International Medical University Research Articles

The Impact of Human Resource Management Practices on Organizational Performance: The Case of Libyan International Medical University

This study aimed to investigate the impact of human resource management practices on organizational performance at Libyan International Medical University. The population consisted of 400 employees. The stratified randomized sample consisted of 196 employees. To reach the purpose of this study, data were collected from 151 employees using the questionnaire adopted from Al Shaikhly (2017). The questionnaire was revised, and validated by the supervisors. Statistical techniques such as descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, multiple regressions, and stepwise regression were used to test the hypotheses. The results showed that there is a significant impact of human resource management practices (planning & recruitment, training program, and performance appraisal) on the organizational performance of Libyan International Medical University at level ( ). The results also showed that the performance appraisal variable has the most impact on organizational performance. On the other hand, the results also showed that compensation management had no impact on the organizational performance of Libyan International Medical University. The study limitations were the lack of previous studies published in Libya related to this topic, also the data were not normally distributed, and just 46% of variations in the organizational performance are explained by human resource management practices in this study. The study recommended conducting more research on the topics addressed in this study to acquire a deeper and broader understanding of human resource management practices. Keywords: Human resource management practices, organizational performance, LIMU.

Compliance with evidence-based radiographic imaging guidelines by chiropractic interns at a chiropractic training program.

Evidence-based radiographic guidelines are used to justify the need for radiographs and prevent their overuse. This study aimed to assess whether 4th-year chiropractic interns at the International Medical University plan to use x-ray imaging in their future private practice in line with the principles taught throughout their chiropractic program and the evidence-based imaging guidelines. A survey questionnaire was distributed to 74 final year chiropractic interns, with 62 completed responses. The questionnaire consisted of 8 case scenarios representing potential chiropractic patients. The interns were asked to decide whether to x-ray the patient or not, and which x-ray views to request if they chose to x-ray the patient. Results were compared with the gold standard using percentage agreement. The findings revealed that the chiropractic students adhered to the gold standard answers for 6 out of 8 cases. However, they did not perform well in selecting the correct x-ray views for the 3 cases where radiography was indicated by the gold standard. Results suggest that while the interns have a good understanding of when radiography is necessary, they may need additional training in selecting the appropriate x-ray views for each case.

Multicentre case–control study of pneumococcal infections among children with pneumonia in Peninsular Malaysia (MY-Pneumo): a study protocol

BackgroundS. pneumoniae (SPN) is the most common cause of pneumonia. The disease can be effectively prevented through immunisation. Since December 2020, the Malaysian Government has included the 10-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV10) for all infants born on or after 1 January 2020 as part of the National Immunisation Programme (NIP). However, the epidemiology of pneumonia remains poorly understood. To fill the knowledge gap, we established a multicentre surveillance study to understand the burden of pneumococcal pneumonia among young children in Peninsular Malaysia.MethodsMY-Pneumo is a multicentre prospective case–control study conducted in three sentinel sites located in three different states of Peninsular Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur, Pahang, and Kelantan. A cohort of at least 500 incident cases and 500 controls is enrolled beginning in October 2021 and matched for age. Cases are hospitalised children < 5 years with radiologically confirmed pneumonia, and the controls are children without any features suggestive of pneumonia. Clinical samples, including nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) and urine, are collected according to the study protocol. Biological fluids such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and pleural fluid are obtained from invasive pneumonia disease (IPD) patients, if available. All children are tested for SPN using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and pneumococcal urine antigen test (PUAT) using BinaxNow.DiscussionSurveillance data, including carriage rate, serotype variations and the phylogeny data structure of SPN among young children in Malaysia during PCV implementation, will be generated from this study. Trends and patterns of pneumococcal serotypes by different regions are important for targeted public health strategies. Our data will provide baseline information for estimating the impact of PCV10 implementation and will influence policymakers' decisions regarding the upgrade from PCV10 to a higher-valency conjugate vaccine in Malaysia.Trial registrationThis project was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04923035) on 2021, June 11. The study protocol was approved by the International Medical University Joint-Committee on Research & Ethics (4.15/JCM-216/2021) and the Institutional Review Board at sentinel sites (USM/JEPeM/21020190, IREC 2021–114, MREC ID No: 2021128–9769) and University of Southampton's Ethics and Research Governance (ERGo II 64844).

