bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symposium 7: Ritual performances and collective intelligence
Authors: Alevizou Panagiota , Conole Gráinne , Culver Juliette , Galley Rebecca
Published: October 2024

This paper provides an overview of emerging activity patterns on Cloudworks, a specialised site for sharing and debating ideas as well as resources on teaching, learning and scholarship in education. It provides an overview of activities such as ‘flash debates’, ‘blended workshops’ and ‘open reviews’ and seeks to situate dialogic interchanges and structures of involvement within the following theoretical frameworks: a) Goffman’s notions of ‘face-work’ and ‘ritual performance’; and b) and secondly, notions of collective intelligence. The paper argues that these perspectives can offer a unique contribution to the study and analysis of sociality (Bouman et al, 2007) bounded in the context of technologically mediated networked learning, with wider implications for understanding matters of participation, self-representation, reflection and expansion in education.
Symposium 2: The social construction of educational technology through the use of proprietary software
Authors: Bissell Chris
Published: October 2024

Major strands of science and technology studies (STS) in recent decades have been the ‘social shaping of technology’ (SST) and ‘social construction of technology’ (SCOT) movements, whose adherents maintain that technological systems are determined just as much by social forces as by technological ones. Taking this ‘co-construction’ notion as a starting point, and putting a focus on the user, I look at some examples of the use of proprietary software in which the learner, instead of being constrained by a rather deterministic pedagogy of educational technology, can exploit the functionality of the software in ways far removed from the original design. For example, spreadsheets can be used to incorporate modelling assumptions directly to simulate digital signal transmission, or the workings of the binomial function. Audio editing software can be used to teach about the technology of music by allowing the student to explore waveform characteristics. The manipulation of images, if combined with a teaching of the principles behind data compression, can engender a deep understanding of the processes involved. And translation software can be used for language learning in a way very different from what was envisaged by the designers. Educational technology has tended to suffer from an emphasis on, and excessive claims for, technological innovation and novelty. Film, radio, television, programmed learning, interactive video discs, CD-ROMs, a ‘computer in every classroom’, ‘one laptop per child’, the web, computer-mediated communication, smartboards; and now mashups, Second Life, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter – all have all been seen as radical new technologies that would revolutionize learning. Here I make the case for the social construction of educational technology by users and teachers, based on exploiting to far better effect the possibilities of mature, often proprietary, software not originally designed for pedagogical purposes. The approach outlined here not only helps students gain experience with the sort of software they are likely to encounter in their professional life, but also fosters and sustains a healthy spirit of enquiry that too often is lacking in much educational software. Although the examples presented have been situated in the context of the individual learner, similar principles can be applied to a whole range of networked educational technologies.
Symposium 2: Social presence in online learning communities
Authors: Kear Karen
Published: October 2024

Tools for online communication are increasingly used in education, but they are not without problems. One significant difficulty is a lack of social presence. Social presence relates to the need for users to feel connected with each other and to perceive each other as real people. Low social presence can be a particular problem in text-based asynchronous systems such as discussion forums. These do not offer visual or auditory cues to communication, and there can be long delays between messages. This can lead to feelings of impersonality, and hence disengagement from online learning.The more recent literature on social presence suggests that it is influenced by the behaviour and interactions of participants, as well as by the characteristics of the communication medium. Learners in an online community can therefore increase social presence by communicating in ways which are perceived as ‘warm’ or ‘sociable’, and can compensate for the lack of richness of the medium. Moreover, features of communication systems can be used to encourage these types of interactions, and to ease communication. For example: use of member profiles can help participants feel that they know each other better; and use of synchronous communication can avoid frustrating delays between messages and responses.These possibilities, which are advocated in the research literature, also emerged from interviews carried out with students at the UK Open University. These interviews aimed to explore students’ experiences of using online communication in a distance learning course, and their ideas for improvements to online communication systems for learning. The interviews revealed problems, such as poor communication and misunderstandings, associated with a lack of social presence. Students highlighted system features that they found useful, or would like to have available, which would help to address these issues. In particular, they suggested that increased use of member profiles would help them get to know each other better, and that synchronous communication tools such as instant messaging would be of practical and social value.It is concluded that social presence in online learning communities can be enhanced by changes to the design and use of communication systems, together with attention to styles of communication within these environments.
Symposium 6: A Theoretical Design for Learning Model addressing the Networked Society
Authors: Nielsen Janni , Levinsen Karin , Sørensen Birgitte Holm
Published: October 2024

