Statistical Package For Social Sciences Research Articles

Insights of Healthcare Professionals into Medical Writing Support at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

The demand for medical writing is on the rise in academic and medical entities worldwide. However, a huge disparity in the perception of professional medical writing arises from inadequate education and regularity in service quality and potential ethical challenges. Hence, we aimed to examine the knowledge, attitude, and perception toward professional medical writing support (PMWS) of healthcare professionals at King Fahad Medical City (KFMC). An observational cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire that was validated for its accuracy and clarity by an expert panel in academic integrity. The self-administered questionnaires were distributed to 200 healthcare professionals from a broad range of specialties throughout KFMC. The socio-demographic characteristics and healthcare professionals' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions were recorded. The responses were quantitatively evaluated using a 5-point Likert Scale and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences 25 (IBM, New York, United States). 162 healthcare professionals in KFMC filled in the questionnaire completely. Most respondents agreed that it was acceptable for medical writers to help with writing publications and that they offered a valuable service. Concerning association with socio-demographic characteristics, the mean score of knowledge was found to be significantly related to those with age ≥45 years (p<0.001), PhD degree (p=0.044), >5 years of research experience (p<0.001), and being a faculty/consultant (p=0.005). No significant association was found with the mean total score of attitude. Participants having >5 years of research experience were found to have a higher significant level of perception (p=0.004). Our study highlights that PMWS is relatively well-utilized and perceived positively within KFMC. There is a need for further research and education of ethics regarding the use of PMWS.

Factors that Influence Malaysian Muslim Travel Preferences

Tourism has become an important industry that contributes to a country’s economy. Currently, the Muslim tourist segment is viewed as one of the important segments in the tourism industry. In addition, there has been a growing interest in understanding the preferences and motivations of Muslim travelers. This is due to the increasing number of Muslim travelers worldwide and the recognition that catering to their specific needs is essential for successful tourism development. The number of Muslim tourists from a Muslim-majority country increases significantly. Muslim travelers are looking for destinations in which the majority of the population are Muslims. This study is aimed to determine the factors that influence Muslim traveler preferences and to determine the most dominant factor that influences Muslim traveler preferences. Therefore, a survey of 100 Malaysian Muslim travelers in Shah Alam Selangor was done to determine the factors that influence Muslim traveler preferences. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) is used to analyze the multiple regression to test hypotheses on the factors that influence Muslim traveler preferences. The result of the survey suggests that halal certification is a significant factor in explaining Muslim traveler preferences. The availability of halal food and Sharia-compliant hotels were found not to have a significant relationship with Muslim travel preferences. This study provides evidence of the detailed needs and preferences of Muslim travelers and enhances the knowledge of tourists, government, and service providers about Islamic tourism

Trust, Social Influence and Perceived Usefulness: Examining Online Purchase Intentions among Gen Z

The growing popularity of online shopping collides with user reservations related to trust, social influence, and perceived purchase usefulness, with such concerns acutely observable among Gen Z populations. As digital natives and prolific online users, Gen Z's purchasing patterns offer valuable insights for marketers adjusting their online strategies. This study extends the body of knowledge by examining the determinants of online purchase intentions among Gen Z thereby guiding university administrators, educators, and online retailers in crafting improved online shopping experiences. Utilizing a non-intrusive, naturalistic research setting, the study harnesses an anonymous survey methodology, and data is rigorously analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Findings indicate that trust and perceived usefulness are significantly connected to students' online purchasing decisions. This study enhances the theory of online buying habits by emphasizing trust and value in e-commerce. It advises adding trust cues and functional benefits to online portals, the key to influencing Gen Z buyers and boosting market expansion and e-shopper satisfaction.

