Quantitative Data Research Articles

Education transformation in Indonesia requires the implementation of differentiated learning

This study describes teachers’ perceptions of implementing education transformation after the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The research method uses a mixed-method approach: quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative data collection using questionnaires. Analysis of quantitative data using the Rasch model. Qualitative data analysis through the collection, reduction, and presentation. The respondents of this research are 389 teachers in Indonesia. The questionnaire instrument contains 21 items of statements. Before being sent to teachers via the Google form, the questionnaire had met the readability test by 10 teachers. This research found that the most effortless education transformation is related to the education ecosystem. However, implementations still challenging to implement are related to pedagogy, especially the implementation of differentiated learning. Therefore, this study implies that the educational ecosystem needs to be maintained. Meanwhile, pedagogics, especially those related to differentiated learning, must be improved with various training to recognize student learning styles, multiple intelligences, learning readiness, teacher socio-emotional, and student socio-cultural.

Proteomics of human platelet lysates and insight from animal studies on platelet protein diffusion to hippocampus upon intranasal administration.

Human platelet lysates (HPLs) from allogeneic platelet concentrates (PCs) are biomaterials, which are rich in various trophic factors, increasingly used in regenerative medicine and biotherapy. Understanding how preparation methods influence the HPL protein profile, biological function, and clinical outcomes is crucial. Our study sheds light on the proteomes and functionality of different HPLs, with the aim of advancing their scientifically grounded clinical applications. To achieve this, PCs suspended in plasma underwent three distinct processing methods, resulting in seven HPL types. We used three characterization techniques: label-free proteomics and tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics, both before and after the immunodepletion of abundant plasma proteins. Bioinformatic tools assessed the proteome, and western blotting validated our quantitative proteomics data. Subsequent pre-clinical studies with fluorescent labeling and label-free proteomics were used as a proof of concept for brain diffusion. Our findings revealed 1441 proteins detected using the label-free method, 952 proteins from the TMT experiment before and after depletion, and 1114 proteins from the subsequent TMT experiment on depleted HPLs. Most detected proteins were cytoplasmic, playing key roles in catalysis, hemostasis, and immune responses. Notably, the processing methodologies significantly influenced HPL compositions, their canonical pathways, and, consequently, their functionality. Each HPL exhibited specific abundant proteins, providing valuable insight for tailored clinical applications. Immunoblotting results for selected proteins corroborated our quantitative proteomics data. The diffusion and differential effects to the hippocampus of a neuroprotective HPL administered intranasally to mice were demonstrated. This proteomics study advances our understanding of HPLs, suggesting ways to standardize and customize their production for better clinical efficacy in regenerative medicine and biotherapy. Proteomic analyses also offered objective evidence that HPPL, upon intranasal delivery, not only effectively diffuses to the hippocampus but also alters protein expression in mice, bolstering its potential as a treatment for memory impairments.

The effectiveness of integrated science, technology, engineering and mathematics project-based learning module

<p class="IOPKwd"><span lang="EN-US">Physics is a tricky subject to learn, especially when it comes to students applying physics knowledge to the real world and its application. This paper aims to study the effectiveness of the integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics project-based learning (iSTEM-PjBL) module in physics on students’ belief-specific categories, i.e., real-world connection, conceptual connection and applied conceptual understanding. This research used the quasi-experimental model, employing a two-group pre-survey-post-survey design. Quantitative data were collected using the Colorado Learning Attitude about Science Survey (CLASS) instrument at two selected schools in Sabah, Malaysia, and Seoul, Korea. The sample size was 88 from Malaysia and 66 from Korea who learned classical mechanics. The students were divided into two groups, respectively, i.e., the experimental group (Malaysia=44, Korea=33) and the control group (Malaysia=44, Korea=33). Participants in the experimental group were intervened with the integrated STEM-PBL physics module, whilst participants in the control group learned physics through a conventional approach for eight weeks. Participants in both groups were then administered a pre-survey before and post-survey after the intervention. This research showed that the integrated STEM-PjBL physics module significantly improved students’ real-world connections, conceptual connections, and applied connections after the intervention. The implications and suggestions were also discussed to extend the research further.</span></p>

Lived Experiences of Patients After Colorectal Cancer and Permanent Colostomy: A Parallel-Design Mixed-Methods Study.

