Significant Differences In Perceptions Research Articles

Effect of verbal and written information on the perception of pain and analgesic consumption, in adolescent orthodontic patients: A randomised controlled trial.

To investigate the impact of written instructions, about post-bonding pain, on patients' pain perception and analgesic consumption and to evaluate the correlation of pain with personality types. Two-arm parallel randomised controlled trial. University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia. Participants included adolescents in the permanent dentition with mild or moderate crowding. The participants were randomly allocated, using computer-generated random list, into two groups. After bonding and archwire insertion, all participants received oral instructions on potential pain occurrence and pain control. Participants in the study group also received written information on post-bonding pain. Pain intensity was evaluated using the Numerical Rating Scale immediately after (T0), 2 days (T1) and 7 days (T2) after the placement of the fixed orthodontic appliance. Analgesic consumption was assessed as yes or no, and personality traits were assessed using the Big Five Inventory. Operators who scored pain intensity and recorded analgesic consumption and personality traits were blinded to the group allocation. Statistical analyses included the t-test, Mann-Whitney U-test, Spearman correlations and stepwise regression analysis. The highest rate of pain was recorded at T1 (P < 0.001). No statistically significant difference in pain perception between groups was observed. There was no statistically significant difference in analgesic consumption between the two groups (P = 0.81). The correlations between personality traits and pain perception were not significant. The additional written information had little impact on pain perception, and it had no relationship to personality types. The perception of pain and analgesic consumption were not affected by the provision of additional written information (P = 0.81). Participants' personality types did not affect the impact of the information given.

Clinical, radiographic and patient-reported outcomes of zirconia and titanium implants in the posterior zone after 1 year of loading-A randomized controlled trial.

To assess the clinical, radiographic and patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) of posterior zirconia and titanium implants at 1 year of implant loading. Forty-two patients with two adjacent missing teeth were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial with a within-subject controlled design. Each patient received one zirconia (Zr) and one titanium (Ti) implant, with the mesial and distal positions randomized. The implant restoration consisted of multiple layered zirconia, with the buccal aspect veneered. In group Zr, the restoration was intraorally cemented onto the one-piece Zr implant, whereas in group Ti, the restoration was extraorally cemented onto the titanium base abutment and intraorally screw-retained onto the Ti implant. Examinations were performed following restoration delivery at baseline (BL) and at 1 year. Measurements included clinical parameters, radiographic outcomes (MBL) and PROMs. Bleeding on probing showed an increase from BL to 1 year (34 ± 30% for Zr; 25 ± 21% for Ti). MBL remained stable with minimal changes from BL to 1 year, measuring 0.1 ± 0.4 mm (mean ± SD) for Zr and -0.1 ± 0.7 mm for Ti. Veneering fractures were the most frequent technical complication and amounted to 17.5% in group Zr and 5% in group Ti (p = .100). Patients preferred Zr implants for their soft tissue color, with a significant difference in perception between patients and clinicians (p < .017). The study showed that both Zr and Ti implants had similar clinical outcomes, despite a high prevalence of mucositis and a few technical complications. Both implant types demonstrated stable marginal bone levels and similar patient-reported outcome measures.

The beneficial effect of transparent surgical masks on the communication of adults with hearing loss within clinical settings

Purpose: The study examined the benefits of transparent versus non-transparent surgical masks on the speech intelligibility in quiet of adult cochlear implant (CI) users, in conjunction with patient preferences and the acoustic effects of the different masks on the speech signal. Methods: Speech tracking test (STT) scores and acoustical characteristics were measured in quiet for live speech in three different conditions, without mask, with a non-transparent surgical mask and with a transparent surgical mask. Patients were asked about their experience with the face masks. The study sample consists of 30 patients using a cochlear implant. Results: We found a significant difference in speech perception among all conditions, with the speech tracking scores revealing a significant advantage when switching from the non-transparent surgical mask to the transparent one. The transparent surgical mask, although it does not transmit high frequencies effectively, seems to have minimal effect on speech comprehension in practice when lip movements are visible. This substantial benefit is further emphasized in the questionnaire, where 82% of the patients express a preference for the transparent surgical mask. Conclusion: The study highlights significant benefits for patients in speech intelligibility in quiet with the use of medically safe transparent facemasks. Transitioning from standard surgical masks to transparent masks demonstrates highly significant effectiveness and patient satisfaction for patients with hearing loss. This research strongly advocates for the implementation of transparent masks in broader hospital and perioperative settings.