Optimizing Learning Environments: Strategic Planning, Organizing, and Storage Techniques Needed for Building Construction Workshops in Technical Colleges

The main purpose of the study was to optimize the learning environments through strategic planning, organizing, and storage techniques needed by teachers for building construction workshops in technical colleges. The study was guided by three specific objectives, three research questions as well as three null hypotheses conducted in Gombe State using descriptive survey research design. The population for the study was 63 individuals, consisting of 21 School Administrators, 28 Building Construction Teachers, and 14 Workshop Staff from all Government Science and Technical Colleges in Gombe State. There was no sampling as the entire population was used because it was manageable. A structured questionnaire tagged titled "Management of Building Construction Workshop for Effective Teaching and Learning Questionnaire (MTBCWETLQ)," divided into four sections (A-D) covering personal data (Section A) and addressing the research questions (Sections B-D). The instrument was validated by three experts from Department of Technology Education, Modibbo Adama University of Technology Yola. A trial test conducted on 10 building construction teachers, 10 workshop staff, and 6 administrators in Adamawa State, outside the study area, yielded a reliability index of 0.90 using the Cronbach alpha method. Data collected for the study was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Mean statistics was used to answer the three research questions while ANOVA was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Findings of the study revealed among others that Planning techniques for managing building construction workshops involve identifying machine locations for safety, arranging facilities based on student enrollment projections, setting up layouts with clear student roles, and establishing appropriate workshop durations. Organizing techniques include arranging tools and materials before and after use, ensuring an efficient flow of materials, selecting equipment based on learning activities, and organizing materials according to their uses for enhanced supervision and safety. It is recommended that Staff involved in managing building construction workshops should undergo training or workshops to improve their planning techniques. Staff should be encouraged to adopt more effective organizing techniques in building construction workshops.

Proficiency Skills Needed by Teachers for Optimal Performances in Motor Vehicle Mechanics Work in Technical Colleges in Adamawa and Taraba States

The main purpose of the study was to determine the proficiency skills needed by teachers for optimal performances in motor vehicle mechanics work in technical colleges in Adamawa and Taraba States. The study was guided by two research questions and two null hypotheses. The study which adopted descriptive survey research design was conducted in Adamawa and Taraba States. The population of the study was 123 respondents comprising 81 MVMW teachers and 42 instructors from all the 21 BEST Centres and Government Science and Technical colleges in Adamawa and Taraba States, Nigeria. There was no sampling as the entire population was used because it was manageable. A structured questionnaire tagged: Proficiency Skills Needs of Motor Vehicle Mechanics Works Teachers Questionnaire (PSNMVMWTQ) was validated by three experts. The Instrument was trial tested in Gombe State and the Cronbach Alpha reliability method was used to test the reliability of the instrument and a 0.84 reliability coefficient was obtained. Data collected for the study was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0. Mean statistics was used to answer the two research questions while a t-test was used to test the null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed among others that 35 technical skills were considered needed by MVMW teachers. Similarly, 25 ICT skills were considered as ‘needed’. Importantly, there were no significant differences between instructors and MVMW teachers regarding the perceived importance of these skills. It is recommended that to address the technical skills gaps identified, particularly in the use of diagnostic tools and performing necessary repairs, it is recommended that the Technical College Management Board should organize workshops and practical training sessions. These initiatives should emphasize hands-on experience with diagnostic equipment, connecting tools appropriately, and interpreting trouble codes.

The Effect of Financial Innovation on the Financial Performance of Financial Institutions in Cameroon

Purpose: The study sought to investigate the effect of financial innovations on financial performance of depository financial institutions in Cameroon. The specif objectives of the study were to examine the effect of product, process and institutional innovation on the financial performance of financial institutions Methodology: The study adopted a cross sectional research design. Purposive and convenience sampling methods were used to select 210 respondents from 75 financial institutions in Cameroon. Primary data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Data collected was sorted, coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS v22.0). Data collected was analysed descriptively with the use of mean and inferentially with the use of ordered logit regression model and Pearson correlation metrix to establish the relationship between the dependent variable and the independent variables and the results were presented in tables. Findings: The findings show that increased financial innovation through process and institutional innovation can increase financial performances. For the basic regression used to find banks’ performance, the analysis indicates that process and product innovation, measured by the ATM, POS, mobile banking and credit card, significantly influences financial performance of financial institutions. Although there is no significant effect of institutional innovation on financial performance, there is still a positive effect. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study therefore recommended that further study can be carried out on the effect of financial innovation on performance of depository financial institutions using different methods. In addition, depository financial institutions should transform banking service by adapting to process innovation so as to increase access to financial services.