To identify the lived experiences, quality of life (QoL), and level of ostomy adjustment (OA) in patients after colorectal cancer with a permanent colostomy (PC). In this parallel-design mixed-methods study, the researchers interviewed 14 patients after colorectal cancer whose PC was created more than 1 year prior. Qualitative data were interpreted using hermeneutic interpretive phenomenological design. Quantitative data were collected with the Stoma QoL Scale and OA Inventory-23. The mean age of the participants was 61.5 (SD, 10.0) years, and the mean PC duration was 7.7 (SD, 5.0) years. Mean QoL and OA scores were just above the median. Three superordinate themes consisting of nine themes emerged from the analysis: (1) early experiences (acceptance, medical problems, and emotional changes); (2) long-term experiences (physiologic experiences, psychosocial experiences, economic experiences, and coping strategies); (3) feelings and expectations about the future (worries and expectations). Even individuals who have been living with a PC for a long time may not be fully adapted to the process and may not have internalized lifestyle changes. Nurses should provide support to individuals with a PC through routine follow-ups, social support, and facilitative healthcare strategies regardless of the length of time since PC creation.

Students’ well-being development in the classroom: a mixed-method study

Students’ well-being is a fundamental goal in education. The school has a strategic role in developing students’ well-being. This study elaborates on teachers’ classroom activities to develop students’ well-being. The research employed a mixed-method sequential explanatory approach. There were 1,100 students from 11 junior high schools in East Java Province, Indonesia, provided quantitative data. Four teachers provided qualitative data. Descriptive and regression analysis techniques were used for analyzing quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used for analyzing qualitative data. The results show that the hypothesis is accepted. It means that classroom climate affects students’ well-being. The findings also showed four teacher strategies for developing students’ well-being, namely: creating harmonious relationships with students, developing student potential, helping students with difficulties, and creating rules to make students comfortable being in school. The ability of teachers to manage learning in the classroom affects the high level of students’ well-being. The results have implications for the development of students’ well-being through positive teachers teaching.

Perceptions of Responsibilities by Primary Care Staff in a Patient-Centered Medical Home.

To examine the extent to which Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Patient-Aligned Care Team (PACT) members have a shared understanding/ agreement upon and enact responsibilities within the team. The PACT model focuses on team-based care management. However, lack of a shared understanding of team-based care management roles and responsibilities makes system-wide implementation a challenge. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of national survey data collected in 2022 from primary care personnel working in a VHA-affiliated primary care facility. Significant discrepancies exist in responses about what core team members say they do and what others perceive they should be doing, indicating either a lack of agreement, knowledge, or training about what core team members should do. Successful implementation of a team-based model requires adequate support and training for teamwork including shared mental models to work according to their clinical competency. Clear guidance and communication of expectations are critical for role clarity.

ChatGPT effects on cognitive skills of undergraduate students: Receiving instant responses from AI-based conversational large language models (LLMs)

This study investigated the impact of using ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art generative AI-based model, on the critical, creative, and reflective thinking skills of university students in Ghana. The study utilized a mixed-methods research approach, incorporating quantitative and qualitative data collection instruments, and an experimental procedure with a pretest-posttest control group. The study ultimately enlisted a sample of 125 students randomly allocated to either the experiment group (60 students) or the control group (65 students). The research was conducted in the context of a Research Methodology course, which had adopted the flipped classroom approach. The students in the experiment group engaged with ChatGPT for in-class tasks, while those in the control group used traditional databases and search engines for similar tasks. Data were collected using the Critical Thinking Scale, Creative Thinking Scale, Reflective Thinking Scale, and a student interview guide (semi-structured). The study's findings illustrated that incorporating ChatGPT influenced the students' critical, reflective, and creative thinking skills and their dimensions discernibly. As a result, the study provides suggestions for academics, instructional designers, and researchers working in educational technology.