The transition from the industrial to the networked society produces contradictions that challenge the educational system and force it to adapt to new conditions. In a Danish virtual Master in Information and Communication Technologies and Learning (MIL) these contradictions appear as a field of tension between time resources and the demand for educational quality. The size of curriculum is growing while the time available for learning is continuously decreasing. We teach for deep learning but are confronted by students’ cost-benefit strategies when they navigate through the study programme under time pressure. To meet these challenges a Design for Learning Model has been developed. The aim is to provide a scaffold that ensures students´ acquisition of the subject matter within a time limit and at a learning quality that support their deep learning process during a subsequent period of on-line study work. In the process of moving from theory to application our model passes through three stages: 1) Conceptual modelling; 2) Orchestration, and 3) Operationalization that direct the students’ performance in practice when the design model is applied. Moving from conceptual modelling and orchestration to operationalization is a move from the generic theoretical modelling into a specific description of an application of the model in a specific context. We discuss our theoretical Design for Learning Model arguing that the model gives birth to scaffolding which enables students to maintain progression in the learning process and develop Networked Society competencies.
Symposium 1: Revisiting the E-Quality in Networked Learning Manifesto
Authors: Beaty Liz , Cousin Glynis , Hodgson Vivien
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this paper is to re-introduce the E-quality in Networked Learning Manifesto that was presented at the Networked Learning 2002 conference by the E-Quality Network and to reflect on its current applicability and meaning for networked learning. The paper will focus specifically on two of the five themes of the Manifesto; the working definition of networked (e)-learning and the need for a networked (e) - learning policy. In the paper we argue that the time is right to simply use the term networked learning and drop the ‘e’ in networked e-learning. This is because we think it is more important to foreground connectivity as a specific and important pedagogical feature of networked learning. We claim that an updated definition of networked learning should not only refer to being a pedagogy based on connectivity and the co-production of knowledge but also one that aspires to support e-quality of opportunity and include reference to the importance of relational dialogue and critical reflexivity in all of this.Following on from the definition of networked learning we reaffirm the point made in the original Manifesto that policy for networked learning should be based on explicit educational values and research. And further, that it should be reiterated by reference to research findings. We identify a number of policy areas that have been identified as important to consider at both the Government and Institutional level. We then argue for policy, when introducing Networked Learning into the curriculum and institutional educational practice, to be informed by the educational values and theory underpinning networked learning and not to be developed in isolation to these.The paper concludes by asking people to respond and draw on their research to comment on and hopefully develop the E-Quality Networked Learning manifesto and draw out issues for networked learning for the coming years
Symposium 3: Learning nests and local habitations
Authors: Jones Chris , Healing Graham
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we return to two descriptions of the ways that learning is located in technology enhanced environments. The idea of a local habitation arose in the context of an ecological view of the way people shaped new technologies for their own needs and it stood in opposition to the idea that new media and technologies led to inevitable consequences. The second term learning ‘nests’ arose out of research that focused on student study-bedrooms. Both terms were useful in humanising the relationships between new networked technologies and their users and locating the students and teachers who made use of them.
We revisit the idea of learning nests understood as a local habitation using data collected as part of an ESRC funded project examining The Net Generation encountering e-learning at university. The report is based on 19 first year undergraduate students who took part in a cultural probe exercise. During 24 hours they received SMS text messages and recorded answers to a fixed set of prompt questions either using a small hand held video camera or using a small notebook.
Our findings illustrate how students give meaning to the array of technologies and services they are presented with. They show that the technological landscape has changed markedly in the past 10 years but that student practices do not seem to have moved as quickly. Students still use the kinds of learning spaces they used 10 years ago despite the increased availability of network access to the Internet and the increased ownership and availability of mobile devices. An area where there has been significant change is in the social character of students’ engagements with networked technologies and the integration of the mobile phone, social networking and other social technologies into the everyday fabric of student life. However there is little evidence of significant change in student practices in terms of the adoption of mobile network access from this research and this should lead to caution in making predictions of change.
Symposium 3: Digital natives
Authors: Corrin Linda , Bennett Sue , Lockyer Lori
Published: October 2024

Access to and use of technology by ‘digital native’ students studying in our universities has been an area of much speculation, though relatively little empirical research. This has led some pundits to call for a radical rethink of how higher education uses technology to deliver education. Others are more circumspect and think it is necessary to hear directly from these ‘digital natives’ about their actual technology practices before jumping to such conclusions. This paper reports on a study that aimed to do just that; the study comprised a survey of the technology access and practices in both everyday life and for academic study of first year university students. The findings suggest that, for the participants of this study, access and usage of technology does not neatly fit into the stereotype of the ‘digital native’. Access to and use of some technologies was found to be quite high whilst others have significant levels of non-adoption. A comparison was made between technologies and activities undertaken as part of students’ everyday life in contrast to their academic study and it was found that the usage rates were generally lower for academic study. Access to and use of different technologies for different purposes is variable and university teachers and policymakers need to take this variability into account when making changes at the course or institution levels. What is also required is more in-depth investigation of the technology practices of these ‘digital natives’ to understand how technology is transforming their social and academic lives and, importantly, how they are shaping technology to suit their lives.
Symposium 3: Born into the Digital Age in the south of Africa
Authors: Czerniewicz Laura , Brown Cheryl
Published: October 2024

