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The purpose of the study is to find out the obstacles faced by heads of departments and faculty members at Jordanian public universities in the implementation of vocational and technical education programs from their perspective, and to find out the effect of gender, experience, and academic rank on their perspective. To achieve the aim of the study a questionnaire was distributed among 70 heads of departments and faculty members (38 males and 32 females) from six public universities. The questionnaires were collected and data was analyzed statistically using suitable statistics. Results showed that there are statistically significant differences in the heads of departments and faculty members perspectives about the obstacles they faced in the implementation of vocational and technical education programs, it also showed that there are statistically significant differences at (a = 0.05) in the heads of departments and faculty members perspectives about the obstacles they faced in the implementation of vocational and technical education programs due to the gender variable, and there are statistically significant differences at (a = 0.05) in the heads of departments and faculty members perspectives due to experience variable and academic rank variable.

Background: the variations in a child's overall body shape and figure among different countries are attributable to differences in genetics, environmental factors, and the interaction between these elements. This study aims to evaluate the validity, reliability, and appropriateness of applying international growth standards to Jordanian children and adolescents aged 2–19 years old. Methods: 65,828 Jordanian children and adolescents (43% males; 57% females) aged 2–19 years old were selected from the Hakeem Program database and various private schools across Jordan. Height-for-age, weight-for-age, and body mass index (BMI)-for-age were analyzed comparatively for Jordanian children and adolescents against international growth standards. The z-score for each record was computed based on international equations. Results: Mean z-scores for height-for-age, weight-for-age, and BMI-for-age for both genders showed significant deviation from international standards across most age intervals. It was found that in most age groups, Jordanian children and adolescents were shorter and lighter than CDC and WHO standards, except for females at ages ≥ 16 years, who were heavier with higher BMI-for-age values than CDC standards based on weight-for-age and BMI-for-age equations. Moreover, Jordanian males at ages ≥ 12 years had lower BMI-for-age values than CDC standards. Conclusions: Jordanian children and adolescents showed significant deviations in their measurements from international standards and growth reference values. The development of a population-specific growth chart is highly recommended to enhance the accuracy of evaluating children's and adolescents' wellness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: First aid administered during road accidents can save millions of lives. However, the knowledge and attitudes of the Jordanian population towards first aid are lacking. This study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and barriers to performing first aid among the Jordanian population during road accidents. (2) Methods: An online questionnaire was developed and distributed using various Jordanian social media platforms. The questionnaire collected the participants' sociodemographic details and assessed their first aid knowledge, attitudes toward first aid, and barriers preventing the participants from performing first aid in emergencies. (3) Results: 732 participants participated in this study. The median knowledge score regarding first aid items was 9 (7–10) out of the maximum possible score of 15. The median first aid attitude score was 24 (22–27) out of a maximum possible score of 30. The most commonly reported barrier to performing first aid among the participants was "lack of first aid training" (76.78%), followed by "lack of knowledge about first aid" (75.81%) and "fear of performing first aid" (57.51%). The participants with lower income levels exhibited more negative attitudes towards first aid (4). Conclusions: This study underscores the urgent need for enhanced first aid training and awareness in Jordan. The participants' first-aid knowledge overall was limited, although positive attitudes toward first-aid delivery were observed. The findings emphasize the need for regular and structured first-aid training courses, addressing barriers such as fear and misinformation and ensuring accessibility across all socioeconomic levels to improve preparedness for road traffic accidents and other emergencies. This comprehensive approach can better equip the Jordanian population to effectively manage emergencies and improve public health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a critical need to understand vaccine decision-making in high-risk groups. This study explored flu vaccine acceptance among Jordanian parents of diabetic children. Employing a cross-sectional approach, 405 parents from multiple healthcare centers across Jordan were recruited through stratified sampling, ensuring a broad representation of socioeconomic backgrounds. A structured questionnaire, distributed both in-person and online, evaluated their knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of the flu vaccine for their diabetic children. The results indicated that only 6.4% of the study sample reported vaccinating their children against the flu annually, and only 23% are planning to vaccinate their children this year. A multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed notable variability in responses. Specifically, parents with a positive attitude towards the flu vaccine and those with older children had less odds to reject the vaccine (OR = 0.589, 95% CI (0.518–0.670), p < 0.001 and OR = 0.846, 95% CI (0.736–0.974), p = 0.02, respectively). Conversely, prevalent misconceptions regarding vaccine safety and efficacy emerged as significant barriers to acceptance. Our findings advocate for targeted educational programs that directly address and debunk these specific misconceptions. Additionally, strengthened healthcare communication to provide clear, consistent information about the flu vaccine's safety and benefits is vital to help enhance vaccine uptake among this vulnerable population, emphasizing the need to address specific concerns and misinformation directly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medical education and practice is a significant development. This study examined the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of health professions' students in Jordan concerning AI, providing insights into their preparedness and perceptions. Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed to 483 Jordanian health professions' students via social media. Demographic data, AI-related KAP, and barriers were collected. Quantile regression models analyzed associations between variables and KAP scores. Results: Moderate AI knowledge was observed among participants, with specific understanding of data requirements and barriers. Attitudes varied, combining skepticism about AI replacing human teachers with recognition of its value. While AI tools were used for specific tasks, broader integration in medical education and practice was limited. Barriers included lack of knowledge, access, time constraints, and curriculum gaps. Conclusions: This study highlights the need to enhance medical education with AI topics and address barriers. Students need to be better prepared for AI integration, in order to enable medical education to harness AI's potential for improved patient care and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intellectual disability etiology still poses a challenge to clinicians and families. Here we aimed to dissect the genes causing intellectual disability in local families from Jordan. We recruited nine trio families with unexplained intellectual disability, and utilized whole exome sequencing to identify causative genes/mutations. Out of nine families, we identified the candidate causative genes in four (44% detection rate). Novel and known mutations were identified in KCNB1, PPP1R3F, SYNGAP1, and SHANK2. Mutations in KCNB1, SYNGAP1, and SHANK2were de novo, while PPP1R3F mutation was X-linked inherited from the mother. With a highly inbred population, it was unexpected to find the majority of our mutations to be de novo representing autosomal dominant inheritance as the major pattern for our sample of unexplained intellectual disability. Our data confirm previous data that de novo mutations in autosomal dominantly expressed genes represent the major cause of unexplained intellectual disability, even in highly inbred populations that usually shows enrichment of mutations in genes with autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Continuing professional development and continuing education are important components of professional practice for pharmacists. Mandatory continuing professional development requirements have been introduced in several countries, including Jordan. However, information on the uptake of continuing professional development is lacking, particularly in the Jordanian context. Objective: This study's principal aim was to investigate community pharmacists' views of continuing professional development and to explore pharmacists' perceptions of the most common facilitators and barriers to participation in continuing education. Methods: A series of seven focus group sessions were undertaken with groups of four to seven community pharmacists. Focus group transcripts were thematically analyzed using a qualitative data analysis method. Results: The study included 34 pharmacists out of 95 who received invitation letters. Four key themes were identified: (1) community pharmacists' attitudes toward continuing professional development; (2) perceived motivating factors for continuing professional development; (3) experienced barriers to continuing professional development; (4) and potential strategies for improving pharmacists' continuing professional development. In terms of attitudes, participants generally understood the concept of continuing professional development. Motivating factors were mainly attributed to personal, work-related, and service provision-related factors. However, experienced barriers that could prevent community pharmacists from participating in continuing professional development despite their motivation were: barriers pertaining to workload, barriers pertaining to pharmacists, and barriers related to lack of resources. Conclusion: Practicing pharmacists need support now, and changes to undergraduate education are warranted to keep abreast of current developments and changes to practice. Despite limitations, the distinctive nature of this study would have a valuable contribution to the field of professional development. It can inform theory, policy, and practice relating to pharmacists' continuing professional development at both a professional level and governmentally, helping the relevant parties make informed decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Service learning methodologies provide students of information systems with the opportunity to create and implement systems in real-world, public service-oriented social contexts. This paper presents a case study which involves integrating a service learning project into an undergraduate Computer Information Systems course entitled "Information Systems'' for the first time at the Hashemite University in Jordan. The project requires students to visit local non-profit and government agencies to learn about and to provide needed information systems services and solutions that are closely related to the specific course topics they have come across during their lectures. Students are required to brainstorm and suggest innovative ideas and to provide the information systems services and solutions required based on tips and hints provided by the instructor and specialized consultants in the field. In these activities, students actively evaluate and analyze the complex contributors associated with understanding problem domains, as well as designing and implementing real-world solutions. A student's achievement in this project is evaluated by their academic supervisor, their community partners, and the student's own reflections on their experience. This paper presents qualitative analysis of integrating service learning and civic engagement in this course, and highlights benefits, challenges, and recommendations for future implementation.

Objective: To describe oral healthcare services administered during the lockdown in the Eastern Mediterranean region and to investigate the role of socio-professional characteristics of dental practitioners or their self-reported COVID-19 infection.Material and Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to dental practitioners in all healthcare sectors in Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Results: There was a total of 335 participants, with the majority being females (N=225, 67.2%) and general practitioners (N=202, 60.3%). Cellulitis was the most common emergency encountered (N=108). The most common urgent procedures were for pulpitis, abscesses, and pericoronitis (N=191, 130, and 95, respectively). Country-specific significant associations were pulpitis in Egypt and Jordan, broken symptomatic teeth in Jordan, and biopsy in Egypt (p<0.05). The Ministry of Health was significantly associated with the management of dental infections, avulsion, and orthodontic emergencies, while university hospitals were significantly associated with advanced restorative procedures (p<0.05). Male practitioners performed significantly more procedures, particularly surgical emergencies (p<0.05). Conclusion: Dental infections were the most common complaints among dental patients during lockdown. Country- and sector-specific dental procedures are detected. Male gender seems to play a determinant role in performing a higher number of procedures, particularly for surgical emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Service learning methodologies provide information systems students with the opportunity to create and implement systems in real-world, public service-oriented social contexts. This paper presents a case study of integrating a service learning project into an undergraduate Computer Information Systems course titled "Information Systems" for the first time at the Hashemite University in Jordan. The project requires students to visit local non-profit and government agencies to learn about and to provide needed information systems services and solutions that are closely related to the specific course topics that they have come across during their course lectures. Students are required to brainstorm and suggest innovative ideas and to provide needed information systems services and solution based on tips and hints provided by the instructor and specialized consultants in the field. In these activities, students actively evaluate and analyze the complex contributors associated with understanding problem domains as well as design and implement real-world solutions. Student's achievement in this project is evaluated through their academic supervisor, their community partners, and student's reflection on their experience. This paper presents qualitative analysis of integrating service learning and civic engagement in this course, and highlights benefits, challenges, and recommendations for future implementation.

