bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with failed contraception in women attending level one hospitals in Lusaka, Zambia.
Authors: Joyce Sakala , Lackson Kasonka , Margaret Kasaro , Chileshe Mabula-Bwalya , Bellington Vwalika
Published: August 2023

Background: Unintended pregnancy is a major public health concern due to its impact on maternal morbidity and mortality. Contraceptive failure is one of the causes of unintended pregnancy. Data on factors associated with contraceptive method failure is scarce. This study therefore aimed to determine the proportions of contraceptive failure for various methods and factors associated with it.

Methodology: Unmatched case-control study was conducted at five Level One Hospitals in Lusaka. Convenience sampling was used to enrol 108 cases for whom pregnancy occurred while on a modern contraceptive method and 108 controls who were on a modern contraceptive method and not pregnant. Binary and multiple logistic regressions were utilized for assessment of factors associated with failed contraception.

Results: Among the 108 cases, 46 (42.6%), 40 (37%), 17 (15.7%) and 1 (0.9%) were on the oral contraceptive pill, injectable, implant and intrauterine device contraception methods respectively while 2 (1.9%) were on barrier and emergency contraceptive methods respectively. The odds of contraceptive failure when using the oral contraceptive pill was more than 7 times (AOR 7.790, 95% CI 1.210-50.161, p=0.031). Those who had contraception failure were more than 3 times more likely to be younger than 30 years old compared to those whose contraceptive method did not fail (AOR 3.559, 95% CI 1.100-11.521, p=0.034 and AOR 3.596, 95% CI 1.354-9.550, p=0.010 respectively for age groups 18-24 years and 24-30 years old). Other factors associated with a higher odds of contraceptive failure were duration of marriage greater than one year, with the highest odds in those married for more than 10 years (AOR 9.744, 95% CI 2.232-42.537, p=0.002), higher social support (AOR 2.402, 95% CI 1.085-5.321, p=0.031), multiparity (AOR 15.299, 95% CI 3.034-77.151, p=0.001), and duration of use of antecedent contraception method of more than 2-3 years (AOR 4.913, 95% CI 1.662-14.526, p=0.004).

Conclusion: The oral contraceptive pill, younger age, marriage duration of more than one year and contraceptive use more than three years were associated with contraceptive failure. Good messaging and counseling on usage of the oral contraceptive pill is recommended.
Perceptions and Willingness to Undertake Transvaginal Sonography by Women at the Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, Zimbabwe
Authors: Chinene Bornface , Mutandiro Lavin , Mudadi Leon-say , Nyawan Paridzai
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Patient’s opinions are an important facet of guideline development. There is little that is known about Zimbabwean women perceptions and willingness to undergo Transvaginal Sonography (TVS) and there are no specific guidelines to guide its use.

Aim: To evaluate the perception and willingness to undergo TVS among women attending Obstetrics and Gynaecology clinic at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey using a structured questionnaire was conducted between 1 and 30 June 2022. A total of 170 women attending the obstetrics and gynaecology clinic at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital were randomly selected to participate in the study.

Results: Majority of women (81.76%) had no previous TVS experience, with an equally large proportion (60.84%) not having seen a TVS probe before. Most of the women would prefer female sonographers (85.37%) to conduct the examination. In addition, about 58% of the participants concurred that a chaperone should be present. Less than half of the females (47.93%) were eager to have a TVS done on them. Equally, just 45% of the females said they would encourage others to have a TVS scan. The difference in willingness to undergo a TVS study stratified by employment status was statistically significant (chi square 7.26, p = 0.03).

Conclusion: Our study findings revealed that a large proportion of females had no previous TVS experience, with an equally large proportion not having seen a TVS probe before. Only a sizeable proportion of women were willing to accept TVS provided it is conducted by female sonographers and or in the presence of a chaperone. The findings underscore the importance of education and awareness of the benefits of TVS in terms of diagnosis on maternal health outcomes, to the Zimbabwean population.
Postpartum Typhoid Intestinal Perforation
Authors: Julius Dare , Lawal Abdulwahab Oluwatomisin , Hafeezoh Olabinjo , Olayinka Balogun , Ishaq Aremu , Adedire Adenuga
Published: August 2023

Background: Typhoid fever remains a highly contagious and multi-systemic infection caused by salmonellae typhi, and like other gastro-enteric infection, it poses a higher risk of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy as a result of the physiological changes associated with pregnancy as well as concerns of antibiotic safety in pregnancy. The occurrence of typhoid perforation in pregnancy may be easily confused for other causes of acute abdomen in pregnancy.

We report the presentation, management and outcome of a 25 year old postpartum woman who presented with typhoid intestinal perforation in a resource limited environment. She had an emergency exploratory laparotomy and was managed post operatively in the ICU but clinically deteriorated and subsequently died on the third post-operative day secondary to multiple organ failure from severe sepsis.

