bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GRAIN YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF PROSPECTIVE HOMOZYGOUS WINTER WHEAT GENOTYPES
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Madić Milomirka , Đurović Dragan ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Stevović Vladeta ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Tomić Dalibor ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Biberdžić Milan ,   University of Priština (Kosovska Mitrovica), Faculty of Agriculture, Lešak, Serbia, Pavlović Nenad ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Marjanović Miloš ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia
Published: April 2024

During the two-year research on the experimental field of the Grain Center in Kragujevac, the 1,000-grain weight, hectoliter mass and grain yield of ten prospective homozygous genotypes of wheat were analyzed. During the growing season, the average annual temperature and precipitation were favorable for growing wheat. In both growing seasons, precipitation was 120 mm more than the annual average, and 220 mm more in the second year. Genotype L- 1/59 had the highest grain yield and the highest 1,000-grain weight, while the hectoliter mass was more or less equal to other genotypes. All genotypes had a satisfactory 1,000-grain weight ranging from 43 to 50 g. On average, all analyzed lines had a hectoliter mass greater than 80 for both years, which ranks them as high quality.
STRATEGIES FOR OPTIMIZED FERTILIZER USE: IMPLICATIONS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CROP PERFORMANCE
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Gavrilović Marija , Veljković Biljana ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Koprivica Ranko ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia, Pavlović Nenad ,   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of  Agronomy, Čačak, Serbia
Published: April 2024

The analysis underlines the crucial role of optimized fertilizer use in modern agriculture, which improves crop performance and energy efficiency. Efficient fertilizer management, including precision agriculture, is essential for sustainability. Data shows a 20% increase in wheat yields and up to 25% increase in soybean yields compared to conventional methods. Energy savings of up to 30% were also found in maize cultivation, 27% in sunflowers and 23% in sugar beet. Further research is essential to understand the long-term impact and scalability of optimized fertilization practices, with interdisciplinary collaboration driving innovation for a more sustainable agricultural future.
Entrepreneurship Education in Interactions in English Terminale and Mastering English (High School), Cameroon EFL/ESL Textbooks: A Critical Discourse Analysis
Authors: Walter Yepdia Leundjeu
Published: April 2024

Entrepreneurship education in the 21st century has increasingly become an important topic in the field of language teaching. EFL/ESL textbooks, in the process of teaching English, have incorporated, among themes of interest, entrepreneurship, which is helpful to transform students’ environments, improve their socio-economic status, and keep them away from poverty. However, the teaching methodology and the quality of materials selected bear questionable social practices likely to denature textbook designers’ laudable intentions. This paper is a critical discourse analysis of the teaching of entrepreneurship in two selected Cameroon English language textbooks used in the French and English subsystems of education, namely Interactions in English Terminale and Mastering English (High School). It is a sociolinguistic qualitative study which hinges on Fairclough’s (2001) three-dimensional theoretical paradigm, which holds that discourses are not language-bound but encompass internal features that (re)produce social structures, social practices, and power relations, reinforcing social inequalities and hegemonic ideologies. The findings yielded significant findings, showing that both Interactions in English Terminale and Mastering English textbooks are replications of the political, economic, and social institutions of Cameroon society and inadvertently promote gender discrimination in terms of entrepreneurship representation. The textbooks examined are too idealistic in their entrepreneurial discourses and outcomes. They fail to expose students to the realities of entrepreneurial ventures, thereby depriving them of the risks and challenges faced by the prominent entrepreneurs celebrated in their course books. This study is relevant as it contributes to the improvement of entrepreneurship pedagogy in EFL/ESL textbooks used in Cameroon classrooms while adopting realistic overtones.
Ergonomics as Perceived by Staff Nurses and Its Relation to Their Job Satisfaction
Authors: Soliman Ehsan Saad , Araby Shaimaa M.
Published: April 2024

Context: Ergonomics is a systems-oriented discipline that extends across all aspects of the work environment and human activity to enhance safety, efficiency, quality of work-life, operators’ comfort and productivity that increase job satisfaction of the health care team members as well as staff nurses.

Aim: This research aimed to assess ergonomics as perceived by staff nurses and its relation to their job satisfaction.

Methods: A descriptive-analytical cross-sectional design utilized for carrying out this study. The current study was conducted in surgical building at Benha University Hospitals, Qaliobia Governorate, Egypt. Study subjects were all available (200) staff nurses. Two tools used to collect data, namely, ergonomics assessment questionnaire and job satisfaction assessment questionnaire. 

Results: The results of the study revealed that ergonomics was inadequate as perceived by more than two-thirds (71%) of the studied staff nurses. Also, more than two thirds (72.5%) of them had a low level of job satisfaction. Moreover, there was a highly statistically significant positive correlation at (P-value<0.001) between total ergonomics and total job satisfaction.