Prevalence and trends of cervical cancer screening among women in Fiji from 2014 to 2018

IntroductionCervical cancer is the third most common cancer in women both in developed and developing countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cervical cancer and the trends of cervical cancer screening among women who had cervical cancer screening in Suva, Fiji between 2014 and 2018. Materials and methodThis study applied a 5-year retrospective electronic chart review of data from all women attending the Women's Wellness Clinic (WWC) in Suva, Fiji. The women who were selected for this study and screened for cervical cancer were Fijian citizens above 18 years of age and were registered in 2014–2018. A data collection form was used to collect data. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24; p <0.05 % was considered as the level of significance. ResultsAmong the 39,579 women who attended WWC for other family planning services, 12,074 women screened for cervical cancer with a prevalence of 30.5 %. The overall mean age for women screened for cervical cancer was 37.6 (SD ± 11.2). Two-thirds (76.4 %) of the women screened for cervical cancer were less than 46 years of age and 53.9 % were I-taukei. The number of women who came for Pap smear increased in 2015, however, a slight decline was observed in 2016 which was later improved to 35.1 % in 2018. Malignancy was more common in the age range of 42–49 respectively. In this study, women of 46 years and above had an OR of 0.51 (95 % CI: 0.36, 0.72), other ethnicity OR was 1.73 (95 % CI: 1.27, 2.35), and the Muslim religion OR recorded was 1.44 (95 % CI: 1.03, 2.01) which was comparatively considered a high-risk group. Women who are widowed 1.57 (95 % CI: 0.798, 3.11), single 1.29 (95 % CI: 0.87, 1.92) or divorced 1.08 (95 % CI: 0.59, 1.99), employed 1.01 (95 % CI: 0.83, 1.24) and are living in rural areas 1.19 (95 % CI: 0.82, 1.73) are also associated with higher odds of having abnormal results. ConclusionCervical cancer is listed as the first and most common type of cancer in women which is noticeably increasing in Fiji. Even though cervical cancer screening has improved over the years, adequate surveillance systems and ongoing programs should be designed and implemented to increase awareness and monitor the trend of cervical cancer screening in order to reduce cervical cancer prevalence and mortality rates.

Effects of stigma on quality of life of cancer survivors: Preliminary evidence from a survivorship programme in Kenya

Globally, cancer is a major public health problem. There is a paucity of information regarding stigma and how it affects the cancer survivors' quality of life (QoL) in Kenya. In a recent report by Globocan, 42,116 new cases and 27,072 fatalities related to cancer were documented in Kenya in 2020. Cancer survivors are more likely to suffer physical and psychological disorders as a result of their poor QoL. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding the stigma associated with the disease as well as how it affects their QoL among a cohort of cancer survivors supported by the KILELE Health Association. MethodsThis research used a cross-sectional design with both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study enrolled 45 cancer survivors from a cohort participating in the KILELE Health Association (KHA) survivors' program. The quantitative data were coded and analyzed using the 26th version of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Utilizing content analysis, qualitative data was thematically evaluated. In accordance with the study's goals and key measures, the generated transcripts were organized into themes and sub-themes. ResultsParticipants' mean age was 44.55 ± 9.89 years. Forty-two of the participants completed the survey and were thus included in the analysis. Cancer survivors reported experiencing low levels of stigma across the following dimensions: awkwardness (2.51 ± 0.75), severity (3.22 ± 1.29), financial discrimination (2.77 ± 1.17), personal responsibility (1.9 ± 1.38), avoidance (1.38 ± 0.68), and policy level stigmatization (5.09 ± 1.70). Awareness raising (97.62%), using communication channels (95.24%), advocacy, and lobbying (92.86%) were the most commonly stated strategies to change people's attitudes in terms of interventions to reduce stigma and improve QoL. ConclusionRespondents in this study showed low levels of stigma, which may be due to the support they receive from the KILELE Health Association. Strategic steps in advocacy, publicity, and education are required to end stigmatization to promote awareness and pique people's interest in cancer survivorship. Further research with a larger sample size of cancer survivors from various settings is warranted.