Saudi teachers’ perceptions on pedagogical affordances of digital applications in teaching students with learning disabilities

ABSTRACT Creating a supporting learning environment for students with learning disabilities has been the concern of most teachers. However, digital applications provide numerous pedagogical affordances for teaching students with learning disabilities. This quantitative study examined teachers’ perspectives on the pedagogical affordances of digital applications and challenges when teaching students with learning disabilities in primary schools in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from 280 teachers of students with learning disabilities through a questionnaire using a random strategy. The results showed that despite teachers’ awareness of the pedagogical affordances of digital applications in developing the academic skills of students with learning disabilities, the use of digital applications was intermediate. Teachers identified a lack of digital tools, time pressure and teachers’ workload as hindering the use of digital applications in their teaching. Findings also reveal statistically significant differences in perceptions for males and females, holding a master’s degree or above qualification, experience category (1–5 years), and training category (1–5 training sessions). These findings highlight the need for ongoing professional development and support that focuses more on real-classroom practices and resources, and how teachers can use digital tools to meet the various learning needs of students with learning disabilities.

Effect of soy protein isolate addition on the physical and sensory characteristics of dry noodles with modified-cassava flour substituted

Abstract Incorporating modified cassava flour (MCF) into dry noodles production exhibited a notable drawback, namely its inadequate protein composition, hence rendering it non-compliant with the established SNI 01-2974-1996 criterion for dry noodles. The objective of this research was to investigate the impact of soy protein isolate (SPI) application into dry noodles substituted with modified cassava flour (DNMCF), with a focus on evaluating the moisture, protein, physical and sensory quality of the resulting products in compliance with the Indonesia National Standard (SNI 01-2974-1996). The soy protein isolate (SPI) was applied at varying percentages (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%) in the formulation. The findings showed that moisture and protein content in dry noodles prepared using MCF substitution and supplemented with 5%, 7.5%, and 10% of SPI aligned with the standards outlined 1 in the Indonesian National Standard (SNI). The findings indicated that including 5% SPI resulted in sensory attributes, including color, aroma, taste, texture, and overall acceptability, that closely resembled those of the control sample. In contrast, adding 7.5% and 10% of SPI provided sensory characteristics significantly different from the control. The hedonic test conducted on commercial DNMCF revealed that including MCF and 5% of SPI did not result in any statistically significant differences in acceptability, aroma, taste, texture, and overall perception (p&gt;0.05). The color of DNMCF with SPI application had a discernible tinge of brown in contrast to the commercial DNMCF, which has been deemed unsatisfactory by the panelists. The inclusion of SPI at a concentration of 5% resulted in the following composition: 6.41% of moisture content, 3.32% of ash, 11.74% of protein, 0.38% of fat, and 78.16% of carbohydrate. The application of 5% SPI on DNMCF met the consumer preference and met the quality standard of SNI 01-2974-1996.

Perception of Objective Structured Clinical Examination Among Undergraduates Medical Students

Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is a valuable assessment tool that enhances in-depth learning and preparation of students for clinical practice. The tasks to be assessed should be of different types and of varying difficulties. The tasks in OSCE depend on the level of students training. The aim of the study was to assess the perception of OSCE among under-graduates’ medical students. A mixed methods study (cross sectional exploratory and content analysis) was conducted with the simple random sampling, purposive sampling and content analysis technique among 86 undergraduates’ medical students at tertiary hospital. SPSS 16 was used for data entry. Frequency, percentage, Mean, Standard deviation, Mann-Whitney U-test and One Way Anova was used for data analysis. Most of the participants perceived that OSCE identified knowledge gaps (84.8%) and was educative (79.0%). There was no significant difference of perception of OSCE related to gender. There was no significant variation in participant’s perceptions of OSCE in relation to academic year regarding OSCE domain characteristics (p =0.333). However, regarding perception of OSCE domain structure in relation to their academic year, there was a significant difference as p =0.013. The overall perception of OSCE among medical students was positive. This study has identified a need for training, practice prior to an OSCE exam and allocation of adequate timefor each spot during the exam.