Background: Burnout is a serious issue that affects physicians more than the general population; however, those with higher levels of grit and resilience have been shown to experience lower levels of burnout. The primary aim was to determine the prevalence of burnout among Jordanian orthopedic surgeons, explore its risk factors, and investigate the relationship between burnout and grit and resilience. Methods: We conducted a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study targeting a total of 180 orthopedic surgeons attending the yearly Jordanian National Orthopedic Conference (JNOC). Non-random sampling (i.e., convenience) was utilized to recruit participants. The abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory, short grit scale, and Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale were used. Scores were examined using the Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H, and Spearman's rho tests, of which results were corrected using the Bonferroni method. Results: Among 135 respondents, 62.2% were specialists and 37.8% were residents. About 52.0% practiced in public hospitals. Approximately 69.0% worked for more than 50 h weekly. The prevalence of burnout among all participants was 45.2% with more frequency among residents (66.7%). Burnout and the participants' grit and resilience showed an inverse relationship (ρ = -0.441 and ρ = -0.312, respectively). Age (ρ = 0.337), number of children (ρ = 0.245), and years of experience (ρ = 0.331) were positively correlated with grit. The median score for grit was higher in physicians who had or are having their residency outside Jordan (p < 0.001). Age (ρ = 0.233) and years of experience (ρ = 0.269) were positively correlated with resilience. Conclusion: Jordanian orthopedic surgeons face significant rates of burnout. Institutional efforts should be taken to detect and prevent burnout in addition to enhancing the grit and resilience among orthopedic professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demotivation is a topic that has lately received a lot of attention in the field of language acquisition. There is a shortage of research in Jordan that investigates demotivating variables impacting learning English among Jordanian undergraduate students. As a result, the purpose of this research is to look at the elements that influence Jordanian undergraduate students' acquisition of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). The data was collected using a questionnaire adapted from Sakai and Kikuchi (2009). The survey comprised 35 questions on a five Point likert scale about six demotivation factors: class characteristics, teacher attitude, course contents and teaching materials, effects of poor grades, classroom atmosphere, and lack of self)confidence and interest. This study's sample included 110 undergraduate students from the faculty of arts at Zarqa University in Jordan. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The data showed that classroom environment is the most demotivating elements impacting Jordanian undergraduate students' EFL learning, while lack of self-confidence and interest were the least demotivating factors. As a result, further research into this topic is strongly suggested in order to acquire a better knowledge and deeper insights into this issue in order to aid ESL/EFL learners in learning English. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnant women are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms. Therefore, booster dose against COVID-19 was recommended for this special population in Jordan. However, vaccine hesitancy/refusal remains the main obstacle to providing immunity against the spread of COVID-19. Thus, the aim of this study is to examine the intention of pregnant/planning to get pregnant and lactating women towards receiving a booster dose against COVID-19 and its associated factors. A questionnaire was given to Jordanian pregnant/planning to get pregnant and lactating females. A total of 695 females were enrolled in the study. Older age, having a chronic disease, high education, high income, and high perceived risk of COVID-19 were significantly associated with higher knowledge about COVID-19. High perceived risk of COVID-19 was significantly associated with better practice. Participants who anticipated they might contract COVID-19 in the next six months, had high perceived risk of COVID-19, had high knowledge, had received the COVID-19 vaccine based on conviction, and smokers had higher intention to receive a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccination. In order to increase pregnant and lactating women's intention to receive a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, public health organizations should consider developing comprehensive health education campaigns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reliable and rigorously collected sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (SRMNCAH) data in humanitarian settings is often sparse and variable in quality across different humanitarian settings. To address this gap in data quality, the World Health Organization (WHO) developed a core set of indicators for monitoring and evaluating SRMNCAH services and outcomes in humanitarian settings, and assessed their feasibility in the field in Jordan, in addition to three other countries; with the goal of aggregating information from global consultations and field-level assessments to reach consensus on a set of core SRMNCAH indicators for services and outcome evaluation in humanitarian settings among WHO global partners. Methods: The feasibility assessment in Jordan focused on the following constructs: relevance/usefulness, feasibility of measurement, systems and resources, and ethical issues. The multi-methods assessment included five components; a desk review, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, facility assessments, and observational sessions. Results: Findings suggest that there is widespread support among regional, national, as well as global stakeholders for developing a core list of SRMNCAH indicators for monitoring and evaluation of services and outcomes in humanitarian settings in Jordan. There are numerous resources and data collection systems that could be leveraged, built upon, and improved to ensure the feasibility of collecting this proposed set of indicators. However, the data collection load requested from donors, the national government, international and UN agencies, coordination/cluster systems must be better harmonized, standardized, and less burdensome. Conclusions: Despite stakeholder support in developing a core set of indicators, this would only be useful if it has the buy-in from the international community. Greater harmonization and coordination, alongside increased resource allocation, would improve data collection efforts and allow stakeholders to meet indicators' reporting requirements. Plain English summary: In humanitarian settings, data collection is often unreliable and not standardized – especially with regards to sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (SRMNCAH). In order to address this gap in data quality, the World Health Organization proposed a list of core indicators to four countries, including Jordan. The goal was to use the findings from the Jordanian context to contribute to the determination of a core set of indicators, and accumulate a list of necessary policy, funding, infrastructure, capacity and training that will be required. This study had two components: a feasibility assessment and a multi-methods assessment. The feasibility assessment in Jordan focused on the relevance of the proposed indicators, the feasibility of measurement, the resources in place, and ethical issues. The multi-methods assessment included a desk review, interviews with key informants and focus groups, and facility assessments (including