Typhoid perforation in pregnancy is a rare presentation, a high index of suspicion, and early intervention, would reduce the incidence of morbidity and mortality associated with this disease condition.
Ultrasound Imaging of a Bicornuate Uterus with a Pregnancy and an Intrauterine contraceptive device in different Horns: A Case Report from Zimbabwe
Authors: Mutandiro Lavin , Murambasvina Damian , Chinene Bornface
Published: August 2023

A bicornuate uterus is a congenital abnormality that results from the incomplete lateral fusion of the two müllerian ducts. The WHO eligibility criteria for contraceptive use, states that the use of intrauterine devices (IUCDs) is contraindicated for women with uterine abnormalities. However, in most cases, the presence of the bicornuate uterus is not known at the time of IUCD insertion. We herein report a case of a 41-year-old woman who had a bicornuate uterus with an IUCD in situ in the left horn and a live pregnancy in the right horn. The aim of this case report is to highlight the important role ultrasound imaging can play in the diagnosis of congenital uterine abnormalities in patients using IUCDs. Furthermore, the report also discusses the ultrasound imaging techniques that a diagnostician can adopt to optimize the diagnosis.
Oral Health of Vegetarians is a Neglected Aspect of Stomatological Research: A Reflection based on PubMed Evidence
Authors: Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem , Nnyanzi Lawrence Achilles , Sulaiman Omotayo Amidu , Adetunji Charles Oluwaseun
Published: August 2023

The vegetarians form one-fifth of the global population. The vegetarians are a peculiar group of people; existing body of scientific evidence shows that they are a highly vulnerable group of people when it comes to oral diseases. The oral health of vegetarians is a critical aspect of dentistry; however, current evidence—based on PubMed database search—shows a dearth of literature on this thematic area. This research area has been neglected in the field of stomatological research.
Oral Health Knowledge, Attitude and Practices among Adolescents in Choma District of Zambia
Authors: Mukanga Bright , Sakala Kupuzo , Nyirenda Tato , Daka Victor , Mulenga David
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Dental caries and periodontal diseases are the most common oral diseases globally. Early control of oral health behaviours is important because lifestyles acquired during adolescence are powerful predictors of adult health. We conducted a study to determine knowledge, attitude and practices on oral hygiene among school going adolescents in Choma District.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among school going adolescents in randomly selected schools in Choma District. A total of 335 participants were included in the study. Data were collected using a closed-end self-administered questionnaire. The sample size was distributed among the six schools in the ratio of their population. The study included anyone from grade 8-12. Data were analysed using IBM software for SPSS. We employed the Chi-Square test to investigate association between variables. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The study had 173 males and 162 females in the age range of 12-19 years. The majority (87.8%) had good knowledge, 69.4% had good attitude and 87.5% had good practice on oral -hygiene. Practice was influenced by sex with females having good oral hygiene as compared to their male counterparts. About 97.2% thought that dental health education is essential in schools. 34% indicated that they had visited the dentist when they experienced toothache. However, parental advice 11% (n=39) to visit the dentist regularly was low. The majority 49.9% (n=167) indicated that they had not visited the dentist due to fear of the dental equipment set up.

Conclusion and recommendation: Despite the majority having good knowledge and attitude and on oral hygiene, there is need to acquaint children with milling and dental units found in most dental offices. This may instil confidence in children to seek specialist dental treatment whenever they develop any dental disease. Further, parents need to be incorporated as partners in promoting oral health hygiene among school going adolescents.
An Evaluation of Risk Factors Associated with Pregnancy Related Acute Kidney Injury in Women Admitted to High Dependent Care Unit at Women And Newborn Hospital, Lusaka-Zambia.
Authors: Imasiku Karen Mutemwa , Kasonka Lackson
Published: August 2023

Objective: To evaluate factors associated with Pregnancy-related Kidney Injury (PRAKI) in women admitted to high dependent care unit at Women and Newborn Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia

Methodology: This was an unmatched case-control study conducted in the high-dependent care unit at Women and Newborn Hospital in Lusaka. Study participants were recruited consecutively by convenient sampling. Participants’ medical records were reviewed to capture serum creatinine levels; while a structured questionnaire was administered to eligible and consented study participants to capture data on sociodemographic, obstetric and medical factors. Serum creatinine levels above 84µmol/l were used as criteria for classifying PRAKI. Excel was used for data cleaning and Stata v13 used for analysis. Descriptive statistics were done for all variables followed by univariate and multivariable logistic regression to determine association. 95% CI was used and p value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results: The study comprised of 185 study participants, split into 85 women with PRAKI (cases) and 100 women without PRAKI (controls). The median age was 29 years with 11years interquartile range. 75.3% (139) of the study participants were in marriage relationships. Pre-existing hypertension was the most prevalent medical condition in both the cases (51.8%) and the controls (38%). Sickle cell disease was much less common at 1.2% in cases and 8% in controls. Among the obstetric conditions, preeclampsia was the most prevalent condition at 77.6% and 60% in cases and controls respectively. Eclampsia was found in 38.8% of cases and 11% of controls. Sepsis was least common at 4.7% of cases. This study found that obstetric factors such as eclampsia (AOR = 5.12, 95% CI [2.14 – 12.23]; p≤0.0001), preeclampsia (AOR = 2.46, 95% CI [1.12 – 5.39]; p = 0.025), and postpartum haemorrhage were associated with the development of PRAKI. Medical conditions were not associated with PRAKI.

Conclusion: Thus the development of PRAKI was mainly associated obstetric factors such as eclampsia, preeclampsia, and post-partum haemorrhage.
Clinical Audit of Stillbirths at a Faith-Based Secondary Health Centre in Ibadan, Nigeria: A Six-Year Review
Authors: Ogunbode Olayinka Oladunjoye , Oyeyiola Mobolaji P , Arowojo Ayodele O
Published: August 2023

Objective: The determine the prevalence of stillbirth and identify associated factors among pregnant women.

Method: This was a retrospective audit of two hundred and twenty-five stillbirth deliveries at Our lady of Apostle, Catholic Hospital, Oluyoro, Oke-Offa, Ibadan, Nigeria, between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2018. Data was extracted from hospital records for socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric factors, complications, and outcomes of pregnancy. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20 and the level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The stillbirth rate was 27.75 per 1000 births. More than half (129; 57.4%) were macerated. The ratio of stillbirth rate among the booked and unbooked parturients was 1:21. The common causes of stillbirths were hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (24.9%) and anaemia in pregnancy (20.4%) while the least were congenital anomalies (1.0%) and gestational diabetes mellitus (1.0%).

Conclusion: This study confirmed that most of the stillbirths were due to unsupervised or poorly supervised pregnancies. There is need to ensure quality antenatal care services for the early detection and management of risk factors in order to reduce the burden of stillbirths.
Assessing a New Medical School in Zambia Using Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measurement: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ezeala Christian Chinyere , Ezeala Mercy Okwudili , Zimba Wilson
Published: August 2023

Background: Learners’ perception of learning environment reflects educational program’s effectiveness. For new medical schools, determining effectiveness of teaching and learning is desirable quality assurance process.

Aim: To determine pioneer medical students’ perception of learning environment of a new school using Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measurement (DREEM).

Methods: Quantitative cross-sectional study design was adopted. Consenting medical students in second and third years of Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degree program were surveyed with a questionnaire comprising a demographic competent and 50 DREEM items. Non-probability sampling was adopted. Completed questionnaires were sorted and rated. The resulting quantitative data were analysed for mean scores with SPSS 21 software. Mean total scores and mean scores in five subscales were determined. Scores on individual items were also analysed. Cronbach’s alpha was used to assess dataset reliability.

Results: The study recorded 137 participants, 54.2 % females and 45.8 % males. Mean age was 22 (± 4.03) years. Mean total DREEM score was 117.5 (58.8 %) and interpreted as “more positive than negative.” Scores in subscales of perception of learning, perception of teachers, academic self-perception, and perception of atmosphere, were positive with mean scores of 62.9 %, 60.2 %, 63.4 %, and 55.6, respectively. Subscale of social self-perception rated poorly with mean score of 48.9 % and interpreted as “not a nice place.” Single items revealed five major problem areas: lack of adequate support, authoritarian leadership, over-emphasis on factual learning, poor memorizing, and excessive stress.

Conclusion: This analysis revealed major problems and weaknesses in the new school and addressing them could improve educational quality.
Exploring the potential of dapivirine vaginal ring for HIV prevention in Namibia: a call to action
Authors: Chipare Mwakanyadzeni Abigail
Published: August 2023

The recent recommendation by the World Health organization for the use of the dapivirine vaginal ring as a promising safe, efficacious and alternate choice for HIV prevention among women at significant risk of infection presents a welcome development for countries hard hit by HIV especially those in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Namibia, there is paucity of evidence on whether this novel HIV prevention strategy would be acceptable among those women at elevated risk of acquiring the virus. This paper provides a discourse on the opportunities and potential challenges in introducing the dapivirine vaginal ring on a large scale in the country.
Prevalence of Osteoporosis in adults aged 40 years and above at the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Gwaba Nchimunya , Kanongo Robson , Haluzani Shawn , Nchimunya Eugene
Published: August 2023

Background: Osteoporosis is a global problem with a high prevalence in developed countries and an increasing trend in developing countries. Studies on the incidence of osteoporosis in Zambia are not documented. However, some recent data in other countries have shown an increase in this disease but awareness of this condition is sorely lacking among the population as well as health authorities, making it difficult to determine the extent of the concern in Zambia. Since the prevalence of this disease has not yet been established at the study site, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of osteoporosis among adult patients aged 40 years and above at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH).