Leadership Styles and Their Effect on Employee Productivity in Zambia’s Parastatal Organizations: A Case Study of Lusaka

Leadership is the ability to influence adapted the setting so that everyone feels empowered to contribute creatively to solving the problems. Leadership is an ability meaning a leader has a capacity to do something through talent and skill. this research will investigate the different leadership styles and their effect on the employees’ productivity of Zambia Railways and its employees. The study explored the problem in an interpretative view and investigation, using a descriptive approach which uses focus group, interviews. The research design used both qualitative and quantitative research approach. Qualitative research design focused on open ended questions from which responses from key informants was collected for narration purposes as well. Qualitative research emphasised the understanding of verbal narratives. Quantitative research focused on closed ended questions from which responses given were non-verbal. Data collection was done using self-administered questionnaires as part of data collection from the employees. The interviews scheduled and structured for the key informants was strictly based on the interview guide. Data collected from both open and closed ended questions emanating from questionnaires administered to the respondents was analyzed by the use of a computer software known as the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 16). With regard to qualitative data collected from the key informants, a narrative report was employed as obtained from them. Then findings of the study has demonstrated that positive relationships between leadership styles and organisational productivity. Overall findings from this study suggest that participative and democratic leadership behaviours do play important roles in determining levels of affective commitment, continuance commitment and normative commitment.

Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding antimicrobial use and resistance among community members of Mtendere Township in Lusaka, Zambia: findings and implications on antimicrobial stewardship

Background: Antibiotic resistance is a public health problem affecting all countries and leads to an increase in morbidity and mortality rates. In Zambia, there is little information on the knowledge, attitude, and practices of community members about antibiotic use and resistance. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) regarding antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among community members in Mtendere township of Lusaka Zambia. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that was conducted from May 2020 to August 2020 using a structured questionnaire among 369 Mtendere residents. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. Results: Of the 369 participants, 50.9% were male and 62.1% were aged between 18 and 29 years. Overall, this study found a poor KAP (38% good knowledge, 58% positive attitudes, and 52% good practices) regarding AMU and AMR. More than half of the participants 66.7% (246/369) had heard of antibiotics, 33.6% heard of AMR, and 23% heard of antimicrobial-resistant infections. Most of the participants 48.2% were not aware that AMR is a public health issue. A total of 52.8% (195/369) of the participants said they did not take antibiotics without consulting a doctor or pharmacist, translating into a prevalence of self-medication of 47.2%. Conclusions: This study showed that Mtendere residents had poor KAP towards antibiotic use and resistance. There is a need to implement community-based interventional campaigns including antimicrobial stewardship programmes address the gaps in KAP identified in this study.

E045 Adherence to physiotherapy among patients with knee osteoarthritis in a rheumatology specialized care unit in Sri Lanka

Abstract Background/Aims Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder that has a significant impact on global health and healthcare resources. Non-pharmacological interventions play a vital role in the management of osteoarthritis, and their effectiveness relies on the patient’s active participation and adherence. But non-adherence to these interventions including physiotherapy has become a recognized problem across the globe. The extent of adherence to physiotherapy specifically in the Sri Lankan population with osteoarthritis has not been assessed to date. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted at Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka recruiting 100 patients diagnosed with knee joint osteoarthritis according to the EULAR 2011 Recommendations. General Rehabilitation Adherence Scale (GRAS) was used to score the adherence level to center-based physiotherapy. Home-based physiotherapy adherence was measured using a 5-point scale. Demographic data also were assessed to determine the associations with adherence levels. Data were analysed by using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS). Results The study population consisted of 93% females and 7% males. Center-based physiotherapy adherence according to the GRAS score revealed 53% had a high adherence rate while 8% found poorly adhered to. Of the highly compliant patients, the majority, 35.8% patients were within the 60-69 years age group and 35.8% were housewives. 37.7% were not having co-morbidities. 41.7% have reported a disease duration of 1-5 years. The majority complained that they had poor adherence due to other commitments (36%) followed by and lack of time (34%). The third common cause for the default was transport expenses (26%). 91% of patients had knowledge of home-based physiotherapy activities. Of them, 32% followed the exercise regime as advised and 13% continued it as far as possible. 17% were unable to engage in those at all. As reasons for noncompliance to home therapy, 35% of patients reported having a lack of time and 31% had poor motivation. None of the sociodemographic factors significantly correlated with center-based or home-based physiotherapy adherence. Conclusion The findings indicate that a significant proportion of patients demonstrated high adherence to center-based physiotherapy. Although a majority of patients had knowledge of home-based physiotherapy activities, only a portion followed the prescribed exercise regime. Addressing barriers such as time constraints, commitments, and transportation expenses is crucial. Future research should explore personalized approaches and innovative strategies to enhance engagement and overcome challenges to optimize physiotherapy adherence. Disclosure S.K. Ubhayasiri: None. D. Abeysinghe: None.