observational sessions). The findings showed that partners in Jordan supported developing a standard set of SRMCAH indicators that can be used among all humanitarian partners in the country. There are a number of systems in place that could be used or strengthened to improve data collection. However, the findings also showed that there must be better collaboration and coordination between the different partners in Jordan, as well as increased resources, to alleviate burden on front-line staff, starting with standardizing and strengthening Jordan's health information system (HIS). In conclusion, though there is a desire to harmonize indicators, more input and resources are needed from the international community to aid in the standardization of data collection in order to meet local reporting requirements and ease burden on local staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are high-prevalence health problems among Syrian refugees. In 2014, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) identified unmet NCD care needs and began providing free-of-charge services for Syrian refugees in Irbid, Jordan. This study aimed to describe current socioeconomic and medical vulnerabilities among MSF Irbid Syrian refugee patients and their households and raise awareness of their ongoing health needs that must be addressed. A cross-sectional survey among Syrian refugees attending MSF NCD services in Irbid Governorate, Jordan was conducted by telephone interviews in January 2021 to query sociodemographic characteristics, economic situation, self-reported NCD prevalence, and Ministry of Health (MoH) policy awareness. Descriptive analysis of indicators included proportions or means presented with 95% confidence intervals. The survey included 350 patient-participants in 350 households and 2157 household members. Mean age was 28.3 years. Only 13.5% of household members had paid or self-employed work; 44% of households had no working members. Mean monthly income was 258.3 JOD (95%CI: 243.5–273.1) per household. Mean expenditures were 320.0 JOD (95%CI: 305.1–334.9). Debt was reported by 93% of households. NCD prevalence among adults was 42% (95%CI: 40–45). Hypertension was most prevalent (31.1%, 95%CI: 28.7–33.7), followed by diabetes (21.8%, 95%CI: 19.7–24.1) and cardiovascular diseases (14.4%, 95%CI: 12.6–16.4). Only 23% of interviewees were aware of subsidized MoH rates for NCD care. Twenty-nine percent stated they will not seek MoH care, mainly due to the unaffordable price. Our findings highlight increased vulnerability among MSF Irbid Syrian refugee NCD patients and their households, including: an older population; a high percentage of unemployment and reliance on cash assistance; higher proportion of households in debt and a high number of households having to resort to extreme coping mechanisms when facing a health emergency; and a higher proportion of people with multiple comorbid NCDs and physical disability. Their awareness of subsidised MoH care was low. MoH care is expected to be unaffordable for many. These people are at increased risk of morbidity and mortality. It is vital that health actors providing care for Syrian refugees take action to reduce their risk, including implementing financial support mechanisms and free healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Venous thromboembolism is one of the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide. Treatment with anticoagulation therapy is essential and requires a delicate approach to select the most appropriate option to improve patient outcomes, including the length of hospital stay (LOS). The aim of this study was to determine the LOS among patients with acute onset of VTE in several public hospitals in Jordan. Materials and Methods: In this study, we recruited hospitalized patients with a confirmed diagnosis of VTE. We reviewed the electronic medical records and charts of VTE admitted patients in addition to a detailed survey to collect the patients' self-reported data. Hospital LOS was categorized into three levels: 1–3 days, 4–6 days, and ≥7 days. An ordered logistic regression model was used to study the significant predictors of LOS. Results: A total of 317 VTE patients were recruited, with 52.4% of them were male and 35.3% aged between 50 and 69 years. Most patients had a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis (84.2%), and most of the VTE cases were admitted for the first-time (64.6%). The majority of the patients were smokers (57.2%), overweight/obese (66.3%), and hypertensive (59%). Most of the VTE patients received Warfarin overlapped with low molecular weight heparins as their treatment regimen (>70%). Almost half of the admitted VTE patients (45%) were hospitalized for at least 7 days. Longer LOS was significantly associated with hypertension. Conclusions: We recommend using therapies that have been proven to reduce hospital LOS, such as non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants or direct oral anticoagulants, to treat VTE patients in Jordan. Additionally, preventing and controlling comorbidities such as hypertension is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is a debilitating multi-perceptual condition afflicting many individuals, especially individuals in the medical profession. OBJECTIVE: To analyze and evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain among medical students at Jordanian universities during the complete virtual learning process. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 593 medical students at two Jordanian universities was conducted. A modified Nordic questionnaire was used to assess musculoskeletal pain in three body regions. RESULTS: Five hundred ninety-three students at the two Jordanian universities participated in this study. The prevalence of having MSK pain during the past week in the neck, shoulder, and lower back was 34.6%, 27%, and 41%, respectively; during the past 12 months, it was 61.2%, 45.5%, and 63.1%, respectively. Overall prevalence of having MSK pain was 58.9% in the last week and 78.1% in the past 12 months. 66.8% of students who had psychosomatic symptoms and 62.3% of those with depressive symptoms in the past week had MSK pain. Students who studied 8 hours per day had higher percentages of MSK pain (68.4%) (OR 1.12, 95% CI 0.965–1.312). The average number of hours using a computer per day was significantly associated with MSK pain (p = 0.032). MSK pain during the last week was significantly associated with psychosomatic symptoms (OR 1.842, 95% CI 1.272–2.668, p = 0.001). Family history of MSK pain was significantly related to the presence of the problem in participants (OR 1.732, 95% CI 1.182–2.538, p = 0.005). Gender, depressive symptoms, average hours of computer use per day, and average hours of study at home per day did not show significant relationships with MSK pain over the year. CONCLUSIONS: High prevalence of MSK pain was observed among medical students. Measures to balance in-person and virtual learning should be considered in medical schools to minimize the risk of MSK pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the incidence, predictors, mortality, and economic outcomes of recurrent Acute kidney injury (AKI) in Jordan. This was a retrospective cohort study that included adult patients who were admitted with AKI to university hospitals in the country from 2010–2019. Recurrent episodes of AKI, laboratory data, baseline medication list, and death dates were retrieved from patient's medical records. The incidence rate of recurrent AKI was estimated. Predictors of recurrent AKI and mortality during the five years post-discharge was evaluated. Total admission charges were described and evaluated in total and by service provided. Among 1162 AKI patients, 57 patients (4.9%) died during the index admission (first admission during the study period), and among the survivors, 