Methods: This retrospective study involved the retrieving of document data from 76 patients, aged 40 years and above, who had bone mineral density reports.

Results: The study results showed that 32.9% of the patients had osteoporosis, 43.4% had osteopenia, while 23.7% had normal bone mass. Among the male patients, 47.6% had osteoporosis while 27.3% had osteoporosis among the females. However, the chi-square results at 5% level of significance showed that both men and women have an equal chance of acquiring osteoporosis (p=0.091). This study also showed a direct association between osteoporosis and age. The study established that the likelihood of being diagnosed with osteoporosis increased with age (p=0.015).

Conclusion: These findings show that the prevalence of osteoporosis and its associated factors is quite high among adults above the age of 45 years.
Radiographers’ Perspectives on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence use on their future roles: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Chivandire Glenda , Mudadi Leon-say , Chinene Bornface
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The advent of artificially intelligent systems in the field of medical imaging has attracted a lot of attention and sparked a lot of discussion regarding the future roles of radiographers. It is widely believed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will revolutionize the entire medical imaging field in the near future and alter the current practice of radiographers.
Aim: The aim of the study was to explore Zimbabwean radiographers’ perspectives on the impact of AI use on their future roles.
Methods: A qualitative explorative design employing in-depth interviews to explore the perceptions of radiographers towards AI use in medical imaging. The study recruited 10 participants and the study was conducted at 5 hospitals in Harare, 2 government and 3 privatehospitals. The interview data was then analyzed using thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke.
Results: Four themes emerged from the interview data. The themes include; Reduce roles of radiographers, Elimination of human errors, Expansion of knowledge and AI will promote radiography.
Conclusion: Radiographers must be trained and have underpinning knowledge of AI.This study recommends that AI use should be included in the curriculum of radiography students.
Multicultural Education in Private Universities Study at Nahdlatul Wathan University Mataram
Authors: Sopian Hilmi , Fattah Abdul
Published: August 2023

This research is motivated by the existence of various kinds of ethnicities, religions, ethnicities, races and cultures in Indonesia. Diversity becomes a social force to build the strength of the nation. Conflicts that occur in several places in Indonesia as an illustration, how diversity can give birth to violence and defeat and unrest, especially in the world of education in universities. Therefore, multiculturalism education is important to be developed by UNW Mataram because UNW Mataram is a swatsa university located in the heart of the city of Mataram and was founded by national pahlwan, its presence as a private university to provide opportunities for all generations of nations of different races, tribes and religions to continue their education, UNW Mataram has the obligation to pay attention to multicultural matters in this university so that it is intertwined  peace and success for the entire academic community. This study shows that the implementation of multicultural education at UNW Mataram runs well by adopting an inclusive learning approach, Enriching the curriculum with multicultural issues, Supporting and facilitating multicultural activities and organizations, Building partnerships or MOUs with government agencies, as well as private and universities within the region and abroad.
The Application of Diversion to Perpetrators of Criminal Acts Committed by Minors Based on Article 1 Number 7 of Law Number 11 of 2012 Concerning the Juvenile Criminal Justice System
Authors: Hutapea Novelina Mutiara Sariati , Damanik Jenriswandi , Sitepu Desy Kartika Caronina , Saragih Masdin
Published: August 2023

The role of law enforcers is at the forefront of the legal world in Indonesia at this time the number of cases and resolutions of legal problems that are applied by prioritizing a sense of justice not only prioritizing legal certainty, legal protection for children can be done as an effort to protect the law against various freedoms and human rights of children. This protection of children also includes interests related to child welfare. The protection of children in conflict with the law is a shared responsibility of law enforcement officials. One form of restorative justice is dialogue between Indonesian people, better known as musyawarah for consensus. So that diversion, especially through restorative justice, becomes a reference for very important considerations in solving legal cases concerning children as perpetrators of crimes.
The Effect of Rainfall on Rice and Corn Crop Production in Sleman District
Authors: Darise Marina Evana Putri
Published: August 2023