Assessment of Patients’ Satisfaction with Pharmaceutical Services rendered in Staff Clinic, of Tertiary Hospital, Ilorin, Kwara State

The evaluation of patients’ satisfaction on various matters concerning healthcare services provides insight about the drawbacks of different healthcare systems. The study aimed at assessing the level of patients’ satisfaction with pharmacy services in staff clinic of tertiary hospital, Ilorin, Kwara State. In a cross-sectional study, data on the level of satisfaction with the pharmacy services among 130 patients who had their prescriptions filled at the pharmacy clinic during the period of April to October, 2019 was collected using a validated adopted structured instrument. The data collected was entered into and analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Analyses were descriptive and inferential, and results were considered significant at P &lt; 0.05. Very many (80.8%) of the respondents had frequent patronage of the pharmacy, with majority (76.9%) which sought services for themselves, and 80.0% were registered on National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). The overall mean score, the respondents gave to satisfaction with pharmacy services was 3.31. There was above average structure and process mean score (&gt; 3) with respect to gender, patronage, payment status and services sought for self or others. Services sought for self, was significantly (p &lt; 0.05) associated with the process mean score. There was a positive correlation between mean overall satisfaction score and mean structure as well as process satisfaction score (r value is 0. 717 and 0.986 respectively with P &lt; 0.0001). The overall mean patient satisfaction with services rendered is above average. The mean process satisfaction score contributed more to the overall satisfaction score than the mean structure satisfaction score, and both aspects correlated positively with the overall satisfaction score.

TEAM LEADERSHIP ON STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS STUDIES IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF BULO SUB-COUNTY IN BUTAMBALA DISTRICT, UGANDA. A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY.

Background: The study investigates the effect of team leadership on students’ academic performance in Islamic Religious Studies in public secondary Schools of Bulo sub-county in Butambala District, Uganda. Methodology: The study used both descriptive and analytical approaches. The study targeted school administrators, teaching and non-staff, Board of governors, heads of department, and students in the five public schools in Bulo sub-county the total population was 303 and then the total sample size was 205 respondents, the source of the literature review was journals, articles and reports from the different organizations. Primary data was collected and analyzed using quantitative methods and then presented in tables in percentages data analysis was done using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) and the Microsoft Excel software Results: The study consists of 205 respondents, who included; directors, head teachers, heads of departments, teachers, and students. 125(60.9%) were male and 80(39%) were female and 60(29.2%) were between 20-29 years old, 96(46.8%) were between 30-39 years old, 49(23.9%) were between 40-49 years old. The majority of the respondents representing a total of 125(60.9%) generally disagreed that the school management sponsors staff for further studies. 80(39.0%) disagreed that school administrators are open to staff suggestions,156(76.0%) agreed that the staff are engaged in targets and goal setting, and 85(41.4) disagreed that the administrators consult staff members before making a decision. Conclusion: It is also possible to assume that a lack of team leadership in public secondary schools harms student academic achievement. Recommendation: Leaders need to continually evaluate their leadership styles and perceptions, and understand different cultures, and individual and team motivations.

Health Risk Assessment Of Potentially Toxic Element Concentrations In Fish And Vegetables Obtained From Six Selected Dams In Osun State, Nigeria

This study aimed to assess the levels of certain heavy metals in tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus), as well as vegetables, and to evaluate the potential health risks associated with the presence of toxic elements from Dec. 2019 to June 2023. A total of 60 tilapia fish, 12 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and 12 bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) from six major dams in Osun State were prepared for analysis using wet digestion with aqua-regia. The concentrations of heavy metals were measured using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Shimadzu AA-630). The health risk associated with fish consumption was estimated using various parameters. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. The concentrations of micro elements followed the order of Fe &gt; Zn &gt; Cu &gt; Mn in decreasing concentrations. These concentrations exceeded the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) for Ni, Cd, Pb, and Cr, which are 0.6, 0.3, 0.3, and 0.7 mg L-1, respectively. The results obtained for okra and bitter leaf were within the limits established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Therefore, the presence of these metals indicates the need for close environmental monitoring of the six selected dams.