220 patients were re-hospitalized with a recurrent AKI during five years of follow-up. Patients with higher discharge serum creatinine level (SCr) at index admission had higher odds of AKI recurrence (OR = 1.001). Patients who were on respiratory, antineoplastic, or anticoagulant medications were also more susceptible to recurrence; ORs were 1.69, 2.77, and 4.16, respectively. Patients who were elderly, with recurrent AKI episodes, or with a more extended hospital stay at index admission were more likely to die during the five years post discharge. The median charge of recurrent admissions was higher than the median charge of the index admissions; 1519.17 JOD ($2142.7) versus 1362.85 JOD ($1922.2), respectively. Recurrent AKI is associated with increased mortality and health expenditures. Higher discharge SCr levels at index admission, and chronic comorbidities are associated with a higher likelihood of AKI recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus invaded the world in late 2019. It includes many subtypes, majorly severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Jordan has faced enormous hardships in dealing with the abrupt spread of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Jordan has taken severe and deterring measures to combat the disease's spread, such as closing Jordanian schools and institutions. Medical imaging professionals (MIPs) play a vital role in corona patients' diagnosis, management, and treatment planning, and their awareness is essential to understand. This study focuses on medical imaging professionals (MIPs) and their aid in COVID-19 planning. The knowledge and perception of the COVID-19 pandemic were assessed using a live cross-sectional survey conducted during the outbreak. Medical imaging professionals and trainees in private, military, and government hospitals provided data. Regarding the diagnosis of COVID-19, the researchers have found that molecular biology techniques are the first line of defence, whereas nasopharyngeal swabs and the polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) are also prevalent among medical professionals for COVID-19 testing. Overall, medical imaging experts and interns in Jordan exhibited expected levels of knowledge and perception. They advised following the CDC and WHO guidelines in their healthcare settings to offer an acceptable approach during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT162b2), Oxford-AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19), Sinopharm (BBIBP-CorV), and Sputnik V coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have been granted emergency approval in many nations, their safety has never been studied and compared in one community-based study. This study aimed to investigate and compare the incidence, nature, severity, and predictors of adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) with COVID-19 vaccines. Method: This was a prospective observational study conducted in Jordan between 1 January and 21 September 2021. A team of pharmacists and nurses (n = 407) collected the local and systemic AEFIs of four COVID-19 vaccines by prospectively contacting participants registered in the national vaccination program platform. A red-flag technology was inserted to classify and track rare and serious AEFIs. Results: This study included 658,428 participants who were vaccinated with 1,032,430 doses; 610,591, 279,606, 140,843, and 1390 participants received the first and second doses of the BNT162b2, BBIBP-CorV, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, and Sputnik V vaccines, respectively. The overall incidence of AEFIs was 28.8%, and the overall rates of systemic, local, and immediate hypersensitivity AEFIs were 22.2%, 18.8%, and 0.5%, respectively. The highest proportions of immediate hypersensitivity AEFIs and systemic AEFIs were reported after administration of the Sputnik V vaccine and ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 first dose, respectively. The most severe AEFIs were reported after ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 first dose and BNT162b2 second dose. The hospitalization and mortality rates after vaccination were 20 in 10,000 and 1 in 10,000, respectively. Based on red-flag tracking, the top three outcome events were lymphadenopathy (157.9/100,000), anxiety disorders (136.6/100,000), and lower respiratory tract infection (100.9/100,000), with Guillain-Barré syndrome (1.8/100,000), vasculitis (3.0/100,000), and myopericarditis (4.8/100,000) being the least common. Conclusion: The incidence rates of local, systemic, and immediate hypersensitivity AEFIs of four COVID-19 vaccines occur frequently. High incidence rates of rare and serious AEFIs were reported in this study. Younger participants, females, those who had previously had COVID-19, and smokers were more likely to encounter AEFIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

aim,6 Ali A Al-Omari,6 Ihab Alaqrabawi,2 Mohammad N Alswerki,2 Abdelrahman Abuawad,2 Mohammad R Al Nawaiseh,2 Yazan Hammad,7 Jihad Al-Ajlouni21Department of Special Surgery, Division of Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, Mutah ‎University, Al Karak, Jordan‎; 2Department of Special Surgery, Division of Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, The University of ‎Jordan, Amman, Jordan‎; 3Faculty of Medicine, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza, Palestine‎; 4Ministry of Health, Amman, Jordan; 5Department of General and Specialized Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan; 6Department of Special Surgery, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, King Abdullah University Hospital, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan; 7Orthopedic Department, North Middlesex University Hospital, London, UKCorrespondence: Mohammed S Alisi, Division of Orthopaedics, Department of Special Surgery, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Queen Rania Al Abdullah St 266, Al Jubaiha, Amman, 11942, Jordan, Tel +962 790983284, Email [email protected] Background: Elderly hip fractures represent a global health care burden. Several reports expected a massive increase in the incidence of hip fractures by the next few decades. Knowing the epidemiology of hip fractures is crucial for planning health care policies. The purpose of this study is to provide a nationwide epidemiological overview of hip ‎fractures in Jordan and to report the perioperative outcomes that may help to improve the delivered healthcare. ‎. Methods: We conducted ‎ a retrospective study at 2 university hospitals and 2 major ‎governmental hospitals in Jordan.‎ We reviewed the records for all patients (age > 55 years) who were diagnosed with hip fractures ‎over a 3 years duration (2019– 2021). ‎We documented the patient's characteristics and the perioperative data (including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative details including the 1-year mortality).‎ Results: The total number of included patients was 1268; more than half (53.7%) were females.‎ The mean age is ‎ 75 years (SD 9.7). ‎ The most common fracture type was trochanteric (66.2%)‎. ‎ 7% of patients had a prior contralateral hip fracture‎. The average time from admission to surgery was 2.96 days (SD 2.63). The surgery was done within 48 ‎hours for ‎ 56.7%‎ of patients.‎ Approximately, one-third of all patients (34.5%) received a blood transfusion.‎ The average length of hospital stay is 7.44 days (SD 5). The overall rate of postoperative thromboembolic events, readmission within 1 month, and revision ‎for the same surgery are 2.4%‎, 10.7%‎, and 3% respectively.‎ The 1-month, 6-month, and 12-month mortality rates are 4.5%, 9.1%, and 12.8% respectively. Conclusion: The annual incidence of elderly hip fractures in Jordan is approximately 96 per 100,000 individuals. The 1-year mortality rate of hip fractures in Jordan ‎is ‎ 12.8%‎.