Investigating Barriers to Healthcare Access for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in South Punjab, Pakistan

This research explores the Barriers to Healthcare Access for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in South Punjab, Pakistan. It investigates factors such as awareness channels, availability of healthcare facilities, and barriers to healthcare access. Utilizing quantitative methods, including structured surveys and statistical analyses, data from 100 participants were analyzed. Findings indicate diverse awareness channels, with disparities in awareness across different aspects of ASD. While healthcare facilities such as general practitioners and speech therapists are somehow available but, specialized services show notable gaps. Transportation problems, financial constraints, and cultural practices emerge as significant barriers to healthcare access. Statistical analyses reveal no significant differences in perceptions based on demographic variables. This study contributes valuable insights into the multifaceted challenges faced by families navigating the healthcare system for their children with ASD in South Punjab, Pakistan. It informs interventions &amp; policy recommendations to ameliorate healthcare access and support services for this vulnerable population.

Pain and root resorption due to surgical interventions to accelerate tooth movement in orthodontics: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

There are several publications that show the efficacy of surgical interventions in accelerating the rate of tooth movement in orthodontics. Consequently, possible adverse effects must also be evaluated. The aim of the present study was to compare the perception of pain and root resorption between orthodontic treatment with a surgical acceleration intervention vs. conventional orthodontic treatment. An electronic search was conducted in the MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases up to September 12, 2022. Randomized or non-randomized, controlled, parallel-arm or split-mouth clinical trials were included. Fixed-and random-effects meta-analyses were performed with regard to heterogeneity. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I tools. A total of 1,395 articles were initially retrieved, 40 studies were finally included in the review and 15 studies were eligible for quantitative analysis. The meta-analysis showed a significant difference in pain perception between acceleration surgery vs. conventional orthodontics at 24 h (p = 0.040); however, this difference was not significant at 7 days (p = 0.080). Overall, the patients who underwent any acceleration procedure presented significantly less resorption as compared to those who were applied conventional treatment (p < 0.001). A similar significant difference was found in retraction movements (p < 0.001) and alignment movements (p = 0.030). In the first 24 h, surgical interventions for the acceleration of tooth movement produce a greater perception of pain as compared to conventional orthodontic treatment, but the perception is similar after 7 days. Acceleration surgery results in less root resorption - in alignment movements, and especially in retraction movements.

Perceptions of Cryptocurrencies and Modern Money before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland and Germany

Research background: Despite the fact that the issue of private, decentralized digital money (cryptocurrencies) is already quite extensively described in the literature dedicated to the financial system, especially its periphery, there is a deficiency in terms of research on the opinions of participants in the financial system, based on trust in money and its widespread acceptance. International comparative studies are lacking, particularly those conducted before and after the COVID-19 virus pandemic. The pandemic showed that people had significantly changed their willingness to use different forms of money. Being isolated at home and avoiding direct contact with others, people started to use digital money more frequently. Purpose of the article: In response to the identified research gap, this study reports research results on the perception of cryptocurrencies by young financial market participants. It attempts to provide answers to the following research questions: (1) Has the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown of economies caused changes at the international level in perceptions and attitudes toward the traditional monetary system and cryptocurrencies? (2) Has the COVID-19 pandemic changed perceptions of cryptocurrencies as a potential alternative to current fiat money? Methods: To evaluate respondents’ opinions, a survey in the form of a questionnaire was conducted. The respondent groups in 2019/2020 were N = 171 (Germany = 143 and Poland = 128), while in 2021, N = 157 (Germany = 95 and Poland = 62). For analytical purposes, statistical analysis using the Z ratio test was used to capture the characteristics of the response distributions and the relationships between them. These two moments in time allowed us to determine whether there were significant changes between opinions before and after COVID-19. Findings &amp; value added: The study’s results showed that while there are significant differences in perceptions of the traditional monetary system and cryptocurrencies due to a variety of factors, the COVID-19 pandemic and the shutdown of economies did not cause statistically significant differences in this regard.

