Statistical Package For Social Sciences Research Articles

Depression and its associated factors among adult hypertensive patients attending follow-up in South Gondar zone public hospitals, Ethiopia, 2023

IntroductionDepression is the most common public health issue affecting the world's population. Like patients with other chronic medical diseases, hypertensive patients experience many intense emotions which increase their risk for the development of depression. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of depression and its associated factors among hypertensive patients in South Gondar zone governmental hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023.MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study was used in government hospitals of South Gondar Zone. A total of 311 patients were sampled randomly and included in the study. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 was used for analysis. Data were analyzed mainly by using descriptive statistics and binary logistics regression.ResultsA total of 311 patients participated with a 100% response rate. Almost half of the participants were female. The mean age of the respondents was 58.85 years. More than 60% of the respondents had a co-morbid illness. Among participants, 83 (26.7%) of hypertensive patients had depression. Being female, age, uneducated, having poor social support, the presence of co-morbid illness and complications, uncontrolled hypertension, having less than or equal to two dietary regimen and duration of hypertension greater than ten years were significantly associated with depression.ConclusionThe magnitude of depression was found to be high. This indicated that depression is a common co-morbid illness among hypertensive patients. Healthcare professionals and other stakeholders should consider and diagnose co-morbid diseases like depression among hypertensive patients. It is also better to give particular emphasis to highly vulnerable groups like females, elders, uneducated and those who have poor social support.

Pattern Of Breast Feeding, Weaning And Nutritional Status Of Under Five Children Of Working Mothers Of Bangladesh Armed Forces

Background: Adequate nutrition is essential in early childhood to ensure healthy growth, proper organ formation and function, a strong immune system, and neurological and cognitive development. The objective of the study is to assess the pattern of breast feeding, weaning and dietary behavior of under-five children of working mothers attended Child Welfare Centre (CWC), Malobika and Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Dhaka. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted at CWC, Malobika and Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka over a period of six months from July 2017 to December 2017. All under-five years old sick children of employed mothers of Bangladesh Armed Forces attended CWC Malobika and CMH, Dhaka were included in the study and mothers were the respondents. Total 130 children were selected purposively for the study. Data were analyzed by using SPSS (statistical package for social sciences), version 25.0. The level of significance was set at 5% and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Majority (92.3%) of the children was nutritionally normal in terms Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC). Only 10(7.7%) children was malnourished; of them 6(4.6%) were severely malnourished and 4(3.1%) were moderately malnourished. In terms of Weight for Age Z score (WAZ) 3.1% were severe underweight and another 3.1% were moderate underweight. In terms of Height for Age Z score (HAZ), 5.4% were severely stunted and 6.2% were moderately stunted, while with respect to Weight for Height Z score (WHZ), 2.3% were severely wasted and 7.7% were moderately wasted. Conclusion: Nutritional status in children of working mothers of Armed Forces at Dhaka Garrison was high compared to the national figure. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (1) June 2023, pp 35-41

Prevalence and associated factors of psychiatric comorbidities in epilepsy in the Casablanca-Settat region of Morocco: A cross-sectional study.