Rainwater that falls to the surface of the earth is very important for the growth of agricultural crops such as rice and corn.  Therefore, this study aims to  know rice and corn production in 2018 and 2020, determine rainfall in 2018 and 2020 and analyze the effect of rainfall on rice and corn production in 2018 and 2020 in Sleman District. The data used by this research is data from Sleman District in 2018 and 2020 Figures. The data were analyzed in a qualitative descriptive manner. The results of the study found that rice production in 2018 amounted to 1,574.3 tons, rose to 16,135 tons in 2020, while corn production in 2018 was 452.7 tons, rose to 5,763 tons in 2020. The total rainfall in Sleman District in 2018 was 2,526 mm with the maximum rainfall occurring in December at 178 mm, while the total rainfall in 2020 was 3,272 mm with maximum rainfall occurring in December with rainfall of 184 mm slightly lower than in 2018. The study also found that rainfall in 2018 and 2020 directly affected rice and jangun production.
The Effect of Work Attachment on the Performance of Freelance Daily Employees at PT X Semarang
Authors: Febriyanto Muhammad Taufiq , Wijono Sutarto
Published: August 2023

In the current new normal era, economic conditions are growing rapidly and advancing. This makes various companies in Indonesia need to make various adaptations and are required to continue to innovate and develop in order to be able to compete with other companies to dominate the market. This study aims to determine the effect of work attachment on the performance of freelancer employees at PT. X Semarang. The research method used in this study was quantitative using a sample of 52 employees. Sampling technique in this study, the author used a probability simple random sampling technique.   Data collection in this study used the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) compiled by Schafeuli and the Job Performance Scale compiled by Koopmans, et al.  Based on the results of data analysis, it was found that work attachment has a positive and significant influence on employee performance by obtaining an F value of 19.804 with a significance level of 0.000 (< 0.05). Work attachment has an influence of 28.4% on employee performance. Thus, the more employee work attachment increases, the more employee performance increases.
Impact of Drinking Water Treatment Process Using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to Minimize Environmental Impact Risk
Authors: Kartikasari Ika Bayu , Santoso R. Irwan Bagyo
Published: August 2023

The clean water treatment plant at DWTP is carried out with conventional treatment. The conventional water treatment process has an impact on the environment due to the clean water treatment process. Clean water treatment produces GWP and Eutrophication impacts derived from the use of chemicals and electricity. This study aims to analyze the factors causing environmental impacts arising from the clean water treatment process at the PDAM Water Treatment Plant (IPA) and determine policy priorities related to reducing environmental impacts and improving the quality of drinking water treatment at the Water Treatment Plant based on the results of LCA and AHP studies. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method is a method of assessing the potential environmental impact and evaluating the environmental performance of a process on the product. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) consists of four stages, namely determination of Goal and Scope, Life Cycle Inventory, Life Cycle Impact Assessment, and data interpretation. In research, the scope of LCA used is Gate to Gate, namely in the Coagulation, Flocculation, and Sedimentation process units. From the results of the LCA study, the potential impact of GWP of 12760.76 KgCO2-eq comes from flocculation which produces floc from the addition of chemicals. Meanwhile, the potential impact of eutrophication is 268.55 KgPO4-eq derived from mud generation. The results of the decision in reducing environmental impact at DWTP  by  optimizing chemicals as a top priority, then the second priority by recycling sludge, and finally making savings and energy alternatives are the last priority. Each respondent's score reached 55%, 23% and 22%. The results of the implementation of the program if implemented can reduce the impact of GWP 20079.17 kg CO2-eq and the impact of eutrophication can be reduced by 201.401 kg PO4-eq.mportant matters discussed in the paper that significantly contribute to the final result of the research may be noted here, but you have to consider, however, the limited space of the abstract.
Sustainability Analysis of Business Community Mentoring and Training Program to Increase the Business Scale of its Members
Authors: Gunawan Gunawan , Pratomo Luki Adiati
Published: August 2023

The SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) have 169 targets, 319 indicators, and 17 goals starting from 2015 to 2030. Of the 17 sustainable development goals, one of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) that has received the most attention to date is poverty. This is because all of the SDG’s goals are a form of encouragement and effort to achieve the target of "without poverty" in 2030. Through this research, it is hoped that one can understand the implementation of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) in Jakarta. SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) can be carried out through the Small Business Community. However, due to the lack of knowledge about global economic developments, assistance is needed. Therefore, the author wants to examine how Sustainability Analysis in the Business Community Program Increases Business Scale. This study used qualitative research methods, data collection was carried out using questionnaires, observation, and documentation. Data analysis techniques use percentages as a basis for interpretation and description to make research results. The results of the study show that the Hands Above business community (TDA Community), JackPreneur, and OKOCE City of Jakarta created mentoring programs to increase business scale. In carrying out the sustainability strategy achieved by MSMEs in Jakarta to maintain and increase business scale, namely in financial governance so that finances remain stable. Business actors carry out promotions in expanding the reach of their businesses so that they can be in demand by the wider community. Business people develop modern business models. The government also encourages business people to develop modern business models, by applying digital technology as a platform in the process of sustaining business community activities to support economic activities in a business continuity strategy.
Scope Management Analysis of Construction Work for Mix-Used Building Projects in the City of Jakarta
Authors: Hidayat Nanang , Simanjuntak Manlian R. A.
Published: August 2023