Perceptions of virtual versus in‐person recovery meetings: A cross‐sectional survey of Oxford House residents

AbstractThis study investigates shifts in the modality of addiction recovery communities from person‐to‐person interactions to virtual platforms in the context of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Our study involves members of the Oxford House recovery homes (n = 284), a major network of recovery‐supportive housing in the United States and abroad. Many residents participate in 12‐step meetings during their stay, traditionally conducted in‐person, but due to physical distancing regulations, many of these meetings transitioned to virtual platforms. We collected cross‐sectional survey data focusing on user perceptions of virtual 12‐step meetings in terms of accessibility, cost, convenience, support network strength and recovery network quality. Our study found significant differences in perceptions among different demographic groups, suggesting challenges in transitioning recovery support to online platforms. Notably, participants aged 46 and older showed a greater propensity to use online recovery forums and found online meetings convenient. Non‐White individuals and women demonstrated a more favourable perception of online meetings—a trend that also held true among those with at least some college education. Furthermore, the results show that those who initiated their recovery prior to the COVID‐19 lockdown viewed online methods more favourably, particularly in terms of accessibility and cost. Our data also revealed that participants who were categorically involved in 12‐step recovery (Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous) demonstrated a more positive perception of online methods in terms of the strength of social networks and social support quality, despite some resistance to virtual transition and maintaining focus. Further research is needed to understand these nuanced impacts and develop strategies to enhance the effectiveness of online recovery meetings.

Gender differences in the perceived impacts of coastal management and conservation

Gender influences the ways that people are involved in and rely on coastal resources and spaces. However, a limited understanding of gender differences in this context hinders the equity and effectiveness of coastal management and conservation. Drawing on data collected through purposive sampling from 3063 people in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Indonesia, Kenya, and Madagascar, we explored how men and women perceived the effects of coastal management and conservation on human well-being. We found significant gender differences in perceptions of the presence of impacts, whereby 37% of women and 46% of men perceived individual-level impacts, while 47% of women and 54% of men perceived community-level impacts. When asked about the degree and direction of impacts, the responses were not significantly different by gender. When describing the types of impacts, women and men articulated these differently, particularly impacts related to economic, governance, and health aspects of well-being. These findings highlight pathways for developing more equitable and gender-responsive coastal management and conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding biodiversity, sustaining fisheries, and supporting the well-being of all those who depend on the marine environment.

Evaluating and Comparing Human Perceptions of Streets in Two Megacities by Integrating Street-View Images, Deep Learning, and Space Syntax

Street quality plays a crucial role in promoting urban development. There is still no consensus on how to quantify human street quality perception on a large scale or explore the relationship between street quality and street composition elements. This study investigates a new approach for evaluating and comparing street quality perception and accessibility in Shanghai and Chengdu, two megacities with distinct geographic characteristics, using street-view images, deep learning, and space syntax. The result indicates significant differences in street quality perception between Shanghai and Chengdu. In Chengdu, there is a curvilinear distribution of the highest positive perceptions along the riverfront space and a radioactive spatial distribution of the highest negative perceptions along the ring road and main roads. Shanghai displays a fragmented cross-aggregation and polycentric distribution of the streets with the highest positive and negative perceptions. Thus, it is reasonable to hypothesize that street quality perception closely correlates with the urban planning and construction process of streets. Moreover, we used multiple linear regression to explain the relationship between street quality perception and street elements. The results show that buildings in Shanghai and trees, pavement, and grass in Chengdu were positively associated with positive perceptions. Walls in both Shanghai and Chengdu show a consistent positive correlation with negative perceptions and a consistent negative correlation with other positive perceptions, and are most likely to contribute to the perception of low street quality. Ceilings were positively associated with negative perceptions in Shanghai but are not the major street elements in Chengdu, while the grass is the opposite of the above results. Our research can provide a cost-effective and rapid solution for large-scale, highly detailed urban street quality perception assessments to inform human-scale urban planning.