To determine the estimated prevalence of anxiety, depression, and anxiety-depression syndrome (ADS) and to identify the associated factors in Moroccan people with epilepsy (PWE). A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult PWE (June 2021-December 2022) in the Casablanca-Settat region. PWE were interviewed by completing a questionnaire collecting sociodemographic and clinical data. Anxiety and depression were assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Out of 21 points, a score ≥8 is in favor of considerable anxiety/depression symptoms and a sum of the two scores ≥15 indicates the presence of ADS. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 21.0. p-values ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant and logistic regression was performed to determine the associated factors. Among 294 PWE, the median age was 39 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 25.75-54.00). The median anxiety, depression, and ADS scores were 8 (IQR: 5.00-10.00), 7 (IQR: 4.00-10.00), and 15 (IQR: 10.00-20.00), respectively. Anxiety, depression, and ADS were revealed in 51.4%, 44.9%, and 51.0% of PWE, respectively. Depression was the only predictor for anxiety (aOR = 24.20; 95%CI: 12.45-47.01). Antiseizure polytherapy (aOR = 3.35; 95%CI: 1.72-6.54) and anxiety (aOR = 24.04; 95%CI: 12.12-47.67) were the factors associated with depression. The risk of ADS was increased by female gender (aOR = 2.83; 95%CI: 1.68-4.78), antiseizure polytherapy (aOR = 2.75; 95%CI: 1.62-4.65), structural epilepsy (aOR = 1.73; 95%CI: 1.01-2.94), and the presence of concomitant conditions with epilepsy (aOR = 1.96; 95%CI: 1.16-3.31). Our study reports high psychiatric comorbidity prevalence in epilepsy, which supports the bidirectional link hypothesis. Associated factors found are important in the prognosis and prevention. The neural mechanisms underlying epilepsy tend to expose PWE to psychiatric disorders. Our study aims to quantify the rate of psychiatric comorbidities and their predictive factors in Moroccan PWE. The estimated prevalences of significant symptoms of anxiety, depression, and ADS were 51.4%, 44.9%, and 51.0%, respectively. Depression was the predictor of anxiety. Antiseizure polymedication and anxiety were the associated factors with depression. The risk of SAD was increased by female gender, antiseizure polymedication, structural epilepsy, and concomitant diseases with epilepsy. Our results are important for considering the psychiatric aspect of PWE and improving their care and quality of life.

Profile and Prevalence of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases Among Armed Forces Personnel and Their Families in Military Dental Centre, Cumilla

Background: Oral and maxillofacial diseases encompass a wide range of conditions in and around oral cavity and in maxillofacial region. It includes maxillofacial trauma, cyst and tumour of jaw bones, conditions involving impacted wisdom teeth, oral premalignant and malignant lesions, fascial space infection around maxillofacial region, temporomandibular joint disorder, dental implantology, salivary gland disorder and congenital defects of jaw bones. Maxillofacial region is more vulnerable to sustain injuries in the battlefield. In peace time, various maxillofacial diseases reduce the overall performances of the troops. The aim of this study is to delineate rank wise distribution of armed forces personnel reported with maxillofacial diseases, gender distribution, types of maxillofacial diseases, different types of surgical procedures performed and types of anesthesia used. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of maxillofacial diseases among the armed forces personnel and their entitled family members during the period of 1st January 2019 to 31st December 2019 in Military Dental Centre, Cumilla. Purposive sampling technique and semi structured questionnaire was used to include the patients in this study.Data were analyzed by using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Results: A total of 170 cases were evaluated and treated. Male patients were 110(65%) and female were 60(35%). Among the military personnel numbers of sainik (privates) were highest 32(35%). Impacted wisdom teeth cases were mostly found 80(47%). In case of impacted teeth mesio angular impactions were most 35(35%). In case of maxillofacial pathological conditions cystic lesions were most in number 22(39%) (n=56). Maxillofacial soft tissue laceration cases were highest 05(29%) (n=17) among all trauma patients. Surgical extraction of wisdom teeth were mostly performed surgery 80(59%) (n=138). In regards to administration of anesthesia, 128(93%) cases were performed under local anesthesia and 10(7%) were under general anesthesia. Conclusion: The present study imparts valuable perception about the types and prevalence of maxillofacial diseases and the treatment modalities among the armed forces personnel and their families in Cumilla area. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (2) December 2023, pp 24-30

Relationship of Vitamin D Deficiency with Non-Motor Functions of Parkinson’s disease