Planning the process of activities and work items in detail on the project is very important in construction work because it can affect the process of implementing project activities which starts from the bidding stage of a project. In this case, the construction service provider involved in a project is required to understand how the contents and conditions have been included in a construction project work contract so that they can identify the total number of construction work activities according to the scope of work. In this stud,y the method of analysis was used by taking references from several previous studies related to the management of the scope of construction work. Apart from the literature, data collection and interviews were also carried out with service providers, namely the main contractor for the ABC building construction project in the city of Jakarta. By using knowledge and experience for the implementation of project management, in terms of how the contractor can carry out the process of preparing the scope of construction work in detail. Therefore, information on the results of processed data from respondents who were directly involved in the implementation process of the ABC Building project was also obtained regarding the factors and variables that influence the drafting process to control the scope of construction work to help improve project completion performance. In this case, it produces data that it is known that there are 6 variables that have a strong influence on the preparation of the scope of construction work for the ABC Building project.
RELIABILITY, VALIDITY AND AGREEMENT OF THE THAI SELF-REPORTED FIBROMYALGIA SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE AMONG PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN
Authors: Wongthanavimok Nutta , Chewachutirungruang Chalermpong , Hathaiareerug Chanasak , Phongamwong Chanwit
Published: August 2023

Background: Fibromyalgia (FM) diagnosis is typically based on the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria, relying on patient-reported symptoms. The Thai self-reported Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire (FSQ) was developed based on the 2016 version of the ACR criteria set.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the internal consistency, convergent validity and agreement of the self-reported FSQ compared with the telephone interview of a physician among patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Methods: The Thai FSQ consisting of 25 questions: 19 for widespread pain index (WPI) and 6 for symptom severity scale (SSS), was developed by three Thai physiatrists. The fibromyalgia severity (FS) scale (the sum of WPI and SSS: 0-31) of 13 or more was used to diagnose fibromyalgia. All participants completed a self-reported paper research questionnaire in a private room. Then 24-48 hours later, participants underwent a telephone interview with the Thai FSQ. The internal consistency and convergent validity of the Thai self-reported FSQ were assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and Pearson’s correlation, respectively. The agreement between the Thai self-reported FSQ (FS scale ≥13) and the telephone interview using the 2016 ACR criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia was evaluated using Cohen’s kappa.

Results: Of 89 participants, the majority were females (66.3%) with a mean age of 53.5±15.9 years and had an educational level of bachelor’s degree or higher (79.7%). Cronbach’s alpha was 0.82, while the correlation between the FS scale and EQ-5D-5L utility was -0.48 (p <0.001). Cohen’s kappa for diagnosis agreement was 0.55 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The Thai self-reported FSQ exhibited good internal consistency and moderate construct validity. The diagnostic agreement of the Thai self-reported FSQ with the telephone interview was moderate. Although this questionnaire could be used as a screening tool, physicians would need to confirm the diagnosis of fibromyalgia.
Myth and Reality in Learning Vietnamese at a China’s Border University
Authors: Luo Mengyi , Lu Zhenyao
Published: August 2023

With the implementation of Belt and Road Initiative and the cooperation between China and non-Anglophone countries, less commonly taught foreign languages (LCTFL) have been valorized at many Chinese universities particularly at China’s border provinces. Adopting Spolsky’s language policy as a theoretical framework, this study examines language learning experiences of Vietnamese majors at a China’s border province. Based on a longitudinal ethnography between October 2022 and March 2023, data were collected from semi-structured interviews with Chinese undergraduates and postgraduates majoring in Vietnamese, classroom observation, field notes and relevant written documents. Findings show that learning Vietnamese language has been discursively promoted as potential for educational upward mobility and employment project at institutional level. However, a close examination of Vietnamese majors’ experiences indicates that there are a series of inconsistencies between what is discursively promoted and what is actually practiced. The ideological interplay of learning Vietnamese between institutional promises and individual practices has been unpacked in relation to social, economic and cultural factors. This study can shed lights on language policy and planning for creating a better understanding of learning and teaching LCTFL in China’s border provinces.
Global Englishes: Textbook Analysis and Teachers’ Perception
Authors: Chimmarak Ukrit , Prabjandee Denchai , Namfah Nattharmma
Published: August 2023