Dental Notation System Used in Dental Teaching in Different Dental Collages

The aim of this study was to find the most commonly used Tooth Numbering System to teach and learn in dental collages in various universities (Benghazi University, Omar Mukhtar University and Libyan International Medical University) by both academic staff and fourth year dental students, to identify the most commonly taught TNS in different dental colleges, to understand the reason why dental staff prefer to use a specific TNS, and the consequences of using more than one TNS. This cross-sectional study was conducted within the dental collages of various Medical Universities. The questionnaire containing 11 questions was randomly distributed to 120 individuals (60 deans of academic staff and 50 fourth year dental students). The palmer notation system was the most commonly used to teach and learn by academic staff and dental students in teaching and practiced in dental collages, while the universal notation system was the least used to teach and learn by academic staff and dental students. As well as the most TNS preferred to use by academic staff and dental students in operative, oral surgery departments and orthodontic department in academic teaching was the palmer notation system while the least TNS use was universal notation system. The Palmer TNS proved to be the most taught TNS in dental colleges in different University. It is advised that the Palmer TNS be implemented as a unified system in my country, due to the advantages of this particular TNS and the benefits of using one single TNS.

Use of Case-Based Clinical Reasoning in Medical Education at Libyan International University: A quantitative Study.

Background: Clinical instruction in medical education is a complex and challenging task for educators. It requires students to not only possess theoretical knowledge but also a range of competencies such as clinical reasoning, technical skills, decision-making, ethics, leadership, and time management. Clinical reasoning, which encompasses the cognitive process and decision-making in clinical practice, is a fundamental skill for physicians. The aim of the study was to understand students' views on the use of case-based clinical reasoning (CBCR) in their medical training and evaluate their satisfaction with its application as an instructional approach for developing clinical reasoning abilities. Participants and Methods: A descriptive quantitative study was conducted at the Libyan International Medical University (LIMU) to gather data on the utilization of case-based clinical reasoning (CBCR) in medical training. The study focused on 412 medical students in the clinical phase, including 4th and 5th-year students and intern doctors at LIMU. Data were collected through an online questionnaire over a two-month period from January to March 2023. The analysis was based on 129 responses, representing a 30.1% response rate. The questionnaire consisted of 22 questions, including multiple-choice and Likert scale inquiries, and aimed to assess students' satisfaction in three dimensions: perceived benefits and drawbacks of CBCR in medical education, skill enhancement and its impact on self-assurance and teamwork, and the role of LIMU in successfully implementing the program. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS software, with a statistical significance level set at p &lt; 0.05. Results: The study found that students perceive several benefits of using case-based clinical reasoning (CBCR) in their medical training. These benefits include the accumulation of knowledge and the improvement of skills such as teamwork, communication, critical thinking, reasoning, and self-directed learning abilities. A significant majority of students, approximately three-quarters of the sample, endorsed the use of CBCR with their peers and colleagues. Almost all respondents agreed that CBCR helps them make informed decisions in their daily practice and boosts their confidence in advancing their medical careers (93% and 86.8% agreement, respectively). Higher satisfaction levels were reported among fifth-year students and during the internship phase. However, fourth-year students expressed more dissatisfaction with CBCR, finding it time-consuming and facing challenges in formulating hypotheses for data collection. In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of adopting a proactive approach in medical education to promote educational innovation. Employing case-based clinical reasoning (CBCR) is found to be effective in developing clinical competencies, fostering collaboration, enhancing self-assurance, and cultivating critical thinking abilities among students.

Enhancing E-learning in the Clinical Sciences Phase of the Medical Programme

The COVID-19 pandemic served to catalyse and enhance the digital transformation of the clinical medical curriculum at the International Medical University (IMU). This transformation was implemented in three stages; Stage 1: enhancement of the learning management system (LMS), including development of lesson plans and review of learning resources; Stage 2: quality assessment of lesson plans; and Stage 3: curation and creation of learning resources. This systematically implemented transformation received encouraging feedback from students.