Conclusions: The study concluded that there was a highly statistically significant positive correlation between total ergonomics and total job satisfaction. The study recommended that hospital administration should deploy more efforts in improving the workplace ergonomics; this includes the work setting, and equipment. Nursing administrators should develop strategies for improving the ways of work to perform tasks that distributed throughout the shift to enhance staff nurses' job satisfaction. Also, Future studies should be conducted to investigate the relationship between ergonomics and other variables, like job performance, turnover, and productivity.
Effect of Cryotherapy on Pain Associated with Chest Tube Removal after Thoracotomy
Authors: Ahmed Emad A. , Mohammad Sahar Y. , Abdelatief Dalia A. , Ali Asmaa S.
Published: April 2024

Context: Chest tube removal (CTR) is described as one of the worst feelings for critically ill patients after thoracotomy. Unrelieved pain causes undesired consequences that have adverse effects on patient quality of care. Analgesics usually manages CTR pain, but patients respond differently to drugs and might not provide complete relaxation. Cryotherapy is commonly applied as a non-pharmacological intervention for relieving CTR pain.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cryotherapy on pain associated with chest tube removal after thoracotomy.

Methods: This study was conducted in the cardio-thoracic critical care units at Cardiovascular and Thoracic Academy, affiliated to Ain Sham University Hospital. A purposive sample of 140 patients undergoing thoracotomy was included in this study. They were divided into control and study group (70 patients in each group). Data were obtained using the Chamber-Price Modified Pain Rating Scale (CPPRS), Standardized Linear Scale for Pain Assessment, and Modified McGill Pain Questionnaire-Short Form (MPQ-SF).

Results: The results reveal that 50%, 67.1% of the control and study group patients were in the age group 51-≥60 years. 62.9, 81.4% of the control and study group were males. Besides, there were highly statistically significant differences regarding peripheral pulse, apical pulse, and respiratory rate throughout CTR pain assessment times and a highly statistically significant difference regarding blood pressure immediately after CTR between the study and control groups. Also, statistically significant differences regarding physiological and behavioral parameters, pain intensity, and quality (sensory and affective descriptors) were found between the study and control groups immediately and 30 minutes after cryotherapy was applied after chest tube removal.

Conclusion: Cryotherapy effectively improved hemodynamic, physiological, and behavioral parameters, relieving pain intensity and improving pain quality after chest tube removal for patients with thoracotomy. The current study recommends conducting periodic in-service educational programs for critical care nurses regarding the benefits, methods, contraindications, and side effects of cryotherapy for relieving pain associated with CTR after thoracotomy. Motivate nurses in critical care units to use cryotherapy as a non-pharmacological therapy for relieving pain associated with chest tube removal.
Effect of Body Mechanics Training Program on Low Back Pain and Disability among Patients with Lumbar Disc Prolapse
Authors: Ibrahim Rawia A. , Atya Wataneya K.
Published: April 2024

Context: Lumbar disc prolapse is one of the most common spinal pathologies, which can be associated with debilitating pain and neurological dysfunction. Evidence suggests that patients with disc prolapse and low back pain must be taught proper body mechanics to move safely and with the least strain possible on their back.

Aim: Evaluate the effect of body mechanics training program on low back pain and disability among patients with lumbar disc prolapse. Methods: A quasi-experimental research design (study and control group) was utilized to achieve the aim of this study. This study was conducted in the neurosurgery department and neurosurgery outpatient clinic at Benha University Hospital on a purposive sample of patients diagnosed with lumbar disc prolapse. Three tools for data collection were used; a Structured interviewing questionnaire for patients; a visual analog pain scale, and Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire.

Results: Showed that the total mean knowledge score for the study and control group was 33.500±3.862 and 8.140±6.402, respectively, after one-month post-program implementation, with a statistically significant difference between both groups. Also, 75% of the study group had mild pain, and 58% of the control group had moderate pain post-program implementation, with statistically significant differences between the study and control group post-program, where p=0.000. Regarding functional disability scores among study and control groups pre and one month after program implementation. It shows that (67% and 63%) of the study and control groups had severe disability pre-program implementation. In contrast, post-program implementation, 65% of the study group had moderate disability, while 13% of the control group had moderate disability.

Conclusion: Implementing body mechanics training program for patients with lumbar disc prolapse improved knowledge, reduced pain severity, and reduced disability among the study group compared to the control group. A simplified colored booklet about using body mechanics when performing activities of daily living should be available for all patients with lumber disc prolapse.
Knowledge and Practice Regarding Pressure Injury Prevention among Nurses at King Abdul-Aziz Specialist Hospital
Authors: Sahrah Afnan Z. , Althubaiti Wafaa A. , Albalawi Sahar R. , Althobiti Ensherah S. , Fattah Turkey S. , Almalki Abdulelah A. , Aletiby Ahlam N. , Alkhaldi Maha J. , Alqurashi Talal A. , Sahrah Faten Z. , Alfaifi Munira Y. , Alnemari Rami R. , Alzahrani Alaa S.
Published: April 2024

Context: Preventing hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPI) poses a significant challenge within tertiary service hospitals. These skin lesions cause discomfort and elevate the risk of severe infections, leading to increased healthcare costs and a high mortality rate due to sepsis. Thus, prevention requires an interdisciplinary approach to care.