Our previous research amongst South African university students showed opportunities in a divided and unequal context for digital democracy in the form of a mobile society. While computer divides are manifest amongst South African university students, cell phone access is ubiquitous. In the light of this, we explored students’ digital practices, especially in relation to learning.
This paper adopts a qualitative approach to two cases - a mobile-centric and a computer-centric student respectively - and uses Bourdieu’s notions of objectified and embodied cultural capital as a theoretical frame to explore their differences and similarities, their convergences over time and their disparate histories. We describe the different types of objectified cultural capital available to each student and examine the processes of appropriation of embodied cultural capital respectively. We then explore the relationship between these different types of capital and their shaping of the students’ attitudes to and choices about using ICTs for learning. In particular we note the role that one type of objectified capital – the cell phone - has played in this relationship. The case studies surface complexities which need unravelling, and point to the research questions to be explored when grappling with participation in higher education in a digital age.
Symposium 4: Learning from peers
Authors: Macdonald Janet , Campbell Anne
Published: October 2024

Professional development has long been associated with the provision of events or alternatively of accredited courses, often supplemented by texts or websites. At the same time we are aware that much of what is learnt about university teaching happens “on the job”, as staff try out new approaches, or meet each other for a chat in the corridor. In a distance environment such ad hoc arrangements are less likely to take place particularly for part-time staff, and both online courses and informal communities have a particular role in joining staff who otherwise have little opportunity to meet.
We have been exploring the opportunities for harnessing the potential of peer learning in two online professional development courses at the Open University (UK) both of which are concerned with the adoption of new online tools for teaching and learning. This paper describes a case study of the two initiatives which deliver professional development at scale: some 2000 staff have undertaken the courses to date, including an astonishing 1000 staff over the last 12 months. We discuss some of the lessons we have learnt on the reasons for the widespread success of these initiatives and some of the factors influencing effective engagement on the courses.
We have demonstrated the value of a near-synchronous strategy in a small cohort which enhances a sense of presence, while providing sufficient flexibility to accommodate working practices. An experiential approach which gives participants the opportunity to experience first hand the sense of being an online student is valued by many staff who are new to it, and it provides a safe environment in which to try out new techniques and tools and to reflect on what is a pressing concern for many staff. The affective, confidence building aspects of this experience seem to have been important to many participants. At the same time we have also found that a self study route can work for some individuals who value the added flexibility to work on their own.
Further work will be needed to establish the extent to which the courses have resulted in new or enhanced working practices. But if we have succeeded in helping staff to develop the confidence to experiment for themselves, then this will have been a worthwhile endeavour.
Symposium 5: Athenian Democracy & Networked Learning Communities
Authors: Themelis Chrysoula , Parchoma Gale , Reynolds Michael
Published: October 2024

The Athenian democracy is worthy of study if for no other reason than that it was inspiration for many academic fields. This project highlights some institutions and policies of the Athenian democracy, during its flowering in the fifth and fourth centuries BC, in order to interpret them for the benefits of networked learning communities. Concepts such as ephebes and the power of reward can be applied to both the ancient and digital era, without implying an exact parallel. New members (ephebes) need training to create their e-portfolios, acquire digital literacy and epistemic fluency to be eligible to contribute to and benefit from community management. Discussion forums could be an arena for dialogue and information exchange. Allocating labor, e-community managers could fulfill the potential of technology-enhanced learning and tutors would able to select and distribute resources that could be useful and applicable. Praxis and democratic ideals are mirrored in the framework of an economy of knowledge. Epistemologically speaking, an economy of knowledge can be seen as a theory for acquiring the full benefits and costs of coming to know and use knowledge. This theory of knowledge could be a core concept in network learning. This theory does not presume full knowledge, but it does presume democratic social construction of knowledge. On ontological grounds, subjectivity implies that there are always some alternative constructions available to choose from in dealing with the world. The reliability of democracy increases as different points of views transformed into a socially ‘agreed’ way of interaction and participation. The dark side of democracy more closely related to NL communities could shade mainly the ideas of irrational decision, monoculture (single, homogeneous culture without diversity) and demagogy. To illuminate dark corners of democratic e-communities, a form of ‘aristocratic democracy’ is used as a metaphor for the social regime. The term, aristocracy, in the Greek sense of the word, means that the best rules in every domain. To top it all, cultural pluralism could light democratic e-communities, with creativity or conflict that can promote critical thinking and dialogue.Praxis and further research are required to test the validity of the theory presented.
ICT Based Informal Learning Approach for Semi Literate and Illiterate Peoples in Rural Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Akther Farzana
Published: October 2024