Perceptions and usage of traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and waterpipes among young and middle-aged adults in Iraq: A descriptive study

Tobacco use poses significant public health concerns, linked to various mental and physical health outcomes. Iraq has a high prevalence of smoking, predominantly with traditional cigarettes, but there is also growing popularity of electronic cigarettes and waterpipes among younger and middle-aged adults. This study aims to explore the perceptions and usage of traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and waterpipes among this population in Iraq. A descriptive study was conducted among 402 young and middle-aged adults (50.25% females), aged between 18 and 45 years, with a mean age of 25.88 (SD = 7.27). For the data collection, an online questionnaire was developed utilizing distribution channels on common social networking platforms. The results showed that 41.79% of respondents have used traditional cigarettes, while 31.1% of participants reported that they use electronic cigarettes. Ninety-four per cent of respondents acknowledged that they use waterpipes. The results also indicated that a significant proportion believe that using electronic cigarettes is either much more harmful or more harmful than traditional cigarettes. Participants commonly perceived all three types of tobacco products as highly harmful, including secondhand smoke, addictive qualities, and popularity among peers. Additionally, significant differences in perceptions emerged between smokers and nonsmokers regarding electronic cigarettes and traditional cigarettes, although no such differences were observed for waterpipes. These findings contribute to understanding the attitudes toward different forms of tobacco use among respondents, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address the perceived harm associated with tobacco products.

Taste Changes and Salivary Flow Rate Disparities in Premenopausal and Postmenopausal Women: Exploring the Zinc Connection.

Menopause triggers hormonal changes that can manifest in oral symptoms like dysgeusia, xerostomia, and burning sensations, substantially impacting daily life, including chewing, swallowing, and taste perception. Menopausal women are particularly susceptible to nutritional fluctuations, including variations in zinc levels, which are believed to be linked to taste perception. Taste alterations can render food unappetizing, leading to malnutrition and diminished quality of life. The study aims to assess taste alterations, salivary flow rate, and zinc levels in premenopausal and postmenopausal women, investigating the correlation between these factors. This research involved 30 premenopausal and 30 postmenopausal women randomly selected from outpatients at the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Panineeya Institute of Dental Sciences and Research Centre, Hyderabad, India. Saliva samples were collected, unstimulated salivary flow rates were measured, taste perception was evaluated using a whole mouth threshold taste test, and serum zinc levels were assessed. The study revealed that a significantly higher percentage of postmenopausal women could not identify sucrose taste at concentrations 1 (76.7%, p = 0.017) and concentrations 2 (56.7%, p = 0.007) compared to premenopausal women (43.3%, 20%, respectively). A statistically significant number of postmenopausal women also couldn't identify the bitter taste at concentration 1 (43.3%, p=0.047) compared to premenopausal women. No significant difference in taste perception of salt and sour was observed between both groups at all tested concentrations. In both groups, mean taste perception rankings were similar, with salt being most perceived, followed by sour bitter, and at least with sucrose. Salivary flow rates and zinc levels did not significantly differ between premenopausal and postmenopausal women. The correlation between zinc levels and taste perception was weak and non-significant, indicating that zinc levels were not significant predictors of taste perception in either group. Postmenopausal women exhibited reduced perceptions of sucrose and quinine hydrochloride, potentially impacting eating habits, while taste perception of sodium chloride and citric acid remained relatively consistent. Salivary flow rates and zinc levels were within the normal range for postmenopausal women up to 60 years of age included in the study. The study demonstrated that zinc levels did not significantly influence perception among postmenopausal women, suggesting that taste impairment is a multifactorial phenomenon.

Parental Perception and Attitude towards Private Tuition: A Cross-Sectional Study among Daily Wage Earners

Parents' perception of private tuition significantly impacts a child's educational journey. Positive attitudes boost academic growth, boost confidence, address individual needs, foster responsibility, and reflect cultural and social factors. Positive attitudes also encourage collaboration with educators, aligning educational goals and fostering open communication. So, the present study aimed to assess the level of perception and attitude among the parents of daily wage earners. A cross-sectional survey method has been employed to accomplish the purpose of the study among the daily wage-earning parents of school-going children. The present study consisted of 267 samples, comprising daily wage earners parents, by employing a random sampling method from Nadia District, West Bengal, India. A standardized perception and attitude scale towards private tuition, with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.81 and 0.79, respectively, was administered to collect data from the sample (daily wage earners parents). The findings of the study indicate significant differences in perceptions and attitudes towards private tuition based on factors such as gender, location, and educational qualifications. It has been found that attitudes and perceptions of private tuition have a moderately positive correlation. This study contributes to our knowledge of the significance of private tuition in the educational landscape and provides insightful information for future studies and the formulation of societal policies.