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder is associated with substantial public health and economic burdens. Low levels of vitamin D are a common finding in patients of PD. This study was conducted to assess the serum vitamin D level in PD patients and to investigate the relationship of the vitamin D level with non motor functions of Parkinson’s disease. Methods: This case-control study was conducted in Department of Neurology, BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka for a period of 12 months. A total of 120 participants, 60 patients with PD and 60 age and sex matched sample of healthy controls were enrolled and informed written consent was taken. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, clinical features, laboratory parameters and neurological examinations were assessed. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection and data was analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24.0. Results: Age and gender was not significantly different between PD cases and controls. Mean vitamin D level was significantly lower among the patients with PD compared to controls (25.97±3.44 ng/ml vs38.47±5.08 ng/ml, (p<0.01). Among all the cases of PD, 45% had akathisia, 36.7% had depression and 40% had insomnia. According to Modified Hoehn and Yahr score 53.3% patients were in stage 1-2, 26.7% in stage 2-3 and 20% in stage >3.The mean vitamin-D level was 28.43±2.43, 24.06±1.57 and 21.92±1.62 in stage 1-2, stage 2.5-3 and stage>3 respectively and vitamin D level decreased significantly with advancement in stages of PD(p<0.01). While assessing the depression in patients with PD, it was observed that stages of PD was significantly associated with severity of depression, patients with >3 stage of PD was moderately severe (16.7%) and severely depressed (16.7%) than patients with <3 stage PD (p=0.009). Conclusion: Importance should also be given for recognition of non- motor symptoms in PD patients, since these symptoms have an impact on patient’s quality of life. Bangladesh J Medicine 2024; 35: 82-87

THE PREVALENCE OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN IN TWO SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

It is imperative that all children must be educated irrespective of their disability. This can only be possible if their disability is identified early enough for proper intervention. The identification of learners with special needs can help limit future academic challenges and also provide the opportunity for the right kind intervention hence, this study sought to determine the existence of learners with Special Educational Needs in two selected Local Government (LG) of Kaduna State which are Kaduna North and Kaduna South. The study was guided by three objectives; first to identify the existence of different categories of Special Need learners in regular public primary schools. Secondly, to ascertain the percentage of each category of learners with Special needs in public primary schools and finally, to determine the gender distribution of the different categories of identified learners with Special Needs in regular public primary schools in Kaduna state. A simple random sampling method was used to select a sample of forty one (41) schools was selected from seventy seven (77) public primary schools of both Kaduna North and Kaduna South LG. The instruments for data collection comprise of a checklist and an open ended questionnaire; both instruments were pilot-tested. The data gathered was inputted into Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 27 and analyzed using descriptive statistic. The data revealed that eight (8) categories of learners with special needs were identified in public primary schools in Kaduna North and Kaduna South. The study also discovered a higher percentage of learners with learning Disabilities in all schools in both LG, also the gender distribution of learners with special needs revealed that more boys have one form of disability or the other. The study therefore recommended that the state Government should employ specialists to manage these learners and augment this by training regular teachers. KEYWORDS: learners, special needs, public schools, identification, gender

Hyperglycemic Impact On Sleep Quality In Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes high morbidity and mortality and loss of quality of life significantly. It is an important public health concern. In epidemiologic studies, people with poor sleep quality are more prone to develop diabetes or metabolism disorder of glucose. Sleep has an important role for metabolic function and specifically homeostasis of glucose metabolism. Many studies have shown a correlation between increased diabetes risk and poor sleep quality or sleep deprivation. DM creates a negative effect impact on quality of sleep on patients. Prevalence of obesity and diabetes becomes greater among aged people, it is of vital importance to fix on sleep for overall medical management. This is aimed to determine hyperglycaemia with sleep quality among the patient. Methods: This was a cross sectional study carried out at Ibrahim General Hospital, National Health Care Network (NHN), Mirpur-10, Dhaka during the period of January 2014 to December 2014. Total 129 respondents were selected purposively for this study. Semi-structured questionnaire was pretested first and then it was used for data collection. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score (PSQI) was used to assess sleep quality. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. was used for analysis of the collected data. Results: Among 129 respondents, 98(76%) were male and 31(24%) were female. 93.8% respondents were married and rest 6.2% of them were unmarried. Mean(±SD) age was found 53.64(±9.26) years and range 35 to 70 years. 79.1% of the respondents had co-morbidity of DM, 70(54.3%) had diabetes more than 10 years duration. Mean(±SD) of overall sleep quality score was 9.04(±3.965) and range 1 to 18. Among the respondents of age group >64, 95.70% had poor sleep quality, 76.14% respondents sleep less than 6 hours in a day. So association between sleep quality and glycemic status of type 2 DM was significant(p<0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of high blood sugar level in Type 2 DM patients have poor sleep quality. Type 2 DM patients with high blood sugar level have to overcompensate kidneys to visit washroom more frequent and lead to disturbance in sleep. Type 2 DM patients with controlled blood sugar level have good sleep quality. It is evident from the study that Type 2 DM patients with high sugar level (Hyperglycaemia) frequently experience sleep difficulties. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (1) June 2023, pp 21-27