The rural areas of Bangladesh are inhabited by several semi literate and illiterate people. Furthermore, it is an enormous challenge to enhance the basic education, literacy and livelihood of rural people. It is worldwide expected that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) can provide real value of life to such populations through ICT development within different information domains. GrameenPhone Community Information Centers (GPCICs) in Bangladesh have been initiated with the aim of bringing the benefits of new technologies providing information of different domains to the rural area people. This offers an opportunity to build up social networks among the rural peoples and GPCICs can thus constitute potential informal learning centers in the form of networked ICTs. In order to be used, the Community Information Centers require their users to have certain literacy skills. In rural areas, marginalized/ disadvantaged people in developing countries often lack these skills and therefore they are not able to fully benefit from ICT. The lack of literacy skills is often considered to be at the heart of this problem. Another way to approach this problem is to determine how the technology can be ready for this specific semi literate and illiterate user group - in other words - developing ICTs that can easily be used without such skills. In this context, the aim of my study is to explore an improved understanding of how semi literate and illiterate people can access information through ICT. I will also investigate how ICT-based informal learning can empower the rural semi literate and illiterate peoples. The aims, objectives and research problems of my study will be addressed through a multi methodological approach that combines an ethnographic research and an action research approach. Here, the ethnographic research method will be used to process new understanding of ICT for semi literate and illiterate people and the action research method will be used as a framework for my research project that will link to the plans and activities of the project as well as assist in bringing new activities through new understandings of situations. The Social learning theory Communities of practice (CoP) is considered as a theoretical framework to create ICT-based informal learning environment for low literate people which can build a sustainable ICT development. The goal of this research is to develop a guideline for ICT-based informal learning projects designed especially for low literacy people in rural areas and this guideline will explore the environments, technologies and requirements for ICT to support rural development.
E-portfolio and Narrative Organization
Authors: Almeborg Sanne
Published: October 2024

This poster identifies core issues that learning designers need to consider when they plan to utilize an e-portfolio for learning purposes. These issues include questions as why should one use an e-portfolio? Another important question is of course what an e-portfolio is in the first place? Yet another question to be dealt with goes to how an e-portfolio is used? The poster starts by reviewing specific learning and sociological theories to identify two main reasons for using e-portfolios in today's educational institutions. Firstly, the e-portfolio is a tool for collecting learning products across classes, courses and programs and a tool for reflection with the aim to construct a meaningful whole out of all the smaller pieces of learning and/or learning products. Secondly, society needs the educational institutions to prepare students to construct a meaningful life in a world that's often experienced to be chaotic whether we regard it postmodern or not. The poster introduces theory beyond the traditional portfolio theory, that is theory on technology and media, to help bridging the theoretical gap between traditional paper based portfolios and e-portfolios based on interactive flexible hypermedia. The poster thus researches e-portfolios from one specific perspective: The student is seen as the architect and creator of his own portfolio and a narrator of his own learning and identity since the poster suggests that the structuring and re-structuring of an e-portfolio may be interpreted as creation of a narrative by the student.
Podcasts for efficient learning?
Authors: Heilesen Simon B.
Published: October 2024