Aim: To determine knowledge and practice regarding pressure injury prevention among nurses at King Abdulaziz Specialist Hospital (KAASH). 

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive research design was utilized in the current study. One hundred fifty-two staff nurses who work in inpatient units at KAASH were recruited. The researchers developed the knowledge assessment questionnaire and self-reported practice scale. They were used to assess the nursing staff's knowledge and self-reported practice regarding pressure injury prevention and barriers affecting it.

Results: Out of the 152 participants, most were women (93.4%) and held a bachelor's degree (88.8%). The mean score for nurses' knowledge concerning preventing pressure injuries (PI) was 6.82±1.89 out of 10. Similarly, the mean score for nurses implementing PI prevention practices was 23.48± 2.81 out of 27. A statistically significant relationship was observed between participants' knowledge of PI prevention and their education, experience, source of PI education, and the most recent PI training attended (p<0.05). Additionally, a statistically significant association was found between participants' implementation of PI prevention practices and their experience level (p<0.05). Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was identified between participants' knowledge and their practices regarding PI prevention (p<0.05). The reported barriers to effective PI prevention included a shortage of staff (lack of aids) reported by 85.52% of participants, and inadequate facilities and equipment mentioned by 69.07%.

Conclusion: The results suggest that most nurses possessed a moderate level of knowledge regarding preventing pressure injuries (PI), whereas a significant portion, more than two-thirds of the participants, demonstrated a high degree of commitment to effective PI prevention practices. Developing continuous PI prevention and management training and overcoming barriers to optimal PI prevention practices can be helpful. Finally, monitoring and follow-up are important to ensure the nurses' compliance.
Effect of Psychoeducational Training Program on Coping Skills, Spiritual Well-being, and Levels of Anxiety among Patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Mohamed Shimaa S. A. , Ewise Hanaa S. , Ali Samah A. A.
Published: April 2024

Context: Generalized anxiety disorder is one of the most common mental disorders that produce fear, worry, and a constant feeling of being overwhelmed. Spiritual well-being is a positive psychological factor linked to lower anxiety levels in GAD patients. One of the most important elements of having GAD is learning how to cope with persistent anxiety and physical symptoms.

Aim: Evaluate the effect of the psychoeducational training Program on coping skills, spiritual well-being, and anxiety levels among patients with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

Methods: A quasi-experimental (pre/post-test) design was used. This study was carried out at the General Psychiatric Clinic of El Abbassia Psychiatric and Mental Health Hospital. The study involved 80 patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Data was collected over six months utilizing four tools. They were used for data collection: A Structured Interview questionnaire, a Coping Strategies Questionnaire, a Spiritual Well-being Scale, and a Beck Anxiety Scale.

Results: The present study shows that more than half of patients with generalized anxiety disorder under study were in the age of <30 years (57.5%) with a mean age of 24.5±8.33. While 28 % had satisfactory pre-program coping, this percentage increased to 52% post-program implementation. On the other hand, 63.7% of patients with generalized anxiety disorder understudy had low levels of spiritual well-being that decreased to 9% post-program. Also, more than half of 59% of patients had severe anxiety levels at pre-program; this percentage decreased to 21% post-program implementation with a statistically significant difference between coping skills, spiritual well-being, and anxiety level pre- and post-psychoeducational training. In addition, there was a highly statistically significant correlation between the total score of spiritual well-being, coping, and their total anxiety score during the pre/post-program implementation phase (P≤ 0.001).

Conclusion: Psychoeducational training Program has a significant positive effect on improving coping skills, spiritual well-being, and levels of anxiety among patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Application of a psychoeducational nursing intervention can help patients with generalized anxiety disorder better understand the advantages of various spiritual pursuits and how to improve their spiritual well-being and coping skills.
Factors Affecting Medical Device-Related Pressure Injuries in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Ali Fatma Z. , Yassien Sahar , Ameen Dalia A.
Published: April 2024

Context: Medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPI) are a common complication that can occur in critically ill patients and require medical devices in the intensive care unit. MDRPI can occur when pressure from a medical device, such as a ventilator, catheter, or feeding tube, is exerted on the patient's skin for prolonged periods, causing tissue damage and leading to pressure injuries. MDRPI can result in pain, discomfort, prolonged hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Therefore, preventing and managing MDRPI in ICU patients is crucial to improving patient outcomes.