This study investigated the manifestation of Global Englishes features in three English textbooks commonly used in the lower secondary schools of eastern Thailand. It further explored whether the teachers who used the textbooks were aware of the Global Englishes features manifested in the textbooks. The data revealed that Global Englishes features were primarily taken for granted when designing the three English textbooks. In contrast to the Global Englishes paradigm, the three English textbooks mainly represented the target interlocutors, ownership of English, and norms of English from ‘native’ English-speaking (NES) countries. Even though attempts were made to include some diversity regarding the target interlocutors, it was unbalanced distribution. However, cultural content in reading materials is found to be diversely represented. When exploring teachers’ perceptions of Global Englishes in the textbooks, it was revealed that they lacked knowledge about Global Englishes. They were aware of cultural diversities in the readings but did not try to discuss them with the students since they perceived reading skills as more important than cultural content. Implications for teacher professional development are discussed.
English Instructors’ Use of Classroom Questions and Question Types in EFL Classrooms
Authors: Alghamdy Rashed Zannan
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to identify the degree to which English teachers apply classroom questioning skills from the point of view of English teachers in the Saudi context. I used a descriptive approach in this study and video recordings and questionnaires to collect data. The questionnaire consisted of three axes (skills for formulating classroom questions, skills for asking classroom questions, and skills dealing with students’ answers). The sample was 160 English teachers from intermediate government schools. Video cameras recorded English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers’ explanations and all the questions they asked in their classrooms. The study findings showed that most EFL teachers apply the various skills related to classroom questions. First, they use skills for dealing with student’s answers. Second, they use the skill of formulating classroom questions. Finally, they practice asking classroom questions. The findings further revealed that the majority of Saudi English teachers tend to use closed, lower-order, and display questions often in their classrooms. By contrast, the results showed that they seldom used higher-order, open-ended, and referential questions in EFL classrooms.
Exploring EFL University Teachers’ Technology Integration to Promote Thai EFL University Students’ Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Rungsawang Sathaphon , Pookcharoen Suphawat
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the study was to investigate EFL university teachers' lived experiences with technology integration in order to foster critical thinking skills among Thai EFL university students. To explore teachers’ experiences, a phenomenological qualitative research approach was implemented. There were 16 EFL university teachers who were purposefully selected to participate in the study because they could provide valuable experiences relating to utilizing technologies to foster critical thinking skills in English language classrooms. Phenomenological semi-structured interviews and class observations were used to elicit teachers' experiences. The field notes obtained from the class observations were organized, and the data derived from the interviews were transcribed. The significant statements relating to promoting critical thinking skills through the use of technology in English language instruction were highlighted, and those statements were clustered into different units of meanings or themes. The findings revealed that utilizing different technologies to conduct English language learning activities encouraged specific aspects of critical thinking skills, namely exploring additional information, sharing thoughts and perspectives, analyzing information, and giving reasons to strengthen opinions. Additionally, by integrating a range of technology, those aspects of critical thinking abilities were promoted in specific English language skills. Further findings of the study regarding problems and their solutions for implementing technologies to promote critical thinking skills in English classrooms were discussed later.
Robo Banking in India: Transforming the Future of Financial Services
Authors: Ramesh Dr. S.
Published: August 2023

Robo banking, a revolutionary technological advancement, has disrupted the traditional banking landscape in India. This article explores the concept of robo banking, its impact on the financial services industry, and its potential implications for customers and the banking sector. The study reviews existing literature on robo banking, its benefits, challenges, and regulatory framework. The discussion delves into how robo banking has improved customer experience, enhanced financial inclusion, and increased operational efficiency. The article concludes with an analysis of the future prospects of robo banking in India and its role in shaping the banking sector.
A Review on: Metaverse in Health Care and Pharma
Authors: Shetty Athmaja , Kulkarni Gururaj S , Babu SN Rakesh , Paarakh Padma M
Published: August 2023

The metaverse can be seen as the immersive follow-up to the text-and-picture-based Internet of today, where people stare at a screen, ignoring physical reality. The metaverse offers online experiences that are more immersive and engaging than those of the past, a seamless blending of the physical and digital worlds, by taking advantage of modern technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and ever-increasing connection (like 5G networks). The metaverse has the potential to influence healthcare because of the convergence of three current main technical trends. (a) telepresence, (b) digital twinning, and (c) blockchain. These three ideas could be used to provide whole new methods of providing treatment, potentially reducing costs, and significantly improving patient outcomes. Finally, while advancements in digital healthcare are to be commended for facilitating easier access to care for a larger spectrum of people, it is crucial to take into account the ethical issues that they raise.
Anti-Cancer of Leaves Extracts of Christ's thorn Jujube in Muthanna Province against Human Cervix Carcinoma Cells Line in Vitro
Authors: Khayoon Hussein Ali
Published: August 2023