Not many teachers openly question the value of podcasting in higher education. As yet, however, there is not much solid documentation that the use of podcasts has a measurable, beneficial effect on the academic performance of students. This poster reports on an extensive literature survey conducted in order to identify documented effects of the use of podcasts in university teaching. Such effects may be distinguished into A) perceived effects, B) effects on performance, and C) effects on teaching practise.As to perceived effects, there are two important tendencies: 1) Students readily adopt audio and video recordings as supplementary study tools - but they do not change work routines much. 2) Students generally consider podcasts as helpful in improving the study environment. They provide help in catching up with classes missed, thus reducing stress. And they make possible a self-paced acquisition of information, allowing for repetition, reflection, and supplementary information gathering.Studies reporting on measurable effects of podcast use (in terms of academic performance) mostly provide tentative and not entirely unanimous conclusions. Most likely, various derived effects seem to be at work, e.g. that repetition helps memorizing facts; or that the retention curve is improved when students review learning materials.In terms of effects on teaching, it may be observed that podcasts turn conventional classroom teaching into a "blended learning" environment, breaking down barriers to adopting ICT in education. Also, it seems that the introduction of podcasts into a teaching environment serves as a challenge to accustomed teaching practices. Podcast use can be distinguished into 1) substitution (replacing most or all in-class lecturing with podcasts), a step commonly associated with rethinking the pedagogical approach entirely. 2) Supplements, such as visualizations of cases and practice situations, short presentations or dialogues on difficult subject matter, and feedback on assignments. 3) Creative use, generally meaning letting the students play the active part in documenting project activities, producing presentations for the benefit of their peers, etc.In summary: There is convincing evidence that the introduction of podcasts in a learning environment has a general, if not actually measurable beneficial effect, both in terms of improving the study environment and in stimulating reflection on a experiments with teaching formats.
Analisis Reputasi Merek terhadap Keputusan Pembelian pada Merek iPhone
Authors: Ambiyah Dinul , Putri Melati Indriati Putri , Yuliana Lingga
Published: October 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis reputasi merek terhadap keputusan pembelian dengan studi kasus merek iPhone. Metode penelitian yang dipilih penulis adalah jenis penelitian kuantitatif. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan purposive sampling. Sebanyak 225 responden dilibatkan dalam penelitian ini. Responden merupakan pria dan wanita dengan rentang usia 17-55 tahun dan berdomisili di Indonesia serta pengguna smartphone iPhone. Sumber data menggunakan data primer dengan menyebarkan kuesioner melalui perantara Google Form. Pertanyaan tertutup digunakan dalam penelitian ini dengan menggunakan skala likert dengan kriteria jawaban sangat tidak setuju, tidak setuju, setuju dan sangat setuju. Teknik analisis data menggunakan Partial Least Square dengan menggunakan alat SmartPLS versi 4.1.0.0. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh positif dan signifikan antara reputasi merek terhadap keputusan pembelian
Impact of Human Immunological Responses and Viral Genetic Diversity on Outbreak of Human Monkeypox Virus. A Comprehensive Literature Review Study
Authors: Shabbir Irsa , Habib Faiza , Habib Muhammad Umar , Qader Abdul , Habib Aamna , Rafique Sadia
Published: October 2024

Monkeypox was caused by Monkeypox Virus (MPXV) and can infect both humans and animals. An understanding of the interplay between host immunity and genetic diversity was necessary to understand the etiology and epidemiology of monkeypox disease. Objective: To clarify how genetic differences and host immune responses interact when a moneypox infection occurs. Furthermore, we also aim to provide insights into individual variability in illness outcomes and possible treatment targets by investigating how distinct genetic profiles affect immune system activation and efficacy. Methods: Recent research on monkeypox, concentrating on the immune response mechanisms of the host and genetic variables linked to virus vulnerability have thoroughly analyzed. For this purpose, the data were searched from various research engines such as google scholar, pubmed, medline etc., by using different key words i.e., monkeypox and host immunity, monkeypox and antibodies interactions, monkeypox outbreak, mnkeypox strains. Conclusions: The way a monkeypox infection progresses and turns out was greatly influenced by the interplay between host genetic differences and immunological responses. Public health initiatives and the creation of tailored treatment plans can both benefit from the identification of genetic markers linked to immunological response profiles and vulnerability.
Significance of Modified Hodge Test in Carbapenemase Detection: A Brief Insight
Authors: Ishfaq Romah , Javaid Asghar , Naz Aneeqa , Zulfiqar Atif , Javed Muhammad Shahid , Javeed Mehvish
Published: October 2024

Neonatal sepsis is one of the leading causes of neonatal deaths. A. baumannii-calcoaceticus is the most notorious bacterial agent. Carbapenems are the most important antibiotics and modified Hodge Test is considered as important phenotypic method for observing Carbapenemase production. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy rate of Modified Hodge Test, for detection of Carbapenem resistance. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted at department of pathology, Nishtar Medical University, Multan from August 2023 to September 2023. The blood samples of suspected cases of sepsis were collected and after isolation of Acinetobacter baumannii sensitivity of multiple antibiotics were checked by disc diffusion method. Carbapenem resistance was re-evaluated by Modified Hodge Test using Meropenem disc (10 µg). All data were entered and analyzed by SPSS version 23.0. Results: Total samples of neonatal sepsis were 182. 83 (45.6%) were culture positive for bacterial growth. Among the positive samples 26 (31.3%) were isolated as Acinetobacter baumannii. Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method was used to check sensitivity of multiple antibiotics including Carbapenems. Out of 26 Acinetobacter isolated samples, 16 were found to be Carbapenem resistant by this method. Modified Hodge test was used to re-confirm Carbapenem resistance. Out of 16 Meropenem resistant cases this phenotypic test only detected 5 cases (31.25%). Conclusions: Staphylococcus aureus followed by Acinetobacter baumannii were isolated predominantly and Carbapenem resistance has markedly increased. In contrast to a study conducted in 2010 in Pakistan on MHT effectiveness where effectiveness of MHT for Carbapenemase detection was satisfactory, our results reveled that some other techniques should be introduced for Carbapenemase detection as Modified Hodge test did not give satisfactory results
The Impact of Endometriosis Diagnosis on Women's Mental Health-A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hameed Sajid , Shafique Muzamal , Anjum Zartashia , Tahseen Huma , Mannan Amna , Butt Nazia Ayyub , Shafique Nimra , Tariq Aqsa
Published: October 2024