Aim: The study aimed to assess factors affecting medical devices related to pressure injury in intensive care units.

Methods: A descriptive and exploratory research design was employed to fulfill the objectives of this study. The study included two distinct samples: a purposive sample of 157 adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit and connected to various medical devices such as NGT, EET, CVC, UC, and CPAP masks, as well as a convenience sample of 50 nurses working in the intensive care unit who provided care to the same group of patients. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, nurses' practice observational checklists, patient assessment records, and medical device assessment records.

Results: The findings from this study reveal that 40% of the nurses under investigation demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge concerning Medical Device-Related Pressure Injuries (MDRPI). In comparison, 68.8% exhibited unsatisfactory practice in this area. Moreover, 56% of the nurses displayed a negative attitude towards factors associated with pressure injuries caused by medical devices in intensive care units. Concurrently, 58% of the patients in the study were found to have pressure injuries linked to medical devices, with 48% of these cases being attributed to CPAP masks. Furthermore, a highly significant statistical correlation was identified between the total knowledge scores of the nurses and their overall practice.

Conclusion: The current study's conclusions indicate that the highest percentage of the participating nurses possessed an average level of knowledge, displayed inadequate practice, and harbored negative attitudes regarding factors contributing to medical device-related pressure injuries in intensive care units. Consequently, it is recommended that an educational training program be implemented to enhance nurses' competence in preventing medical device-related pressure injuries in intensive care units.
Nurses' Knowledge of Adverse Medication Events and its Contributing Factors at Intensive Care Units: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Allehebi Rasha A. , Hamed Laila A.
Published: April 2024

Context: Medication errors are a major concern in the healthcare setting, as they result from the inappropriate use of products related to the treatment or the effects that lead to harm. In Saudi Arabia, prescription errors constitute nearly one-fifth of all medication errors. Still, there is a difference in dealing with the process of using medications based on each country and its background.

Aim: To assess the ICU nurses’ knowledge and contributing factors regarding adverse medication events at Makkah City Hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study conducted among nurses at different hospitals in Makkah City, Saudi Arabia. A random probability sampling technique was used to choose the appropriate sample of nurses. The sample size was 155 nurses. A valid and reliable knowledge questionnaire on medication errors was used.

Results: There was good knowledge regarding adverse medication events for 13.5% of participants. Most participants (86.5%) had poor knowledge of adverse medication events. The mean knowledge score of ICU Nurses about Adverse Medication Events was 4.81±1.91 among males and 4.28±1,96 among females. There was no significant statistical relationship between nurses’ knowledge about adverse medication events with gender (t-test 1.653, p-value=0.598), education level (r=-0.137, p-value=0.089), and workplace (r=0.072, p-value=0.376). There was a significant statistical negative relationship between ICU nurses’ knowledge score about Adverse Medication Events with age (r=-0.251, p-value=0.002), nationality (r=-0.739, p-value=0.000), role/profession (r=-0.242, p-value=0.002). There was a significant statistically positive relationship between ICU nurses’ knowledge score about Adverse Medication Events with work weekly hours (r=0.205, p=0.010)

Conclusion: The study's result underscores the importance of enhancing ICU nurses' knowledge and skills related to adverse medication events. Hospital management should provide training opportunities to help nurses develop their knowledge and skills in medication administration to prevent medication errors and ensure patient safety.
Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Patients' Satisfaction and Quality of Life: A Narrative Review
Authors: Alharbi Manahel A. , Mersal Nahed A. , Sofar Samah M.
Published: April 2024

Context: Obesity is a significant health issue that has been considered an epidemic in the world during the last 20 years and has persistently increased over time. The World Health Organization recently reported that the worldwide prevalence of overweight among adults was more than 1.9 billion, and approximately 650 million adults were obese. Bariatric surgery remains the most successful and effective long-term option for treating morbid obesity and obesity-related co-morbidities due to the significant outcomes in long-term weight loss, resolution of obesity-related co-morbidities, reduction of cardiovascular complications, and the causes of obesity-related mortality.

Aim: This review sought to provide a comprehensive and critical summary of existing literature on the impact of bariatric surgery on patients’ satisfaction and quality of life.

Methods: A systematic search was undertaken between 2018 and 2022 with specific inclusion criteria. Search terms were determined to select the best relevant studies using a wide search in different databases, including PubMed, Medline, EBSCO, EBMR, and ERIC. The review used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines to identify the literature used in this review. The review identified fifty studies that met the eligibility criteria and were involved in this review.