‎ Both findings are ‎in the lower range of nearby Arab countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the quality of pharmaceutical experiential training by developing an experiential training survey. Methods: An online survey was placed on E-learning platforms in Jordan and UK to develop a validated instrument that can assess pharmacy students' perceptions of the experiential program implemented in their curricula. Results: A total of 377 students from Jordan (250 students) and the UK (127 students) completed the survey. Principal component analysis was used to conduct exploratory factor analysis and to assess the factor structure for the data. A two-factor model was applied to the data obtained from the students. These factors included students' feelings toward experiential training (Perceiver Feelings; PF) and their ability to conduct a full Pharmaceutical Care Plan (PCP). Students from both Jordan and the UK showed a higher satisfaction PF score toward the experiential training program compared to PCP. Being female and not having prior practice experience led to significantly lower PCP scores compared to males and having a prior practice experience, respectively. Conclusion: The availability of a validated questionnaire will help in investigating the effectiveness of experiential training courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mercurialis annua has been traditionally used by native people for its diuretic, laxative, antiemetic and antioxidant activity in addition to its usefulness in the treatment of warts, eye problems and microbial infections. Aim: The goal of this work is to study the different extracts of aerial parts of Mercurialis annua collected from the Jordan territories and test them for possible antioxidant, cytotoxic and antiangiogenic activities. Materials and Methods: One kilogram of the dried powdered aerial parts of M. annua, was extracted by maceration with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol (96%), respectively. Flavonoids were detected and identified by UV spectrophotometer, TLC, NMR, Mass, and melting point in comparison with the standard. The brine-Shrimp cytotoxicity/Lethality test was performed to measure the LC50 for all M. annua extracts, using Colchicine and chloroform as positive control and negative control, respectively. Both the ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate extract of M. annua were tested for DPPH radical scavenging activity (antioxidant activity). The ethanol extract was evaluated for possible antiproliferative activities against human leukemia (K562), breast cancer (MCF-7), cervical cancer (Hela), lung cancer (A562), and fibroblast cell lines. All the three extracts from M. annua were also evaluated for possible antiangiogenic activity using the ex vivo Rat Aortic assay. Results: The ethanolic extract has shown mild cytotoxic activity, especially on the MCF-7 breast cell lines as compared to ethyl acetate and hexane extract. In addition, the ethanolic extract resulted in the highest radical scavenging activity (61.3% inhibition), while all extracts have shown negligible antiangiogenic activities. Conclusion: The study shows that the ethanolic extract of Mercurialis annua from Jordan could serve as a possible source for developing anticancer and antioxidant drugs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To investigate the cost to charge ratios (CCRs) and understand the costs of procedures, laboratory tests and imaging in the public health sector in Jordan.. Methods CCRs were estimated using published public data and data obtained from the financial departments of the three main public health programs in Jordan including the Ministry of Health, Military Royal Medical Services , and university affiliated hospitals. CCR was estimated by dividing the total cost by total charges (CCR = Total Hospital [or Cost Centre] Cost/Total Hospital [or Cost Centre] Charges) for the fiscal year 2016–2017. The charges master lists of procedures, diagnostics, and lab services were analyzed. Costs of most performed procedures, diagnostics and lab services were estimated using CCR approach. The cost of service equaled the billing charge (unit price) multiplied by the overall CCR of a provider. Key findings CCRs for the Ministry of Health ranged between 1.09 and 2.3 and expenditures approximately overweight charges two times. CCRs ranged between 0.31–0.89 for the Military Royal Medical Services and ranged between 0.34–0.79 for university-affiliated hospitals. Costs for 187 of the most performed procedures, diagnostics and lab tests were estimated. Conclusions CCR methodology is considered uncomplex in practice and useful to approximate costs from charges. The cost to charge of MoH was too high reflecting the highly subsidized health services offered by MoH facilities. Sustaining health service delivery and quality might be unwarranted. Master charge lists are old dated and not calibrated annually. There is no evidence based records on how these been estimated. Investing in cost data collection and analysis is demanded to enhance healthcare management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a public health emergency of international concern. This pandemic poses a challenge to research and scientific community. In this study, we developed and tested content reliability and content validity of a questionnaire designed for evaluating the readiness and willingness of researchers to participate in virology research in Jordan. The survey was hosted on an online platform, and the link was emailed. A total of 332 participants from universities across Jordan completed the survey. For factor analysis, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin value (KMO) and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity were conducted. Furthermore, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with parallel analysis and scree plots were conducted to evaluate the most suitable model for the data. The result of the EFA suggested a 5-factor model would fit the survey. Data showed that the lowest means were for researchers' readiness to conduct virology research and readiness for virology research with means of 2.07 and 2.95, respectively. Moreover, years of experience and speciality had a significant effect on the readiness and willingness of virology research in Jordan. In conclusion, readiness for research and researchers should be addressed and authorities should pay attention to these shortcomings in virology research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three simple approaches to forecast the COVID-19 epidemic in Jordan were previously proposed by Hussein, et al.: a short-term forecast (STF) based on a linear forecast model with a learning database on the reported cases in the previous 5–40 days, a long-term forecast (LTF) based on a mathematical formula that describes the COVID-19 pandemic situation, and a hybrid forecast (HF), which merges the STF and the LTF models. With the emergence of the OMICRON variant, the LTF failed to forecast the pandemic due to vital reasons related to the infection rate and the speed of the OMICRON variant, which is faster than the previous variants. However, the STF remained suitable for the sudden changes in epi curves because these simple models learn for the previous data of reported cases. In this study, we revisited these models by introducing a simple modification for the LTF and the HF model in order to better forecast the COVID-19 pandemic by considering the OMICRON variant. As another approach, we also tested a time-delay neural network (TDNN) to model the dataset. Interestingly, the new modification was to reuse the same function previously used in the LTF model after changing some parameters related to shift and time-lag. Surprisingly, the mathematical function type was still valid, suggesting this is the best one to be used