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to endometrium grows outside the uterus. It affects the social and psychological life of women. Objective: To evaluate the impact of endometriosis diagnosis on women's mental health. Methods:  In this cross-sectional study basal data, Endometriosis Health Profile (EHP-30) statuses, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale scores were collected from 200 sub-fertile women who were sampled using a non-probability sampling technique. Frequency distribution and chi-square (X2) analysis were performed using IBM SPSS® version 26.0. Results: Out of 200 sub-fertile women 28 (14%) had endometriosis. Positive endometriosis significantly correlated with age (0.09<0.1). The endometriosis-related health statuses significantly correlated with anxiety and depression with two-sided asymptomatic significances of 0.007 (<0.05) and 0.000 (< 0.05) respectively. The highest prevalence of severe anxiety and depression was present in women with bad possible health profiles related to endometriosis. Conclusions: It was concluded that endometriosis aggravates with age and its positive diagnosis has a strong negative impact on the social and psychological health of the patients.
Attitudes Towards Learning Communication Skills Among University Nursing Students
Authors: Ali Amjad , Naz Subia , Rasheed Abdur , Jasmin Sonia
Published: October 2024

A major skill of nurses for achieving high-quality care is their ability to communicate effectively with patients, and this has been considered very valuable in the patient healing process. Objectives: To assess the learning attitudes of university nursing students towards communication skills and to find out the association of demographic characteristics of students with their attitude level. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study design was conducted on 230 student nurses studying in a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Permissions were obtained from the Ethical Review Committee and the Head of the Department for data collection. Data were collected via non-probability purposive sampling. Communication Skills Attitudes Scale was used to assess the attitude of university nursing students. Student's t-test and One-way analysis of variation were used to identify the differences in Positive Attitude Scores and Negative Attitude Scores between demographic variables. Results: Most of the study participants (77.4%) were male and 94% belonged to the age group 18-25 years. There was a significant difference in the Positive Attitude Score between gender and education of the students with p-values of 0.009 and 0.015 respectively. Furthermore, education level is the only variable that shows a significant association with a Negative Attitude Score with a p-value<0.0001. Conclusions: It was concluded that female students had more positive attitudes compared to their counterparts. Third-year students had a more positive attitude compared to other study years.
Association between Metabolic Syndrome and the Severity of Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Javaid Saad , Anwar Awais , Shaikh Imran Ali , Sajad Qamar , Khan Fahad Aman , Iqbal Muhammad Hasnain , Shuja Mamoona
Published: October 2024

Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) was a leading cause of mortality worldwide, often complicated by metabolic syndrome, which includes hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. Objective: To investigate the association between metabolic syndrome and the severity of ischemic heart disease. Methods: Data were collected from the cohort’s existing records, including clinical assessments, laboratory tests, and self-reported questionnaires. Metabolic syndrome components were evaluated using the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) criteria. Participants were classified as having metabolic syndrome if they met three or more of the following criteria: abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated fasting glucose, high triglycerides, and low HDL cholesterol. IHD incidence was determined through medical records, hospital admissions, and mortality data, defined as non-fatal myocardial infarction, unstable angina, or coronary revascularization. Statistical analysis included calculating the incidence rate of IHD for participants with and without metabolic syndrome, expressed as IHD cases per 1,000 person-years. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess the association between metabolic syndrome and IHD incidence, adjusting for confounders such as age, sex, smoking status, physical activity, and family history of cardiovascular disease. Hazard Ratios (HRs) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were reported. Results: The incidence of IHD was significantly higher in participants with metabolic syndrome. Cox regression showed metabolic syndrome was associated with increased IHD incidence (HR: 2.70, 95% CI: 1.50–4.80, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with IHD incidence. Early identification and management were essential to reduce IHD risk.
Association of Shock Index and Modified Shock Index with Mortality Rate in Emergency Department Trauma Patient
Authors: Zehra Areej , Ahmed Farah , Zaidi Yasmeen Fatima , Khan Umaima , Rauf Rabia , Mohyuddin Samina
Published: October 2024