Results: The result indicates that quality of life was improved in most of the studies after the different types of bariatric surgeries. Also, the satisfaction level was high in most of the retrieved studies. Besides, all co-morbidities associated with obesity were reduced significantly.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that each surgical procedure has negative and positive outcomes. The finding also recognized the impact of bariatric surgery in improving the patients' satisfaction, enhancing their quality of life, and remission of obesity-related co-morbidity diseases. Bariatric surgery is strongly suggested in the treatment of morbidly obese patients.
Unveiling the Complexity of Medication Errors: A Nursing Perspective on Contributing Factors to Medication Errors
Authors: Elhihi Ebtesam A. , Hazazi Mohammad A. , Adam Jawaher B. , Al Romail Rudayna H. , Tasneem Shahida Z. , Fallatah Dania M. , Manzoor Farzana K. , Almoallad Fahad T. , Fallatah Miad M. , Alfahmi Abdulkarim A. , Albandar Amani B.
Published: April 2024

Context: Medication errors have long been associated with poor medical care quality, lengthy hospital stays, substantially increased medical costs, and a decline in patient confidence in the hospital's ability to provide quality care. Additionally, it is imperative to acknowledge that nurses serve as the final defense in mitigating medication errors and ensuring patient safety.

Aim: To identify the factors contributing to King Abdullah Medical City's medication errors.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in King Abdullah Medical City from January 2023 till March 2023. A total number of 262 nurses were included in this study. Data were collected through an online questionnaire of 28 questions, including nurses' demographics, work-related characteristics, and factors contributing to medication errors from nursing perspectives.

Results: It was observed that overworked or exhausted healthcare professionals had the highest responses, with a mean score of 4.46±0.78, followed by insufficient staffing, with a mean score of 4.43±0.88. Regarding patient-related factors, the complexity of the clinical case, including multiple health conditions, polypharmacy, and high-risk medications, had the highest responses with a mean score of 4.20±0.83. Concerning work environment contributing factors for medication errors, it was found that the highest responses were to workload and time pressure factors, with a mean score of 4.50±0.71.

Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, the main contributory factors to medication errors were overworked or exhausted healthcare professionals, insufficient staffing, violation of the eight rights of medication administration by nurses, inadequate drug knowledge and experience, nurses' failure to record the administered drug on the patient's record, and inadequate communication between healthcare providers and patients.
Assessment of Socioeconomic and Psychological Factors Predicting Health-Related Quality of Life among Primary Caregivers of Cancer Patients in Kakamega County
Authors: Odeny Hellen A. , Arudo John O. , Psusma Tecla S.
Published: April 2024

Context: Primary caregivers of cancer patients often suffer from impaired Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) due to stress arising from the responsibility of caregiving. Most studies conducted in Western populations have shown that increased caregiving burden was related to decreased mental and physical health and premature mortality among family caregivers. Therefore, the findings of those studies may not be directly applicable to the Kenyan population, especially Western Kenya, which has a different socio-cultural and ethnic background.

Aim: This study sought to determine socioeconomic and psychological factors predicting the health-related quality of life among primary caregivers of cancer patients in Kakamega County.

Methods: This was an institutional-based cross-sectional analytical study design. Kakamega County Referral Hospital was purposively sampled as it has a hospital with a western region cancer center. The sampling unit was caregivers of cancer patients seen in the hospital. The caregivers were systematically and randomly sampled from a list drawn from the Cancer Centre register of cancer patients, where the caregivers are captured as their treatment supporters, and each cancer patient is expected to have a caregiver. The sample size was 422 primary caregivers after calculation. The data collection tool was contracted from a QOL questionnaire, such as WHOQoL-BREF, developed to measure both objective and subjective dimensions of QOL, Personal Wellbeing scale, Herth Hope Index, and PHQ9/GAD-7 to assess psychological-related factors, which are more sensitive and have wider applicability.

Results: Socioeconomic factors such as gender (p=0.007), type of area of residence (p=0.004), income in KSh (p=0.01), and number of rooms (p=0.0005) are significantly associated with perceived quality of life. Psychological-related factors like depression (p=0.001) and anxiety (p=0.002) are significantly associated with perceived quality of life.  

Conclusion: The study concluded that socioeconomic and psychological factors of primary caregivers of cancer patients can predict the health-related quality of life of those caregivers. The study recommends that financial charges for cancer management be subsided as this could relieve caregivers' financial burden. Other family members should support primary caregivers financially and psychologically to ease the burden of the primary caregiver. Psychosocial support group networks should be established for caregivers through multiple communication channels, thereby reducing the mental and psychological burden experienced by caregivers.
Explore the Performance and Attitude of Newly Registered Nurses Regarding Breast Cancer Screening in Al-Jouf Hospitals, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Quantitative Study
Authors: Alruwaili Samiyah O. M. , Ali Laila A. H.
Published: April 2024

Context: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer worldwide, but survival rates are still poor in poorer nations. Early diagnosis and screening are key tactics for early detection. Still, the timeframes for screening may not apply to nations like Saudi Arabia, where awareness is low and patients arrive with metastatic breast cancer.