Title- Digital Ad-fluence: Unravelling the Influence of Online Ads on Consumer Inclinations

Abstract: This dissertation investigates the influence of online advertising on consumer inclinations and purchasing behaviour in the digital age. As marketing efforts increasingly shift toward digital platforms, understanding the complex dynamics between online advertisements and consumer decision-making processes has become crucial. The study aims to unravel the intricate relationship between these two elements, providing insights into how online ads shape consumer preferences, attitudes, and purchasing decisions. The research employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data from a survey of 100 respondents with a qualitative review of relevant literature spanning the past 10-20 years. The survey data offers valuable insights into consumers' perceptions, attitudes, and experiences with online advertising, while the literature review provides a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical underpinnings and empirical findings from prior research. Through factor analysis, the study identifies three key dimensions that collectively explain a significant portion of the variance in consumer behaviour toward online advertisements: the influence of price discounts, satisfaction and engagement levels, and the visual appeal of advertisements. These findings shed light on the critical factors that drive consumer responses to digital marketing campaigns. The dissertation contributes to the growing body of knowledge in digital marketing and consumer behaviour, offering practical implications for businesses and marketers seeking to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online advertising. By uncovering the underlying mechanisms through which online ads influence consumer inclinations, this research provides valuable insights for developing effective digital marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences and contribute to business success in the digital era

Analysis of protein profile and reducing sugar content of cassava plants (Manihot esculenta Crantz) results of induced resistance with salicylic acid

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is an important food commodity in Indonesia, and in the future this commodity will play an increasingly strategic role in people's lives and the country's economy. But until now there are still many obstacles, one of which is fusarium wilt disease. Fusarium wilt disease can be controlled by using superior cultivars that are resistant to the disease, by applying salicylic acid. The aim of this study was to analyze the protein profile and reducing sugar content in cassava plants after being induced with salicylic acid and compare them with controls. This research used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with one factor, namely the addition of salicylic acid consisting of 5 concentration levels, namely 0 ppm, 80 ppm, 100 ppm, 120 ppm, and 140 ppm. Each concentration was repeated 5 times. This research data is in the form of qualitative data and quantitative data. Qualitative data is presented in comparative descriptive form and presented in the form of photographs. Quantitative data was tabulated with different concentration factors and analyzed using Analysis of Variance then further tested with the Honestly Significant Difference Test (BNJ) at the 5% level. The research results showed that there was a missing protein band, namely a band at a molecular weight of 115, and there was also the appearance of a new band, namely a molecular weight of 85 kDa, as well as an increase in the reducing sugar content in cassava plants along with increasing salicylic acid concentrations.

Learner perception on tactile materials as a correlate of performance in mathematics: The case of Thika high school for the Blind, Kiambu County, Kenya

Mathematics is considered the foundation of scientific and technological growth, making one of the most important subjects taught in formal schools. Yet learners with visual impairment continue to perform poorly in Mathematics due multiple factors, among them unfavorable perceptions on the subject. Drawing from the social constructivism theory, this study aimed to establish learner perception on tactile materials as a correlate of performance in Mathematics among learners in Thika High School for the Blind. The objectives were to investigate general performance of mathematic among the learners who are blind and assess learners’ perception on the mathematic tactile learning materials in relation to their performance in Mathematics. This study used a case study research design. The target population comprised 80 learners who are blind in the school. Stratified random sampling was used to select the learners 24 who are blind according to class and gender. Questionnaires were used to collect data. Quantitative data was collected, coded and organized. Data analysis was through descriptive summaries and correlational analyses. There was a weak positive relationship between learners’ perception in learning Mathematics and performance in Mathematics (r = 0.203, p = 0.342). The majority the students indicated doing their homework daily when given by the teacher, getting homework marked daily, and doing homework alone daily. Therefore, this study recommends the need for the Ministry of Education to initiate strategies to enhance positive perceptions toward Mathematics among learners who are blind.