Developing Learner Positive Attitudes Towards Reading Comprehension: A Strategy Instruction Approach

This quantitative study sought to explore how Strategy Instructions Approach (SIA) as reading comprehension technique can help develop positive attitudes in learners towards reading. This study was necessitated by the fact that most South African children do not have positive attitudes towards reading and, as such, are not motivated to do reading on their own. To develop a positive attitude towards reading, learners must acquire a rich vocabulary. To acquire a rich vocabulary, learners must be acquainted with the strategies required for decoding meaning from texts. Researchers revealed that English First Additional Language teachers do not have adequate skills to teach learners to effectively comprehend what they read. This study used SIA, which was found to be an effective way of teaching reading comprehension, to grade 8 learners in Elliotdale Circuit Management Centre (CMC) in the Amathole East District of the Eastern Cape of the Republic of South Africa. The aim of this study was to find out if SIA could be used to develop positive attitudes in the learners towards reading. Sixty learners were sampled from three schools, twenty per school, to take part in the study. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse the data. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize and describe the data collected before and after the interventions. The study revealed that the use of SIA to teach reading comprehension developed positive attitudes of the learner participants towards reading. The study also recommends that school-based staff induction programs should equip teachers on how to use SIA as a strategy for reading comprehension. Teacher training should also equip pre-service teachers on SIA and other reading comprehension strategies.

Determinants of implanon discontinuation among women in Gedeo Zone, South Ethiopia: a case–control study

BackgroundThe main public health problem that has a significant impact on the high fertility rate, unintended pregnancies, and induced abortion is Implanon cessation. In addition to Implanon being underutilized in Ethiopia, the rate of cessation is higher among women who started using it. Nevertheless, little is known about the factors that lead to Implanon cessation.ObjectivesThe study was aimed to determine the factors that led women to discontinue Implanon in Gedeo Zone, Southern Nation Nationalities and Peoples Region, southern Ethiopia, 2019.MethodA community-based unmatched case–control study design was carried out. Cases and controls were selected by a multi-stage sampling with a 1:2 case-to-control ratio. Data was entered into EPi-data version 3.1 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 for analysis. A bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the factors affecting Implanon discontinuation. The adjusted odd ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was used to determine the precision of estimates, and statistical significance was declared at a p-value of 0.05.ResultFrom 516 women included in to the study, 495 (cases = 166 and controls = 329) women have responded to the questionnaires making a response rate of 96%. Monthly income 500—1000 birr [AOR: 0.3; 95% CI (0.2–0.5)], above 1000 birr [AOR: 0.2; 95% CI (0.1–0.4)], history of abortion [AOR: 2.0; 95% CI (1.0–4.1)], birth spacing [AOR: 0.6; 95% CI (0.3–0.9)], partner objection [AOR: 2.4; 95% CI (1.4–4.2)] were significantly associated factors.ConclusionThis study identified that monthly income, having abortion history, birth spacing, partner objection were the factors that affect Implanon discontinuation. To reduce implanon discontinuation, reducing abortion, involving partner and increasing the birth spacing, appropriate counseling before the insertion and appropriate follow-up by a health care practitioner are highly recommended.

Effectiveness of Lung Ultrasound for Diagnosis of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Mechanically Ventilated Patients

Background: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) requires rapid diagnosis for early intervention and improved outcomes. Lung ultrasound may be a reasonable alternative to chest X-ray for the identification of ARDS but the effectiveness of lung ultrasound in ARDS diagnosis is still uncertain. The objective of the study is to explore the efficacy of lung ultrasound (LUS) for diagnosis of ARDS in mechanically ventilated patients. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 75 patients in Critical Care Centre, Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka from September 2021 to January 2022. The study was approved by the ethical committee in the hospital. In this study, the Bedside Lung Ultrasound in Emergency (BLUE) protocol for the immediate diagnosis of acute respiratory failure was followed. Purposive sampling technique was used. Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package For Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. Results: A total of 75 patients were assessed. Among them male were 42(56%) and female 33(44%). The median age of patients was 48 years (Interquartile range 30-60). Primary diagnoses were pneumonia (22.67%), pulmonary oedema (20%), sepsis (20%) and trauma (17.33%). A total of 34(45.33%) patients fulfilled ‘CXR-based Berlin Definition’ and a total of 36(48%) patients were diagnosed as ARDS by ‘LUS-based Berlin Definition’. Considering the ‘CXR-based Berlin Definition’ as reference standard, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of lung ultrasound were 85.29%, 82.92%, 80.55%, 87.18% and 84% respectively. Conclusion: Lung ultrasound can be an effective tool for the diagnosis & management of ARDS in the intensive care unit. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (2) December 2023, pp 51-57