Complications Following COVID-19 Infection or Vaccination in Libyan International Medical University Students and Their Families

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a novel strain of coronavirus belonging to the genus Beta coronavirus named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged as a major pandemic worldwide. This contagious virus had spread in many different forms, and patients have demonstrated a wide range of symptoms, ranging from moderate to severe illness. This study aims to highlight the important associations between SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccination, and possible complications at the Libyan International Medical University, Benghazi. This cross-sectional survey was conducted among students and their families at Libyan International Medical University in Benghazi, Libya. Among the 100 participants, 72% were between the ages of 18 and 39. Up to (59%) of participants were men. As for the infection with COVID-19, 77% of participants were infected. Most of the participants had no chronic diseases (69%); however, the most common chronic disease was diabetes mellitus (13%). 82% of participants were vaccinated; the most common types of vaccines administered were Sinopharm and Sputnik V (24%). Following vaccination, 71% of participants had no COVID-19 infection, while 29% did get the infection. Regarding this study, after COVID-19 infection, 66% of participants had no complications; however, 17% had pulmonary complications, which was the most common complication among the participants. As for the complications following the vaccination, 81% of participants had none, while there were pulmonary and neurological complications in 7–6%. The results of the study showed that the most frequent complications noticed among the participants following the COVID-19 infection and vaccination were pulmonary and neurological complications.

Online Problem-Based Learning (PBL) during COVID-19 Pandemic: Trial at the Libyan International Medical University

Background Online courses that utilize problem-based learning (PBL) are widely recognized as an effective educational method that blends self-directed learning with collaborative problem-solving. Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the satisfaction of students from the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences (BMS) at Libyan International Medical University (LIMU) with an online PBL course during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in 2020. Method This is a cross-sectional study performed during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, involving a total of 293 students from four different classes of Faculty of BMS. Each online PBL session ran for 2 hours and was arranged independently for each year group. Students had access to a seven-closed-question questionnaire for a few hours after the end of the session. The questions were of three different categories. The first category was related to the online organization of the session, tutor control, and instructions provided in the applied Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (Moodle). The second category involves questions related to online communication problems, the facility of the Google Hangouts application used, and the time allocated for the session. The third category was the cooperation of the PBL group. The student was asked to answer agree or disagree for each question. If the student did not choose one of the answers, his response was recorded as (no response). The scores of (agree), (disagree), or (no response) for each student were transferred to a Microsoft Office (2021) Excel file and were displayed as frequency and percentages. A two-way analysis of variance without replication was performed to analyze the differences in student responses across various groups using Excel statistics. The proportion test was utilized to determine whether the proportion of positive responses (agree) in any group significantly differed from a specified level of 0.75 (75%). The acceptable proportion of no response was set at 0.2 (20%). The significant level was set at p-value less than 0.05. Results For the first category, the highest level of student satisfaction (79.9%) was associated with Moodle instructions, followed by tutor control (79.5%), and online organization (72%). However, students in the third year of medicine demonstrated significantly lower satisfaction with online organizations compared with other groups (62.3%, p &lt; 0.05). For the second category, all groups, except first-year medicine students, reported significantly low satisfaction with online access (58% p &lt; 0.05). All groups expressed satisfaction with the time allotted for the session (74%) and the online Google Hangouts application used (71%), except for third-year medicine students, who exhibited a notable level of dissatisfaction with the use of online Google Hangouts application (7%, p &lt; 0.05). Lastly, the third category focused on group cooperation and reflected an overall student satisfaction rate of 80%. Conclusion BMS students responded positively regarding their first online PBL session during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study displayed that the availability of online communication, the clarity of instructions, good session organization, and control are important factors that will determine the effectiveness of online PBL.