Adaptation strategies of paddy farmers to build resilience to climate change in kahama district, Tanzania

The study investigates the adaptation strategies used by the paddy farmers in Kahama District to increase their adaptability to climate change. The study focuses on four main objectives, including changed farming practices, changes in cropping practices, strategies used to adapt to climate change, and desired interventions to improve agricultural production and resilience to climate change. A mixed-methods strategy is used in the study to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. According to the data, paddy farmers in Kahama District have used a number of climate change adaptation strategies. These adaptations include modifications to irrigation techniques, timing adjustments for planting, seed variety changes, and fertilizer treatment adjustments. The study also reveals a change in crop systems, with farmers choosing drought-tolerant cultivars, intercropping, and crop diversification; increased water management practices, increased soil conservation practices, and informed decision-making through the use of climate information services are some of the strategies used by paddy farmers to adapt to climate change. The study also identifies the interventions that farmers want to see implemented, such as enhanced irrigation systems, workshops on climate-resilient farming techniques, access to resilient seed varieties, and dependable weather forecasting and climate information services. These findings show the paddy farmers in the Kahama District's proactive response to the problems posed by climate change and help to better understand the adaptation measures they have used. The study highlights the importance of assisting farmers in advancing their current strategies and knowledge while also attending to their unique requirements. Implementing desired actions, such as expanding climate information services, supplying training and access to robust seed varieties, and enhancing irrigation infrastructure, can significantly increase agricultural productivity and the region's resistance to climate change. For politicians, extension services, and development organizations looking to promote climate change adaptation and sustainable agriculture, these research findings have real-world applications. Paddy farmers' ability to adapt, agricultural output, and livelihood security in the face of climate change problems can all be improved by matching interventions and policies with their recognized needs and goals. Such activities can support attempts to achieve food security and sustainable development in the Kahama District and other areas, as well as the agricultural sector's overall resilience.

In Utero Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV-1 and the Associated Factors in Rwanda, Africa.

Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV-1 and associated mortality continue to occur at unacceptably high rates, despite the extensive rollout and implementation of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) Programs, including the modified versions of Option B and B+ in 2010 and 2012, respectively. Maternal HIV viral load (VL) and socio-behavioral factors sustaining MTCT in Rwanda remain largely unexplored. The study examined the effects of socio-behavioral factors on maternal VL and their contribution to in utero transmission of HIV-1 in the context of Rwanda's HIV epidemic. A prospective cohort study was conducted in 862 mother-baby pairs enrolled in 10 PMTCT clinics in Rwanda. VL was determined on plasma and Dried Blood Spots samples, whereas HIV DNA PCR was performed to determine in utero MTCT of HIV of the babies immediately at birth and then at 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 months, and 18 months, together with HIV antibody testing to determine other forms of MTCT of HIV. Quantitative data on socio-behavioral factors were collected through a structured questionnaire. Linear regression and univariate analysis of variances using SPSS 25.0 were used to test the hypotheses. We found 22/862 (2.55%) cases of in utero transmission and a total of 32/862 (3.7%) cases of MTCT of HIV-1 over 18 study months. Maternal VL at delivery was significantly associated with the risk of in utero transmission of HIV-1. Socio-behavioral factors associated with elevated maternal VL at delivery included alcohol, smoking, multiple sexual partners, mothers' income, being a casual laborer, and distance to health care services. We report an MTCT rate of 3.7% in our study population over the 18 months, higher than the national average of 1.5%, the majority of which occurred in utero. MTCT cases were attributable to failure to suppress maternal VL.