Rhamnaceae plants have been demonstrated to have anticancer properties. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic potential of the leaves of the species from this family, Christ's thorn Jujube (C.T.J.), on cancer cell lines. The viability of HeLa cells (human cervix carcinoma cells) was significantly and concentration-dependently decreased by hexane and aqueous extracts of the leaves of Christ's thorn Jujube. The leaf extract from Christ's thorn Jujube was more effective than the other extracts in both cell lines. The results of this study suggest that Christ's thorn jujube is a promising candidate for further research into potential new cytotoxic agents.
Industry 4.0 for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing; Smart Factories for Future
Authors: SN Rakesh Babu , Kaur Surinder , Krishnababu Krishnagiri , R Yogaraj , Paarakh Padmaa M
Published: August 2023

The use of cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics in manufacturing processes is referred to as industry 4.0, also referred to as the fourth industrial revolution. Industry 4.0 has the potential to completely transform medication research, production, and supply chain activities in the pharmaceutical sector, resulting in more productivity, reduced prices, and better quality. Real-time monitoring of manufacturing processes and supply chain operations is made possible by the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. This can help identify potential problems and enhance decision-making. IoT devices can be used to monitor and improve equipment performance and anticipate maintenance requirements, resulting in less downtime and more productivity. Large data sets can be examined by advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms to spot patterns and abnormalities. Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms can also scan huge data sets to find trends and abnormalities, making it possible to discover quality problems more quickly and to comply with regulations. Faster medication development, more effective manufacturing techniques, and ultimately improved patient outcomes can result from this.
A Brief Introduction on Oro Dispersible Tablets
Authors: R Yogaraj , Kaur Surinder , Paarakh Padmaa M
Published: August 2023

Oro dispersible tablets (ODTs), which have improved solubility and stability over the past three decades, have drawn a lot of interest as a superior alternative to traditional tablets and capsules. ODTs—solid dosage forms with medications that dissolve on the tongue fast, usually in a few seconds. New ODT technologies answer a wide range of pharmaceutical preparations and patient needs, to enhance the lifecycle management to straightforward dosage regimen for dysphagic, children, old, and mentally imbalanced patients. Methods for administering orally dispersible drugs are frequently used to improve patient compliance and bioavailability. Researchers in academia and business have been motivated by this to create novel technologies and orally disintegrating formulations in this field. This article's main objective was to cover the development of ODTs, formulation concerns, novel oral dispersible technology, different types of methodology to evaluate, the selection of drug candidates, and novel possibilities in future.
The Combating Impact of Biogenic Silver Nano Particles and Antibiotics on Combating Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas
Authors: Almutairi Salem Rashed , Alshammeri Bander Shehail , aldakhili Anas sulaiman a
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to assess the synergistic effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in combination with different antibiotics against multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR P. aeruginosa) infections. A total of 120 surgical or burn wound samples were collected from a tertiary care hospital. The samples were cultured on cetrimide agar plates and then heated to 370 degrees Celsius. The isolates were identified based on colony shape, Gram's staining, and various biochemical tests. The antibiotic susceptibility profile was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique according to CLSI 2022 recommendations. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were also determined. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs was evaluated using the agar well diffusion technique and the microdilution method. The synergistic effect of antibiotics and AgNPs was assessed using the Checkerboard method. Out of the 120 samples, 46 (38.8%) were confirmed as positive for P. aeruginosa, and among them, 33 were identified as MDR P. aeruginosa. Seven representative isolates were selected for further analysis. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs showed a maximum zone of inhibition of 12mm at 4mg/ml and a minimum of 2.5mm at 1mg/ml using the agar well diffusion method. The MIC and MBC of AgNPs indicated that all isolates were inhibited at a concentration of 250mg/ml. The Checkerboard results revealed that colistin and gentamicin exhibited complete synergism with AgNPs, while ciprofloxacin showed partial synergism with AgNPs.
Pharmacological Properties of Lagenaria Siceraria
Authors: Bishnoi Hansraj , Sharma Dr. Hariom , Sharma Dr. Shailesh , Sharma Shailendra , Shreyasi Shreyasi
Published: August 2023

Lagenaria siceraria (LS), more commonly referred to as ‘bottle gourd’, is a type of vegetable that is widely cultivated and has several properties that have potential medical applications. The purpose of this review article is to provide a general summary of the pharmacological activities of L. siceraria that have been reported in a variety of investigations. The literature search was carried out by using a variety of databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, along with keywords that were pertinent to the topic. This paper provides a concise summary of what is currently known about the pharmacological capabilities of L. siceraria, including its anticonvulsant, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, antidiabetic, anticancer, and antimicrobial activity. This study alsomakes recommendations for the paths of future research. In conclusion, L. siceraria has shown a great deal of promise as a source of naturally occurring bioactive chemicals that have the potential to be exploited in the production of innovative pharmaceuticals as well as functional foods.