At the emergency room, triage was used to determine which patients were more seriously injured and in need of urgent care. Trauma remains one of the primary causes of morbidity and death even with the use of modern triage techniques. Objective: To find out the relationship between trauma patients' 48-hour mortality and the shock index and modified shock index at Emergency Departments (EDs). Methods: A study was conducted in the Emergency Ward of Ziauddin University Hospital, focusing on patients aged 18-65 who sustained trauma. The study involved 50 trauma patients admitted to a Level I trauma center. Data were collected on heart rate, blood pressure, and shock indices at the time of admission. A shock index cut-off value of 0.9 was used to determine its association with patient outcomes. Data collection involved patients visiting the emergency department, with informed consent obtained. SPSS version 21.0 was used for analysis. Results: The study involved 50 patients, with 25 in each exposed and unexposed group. Exposed patients had a higher average age, higher heart rates, and lower blood pressure. Road traffic accidents were the leading trauma mechanism in both groups. Open wounds were more common in exposed patients. Most exposed patients received intravenous fluids and inotropic support. Patients with a Shock Index ≥ 1 and a Modified Shock Index ≥ 1.3 had higher mortality rates. Conclusion: The study revealed a significant link between medical mortality in older adults and bruises in emergency departments, indicating that SI and Modified SI were effective markers for severity assessment.
Electric Pulp Test Threshold Responses in Healthy Mature Permanent Teeth
Authors: Noor Razia , Aslam Shuja , Memon Aosaf Anwar , Ali Irum , Zaidi Hasan Afaq , Ali Ahsan
Published: October 2024

Electric pulp testers assess only the neural component of pulp sensibility in dental practice, while vascular status is evaluated with laser Doppler flowmeters and pulp oximeters, which are more reliable for determining vitality in traumatic teeth. Objective: To determine the accuracy of the electric pulp test in healthy mature permanent teeth. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro by consecutive sampling on 220 participants aged 18-35, who had healthy, mature permanent central incisors, canines, first premolars, and first molars, with no history of cardiac pacemakers and metallic restorations. Teeth were isolated, dried, and tested with a COXO C-Pulse electric pulp tester using toothpaste as a conducting medium. Threshold responses were recorded at increasing currents, with each tooth tested twice to determine the mean value. Accuracy was assessed using additional metrics post-therapy. Chi-square tests were employed to compare accuracy across gender and age groups, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of the patients was 25.55 ± 5.41 years. 132 (60%) subjects were female, 88 (40%) subjects were male in this study. Accuracy of the electric pulp test in healthy mature permanent teeth was detected in 181 (82.3%) subjects in this study. Conclusion: It was concluded that the electric pulp tester method seems to be a reliable way to evaluate how sensitive the live nerve tissue inside a tooth is for healthy permanent teeth that have fully formed.
Assessment of Pain and Functional Outcomes in Individuals with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Authors: Hannan Abdul , Wasif Hafiz Muhammad , Ali Waqas , Naseer Muhammad Kashif , Mustafa Yasir , Ali Muhammad , Zahoor Alishfa , Manzoor Anum
Published: October 2024

Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a pathological condition of the patellofemoral joint characterized by knee pain in the peripatellar, anterior, and even retro patellar regions. Between 15% and 45% of persons in their 20s to 40s experience patellofemoral pain. Objective: To assess pain and functional outcomes in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Methods: At Mayo Hospital and the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital, 87 people enrolled in this cross-sectional study using a non-probability convenience sampling technique during the period of 20th January 2024 to 20th July 2024. Both male and female patients between ages of 20 to 40 years with a positive patellar grind test were included. The numeric pain rating scale and Kujala score were used for data collection to assess pain and functional outcomes respectively. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 25.0. All qualitative variables were shown as frequency and percentages; all quantitative data were provided as Mean ± S.D. Results: Mean age of participants was 30.68 ± 5.62 years. Out of 87 participants, there were 41 (47.1%) females and 46 (52.9%) males. The mean score of the Numeric Pain Rating Scale was 6.31 ± 1.56 and the Kujala score was 46.37 ± 10.36. Out of 87 participants, 6 (6.9%) had mild pain, 62 (71.3%) had moderate pain and 19 (21.8%) had severe pain. The NPRS and Kujala Score have a very weak correlation of 0.049 with a p-value of 0.655. Conclusion: It was concluded that this study had a significant impact of patellofemoral pain syndrome on pain and functional outcomes in affected individuals.
Prevalence of Early Seizures in Acute Stroke Patients
Authors: Wali Zishan Akhter , Azam Najam , Farooq Hasan , Arif Muhammad , Rafiq Umer , Zahid Muhammad
Published: October 2024