Aim: To evaluate the performance and attitudes regarding breast cancer screening among newly registered nurses at different hospitals in AlـJouf, Saudi Arabia.  

Methods:  The study used a cross-sectional design on a convenient sample of 169 newly registered nurses working at Medical-Surgical Departments at Al-Jouf Hospitals in Saudi Arabia. A structured interview questionnaire collects data regarding nurses' performance and attitudes toward breast cancer screening.

Results: The participants' total knowledge of breast cancer reveals that 62.1% of the nurses had a fair knowledge level. The participants’ attitude shows a negative attitude towards breast cancer screening and self-examination among 76.92% of nurses. On the one hand, the newly registered nurses' performance of breast self-examination reveals that 84.7% answered incorrectly about the correct frequency of breast self-examination, 83.9% answered incorrectly about the best time for breast self-examination, and 82.2% answered they had not taught breast self-examination. On the other hand, 87.7% correctly answered the practice of breast self-examination, and 85.8% correctly identified the benefits of breast self-examination. The study also reveals a statistically significant positive correlation between participants' knowledge and attitude toward breast cancer screening and self-examination (p=0.028). Years of experience (p=0.003) and working hospital (p=0.027) were identified as statistically significantly positively correlated with nurses' attitudes toward breast cancer screening and breast self-examination.

Conclusion: The study concluded that the highest percentage of the newly registered nurses exhibit fair knowledge and negative attitudes towards breast cancer, breast cancer screening, and breast self-examination. Also, more than three-quarters of the studied nurses answered incorrect questions about the frequency and timing of breast self-examination. The study's result emphasizes the necessity of providing newly registered nurses with further training and education regarding breast cancer screening. It is crucial to raise their understanding of the risk factors, symptoms, and suitable screening techniques for breast cancer, such as mammography, clinical breast examination (CBE), and breast self-examination (BSE). Assisting in the early detection of breast cancer will enable patients to have a better prognosis and survival rate.
Outcomes of COVID-19 on Patients with Cancer: A Scoping Review
Authors: Alrehaili Amjad A. , Sofar Samah M. , Wazqar Duha Y.
Published: April 2024

Context: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented global health crisis. Among the most vulnerable populations during this pandemic are patients with cancer, who face a double burden of navigating their underlying malignancy and the added risks posed by COVID-19. Understanding the unique challenges and consequences of COVID-19 in cancer patients has become a critical area of investigation.

Aim: The current scoping review aims to summarize the impact of COVID-19 infection on the outcomes in patients with cancer.

Methods: The literature search was conducted in the following electronic databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, and EBSCOhost. In addition, a Google Scholar search was conducted to explore gray literature. The reference lists of the selected studies were manually checked to find any further related articles. Ten studies were retrieved to assess the outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with cancer.

Results: The current scoping review categorized the retrieved studies into three main themes. The first theme is the COVID-19-associated complications in patients with cancer; the second theme is the COVID-19-associated severity in patients with cancer; and the third theme is the COVID-19-associated clinical outcomes among patients with cancer. The initial search identified a total of 1650 articles. After eliminating duplicates, 1023 articles remained. Following stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, 849 articles were excluded, leaving 174 articles for further examination. The researcher conducted a thorough manual screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts to retrieve only the relevant articles. Consequently, 164 articles were excluded, and 10 Full-text articles were included to explore the impact of COVID-19 infection on the outcomes of patients with cancer.

Conclusion: Patients with cancer are a high-risk group for COVID-19 infection. They are more prone to having a severe form of COVID-19 infection. Moreover, ARDS is the most frequent complication of COVID-19 among patients with cancer. In addition, hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, oxygen support, and mechanical ventilation are all increased in patients with cancer infected with COVID-19.
Authentic Leadership and its Influence on Job Embeddedness among Staff Nurses
Authors: El Sayed Samah M. , Khaled Azza El. M.
Published: April 2024

Context: A novel style of leadership known as "authentic leadership" involves leaders presenting how effectively a person is socially integrated inside their organization, fostering sincere relationships, and operating from an ethical base. Additionally affect the employee’s embeddings at work. Job embeddedness is the joint force that keeps an individual from leaving.

Aim: The study aimed to assess authentic leadership and its influence on job embeddedness among staff nurses.

Methods: A correlational descriptive design was employed to carry out this study at Ain Shams University Hospital on a random sample of 185 staff nurses out of 310 eligible to participate in this study. Two tools were utilized in this study: The Authentic Leadership Inventory and the Job Embeddedness Scale.

Results: reveal that 61% of studied nurses had a low total perception level of authentic leadership, and 50% had a high total level of job embeddedness.