Clinical Features and Treatment Outcome of Pediatric Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia in Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka

Background: Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APML) is a relatively rare blood disease in children that is highly curable with current treatment strategies. It is a distinct type of AML characterized by chromosomal translocations involving the retinoid acid receptor (RAR-A) gene on chromosome 17. It accounts for 20-25% of all AML cases. The aim of this study was to describe the diagnostic features of pediatric APL and the result with ATRA and ATO based protocol. Methods: It was a descriptive type of cross-sectional study with purposively selected 10 newly diagnosed APML patients treated in the Pediatric Oncology unit of the Department of Pediatrics in CMH Dhaka during the period of 2018 to 2022. Diagnosis of all patients were done by aspirating bone marrow morphology and cytogenetic t(15:17) or t(11:17) transcript. Informed written consent was taken from parents. Data were collected by semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 25). Results: Among 10 respondents median age was 4.2 years with female predominant (60%). Most common clinical presentations at diagnosis were fever (100%), bleeding manifestations (100%), Hepatomegaly (90%) bony tenderness (90%), splenomegaly (70%), and lymphadenopathy (70%). Almost all the patients had low Hb & low platelet count & WBC were variable. Cytogenetic analysis revealed 90% had PML/RARA positive & 30% had FLT3/ITD positive. All of these patients were treated with trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) based treatment, which led to 80% cases ATRA syndrome. Other common toxicities noticed febrile neutropenia (50%), severe headache (30%), hyperpigmented skin (10%), pseudotumor cerebri (10%) and others. There were 10% relapse cases, which later proceeded to relapse protocol and were in remission. The remaining 90% of patients were alive and in remission until the last day of follow-up. Conclusion: With ATRA-based treatment overall survival is good achieved remission and only 10% of patients developed relapse. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (2) December 2023, pp 1-9

Evaluation of Midwifery Practices among Registered Midwives in Selected Hospitals in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Midwifery practices are defined as the level of midwifery care in which midwives use their expertise, management, and clinical leadership to provide personalized, evidence-based care to women independently and autonomously. Midwifery care includes antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care, which are defined by the WHO as the care provided by skilled healthcare professionals to pregnant women and adolescent girls to ensure the best health conditions for the mother and baby during the antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum period. The aim of this study was to evaluate midwifery practices among registered midwives in selected hospitals in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional research design was used to assess and describe midwifery practices among registered midwives in selected hospitals in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The population size was 100 registered midwives in the selected hospitals. The sample size of 80 registered midwives was determined using the Slovin formula. Simple random sampling was used to select the sample. A self-developed questionnaire was tested and validated prior to conducting the main study. The findings of the pilot study were used to refine the questionnaire before being used for the main study. Reliability and validity were ensured. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 with the assistance of a statistician. The study revealed inadequate provision of midwifery care during antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods due to lack of resources and equipment. The shortage of midwives and the shorter experience in the clinical setting within the midwifery environment were overwhelming. The study concluded that the practices of registered midwives were inadequate due to some challenges they faced during the provision of midwifery care. Inadequate midwifery practices have serious implications for the health and well-being of mothers and newborns. These practices were influenced by various factors, such as inadequate material and human resources and lack and malfunctioning of available equipment. The study recommended that women have access to a variety of pain relief options during labor, including both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. In addition, the study recommended implementation of the presence of doulas during labor and childbirth.