Clean labelling sodium nitrite at pilot scale: In-situ reduction of nitrate from plant sources and its effects on the overall quality and safety of restructured cooked ham

Growing health and environmental concerns have increased demand for all-natural products, with a focus on clean labelling. Sodium nitrite is the most widely used additive in the meat industry because it imparts the typical cured flavour and colour to meat products and, most importantly, their microbiological safety. However, due to health concerns, the European Commission is proposing revised regulations to reduce nitrate and nitrite levels in meat products. As a result, the meat industry is actively seeking alternatives. This study explored the production of four cooked hams utilising nitrate-rich vegetable sources combined with two different nitrate-reducing commercial food cultures, alongside a control ham prepared with sodium nitrite (150 ppm). Microbiological, physico-chemical (pH, water activity, nitrate and nitrite concentration, lipid profile, lipid oxidation) and sensory (texture and colour profile) characterisation of the products was carried out. Challenge tests for Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium sporogenes and Clostridium perfringens have been performed to assess the growth of pathogens, if present in the products. Results revealed comparable microbiological and physico-chemical profiles across ham formulations, with minor differences observed in colour parameters for sample C. The sensory analysis showed that for the pilot ham formulations A and D, there were no significant differences in consumer perception compared to the control ham. In the challenge tests, L. monocytogenes levels were similar in both control and tested hams. There were no significant differences in C. sporogenes and C. perfringens counts at any temperature or between test and control samples. These results indicate that this technology has a potential future in the cured meat sector, as regulators mandate the reduction of added synthetic chemicals and consumers seek healthier and more natural ingredients in their daily diets.

Personal Ethics and Ethical Leadership in The Face of The Resolution of Dilemmas and Problematic Situations in Chilean Graduates

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between personal ethics and deontological leadership in Chilean graduates, with the purpose of determining whether a high level of personal ethics in leaders influences the resolution of moral dilemmas and problematic situations in the institutional environment. Theoretical Framework: The research is based on concepts and theories about professional ethics, deontological leadership, and university ethics training. Theories and models such as Applied Ethics, Business Ethics and the deontological theory of ethics stand out. Method: A quantitative methodology with a survey design was adopted. 207 graduates of various careers from the Universidad Austral de Chile participated. Three instruments were used: the Ethical Leadership Questionnaire, the Ethical Dilemmas of Business Culture Questionnaire, and the Personal Ethics survey of collaborators. Data were analyzed with SPSS Statistics 23 and SPSS AMOS 23, performing exploratory and confirmatory factor analyzes. Results and Discussion: The results revealed that a high level of personal ethics is crucial to exercise effective deontological leadership. Significant differences in ethical perception between genders and ages were identified, suggesting that women and older professionals better manage ethical dilemmas. A negative correlation was observed between tolerance to unethical behaviors and the ability to solve ethical dilemmas. Implications of Research: Practical implications include the need to incorporate rigorous ethical training into university curricula to develop ethical leaders. Theoretically, the study contributes to the understanding of the relationship between personal ethics and deontological leadership, proposing that personal ethics is an essential precursor for ethical leadership in organizations. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by empirically demonstrating the importance of personal ethics in deontological leadership. Their innovative approach and the discoveries made can influence training and professional practices in the educational and business field.