Online Learning in Dental Education: Comparison of Perspectives of Lecturers and Undergraduate Students Between a Public and Private University: A Mixed-Method Study.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the undergraduates' and lecturers' perspectives on the implementation of online learning and to compare perspectives between private and public universities. Materials and methods: The study followed a mixed-method design and involved dental undergraduates and lecturers from two study settings in Malaysia: International Medical University (IMU), a private university, and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), a public university. All undergraduates and lecturers were invited to complete an online questionnaire with evaluative statements regarding three domains: handling, didactic benefit, motivation, and an overall assessment. The comparison of perception between the private and public universities was analyzed using Mann-Whitney test. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out for undergraduates and lecturers. Each FGD consisted of six people. The audio-recorded conversations were transcribed verbatim. Results: Mean scores of perceptions regarding the domains, handling, and motivation were higher among undergraduates from public universities (p < 0.05), while there were no differences for the didactic domain. There was no difference in perception of any of the three domains between private and public university lecturers. Mean scores for perceptions on the optimal amount of online learning in the future domains were higher among undergraduates from a public university (p < 0.05), while lecturers' perceptions showed no difference. Thematic analysis of FGDs revealed that both groups from private and public universities felt that flexibility and a student-centered approach are the advantages of online learning. The inadequacy to cover the entire curriculum and lack of student engagement and interaction were highlighted as limitations. Conclusion: Regardless of the university background, the undergraduates and lecturers were able to adjust to the online learning environment, which mainly reflected a positive perspective on the implementation of online learning. There were modest differences in the perceptions of dental undergraduates between private and public universities, while the perception of the lecturers did not show any difference.

Japanese Universities’ International Medical Partnerships: Reciprocity and Stratification

Recently, study abroad and elective programs have been facilitated via university partnerships based on student-exchange agreements. This study examined international medical student exchange agreements, focusing on reciprocity and stratification in the Japanese context. An empirical analysis was conducted using 581 agreements involving student exchanges with medical institutions in foreign countries based on a survey conducted by the Japanese Ministry of Education. We found that the average reciprocity rate via mutual tuition waivers was 52.84%: equivalent in Asia, slightly lower in Europe (49.61%), and higher in North America (58.06%). Europe has a balanced inbound and outbound exchange, Asia has a higher inbound exchange, and North America has an excess of outbound exchange from Japan. Moreover, selective institutions, such as former imperial or medical universities, have more than twice the number of agreements per university compared to others. In conclusion, it can be observed that international medical university partnerships are stratified, and reciprocity is intertwined with tuition waivers and the number of exchange students in the partnering institutions. As the results highlight the distinct characteristics of international education partnerships in Japan’s medical field compared to partnerships in all academic fields, it is necessary to investigate and develop international partnerships separately by field.

Efficacy of a Text-Based Mental Health Coaching App in Improving the Symptoms of Stress, Anxiety, and Depression: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Stress, anxiety, and depression are major mental health concerns worldwide. A wide variety of digital mental health interventions have demonstrated efficacy in improving one's mental health status, and digital interventions that involve some form of human involvement have been shown to demonstrate greater efficacy than self-guided digital interventions. Studies demonstrating the efficacy of digital mental health interventions within the Asian region are scarce. This study aimed to investigate the potential efficacy of the digital mental health intervention, ThoughtFullChat, which consists of one-on-one, asynchronous, text-based coaching with certified mental health professionals and self-guided tools, in improving self-reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. The study also aims to examine the potential differences in efficacy among occupational subgroups and between sexes. A randomized controlled study was conducted among housemen (trainee physicians), students, faculty members, and corporate staff at International Medical University, Malaysia. A total of 392 participants were enrolled and randomized to the intervention (n=197, 50.3%) and control (n=195, 49.7%) groups. Depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were measured using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 items at baseline and after the 3-month intervention period. The Satisfaction with Life Scale and Brief Resilience Scale were also included, along with a questionnaire about demographics. Significant decrease was observed in depression (P=.02) and anxiety (P=.002) scores in the intervention group. A subgroup (corporate staff) also demonstrated significant decrease in stress (P=.005) alongside depression (P=.006) and anxiety (P=.002). Females showed significant improvements in depression (P=.02) and anxiety (P<.001) when compared with males. This study provides evidence that the ThoughtFullChat app is effective in improving the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in individuals, particularly among corporate staff from the educational field. It also supports the notion that mobile mental health apps that connect users to mental health professionals in a discreet and cost-efficient manner can make important contributions to the improvement of mental health outcomes. The differential improvements among occupational subgroups and between sexes in this study indicate the need for future digital mental health app designs to consider an element of personalization focused on systemic components relating to occupation. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04944277; https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04944277.