Impact of COVID-19 on the primary level teaching-learning process in rural India

PurposeCOVID-19 outbreak impacts people globally. It is not simply a global health matter; it has a terrible influence on the social life of humans, counting the worldwide education structure and other phases of present social configurations. Therefore, the present study's objective is to identify the impact of COVID-19 on the online education approach in teachers' perceptions.MethodologyThe study performs a mixed research approach for evaluating the teachers' perspectives in the online education system. The quantitative data are collected with the support of a questionnaire from 175 respondents (Public School teachers), and in-depth telephonic interviews are conducted among 25 schoolteachers using a semi-structured questionnaire for qualitative data. The quantitative analysis is performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), and the qualitative analysis is coded and analyzed thematically.FindingsThe quantitative results show that the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted the online teaching method; teachers' adaptation here seems low. In contrast, communication with school leaders is provided a clear view of online teaching methods. The key findings from the qualitative analysis show that the adaptation online education system is complex owing to various struggles. Some institutions facilitate training sessions to teach in a range of adopting the online education system. Finally, the teachers need help making students actively participate in online classes.DiscussionThe study conducts original survey through both interview and questionnaire. The results are determined through thematic and data analysis.

A Pilot Survey Linking Antecedents of LMX Relationships and PWDs Institutions Performance: An Assessment of PWDs Institutions in Kenya

The modern working world has made strides in building a stronger equitable society. There has been great resilience in including policies that ensure persons living with disability play their economic role. The current study was guided by two objectives: effect of transformational leader-characteristics as antecedents of LMX on organization performance in PWDs in Mombasa and Kilifi Counties and moderating effect of organization culture on LMX and organization performance in PWDs institution in Mombasa and Kilifi Counties; Leader-Member exchange theory and social exchange theory formed the theoretical foundation of this study. A conceptual framework showing the correlation of the study’s variables is also given. The study applied descriptive research design and the target population of the study was managers and subordinates at all levels within the organizations. Stratified sampling, convenience sampling and random sampling techniques were used to generate the sample size. A sample size of twenty-five (25) respondents two (2) to three (3) employees from every department. Semi-structured questionnaires were used for the study. The study conducted and applied Cronbach alpha reliability estimate. The study used quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze data. The study results provided a good governance framework of engaging their business networks within their localities. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for windows version 21 was used. One of the significant findings was the realization that there was an increment in leader-characteristics of leaders in organizations. One of the conclusions of the study was that when leaders believe in their own abilities this often-enhanced LMX relationships hence improved organizational performance. A key recommendation of this study was the need for the Government ministries concerned with PWDs mainstreaming in the organizations have specific leadership practices that help build effective LMX relationships in organizations.

Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of healthcare students and professionals on the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare in Pakistan.

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has emerged as a promising solution to enhance healthcare efficiency and improve patient outcomes. The objective of this study is to analyse the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of healthcare professionals in Pakistan about AI in healthcare. We conducted a cross-sectional study using a questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. This was distributed to healthcare professionals (e.g., doctors, nurses, medical students, and allied healthcare workers) working or studying in Pakistan. Consent was taken from all participants before initiating the questionnaire. The questions were related to participant demographics, basic understanding of AI, AI in education and practice, AI applications in healthcare systems, AI's impact on healthcare professions and the socio-ethical consequences of the use of AI. We analyzed the data using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical software, version 26.0. Overall, 616 individuals responded to the survey while n = 610 (99.0%) of respondents consented to participate. The mean age of participants was 32.2 ± 12.5 years. Most of the participants (78.7%, n = 480) had never received any formal sessions or training in AI during their studies/employment. A majority of participants, 70.3% (n = 429), believed that AI would raise more ethical challenges in healthcare. In all, 66.4% (n = 405) of participants believed that AI should be taught at the undergraduate level. The survey suggests that there is insufficient training about AI in healthcare in Pakistan despite the interest of many in this area. Future work in developing a tailored curriculum regarding AI in healthcare will help bridge the gap between the interest in use of AI and training.