Spatiotemporal climate variability and extremes in Middle Awash Afar region Ethiopia: implications to pastoralists and agro-pastoralists food security

Purpose This study aims to examine the phenomenon of climate variability and its implications for pastoralists and agro-pastoralists food security in Amibara and Awash Fentale districts of the Afar region, Ethiopia. Design/methodology/approach The study relied on meteorological records of temperature and rainfall in the study area between 1988 and 2018. Besides, literature on the topic was reviewed to make caveats on the literal picture that comes from quantitative data, and that is the contribution of this study to the existing debate on climate change and variability. The spatiotemporal trend was determined using the Mann–Kendall test and Sen’s slope estimator, while variability was analyzed using the coefficient of variation and standardized anomaly index, and standardized precipitation index/standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index were applied to determine the drought frequency and severity. Findings The result reveals that the mean seasonal rainfall varies from 111.34 mm to 518.74 mm. Although the maximum and minimum rainfall occurred in the summer and winter seasons, respectively, there has been a decrease in seasonal and annual at the rate of 2.51 mm per season and 4.12 mm per year, respectively. The study sites have been experiencing highly seasonal rainfall variability. The drought analysis result confirms that a total of nine agricultural droughts ranging from moderate to extreme years were observed. Overall, the seasonal and annual rainfall of the Amibara and Awash Fentale districts showed a decreasing trend with highly temporal variations of rainfall and ever-rising temperatures, and frequent drought events means the climate situation of the area could adversely affect pastoral and agro-pastoral households’ food security. However, analysis of data from secondary sources reveals that analyzing precipitation just based on the meteorological records of the study area would be misleading. That explains why flooding, rather than drought, is becoming the main source of catastrophe to pastoral and agro-pastoral livelihoods. Practical implications The analysis of temperature and rainfall dynamics in the Afar region, hence the inception of all development interventions, must take the hydrological impact of the neighboring regions which appears to be useful direction to future researchers. Originality/value The research is originally conducted using meteorological and existing literature, and hence, it is original. In this research, we utilized a standardized and appropriate methodology, resulting in insights that augment the existing body of knowledge within the field. These insights serve to advance scholarly discourse on the subject matter.

Long-term care staffs’ experience in facilitating the use of videoconferencing by cognitively impaired long-term care residents during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study

BackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous long-term care (LTC) homes faced restrictions that prevented face-to-face visits. To address this challenge and maintain family connections, many LTC homes facilitated the use of electronic tablets to connect residents with their family caregivers. Our study sought to explore the acceptability of this practice among staff members and managers, focusing on their experiences with facilitating videoconferencing.MethodsA convergent mixed method research was performed. Qualitative and quantitative data collection through semi-structured interviews to assess the acceptability of videoconferencing in long-term care homes and to explore the characteristics of these settings. Quantitative data on the acceptability of the intervention were collected using a questionnaire developed as part of the project. The study included a convenience sample of 17 staff members and four managers.ResultsManagers described LTC homes’ characteristics, and the way videoconferencing was implemented within their institutions. Affective attitude, burden, ethicality, opportunity costs, perceived effectiveness, and self-efficacy are reported as per the constructs of the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. The results suggest a favorable acceptability and a positive attitude of managers and staff members toward the use of videoconferencing in long-term care to preserve and promote contact between residents and their family caregivers. However, participants reported some challenges related to the burden and the costs regarding the invested time and staff shortage.ConclusionsLTC home staff reported a clear understanding of the acceptability and challenges regarding the facilitation of videoconferencing by residents to preserve their contact with family caregivers.

Patterns of Care Following a Positive Fecal Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer: A Mixed Methods Study.

