.CONCLUSION:Entry level nursing graduate students had a positive perception about the online components. Majority of them are confident in accessing the online contents. Willingness to learn through online, previous experience with online learning, and perceived advantages of online component might influence the learner's readiness. Availability of internet and absence of teachers were perceived as the barriers to online learning by the participants.