Perspectives of Students and Teachers Form Continuing Professional Development: Challenge And Obstacle

Continuous professional development (CPD) for teachers is crucial for enhancing their professional capabilities, particularly in pedagogical skills. Despite its importance, several barriers and challenges impede the effective development of the teaching profession. This study aims to investigate these obstacles through the perceptions of elementary school students and teachers, providing insights into the current state of CPD in education. A survey method was used to gather data from 150 participants, including students and teachers, to explore their perceptions of CPD. The survey focused on various aspects of CPD, including educational practices, learning processes, professional development activities, and supporting mechanisms. The findings revealed significant differences in perceptions between students and teachers across the examined aspects. Teachers predominantly prioritized the learning process in their professional development efforts. Major obstacles identified included a lack of motivation and insufficient intervention for practicing teachers. Additionally, a critical challenge for teachers was the deficiency of high-quality resources necessary to conduct effective research in learning methodologies. The disparity in perceptions between students and teachers highlights the need for more targeted CPD programs that address the specific needs of educators. Enhancing motivation and providing adequate support and resources are essential for overcoming these barriers. Addressing these challenges can lead to more effective teaching practices and ultimately improve the quality of education. This study underscores the importance of understanding the barriers and challenges to CPD from both students' and teachers' perspectives. By prioritizing the learning process and addressing motivational and resource-related issues, stakeholders can better support the professional development of teachers, leading to improved pedagogical outcomes.

Pengelolaan Sarana Dan Prasarana di Sekolah Madrasah Aliyah Laboratorium UINSU

This research examines the management of facilities and infrastructure at the Madrasah Aliyah Laboratory of UIN North Sumatra (UIN SU) using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The aim of the research is to identify the main obstacles in facility management and provide strategic recommendations for improvement. Through a quantitative survey, it was found that there were significant differences in perceptions between teachers and students regarding the condition of school facilities, with teachers tending to be more critical. Further analysis shows that planned and routine maintenance plays an important role in preventing further damage and reducing long-term repair costs. In addition, the level of student satisfaction with facilities and infrastructure varies by grade level, with students in higher grades showing lower levels of satisfaction. A qualitative approach through in-depth interviews revealed that budget constraints were the main obstacle in facility management. Based on these findings, several strategic recommendations were proposed, including increasing budgets and resources through collaboration with external parties, implementing continuous training programs for teachers and staff, improving communication with parents, and implementing information technology in facility management. It is hoped that the implementation of these recommendations can improve the quality of management of facilities and infrastructure, which will ultimately have a positive impact on the quality of education in this madrasa. This research makes an important contribution to the education management literature, especially in the context of madrasas in Indonesia, and becomes a reference for future research and practice.

Assessment of challenges and opportunities in antibiotic stewardship program implementation in Northwest Ethiopia

BackgroundIndiscriminate use of antibiotics leads to antibiotic resistance (AMR) and results in mortality, morbidity, and financial burden. Antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs) with education can resolve a number of barriers recognized in the implementation of successful ASPs. The aim of this study was to assess health professionals’ perceptions and status of ASPs in hospitals in 2022. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from September 1, 2022 to October 30, 2022. A total of 181 health professionals were included, and a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The status of hospitals was assessed using a checklist. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23, and descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests (X2) at a P-value of <0.05 were used. ResultsOf the 181 respondents, 163 (90.1 %), and 161 (89.0 %) believed that AMR is a significant problem in Ethiopia and globally, respectively. Easy access to antibiotics 155 (85.6 %), and inappropriate use 137 (75.7 %) were perceived as key contributors to AMR. Antibiotics were believed to be prescribed/dispensed without laboratory results 86 (47.5 %), and antibiotic susceptibility patterns were not considered to guide empiric therapy 81 (44.8 %). ASP was believed to reduce the duration of hospital stays and associated costs 137 (75.7 %), and improve the quality of patient care 133 (73.5 %), whereas 151 (83.4 %), 143 (79 %), and 142 (78.5 %) suggested education, institutional guidelines, and prospective audits with feedback interventions to combat AMR in their hospitals, respectively. There were significant differences in perception among professionals based on professional category and attempts by hospitals to implement ASPs. Although ASPs were not functioning according to standard, there have been attempts to implement it in three hospitals. The issue of ASP had never been heard in general hospitals. Currently, it is feasible to implement ASPs in four hospitals. ConclusionThe status of ASP in hospitals was very poor. Despite a lack of prior knowledge on ASPs, most respondents do have a positive perception of AMR and the implementation of ASPs. Pharmacist-led prospective audits and feedback with education and institutional guidelines for empiric antibiotic use can be better implemented in hospitals. Involvement of representatives from infection prevention and control, and collaboration among hospitals in ASP implementation will help establish a strong ASP in the area.