A stroke is defined as a sudden neurological deficit of cerebrovascular cause that persists beyond 24 hours. Stroke is associated with a whole spectrum of complications, especially post-stroke seizures. These seizures may adversely affect the outcome of stroke in terms of mortality and morbidity. This study was designed to find out the frequency of early post-stroke seizures. Objective: To determine the frequency of early-onset seizures after stroke among patients presenting to tertiary care hospitals. Methods: Two hundred and forty patients, presenting on the Medical floor of Jinnah Hospital Lahore with acute stroke and fulfilling the selection criteria, were approached after informed consent. The patients were followed for 14 days for the development of early seizures after the stroke. Results: Among 240 stroke patients, there were 123 (51.3%) male patients and 117 (48.8%) female patients. The minimum age observed was 30 years and the maximum was noted as 77 years. In 45% of patients, hemorrhagic stroke was detected and 55% of patients had ischemic stroke. From 108 cases of hemorrhagic stroke, there were 10.4% cases in which an episode of seizure occurred within 14 days of stroke. On the other hand, in 132 patients with ischemic stroke, 15.9% of patients developed seizure episodes. Conclusions: It was concluded that ischemic stroke was more common in frequency than hemorrhagic stroke in our population and the occurrence of episode early seizure within 14 days of stroke was more prevalent in ischemic stroke patients.
The New Spectrum of Plasmodium Vivax Malaria Severity: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Iqbal Naveed , Ibad Ahmad Al , Haq Momina , Shahzad Faisal , Gul Ambreen , Malik Saira Nasr
Published: October 2024

Plasmodium vivax malaria, once considered a benign and self-limiting disease, has emerged as a significant public health concern, with increasing reports of severe and even fatal cases. Objective: To evaluate the clinical severity and complications associated with Plasmodium vivax malaria in patients in Peshawar. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, for about two months. A total of 160 patients diagnosed with Plasmodium vivax malaria were enrolled. Participants were divided into two groups based on platelet count. Laboratory tests, including complete blood count, liver function tests, and Renal Function Tests were performed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 , An Independent sample t-test was used to assess the significant difference between the two groups with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: A total of 165 patients were included in the study. In the severe thrombocytopenia group (<100,000/µL), there were 23 cases of anemia, jaundice (n=25), acute renal failure (n=7), cerebral malaria (n=2), seizures (n=1) and hypoglycemia (n=1). In the less severe thrombocytopenia group (>100,000/µL), there were 14 cases of anemia, jaundice (n=17), and acute renal failure (n=2). The blood glucose level (p=0.37), systolic blood pressure (p=0.18) and pulse rate (p=0.21) revealed no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusions: It was concluded that severe thrombocytopenia in P. vivax malaria was associated with more severe clinical manifestations, with a few cases requiring transfusions. Patients with less severe thrombocytopenia had fewer complications
Association Between Acute Ischemic Stroke and Raised Serum Gamma Glutamyl Transferase
Authors: Kanwal Sibgha , Yousaf Qudsum , Jamil Aysha , Arshad Waqas , Qadir Momina , Butt Imad ud Din Yousaf , Tahir Malik Usman , Rahim Faisal , Ahmed Usman , Habib Umema
Published: October 2024

The serum gamma-glutamyl transferase level predicts the development of cardiovascular illnesses. Serum gamma-glutamyl transferase levels have been linked to atherosclerosis in several investigations, indicating that gamma-glutamyl transferase may be utilized as an early indicator of atherosclerosis. Objective: To determine the association between acute ischemic stroke and raised serum gamma-glutamyl transferase. Methods: After obtaining ethical approval, in this case-control study, 310 patients fulfilling the selection criteria were included from the Medical Emergency Department of, KEMU/ Affiliated hospital, Lahore from August 2022 to February 2023. Informed consent was obtained. After matching for age (40-80 years) and gender (both male and female), 155 controls enrolled preferably the accompanying healthy attendants of the patients and 155 cases i.e. ischemic stroke patients. Venous blood samples were obtained from cases at the time of presentation in the Emergency Department for serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Data was collected in structured proforma. Data scrutiny was done using SPSS version 26.0. Mean and standard deviation were used for quantitative variables and frequency for qualitative data. Data were stratified for effect modifiers, and p≤0.05 was taken as significant. Results: In the current study, the frequency of raised GGT was found more among cases as compared to controls i.e. 74% vs 20%, p<0.00001 and OR calculated was 11.5. Conclusions: It was concluded that a considerable percentage of patients had raised gamma-glutamyl transferase at the time of presentation with acute ischemic stroke. These results emphasize the need to keep an eye on GGT levels in ischemic stroke patients as a possible stroke marker.