Mediating role of psychological capital in the relationship of career calling, happiness, and engagement

The objective of the current study was to examine the mediating role of psychological capital in the relationship of career calling with happiness and engagement. A purposive and judgmental sampling technique was utilised to collect data from a sample of 300 higher education teachers from different universities in India. Statistical package for social science (SPSS) was used to analyse the correlations among career calling, happiness, engagement, and psychological capital. Correlational results showed that study variables career calling, psychological capital, happiness, and engagement were positively correlated. Structure equation modelling (SEM) technique was used to investigate mediating role of psychological capital between the relationship of career calling with happiness, and engagement. The results of the SEM analysis showed that psychological capital fully mediated the relationship of career calling and happiness and partially mediated the relationship of career calling with engagement. The findings indicated that psychological capital significantly impacted the relationship among career calling, happiness, and engagement. This study contributes to the proposed mechanisms underlying the association between career calling, happiness, and engagement. The study concludes with implications, and future research in the domain of career calling.

Optimalisasi Komitmen Organisasi Karyawan Bagian Produksi PT. Hino Motors Manufacturing Indonesia Kabupaten Purwakarta Melalui Pengembangan Karier dan Kepuasan Kerja

The success of such a company lies in the role of every employee who has a strong commitment to its organization, because each employee whose strong commitments mean that they are willing to engage themselves with the company is characterized by a strong level of loyalty and dedication to the company. Then, from there, the commitment should be observed by every company. Some of the factors that can make the organization's commitment strong are how the company looks at the career development and job satisfaction of each of its employees. This research aims to find out the relationship between career development and job satisfaction and the organizational commitment of employees of the Production Division at PT. Hino Motors Manufacturing Indonesia in the district of Purwakarta. The research uses quantitative approaches and nonprobability sampling. Data analysis techniques using validity tests, reliability tests, classical assumption tests, double linear regression tests, and hypothesis tests are interpreted by interpreting the output tables of the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software program version 26. The results of this research show that career development has a partial influence on employee organization commitment, and job satisfaction has a partial impact on employee organization commitment. Furthermore, career development and employment satisfaction have a simultaneous effect on the commitment of employees in the production division of PT. Hino Motors Manufacturing Indonesia, Purwakarta district. This means that the more companies pay attention to employee career development, the higher levels of employee satisfaction can further strengthen the organization's commitment.

Epidemiology and clinical characteristics of headache among COVID-19 patients in Lebanon: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundWith the spread and rise in the number of infections of COVID-19 globally, patients experienced neurologic manifestations such as headache and dizziness, along with other serious medical conditions such as stroke and seizures. Many reported cases highlighted headache to be one of the most common COVID-19-related neurological symptoms. With the evolution of the pandemic, broad studies are needed to better understand the mechanism of headache with COVID-19. The aim of this study is to recognize the epidemiology, characteristic and progression of headache among patients with COVID-19 in Lebanon.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was done to assess 439 patients for headache during the course of COVID-19. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 was used for descriptive analysis.ResultsA confirmed COVID-19 Infection by PCR test was confirmed among 86% of the participants. Tension-like headache was the most common type of headache experienced by participants during COVID-19. Pain was mainly diffuse (48.7%), and compressing in nature (77.0%). Moreover, about 29% required a physician consultation and 7.7% had emergency visits. Partial relief by analgesics was reported in 54.9%, and mainly by paracetamol (64.6%). Those who reported having a history of primary headache before contracting COVID-19 were 46.7%. Among them, 36.7% patients reported a change in the type of headache and about 49.6% reported increased severity.ConclusionHeadache accompanied with COVID-19 is a common symptom during the early stages of illness. COVID-19 related headache was characterized as mainly involving the whole head region, pressuring, and partially relieved by analgesics. Thus, headache should raise early concern for the probability of being infected by COVID-19.