Prevalence of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in COVID-19 and Post-COVID-19 Patients in Southeast Asia: A Systematic Review

Objective: This systematic review aimed to determine the prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 patients in Southeast Asia and explore associated factors. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in relevant databases. Studies reporting on the prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive impairment, and post-traumatic depression in COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 patients in Southeast Asia were included. Data were extracted and analysed to determine the prevalence rates and associated factors. Results: A total of 7 studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings revealed a high prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms among COVID-19 patients in Southeast Asia. Fatigue was reported by approximately 43.3% of patients during active COVID-19 infection and 45.1-54% in the post-COVID-19 phase. Anxiety affected 14.3-28.1% of COVID-19 patients, with comorbidities and severity being closely associated. Depression was prevalent in 3.6-38.7% of COVID-19 patients, with healthcare workers showing a higher prevalence. Sleep disturbances were reported in approximately 16.1% of post-COVID-19 individuals. Various factors such as age, gender, quarantine duration, and socioeconomic status were identified as potential contributors to these symptoms. Conclusion: Neuropsychiatric symptoms, including fatigue, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive impairment, and post-traumatic depression, are prevalent among COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 patients in Southeast Asia. These symptoms have a significant impact on patients' lives and warrant attention in clinical management. Further research is needed, particularly in the ASEAN region, to better understand these symptoms, explore gender differences, and develop effective management strategies. The findings of this study emphasize the importance of early detection and holistic treatment that addresses both physical and psychological symptoms in COVID-19 patients. Funding: This research is supported by the International Medical University Joint Committee on Ethics and Research (IMU-JC). Conflicts of Interest: No conflicts of interest.

Faculty perceptions regarding an individually tailored, flexible length, outcomes-based curriculum for undergraduate medical students.

The perception of faculty members about an individually tailored, flexible-length, outcomes-based curriculum for undergraduate medical students was studied. Their opinion about the advantages, disadvantages, and challenges was also noted. This study was done to help educational institutions identify academic and social support and resources required to ensure that graduate competencies are not compromised by a flexible education pathway. The study was done at the International Medical University, Malaysia, and the University of Lahore, Pakistan. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from 1st August 2021 to 17th March 2022. Demographic information was noted. Themes were identified, and a summary of the information under each theme was created. A total of 24 (14 from Malaysia and 10 from Pakistan) faculty participated. Most agreed that undergraduate medical students can progress (at a differential rate) if they attain the required competencies. Among the major advantages mentioned were that students may graduate faster, learn at a pace comfortable to them, and develop an individualized learning pathway. Several logistical challenges must be overcome. Providing assessments on demand will be difficult. Significant regulatory hurdles were anticipated. Artificial intelligence (AI) can play an important role in creating an individualized learning pathway and supporting time-independent progression. The course may be (slightly) cheaper than a traditional one. This study provides a foundation to further develop and strengthen flexible-length competency-based medical education modules. Further studies are required among educators at other medical schools and in other countries. Online learning and AI will play an important role.

Digital technologies in the professional training of masters in the direction of «physical culture and sports»

Relevance. The article presents the results of a survey of the teaching staff and undergraduates of higher educational institutions on the problem of distance learning. The attitude of undergraduates to various forms of the educational process, to the digitalization of learning, to innovative technologies is revealed. The experience of introducing innovative and digital learning technologies based on a competence-based approach is proposed. The purpose of the study is a scientific and theoretical substantiation of the scientific and pedagogical foundations of distance learning and confirmation of their effectiveness through pedagogical experimentation. Methods and organization of research. We conducted a survey among teaching staff and students of 1-2 years of study. Students from Kyrgyzstan were covered (Kyrgyz State Academy of Physical Culture and Sports, S. Naamatov National University, Osh State Pedagogical University, International Medical University, Talas State University, Kyrgyz-Turkish University "Manas", Kyrgyz National, KEU, KNU. Zhusupa Balasagyna, International University "Ala-Too", IAUPFiB), Kazakhstan (Kazakh Academy of Tourism and Sports, International University named after K.Sh.Toktomamatova, Auezo-va UCU), Russia (FGBOU VO PGUFKSiT, GAOU PO Moscow City Pedagogical University, Volga Region University of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism, as well as the Accreditation Agency "Bilim Standard". A total of 258 teachers took part in the survey, 38 % of them men, 62 % women: 2 % are doctors of sciences, 35.7 % are candidates of sciences and associate professors, 60.5 % are teachers without a degree. The survey was attended by teachers of the Faculty of Physical Culture and Sports, as well as natural geography, Engineering, History, Physics and Mathematics, Economics, Law, Philology faculty. Conclusions. The history of the formation of the educational process and the realities of the current time give reason to express the opinion that there is no limit to the improvement of the learning process and the technology of teaching.