Conclusion: A highly statistically significant negative correlation was shown between total staff nurses’ perception level of authentic leadership and job embeddedness. Managers should provide flexibility to staff nurses to keep them motivated and more productive. Nurse managers should meet with nurses frequently to hear about and address their concerns and to communicate their feelings.
The Influence of HIV/AIDS Care and Support Services Accessibility on Utilization among HIV Infected Adults in Baringo County, Kenya
Authors: Otara Danvas N. , Chebor Alex K. , Raballah Evans
Published: April 2024

Context: Globally, efforts are being made to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic and improve the general health of people living with HIV/AIDS through continuous access to care and support services. However, the incidence of dropouts from utilization of HIV care and support services is rising among the HIV-positive clients enrolled in comprehensive care clinics in Baringo County for unidentified reasons. As a result, recognizing the opportunities and challenges in low-resourced communities that must be overcome to promote greater access to care and treatment will influence higher utilization.

Aim: This study evaluates the influence of accessibility of HIV/AIDS care and support services on the utilization of HIV-infected adults in Baringo County.

Methods: The study was conducted in Baringo County HIV comprehensive care centers. An analytical cross-sectional study design was used with 580 participants recruited. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data.

Results: Support from social services (p<0.0001), less frequent visits to clinics less than one month (p<0.0001), access to treatment interventions (p<0.0001), and easily accessible information (p <0.0001) were among the factors associated with good accessibility to HIV services, according to bivariate analysis. Conversely, being an atheist (p<0.006), residing in rural areas (p ≤0.0006), difficulty accessing services (p≤0.0001), and getting to another town (p < 0.03) or getting to another county (p ≤0.0004) were linked to inadequate access to HIV/AIDS care and support services.

Conclusion: The findings show that the efforts to support clients' access to HIV/AIDS care and support services should be made in response to their individual needs and consideration of geographical location. Besides, individualized HIV/AIDS services access depends on the support provided, where they are located, easily accessible information about the services, and how frequently they are provided. In contrast, living in rural areas, seeking services in a different town, feeling ashamed to visit clinics, and having a lower CD4 count were all associated with poor accessibility and utilization of HIV/AIDS care and support services. Consequently, it is necessary to establish support initiatives to address any of these access issues that particular clients might have.
Institutional Factors Influencing Self-Directed Learning Readiness among Nursing Students in Medical Training Colleges in Siaya County, Kenya
Authors: Abiri Moses J. , Ochanda Damaris A. , Kaniaru David K.
Published: April 2024

Context: Self-directed learning (SDL) is a prominent pedagogical approach in nursing education. The success of self-directed learning hinges upon an individual's readiness, which is influenced by the complexity of factors. Self-directed learning readiness represents an individual's capacity and willingness to take charge of their learning journey. Evaluating factors influencing self-directed learning readiness is pivotal for educational planning, aiding in selecting appropriate instructional methods tailored to students' academic strengths and weaknesses.

Aim: The study aimed to investigate institutional factors influencing self-directed learning readiness among nursing students in Medical Training Colleges in Siaya County

Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study design was adopted. The study was conducted among 404 nursing students in the Bondo and Siaya campuses of Kenya Medical Training College. Data on socio-demographics and institutional factors were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, and individuals' readiness was measured using Fisher's self-directed learning readiness scale.

Results: The majority of the students were female (67.1% n=271) compared to males (32.9% n=133), and overall, the self-directed learning readiness level among both of them was high among 73.5% of the studied students, with a mean score of 157.2. Notably, institutional factors that significantly influenced self-directed learning readiness were access to the institution's internet connectivity (OR=0.635; 95% CI=0.407-0.991; p=0.046) and self-directed learning mentorship (OR=0.402; 95% CI=0.213-0.76; p=0.005).

Conclusion: Access to internet connectivity and self-directed learning mentorship are crucial institutional factors significantly influencing self-directed learning readiness among nursing students. This study recommends strengthening mentorship strategies for self-directed learning and providing reliable internet connectivity to students at all times to enhance their readiness to learn.
Factors Influencing Nurse Interns’ Competence in Physical Assessment for Adult Patients
Authors: Kiplagat Nelly J. , Ochanda Damaris , Kipmerewo Mary
Published: April 2024

Context: Physical assessment is essential to the overall health assessment, constituting the nursing process's first phase. The physical assessment competence of nurse interns has been observed as insufficient in evaluating and solving patients' health problems in the clinical environment. This insufficiency has negatively influenced their ability to make better clinical decisions for patients, thus contributing to poor quality of patient care.

Aim: To investigate factors influencing nurse interns' competence in physical assessment for adult patients.