Prevalence of psychological distress: a scientific approach towards the mental health and wellbeing of population during the SARS-COV-2 outbreak

Background The global challenge of the novel coronavirus has led to an unprecedented downturn, adversely affecting the health and mental wellbeing of communities worldwide. The objective of this study is to assess mental health and psychological distress levels within the general population of Peshawar, Pakistan amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Method A cross-sectional online study was conducted among 715 individuals residing in Peshawar city, Pakistan. A questionnaire containing details about demographics, socioeconomic status, and residential area was employed. To assess the mental wellbeing of participants a Modified K10, Kesslers psychological distress Scale was used. Descriptive statistics, including mean and standard deviations, were utilized for data analysis. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS, IBM USA,version 22). Results A total of 715 responses were collected. The comprehensive psychological distress score was identified as 25.55, signifying moderate stress levels. Among the respondents, 53.3% were females, 46.7% had completed a bachelor’s degree, 41% were employed, 78.7% were single, 93.1% were non-smokers, and 69.4% resided in urban areas. The study revealed that both gender (p=0.001) employment status (p=0.018) were linked to a more pronounced psychological impact of the outbreak. Conclusions The present study indicates that age, gender, employment status, and urbanization are influential factors contributing to psychological distress during the outbreak. As we confront the challenges of the new normal, it is crucial for policymakers to acknowledge and tackle the growing mental health concerns within the population.

Impact of CYP3A4 rs2242480 polymorphisms on Imatinib HPLC determined trough concentration and response in Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia in Pakistani patients

Objective To ascertain the impact of CYP3A4 polymorphism on the therapeutic outcome of imatinib and its trough concentration Study design Descriptive analytical study Place and duration of the study This study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology &amp; Therapeutics, Islamic International Medical College, between December 2020 and February 2022, in collaboration with the Institute of Biomedical Genetic Engineering, KRL Hospital Islamabad. Methods Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia age range–18-70 years were included in this study. One group comprised responders and the other group comprised non-responders. Imatinib trough levels in both groups were determined using High-performance Liquid Chromatography and compared, and the association was determined with therapeutic outcomes. DNA was extracted, and the PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism technique was used to identify the alleles. The results were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. Results The imatinib concentration in patients with the homozygous wild allele CC of rs2242480 was higher(1298ng/ml) as compared with the mutant homozygous TT allele (489ng/ml) or heterozygous allele CT(873ng/ml) Conclusion There was a significant association between imatinib trough levels and CYP3A4 polymorphism, and trough concentration was found to be lower in patients with the TT or CT variant of rs2242480 than in patients with the CC genotype.

Project Planning Practices and Project Performance: A Case of King Faisal Maternity Ward Project Implementation in Gasabo District, Rwanda

This research study examined Project Planning Practices and Project Performance: A Case Study of King Faisal Maternity Ward Project by Real Contractors Ltd Company in Gasabo District, Rwanda. The study aims to achieve three specific objectives: first, to assess the effect of scope planning on the performance of King Faisal Maternity ward Project in Gasabo district and determine the effect of risk planning on the performance of King Faisal Maternity ward Project in Gasabo district. The population of this study included staff in different departments of Real Contractors Ltd Companyof King Faisal Maternity Ward in Gasabo District. The data collected was analyzed using frequencies, means, and standard deviations and inferential statistics and the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 22.0 was used for data analysis. The coefficient R of 0.815 indicated a strong positive correlation between project planning practices and project performance. The R-squared of 0.665 indicated that, approximately 66.5% of the variation in project performance can be explained by the predictors of risk planning and scope planning. Thus, the regression model using the predictors (scope planning and risk planning) showed a strong positive relationship with King Faisal Maternity Ward Project Implementation performance in Gasabo District. The unstandardized coefficient of β =0.620 indicated that one-unit increase in King Faisal Maternity Ward Project Implementation performance in Gasabo District is associated with 0.620 increase in scope planning. Similarly, the unstandardized coefficient of β= 0.255 indicated that one-unit increase in King Faisal Maternity Ward Project Implementation performance in Gasabo District is associated with 0.255 increase in risk planning. Both the p-values, 0.006&lt; 0.05 and 0.000&lt;0.05 indicated that these relationships are statistically significant. The study recommended prioritizing comprehensive scope and risk planning, ongoing training for project teams, and investing in project managers’ capacity building for effective project outcomes.