Multilevel barriers to colonoscopy after a positive fecal blood test for colorectal cancer (CRC) are well-documented. A less-explored barrier to appropriate follow-up is repeat fecal testing after a positive test. We investigated this phenomenon using mixed methods. This sequential mixed methods study included quantitative data from a large cohort of patients 50-89years from four healthcare systems with a positive fecal test 2010-2018 and qualitative data from interviews with physicians and patients. Logistic regression was used to evaluate whether repeat testing was associated with failure to complete subsequent colonoscopy and to identify factors associated with repeat testing. Interviews were coded and analyzed to explore reasons for repeat testing. A total of 316,443 patients had a positive fecal test. Within 1year, 76.3% received a colonoscopy without repeat fecal testing, 3% repeated testing and then received a colonoscopy, 4.4% repeated testing without colonoscopy, and 16.3% did nothing. Among repeat testers (7.4% of total cohort, N = 23,312), 59% did not receive a colonoscopy within 1year. In adjusted models, those with an initial positive test followed by a negative second test were significantly less likely to receive colonoscopy than those with two successive positive tests (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.35-0.40). Older age (65-75 vs. 50-64years: OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.33-1.41) and higher comorbidity score (≥ 4 vs. 0: OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.67-1.83) were significantly associated with repeat testing compared to those who received colonoscopy without repeat tests. Qualitative interview data revealed reasons underlying repeat testing, including colonoscopy avoidance, bargaining, and disbelief of positive results. Among patients in this cohort, 7.4% repeated fecal testing after an initial positive test. Of those, over half did not go on to receive a colonoscopy within 1year. Efforts to improve CRC screening must address repeat fecal testing after a positive test as a barrier to completing colonoscopy.

Influence of Procurement Process on Availability of Essential Drugs in Public Health Facilities in Mombasa County, Kenya

Purpose: Procurement process and practices are crucial components in the successful realization of universal healthcare and in particular the availability of essential drugs. Despite multifaceted efforts and inputs to promote the quality of the procurement process challenges still exists in the availability of essential drugs. This study aimed to establish the influence of procurement planning, supplier selection, procurement financing and needs assessment on availability of essential drugs in the public health facilities in Mombasa County, Kenya. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study design which targeted level 4 and 5 health facilities in Mombasa County. The study target population was 1216 health workers who included medical laboratory personnel, clinical officers and medical officers, nurses, pharmacists and pharmaceutical technologists. The study sample was 301. Methodology: Stratified sampling approach was used to distribute the sample among the cadre and random sampling method was used to select the respondents from each strata. Quantitative data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Findings: The study found that procurement planning, supplier selection, procurement, financing and needs assessment were significant factors in influencing the availability of essential drugs with P<0.05. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommended that counties conduct a comprehensive and regular need assessment of essential drugs in public health facilities, that they develop a robust procurement planning strategy that aligns with the identified needs and available financing, that there should be a transparent and competitive supplier selection process, and to establish strategic partnerships with international organizations, non-governmental organizations, or donor agencies that are committed to improving healthcare access.

Protocol for process evaluation of ARTEMIS cluster randomised controlled trial: an intervention for management of depression and suicide among adolescents living in slums in India

IntroductionThere are around 250 million adolescents (10–19 years) in India. The prevalence of mental health-related morbidity among adolescents in India is approximately 7.3%. Vulnerable subpopulations among adolescents such as those...

Impact of integrating smartphones in the teaching and learning of Mathematics in Mberengwa district, Zimbabwe