Methods: Cross-sectional analytical research design guided the conduct of the study. The sample comprised 117 nurse interns in health facilities in the Western region of Kenya. Data collection was done using a self-administered questionnaire and health assessment observation checklist. The study was done in level 5 and 6 referral hospitals in the Western region of Kenya, covering the former Western, Nyanza, and Rift-valley provinces. These comprised Kericho, Nakuru, Kitale, Kakamega, Bungoma, and Kisii County Referral hospitals; Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospitals.

Results: The overall assessment showed that 35% (n=41) of nurse interns were competent in physical assessment with a score of 90% and above in physical assessment skills, while 65% (n=76) were not competent. Factors that were statistically associated with higher competence scores (≥ 90%) included the year of completion between 2016 – 2019 (OR: 3.1; 95% CI [1.1-8.5]; p=0.02), longer internship period between 9–12 months (OR: 0.2; 95% CI [0.1-0.5]; p=0.0002), more than seven months previous clinical experience before internship (OR: 0.4; 95% CI [0.2-1.0]; p=0.05), self-confidence in performing physical assessment accurately (OR: 4.5; 95% CI [1.9-10.5]; p=0.003) and motivation to learn more and perform physical assessment (OR: 0.4; 95% CI [0.2-1.0]; p= 0.042).

Conclusion: Nurse interns' competence in physical assessment skills is low, as shown by around one-third of study participants achieving a 90% and above score. Key factors that influence physical assessment competence are the year of completion, a longer period of internship, previous clinical experience before internship, self-confidence in performing physical assessment accurately, and motivation of nurse interns to learn more and perform physical assessment. The study recommends that nurse training institutions emphasize theoretical and practical sessions of physical assessment skills to enhance the competence and confidence of student nurses in physical assessment before the internship.
Gender Disparities in Dietary and Addiction-Associated Risk Factors of Hypertension: Insights from Karachi
Authors: Khan Sulhera , Naveed Shabnam , Ali Zeeshan , Batool Wajeeha , Ahmed Syed Masroor , Fatima Marium
Published: April 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the dietary and addictive risk factors associated with hypertension and assess their gender-specific patterns.
Methodology: Conducted at the Outpatient Department of Medicine, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, from July to December 2022, this descriptive cross-sectional study enrolled diagnosed hypertensive patients with a history of elevated blood pressure lasting more than six months, using a nonpurposive convenient sampling technique. Detailed histories of addictive and dietary risk factors were obtained, and blood pressure was measured. Dietary risk factors included excessive salt and fat intake, along with a diet rich in saturated fatty acids. Addictive risk factors assessed included tobacco and areca nut addiction.
Results: Of the 960 patients included, 588 (61.2%) were male, and 372 (38.8%) were female. Males exhibited poorer hypertension control (42.0%) compared to females (33.7%). The most prevalent dietary risk factor was excessive fat intake (76.7%), followed by excessive salt intake (66.7%). Smoking was reported in 66 (11.2%) males and 4 (1.0%) females, while areca nut addiction was observed in 51 (8.5%) males and 15 (4.0%) females.
Conclusion: Our findings underscored a significant association between male gender and inadequate hypertension control, coupled with a higher prevalence of dietary and addiction-related risk factors. These findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions aimed at mitigating these modifiable risk factors, particularly among males, to reduce the burden of hypertension-related morbidity and mortality.
Frequency of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients Undergoing Valvular Heart Surgery: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Ullah Hidayat , Ullah Abid , Jan Rafiullah , Ayaz Shama , Ullah Ihsan , Masoud Maryum
Published: April 2024

Objectives: Valvular heart disease (VHD) significantly impacts patients' lives and often necessitates cardiac surgery. This study aimed to assess the frequency of ischemic heart disease in patients undergoing valvular heart surgery.
Methodology: This observational study analyzed the records of 204 consecutive patients presenting to the Peshawar Institute of Cardiology between January 2021 and December 2022. All patients underwent screening angiography before surgery according to the American College of Cardiology (ACC) criteria.
Results: Among the 204 patients studied, 57.4% were male, with a mean age of 53.16 ± 12.708 years. Hypertension was the most common comorbid condition (38.2%). Mitral valve pathology was the predominant indication for valvular surgery, while isolated aortic stenosis was the most common valvular lesion observed (25%). Out of the 204 patients who underwent screening angiography, 23% had significant coronary artery disease (CAD), defined as luminal narrowing >50%. Patients younger than 40 years had a lower prevalence of significant CAD (9.8%) compared to older patients (p = 0.003). Angiographic findings revealed single-vessel disease as the most common coronary lesion (16.7%), followed by double-vessel disease (12.7%), with triple-vessel disease observed in 5.4% of cases.
Conclusion: The frequency of coronary artery disease was lower in patients younger than 40 years compared to older patients. Noninvasive investigations such as CT coronary angiography may serve as an alternative to invasive coronary angiography as a screening tool prior to cardiac surgery in older patients, if needed.