The Influence of Organic Manures on Proximate Composition, Minerals, Anti-nutrients and Vitamins of Selected Legume Forage

This study investigated the influence of three organic manure on the nutritional composition of three leguminous forages - Soybeans, Cowpeas, and Groundnuts, cultivated in the coastal Rainforest of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The four different organic manure used were poultry droppings, goat droppings, pig dung and a control (no manure application). Each organic manure represented a treatment group. Each group was replicated three times making a total of 12 experimental units. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Proximate analysis revealed significant (p<0.05) differences in moisture, fat, ash, protein, fiber, carbohydrates, and energy content. Manure type significantly (p<0.05) affected protein, carbohydrate, and moisture content. Poultry Manure had superior performance in Cowpea Forage, while Control excelled in Soybean Forage. The anti-nutrient analysis revealed significant (p<0.05) differences in tannin, oxalate, saponin, and phytate content, impacting nutritional quality. Tannin content varied significantly (Groundnut: 65.78 mg/100g, Soybean: 109.78 mg/100g, Cowpea: 37.62 mg/100g), as did oxalate (Groundnut: 393.18 mg/100g, Soybean: 185.20 mg/100g, Cowpea: 357.13 mg/100g), saponin (Groundnut: 5.71 mg/100g, Soybean: 6.63 mg/100g, Cowpea: 6.63 mg/100g), and phytate (Groundnut: 160.89 mg/100g, Soybean: 30.63 mg/100g, Cowpea: 21.22 mg/100g). Vitamin analysis revealed variations in vitamin C (Groundnut: 57.94 mg/100g, Soybean: 58.31 mg/100g, Cowpea: 63.17 mg/100g) and β-carotene (Groundnut: 9.73 mg/100g, Soybean: 9.46 mg/100g, Cowpea: 7.51 mg/100g), indicating nutritional attributes of the studied leguminous forages. Based on the results, the treatment involving poultry dropping, goat dropping, pig dung and control all demonstrated good performance in terms of contributing to the nutritional composition of cowpea, groundnut and soybean. Thus, the use of poultry dropping and pig dung as organic manure for farmers in the region could be recommended.

Islamic finance principles and performance of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Makindye Division Kampala District Central Uganda

Purpose Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are vital for economic growth in developing countries. Yet, little research has explored the link between Islamic principles and MSME performance, especially in Uganda. This study aims to investigate the relationship between Islamic financial principles and MSMEs’ performance in Makindye Division Kampala – Uganda. Design/methodology/approach This study used a correlational research design involving 86 respondents from 30 MSMEs between January and May 2023. Data collected through questionnaires was analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences, examining three independent variables: ethicality, Halal investment and prohibition of riba, in relation to MSME performance. Findings The results revealed significant relationships between these variables and MSME performance. Prohibition of riba (r = 0.296, n = 86, p = 0.006), Halal investments (r = 0.308, n = 86, p = 0.004) and ethical principles (r = 0.283, n = 86, p = 0.008) all exhibited a statistically significant relationship. Regression analysis with R = 0.405, R2 = 0.164 and adjusted R2 = 0.134 indicated that all hypothesized variables were significant predictors of MSME performance. Based on findings, this study rejected the null hypothesis, confirming a moderately positive and significant relationship between Islamic financial principles and MSME performance. Originality/value This study underscores the importance of active involvement from key stakeholders such as the Uganda Halal Bureau, Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, Islamic financial institutions and government agencies in integrating robust support mechanisms for MSMEs into their strategic frameworks. Such efforts could enhance Uganda’s economic landscape, aligning with the experiences of Malaysia and Indonesia in leveraging Islamic principles for economic growth.

Rate of Post Obstructive Diuresis in Rapid Versus Gradual Bladder Decompression in Patients with Chronic Urinary Retention