Surviving the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons Learnt and Experience of a Private Medical School in Malaysia

As a small group of academicians in a private medical university in Malaysia, we observed, in 2020, how the COVID-19 pandemic, changed our lives and the lives of our students. We would like to share our experiences in this commentary. It describes the contingency plans taken by the School of Medicine at International Medical University (IMU) to ensure that the delivery of the medical curriculum and its assessments has the best possible outcome in these tumultuous times, with plans to improve the delivery of teaching and learning, with an emphasis on technology-enhanced learning (TEL). We hope that this commentary is beneficial to those reading and that the contingency plans developed by IMU will help other institutions in the country and in this region navigate safely through the COVID-19 storm.

The effect of Nigella sativa on the risk of mortality in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials.

Phytotherapy ResearchEarly View LETTER TO THE EDITOR The effect of Nigella sativa on the risk of mortality in patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials Chia Siang Kow, Corresponding Author Chia Siang Kow [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0002-8186-2926 School of Postgraduate Studies, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia Correspondence Chia Siang Kow, School of Postgraduate Studies, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Email: [email protected]Search for more papers by this authorDinesh Sangarran Ramachandram, Dinesh Sangarran Ramachandram School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, MalaysiaSearch for more papers by this authorSyed Shahzad Hasan, Syed Shahzad Hasan School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, AustraliaSearch for more papers by this author Chia Siang Kow, Corresponding Author Chia Siang Kow [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0002-8186-2926 School of Postgraduate Studies, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia Correspondence Chia Siang Kow, School of Postgraduate Studies, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Email: [email protected]Search for more papers by this authorDinesh Sangarran Ramachandram, Dinesh Sangarran Ramachandram School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, MalaysiaSearch for more papers by this authorSyed Shahzad Hasan, Syed Shahzad Hasan School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, AustraliaSearch for more papers by this author First published: 09 February 2023 https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.7743Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Early ViewOnline Version of Record before inclusion in an issue RelatedInformation

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience at Libyan International Medical University during COVID-19 Era: PharmD Preceptors’ and Students’ Perception toward Virtual Training

Introduction: As the COVID-19 pandemic continued, pharmacy experiential training shifted dramatically, including healthcare facilities-oriented training. The curriculum development committee at the Faculty of Pharmacy at Libyan International Medical University put a proposal to facilitate virtual case discussions and to create teaching materials that could be utilized for virtual clinical rotations during Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the Pharm-D preceptors’ and students’ perception toward the virtual training experience during the Covid-19 era. Method: Curriculum Development Committee members and preceptors at the Faculty of Pharmacy met regularly to develop a training strategy that covers intended training skills and competencies. Cases were collected from Benghazi hospitals with all filed investigations and management information. Cases manuals and specifications were created for each rotation; preceptor guide and reference guidelines were developed for each case; and case-based discussion session guide and evaluation forms were announced to students. Accordingly, cases were implemented in virtual training as case-based discussion session, via MOODLE. During the session, each student shares his/her knowledge and information with colleagues and preceptor by answering the guiding questions structured in the patient data care form to cover six aspects including; problem identification, desired outcome, therapeutic alternatives, optimal plan, outcome evaluation, and patient education. At the end of the session, the preceptor summarises the discussion and evaluates the students using a predesigned evaluation form noting that oral feedback is provided by all parties. Results: Motivation, performance, and outcomes gained by students during the virtual training experience reflect its success. Conclusion: The adaptability of the virtual training package by the Faculty of Pharmacy, is well established in terms of available scenario creation and simulation training. The next step is to include these virtual cases -collected from real-life situations- within MyDispense in its new version.

Impact of energy drink consumption on pattern and quality of sleep among students in Libyan International Medical University

Impact of energy drink consumption on pattern and quality of sleep among students in Libyan International Medical University

A comparison of neoadjuvant therapies for gastroesophageal and gastric cancer on tumour resection rate: A network meta-analysis.