Worldwide, the utility of smartphones in the teaching and learning of Mathematics has been greatly recognized and taken advantage of. This is mainly because of the precisions this technology can bring in the classroom. This study investigated the impact of integrating smart phones in the teaching and learning of Mathematics at secondary schools in Chegato Cluster in Mberengwa district, Zimbabwe. It also examined strategies that can be used to enhance the use of smartphones in these schools. The study used a mixed method approach where both qualitative and quantitative data was gathered and was used to answer the formulated research questions. Ten parents, 10 Mathematics teachers, 4 school heads and 40 learners participated in the study. The study found that the introduction of the competence-based curriculum by the ministry of Education in Zimbabwe, which is in solidarity with Education 5.0 calls for the use of smart phones in the teaching and learning of Mathematics which ensures that several modern skills are being acquired by learners in Chegato secondary schools. Learners in Chegato Cluster benefit by using smartphones to store soft copies of various Mathematics textbooks which are often scarce in hard-copy form. Students also benefit from Mathematical applications that are installed in their smartphones. Teachers use smartphones as media in the classroom to enhance learner-understanding of the concepts. Again, in Chegato, the use of smartphones has exposed learners to various Mathematical technological skills that help in the learning of Mathematics and has the potential of improving the pass rate. School heads and teachers acknowledged that the availability of smartphones in the schools has greatly assisted “O” level Mathematics learners to accomplish their tasks.Strategies that can be used to enhance the use of smartphones in secondary schools include the use of individualised student passwords which are controlled and monitored by the school administrators to ensure that the activities of each learner on the Internet can be tracked and any attempts by students to visit undesirable sites are detected. Also, the use of software applications, such as Mikrotik Hotspot Blocker, can be used to block students from accessing unsavoury Internet sites. The study concluded that though challenges such as lack of technological resources and some educators’ negative attitudes towards the use of smart phones affect Chegato Cluster, most participants found it helpful to use smartphones in the classroom because the gadget expose learners to new and better ways of dealing with Mathematical concepts. The study finally calls for all the involved parties in the cluster and beyond to actively take up their responsibilities facilitating the use of smartphones for the benefits of the students.

Financial Literacy on Digital Banking and Financial Performance among Small and Medium- Sized Enterprises in Sri Lanka

This study delves into how financial literacy shapes the relationship between digital banking and the financial performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sri Lanka. Quantitative data were gathered from 380 SMEs across nine provinces using a deductive approach. Utilizing SPSS, the study scrutinized how financial literacy moderates the connection between digital banking and SME financial performance. Results reveal a significant and positive moderating influence of financial literacy on this relationship. Furthermore, the study highlights the constructive impact of digital banking on SME development and financial performance in Sri Lanka. Importantly, participation in financial literacy programs provided by entrepreneurial support organizations emerges as a crucial factor in equipping SME owners with the requisite knowledge for making informed financial decisions. This research underscores the pivotal roles of financial literacy and digital banking in bolstering SMEs, advocating for their strategic utilization to elevate financial performance. Additionally, it fills an important gap in understanding by examining how mobile, digital, and digital banking affect SMEs in Sri Lanka. This emphasizes the crucial role of financial literacy in encouraging the adoption of digital banking and promoting SME growth in developing economies.

ARISCAT and LAS VEGAS risk scores for predicting postoperative pulmonary complications after cardiac surgery: a cohort study

Background: Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) could lead to morbidity, mortality, and prolong hospital stay. Different risk scoring systems are used to predict the identification of patients at risk of developing PPCs. The diagnostic accuracies of the Assess Respiratory Risk in Surgical Patients in Catalonia (ARISCAT) and Local Assessment of Ventilatory Management During General Anaesthesia for Surgery (LAS VEGAS) risk scores are compared in prediction of PPCs taking pulmonary complication as gold standard in cardiac surgery. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study with consecutive sampling technique. A total of 181 patients were included. Quantitative data is presented as simple descriptive statistics giving mean and standard deviation and qualitative variables are presented as frequency and percentages. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic accuracies are also calculated. Results: Total 181 post cardiac surgery patients were analyzed. The median [interquartile range] of age, height, weight, and BMI were 60.0 [52.0 – 67.0] years, 163.0 [156.0-168.0] cm, 71.0 [65.0 – 80.0] kg and [24.2 – 30.4] kg/m2. 127 (70.2%) were male and 54 (29.8%) were female. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of ARISCAT for the prediction of PPCs were (94.9%, 4.65%, 76.1%, 22.9% and 73.4%), whereas LAS VEGAS were (97.1%, 4.65%, 76.5%, 33.3% and 75.1%) respectively. Conclusion: Both the ARISCAT and LAS VEGAS risk scores are of limited value in cardiac surgery patients for the prediction of postoperative pulmonary complications, based on the predicted scores in this study.