Background: Post-obstructive diuresis (POD) is a polyuric state in which copious amounts of salt and water are eliminated after the relief of a urinary tract obstruction. POD is a clinical diagnosis based on urine output exceeding 200 mL per hour for two or more consecutives hours or 3L in 24 hours after decompressing an obstructed bladder, bilateral ureteric obstruction or unilateral ureteric obstruction in a solitary kidney. Methodology: This was a prospective, randomized study in which patients with chronic urinary retention were randomized into two groups: A and B. Group A had rapid urinary decompression with 18Fr urethral catheter attached to a urine bag, while group B had gradual decompression using a urethral catheter attached to an intravenous fluid giving set which was then attached to urine bag. Post obstructive diuresis in each group were assessed at designated times. Data Analysis and Result Presentation: Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM) SPSS version 21. Data was summarized by descriptive statistics. The two arms were compared for similarities in demographic variables. Continuous and categorical variables were compared using student t- test and Pearsons‘ Chi – square respectively. Significant p value was 0.05. Result: Sixty patients were recruited into the study and randomized into group A (rapid urinary decompression) and B (gradual urinary decompression) with 30 patients in each group. Thirteen patients (43.33%) had post obstructive diuresis in group A compared to 15 patients (50%) in group B. p value of 0.584. Diuresis resolved within 24 hours in 9 patients (30%) in group A and 11 patients (36.7%) in group B. p value of 0.999. The mean reduction in systolic blood pressure was 8.21 ± 2.63mmHg in group A and 7.63 ± 2.14mmHg in group B. p value of 0.583. The mean reduction diastolic blood pressure was 3.84 ± 1.31mmHg in group A and 3.41 ± 1.16mmHg in group B. P value of 0.624. No patient in both groups developed hypotension (BP of <90/60). Conclusion: There was no statistically significant different in post obstructive diuresis. However, over 46.7% of patients had diuresis in both groups without any one developing hypotension. This may be due to routine prophylactic fluid and electrolyte replacement using normal saline.

Anogenital Distance in Male Children with Normal External Genitelia and Those with Undescended Testis: A Comparative Study

Background: Anogenital distance (AGD) is a hormone dependent anatomical landmark that serves as a measure of perineal growth. Previous studies have shown that it is shorter in children with undescended testis (UDT) when compared with those with normal external genitalia (NEG). In sub-Saharan Africa, however, there is paucity of information regarding the relationship between AGD and UDT, hence the need for this study. Objective: To determine whether AGD parameters are shorter in children with UDT when compared to those with normal external genitalia. Method: Three AGD parameters were measured using a digital caliper in 86 children (43 with UDT and 43 with normal external genitalia). These parameters include anoscrotal distance (ASD), anopenal distance 1 (APD1) and anopenal distance 2 (APD2). Data was collected over a 12-month period and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM SPSS) version 25 software. Results: Forty-three (43) boys with UDT were matched against the same number of boys with normal external genitalia in our study. There were no statistically significant differences among the two groups in the mean age, height, weight, body-mass index (BMI), gestational age and birth weight. The mean anoscrotal distance (ASD) and ASD index were 39.05±8.14 mm and 2.23±1.17mm/kg for the test group and 44.92±7.81mm and 2.79±1.07mm/kg for the control group respectively. The differences in the mean ASD and the mean ASD index between the test and the control groups were statistically significant with p < 0.05. The mean anopenile distance 1 (APD1) and anopenile distance 2 (APD2) were 77.33±13.09mm and 96.20±8.49mm for the test group and 80.63±10.15 mm and 97.48±12.86mm for the control group respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in the APD1 and APD2 between the 2 groups. Conclusion: The study showed that boys with UDT had consistently shorter AGD parameters than those with well descended testis.

A Study of Reading Comprehension and Receptive Vocabulary Retention Using the Electronic Glossing Sandwich Approach

Abstract The present research deals with the English as second language apprentices’ reading comprehension and receptive linguistic retention using the sandwich approach for the first language and making the way of communication simple by the use of electronic glossing in the education sector of Pakistan. The leading objectives of the article were to explore whether the learners who have approach to electronic glosses have better reading scores than the ones who have no access to electronic glosses in an ESL classroom and to investigate whether the learners who have access to electronic glosses have a higher vocabulary than the ones who have no access to electronic glosses in an ESL classroom. A quantitative research method was adopted to carry out this research. The data was collected from 40 students at a private school in Rawalpindi with different socio-economic backgrounds. The collected data was analyzed by three different analyses of variance (ANOVA) conducted to get the results of reading comprehension of the students followed by instant vocabulary test, and delayed vocabulary test. Moreover, four univariate analyses of the covariate (ANCOVAs) were introduced to examine the hypotheses using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS-24) software. The results of present study demonstrated the benefits of the electronic glossing in ESL classroom. The use of electronic glossing should not be neglected while learning English as second language in the private education sector of Pakistan, where direct method is used for teaching English as second language.