BackgroundGastric cancer is one of the most common malignancies around the world, and a variety of neoadjuvant chemotherapies with different drug combinations are available for the treatment. R0 resection refers to a microscopically negative margin on resection, where no gross or microscopic tumour remains in the primary tumour. We aimed to find evidence on the relative effectiveness of neoadjuvant therapies for patients with advanced gastroesophageal and gastric cancer on the R0 resection rate.MethodsRelevant randomised controlled trials were searched using appropriate keywords in health-related databases. We performed network meta-analysis within a frequentist framework. The endpoint assessed was the R0 resection rate. We assessed consistency and transitivity assumptions that are necessary for network meta-analysis. This study only used data from published studies. The need for consent from participants was waived by the Ethics Review Committee of the International Medical University in Malaysia.ResultsSix randomised controlled trials involving 1700 patients were identified. A network plot was formed with five neoadjuvant regimens [DLX (pyrimidine analogue + platinum compounds + chemoradiotherapy), DELX (pyrimidine analogue + epipodophylllotoxins/etoposide + platinum compounds + chemoradiotherapy), ADL (anthracycline + pyrimidine analogue + platinum compounds), ADM (anthracycline+ pyrimidine analogue + anti-folate compounds) and LTX (platinum compounds + taxane + chemoradiotherapy)] and surgery alone for management of patients with advanced gastroesophageal and gastric cancer. Assumptions required for a network meta-analysis such as consistency ((global test: Chi2 (1): 3.71; p:0.054)), and the transitivity in accord to the characteristics of interventions considered in this review were not violated. In the network comparison, surgery alone has a lower R0 resection rate compared with LTX (OR 0.2, 95%CI:0.01, 0.38) or DLX (OR 0.48, 95%CI: 0.29, 0.79). LTX has higher resection rate compared with DLX (OR 2.47, 95%CI: 1.08 to 5.63), DELX (OR 106.0, 95%CI: 25.29 to 444.21), ADM (OR 5.41, 95%CI: 1.56 to 18.78) or ADL (OR 3.12, 95%CI: 1.27 to 7.67). There were wide or very wide CIs in many of these comparisons. Overall certainty of the evidence was low or very low. Further research in this field is very likely to have an important impact on our confidence in the R0 resection rates between LTX versus other neoadjuvant chemotherapy is likely to change the estimate.ConclusionsFindings suggest that overall quality of evidence on the relative effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapies was low to very low level. Therefore, we are very uncertain about the true effect of neoadjuvant therapies in the R0 resection rate in patients with gastroesophageal and gastric cancer. Future well-designed large trials are needed. To recruit large samples in this field, multicountry trials are recommended. Future trials also need to assess treatment-related adverse events, and patients-centered outcomes such as health‐related quality of life.

Ergonomic Risk Factors of Fourth- and Fifth-Year International Medical University Dental Students

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to identify and compare the ergonomic risk factors of year 4 and year 5 dental students attending International Medical University. MethodsThis was an exploratory, observational study evaluating ergonomic risk factors among year 4 and year 5 dental students, with a total of 89 participants. The students’ ergonomic risk components were evaluated using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) worksheet. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the RULA scores, and the Mann-Whitney U test served to determine the difference of ergonomic risk between year 4 and year 5 dental students. ResultsThe descriptive analysis showed that the participants’ (N = 89) median final RULA score was 6.00 (standard deviation = 0.716). One-year difference in the years of clinical practice did not produce a significant difference in the final RULA score (U = 913.0, P = 0.49). The final RULA scores showed year 4 dental students had a higher mean ranking (year 4 = 46.65, year 5 = 43.23). Furthermore, the Mann-Whitney U test indicated that this was not statistically significant (U = 913.0, P = 0.49). ConclusionThe descriptive analysis showed that the final RULA score of the participants indicated that the participants were in a high-risk category for experiencing work-related musculoskeletal disorders due to poor ergonomics. Contributing physical factors included working in asymmetric, awkward, and static positions in a confined workspace, infrequent use of dental loupes, and utilization of dental chairs that were not ergonomically appropriate.