for such pandemic situations of the same virus family. The TDNN was data-driven, and it was robust and successful in capturing the sudden change in +qPCR cases before and after of emergence of the OMICRON variant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) vaccines are critical for containing serious infections. However, as COVID-19 evolves toward more transmissible varieties and serum antibody levels in vaccinated persons steadily decline over time, the likelihood of breakthrough infections increases. This is a cross-sectional study based on an online questionnaire for Jordanian adults (n = 915) to determine how individuals who have finished the current vaccination regimen feel about a prospective COVID-19 booster shot and what factors might influence their decision. Almost half of the participants (44.6%) intended to get the booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The most frequently mentioned reasons for participants' reluctance to get the COVID-19 vaccine booster dose were "The benefits of booster dose have not been scientifically proven" (39.8%), followed by "I took the last dose a short time ago, and there will be no need to take the booster dose for at least a year" (24.6%). In turn, "I was infected with COVID-19; thus, I do not require the booster dose" was the least reported reason (13.1%). These findings highlight the considerable hesitancy toward COVID-19 booster immunization among Jordanians, as well as the variables associated with vaccine hesitancy and the most frequently mentioned reasons for hesitancy, which will aid in creating excellent campaigns regarding booster doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore gender differences on career satisfaction among oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMFS) and to compare their views on female gender representation in leadership and mentorship positions. A questionnaire was distributed among a sample of female and male OMFS surgeons in Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Data were statistically analyzed to calculate significant differences between gender groups. A total of 110 (70 males and 40 females) or (18.7%) of a total of 587 (OMFS) surgeons in the three countries participated. Respondents had a mean age of: 39.2 ± 9.0 years (range = 25–60 years). Significantly more males (60) than females (24) indicated satisfaction with their careers (P = 0.008), and significantly more males (66) than females (23) thought that OMFS is the right specialty for them (P < 0.001). Also significantly more males (31) than females (9) indicated OMFS should be solely practiced by males (P = 0.025). On the other hand, significantly more females (20) than males (7) thought that females possess certain qualities that make them more suitable for OMFS (P < 0.001); and more females (27) than males (32) believed that females are under-represented in OMFS (P = 0.031). Significantly more females (25) than males (27) believed that female OMFS surgeons tend to be single or to get divorced (P = 0.018). Males and females were in agreement that females are under-represented in leadership and mentorship positions (P = 0.561). Females OMFS surgeons are less satisfied with their career than their male peers. It seems that female surgeons are under-represented in the profession especially as leaders and mentors. Socially, more female OMFS surgeons than males tend to be single and this may be correlated with the surgical career. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the management of requests for information about a prescription only medicine (simvastatin for treatment of dyslipidemia) by pharmacy staff in community settings and explore the factors influencing the information content. Methods: A cross sectional study conducted using the stimulated patient (SP) method between November 2018 and May 2019. The SP conveyed the request at the beginning of the encounter in a standardized way based on predetermined plots and was instructed to ask the pharmacy staff directly if information was not discussed spontaneously. After the visit, the SP provided written feedback including information about the scenario and a copy of individualized feedback. The study was reported according to the checklist for reporting research using simulated patient methodology (CRiSP). Factors influencing information content with or without information demand were investigated. Results: A total of 55 visits were analyzed. The average content score for the information discussed spontaneously was 16.2% with the standard deviation (SD) equal to15.6. The score improved significantly after information was demanded by the SP; the average total information content score became 34.4% (SD = 16) with p < 0.001. The score of information discussed spontaneously was higher for male pharmacy staff, older age, more experience, and a Pharm D degree. When the SP prompted or demanded for information, older pharmacy staff with more experience and with a college degree scored higher. Independent pharmacies, longer visit durations, and less distraction were associated significantly with higher information scores Pharmacy staff aged 35–39 and those with 6–10 years of experience were significant contributors to spontaneous discussion of information with p values = 0.003 and 0.013, respectively. After the SP demanded information, pharmacy staff with less than 5 years of experience and greater confidence as well as longer visits were positively predicting higher information scores with p values of 0.049, 0.04, and 0.04, respectively. Conclusions: Information provided by community pharmacists responding to information requests about prescription only medications was found to be suboptimal. Patient requests for information were found to be a positive driver for better information content. Further research of mixed methodologies is required to clarify the factors and motivators enabling information exchange in community settings and to outline true training needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Public providers in Jordan are facing increasing health demands due to human crises. This study aimed to benchmark the unit costs of hospital services in public providers in Jordan to provide insights into the outlook for public health care costs. Methods: The unit costs of hospital services per admission, inpatient days, outpatient visits, emergency visits and surgical operations were estimated using the standard average costing method (top-down) for the fiscal year 2018–2019. The unit costs per inpatient day were estimated for nine specialities and staff in Jordanian dinars (exchange rate JOD 1 = USD 1.41). Results: The average unit cost per admission in Jordan was JOD 782.300 (USD 1101.80), the per inpatient day cost was JOD 236.600 (USD 333.20), the per bed day cost was JOD 172.900 (USD 244.90), the per outpatient visit cost was JOD 58.400 (USD 82.30), the per operation cost was JOD 449.600 (USD 633.20) and the per emergency room visit cost was JOD 31.800 (USD 44.80). The specialities of ICU/CCU and OB/GYN presented the highest unit costs per inpatient day across providers: JOD 377.800 (USD 532.90) and JOD 362.600 (USD 510.70), respectively. The average salaried unit cost of staff depended mainly on year of employment. Nonetheless, the unit costs varied depending on the service utilization, type of service and organizational outlet. Conclusions: Knowledge of how unit costs vary across public providers in Jordan is essential to outline cost control strategies and inform future research. Institutionalization of the cost information system and high-level governmental support are necessary to generate a routine practice of collecting and sharing cost information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Outbreaks and containment measures implemented to control them can increase stress in affected populations. The impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak on perceived stress levels in the Jordanian population is unknown. The aim of the study was to determine the perceived stress level and factors associated with it in the Jordanian population during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: Required data, such as those from the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and possible predictors of perceived stress, were collected through a Web-based survey. Statistical analysis was conducted through SPSS. Results: The mean (SD) of perceived stress score was 19.8 (6.7). Regression analysis revealed that stress was increased in females, young adults, usually being stressed more than others by a health problem, increased perceived severity of the disease, increased overall worry score, and student's worry regarding their studies/graduation. Perceived stress was decreased if participants' self-rated health status score increased. Conclusions: In the context of increasing public health preparedness, the results of this study can be used in designing interventions to alleviate stress in susceptible segments of the Jordanian community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer (BrCA) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide. This study aimed to examine the association between the dietary inflammatory index (DII®) and BrCA among Jordanian women. A total of 400 adult women were enrolled into this case–control study. Cases were 200 women recently diagnosed with BrCA selected from the two hospitals that provide cancer therapy in Jordan. They were matched on age, income, and marital status with 200 BrCA‐free controls. DII scores were calculated from dietary data that were collected in a face‐to‐face interview conducted between October 2016 and September 2017 using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Conditional logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs. The study results revealed no significant associations between DII scores in relation to the odds of developing BrCA after multivariable adjustment including age, education, total energy, BMI, number of pregnancy, contraceptive use, lactation, smoking, and family history of BrCA. Stratified analyses by obesity status showed that overweight/obese participants in the highest DII tertile had a >75% increased BrCA risk (OR of 1.77 [95% CI, 1.01–3.12]) compared with participants in the lowest tertile, after adjusting for age. The results from this study showed no significant relationship between the proinflammatory potential of the diet and BrCA risk in the overall study population. However, results stratified by weight category indicated an effect of diet‐associated inflammation on BrCA risk in the overweight/obese group. Results of the study are consistent with a recommendation aimed at maintaining higher diet quality, that is, adopting healthy diets characterized by low DII scores in order to reduce the risk for BrCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To explore hospital staff perspective on the responsibility and barriers to medicine reconciliation (MedRec) at a leading internationally renowned teaching hospital in Jordan. Methods A cross-sectional study using a self-completed questionnaire was conducted at Jordan University Hospital (JUH). The target sample was members of the health team caring for patients across various locations and settings. A convenient sample of physicians, pharmacists and nurses was targeted. Those were approached at various days, shifts, locations to scop various views and practices across JUH. Key findings Two hundred questionnaires were included in the analysis, of which 41 (20.5%) completed by physicians, 23 (11.5%) by pharmacists and 136 (68.0%) by nurses. For most steps, physicians were seen as the prim responsible health providers. Nurse perceived their role to come second. Whilst pharmacists perceived limited or no role of nurses in a number of steps. The main barriers reported are heavy workload 158 (79%), followed by lack of time 152 (76%) and communication between health care providers 140 (70%). Pharmacists highlighted lack of knowledge, clarity and training as leading barriers too. Conclusions Physicians are perceived as the leading provider responsible for all MedRec steps. MedRec as a process involve overlapping functions with various skill-based steps. A number of steps allocated potentially to nurses or pharmacists, particularly comparing different sources of information, constructing medication lists or written summaries upon discharge. Barriers to MedRec might be overcome by interdisciplinary discussions and mapping MedRec process clearly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the epidemiology, prognostic factors, and 5-year overall survival (OS) of females with breast cancer (BC) diagnosed between 2011 and 2014 in Jordan. Methods: A retrospective medical review of females who were diagnosed with BC between 2011 and 2014 at the 2 leading public health providers in Jordan was performed. The endpoint of the study was 2018. Data were extracted from the medical files between 2011 and 2018, including demographic clinical data on the patient level. Survival by age, laterality, grade, stage, and treatments modes were calculated by the Kaplan Meier method. Results: A total of 877 women were included with median age of 51 years and follow-up duration of 2.4 years. Majority of the patients had ductal carcinoma and estrogen receptor (ER) positive type. The 5-year OS for patients with stage I, II, III, and IV, 94%, 86%, and 46% (p<0.001), respectively. The tumor stage and nodal status were the main prognostic variables affecting the overall survival. Conclusion: The incidence in Jordan is increasing, yet survival rates are improving with increased diagnosis during early stages. Therefore, strategies for implementing universal screening programs are advocated to improve clinical outcomes and to reduce the disease burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Jordan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences is the property of University of Jordan and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: To evaluate factors associated with anxiety and depression among pharmacy students before and during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaires were translated into Arabic and placed on the e-learning platforms of two Jordanian universities after conducting cognitive interviews. Validity and reliability of the two translated questionnaires were evaluated by conducting Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and calculating Cronbach’s alpha. T-tests and binary regression were conducted to evaluate factors associated with anxiety and depression among pharmacy students. Results: Several factors were associated with depression and anxiety including being an international student (p < 0.05), living alone and away from their primary country of residence (p < 0.05), female gender (p < 0.01), and being a fifth-year student (p < 0.01). Conclusion: A tool to evaluate anxiety and depression among pharmacy students in Jordan has been successfully validated. Also, the results show that pharmacy students suffered from high levels of anxiety and depression, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Vaccination is a cost-efficient intervention to slow the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study aims to assess the population's willingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine in Jordan and investigate potential determinants of their acceptance. Materials and Methods: This study used an online survey distributed in November 2020, before introducing the vaccine, with items investigating socio-demographic characteristics, seasonal flu vaccination history, COVID-19 vaccine acceptance once available, and factors affecting their decision-making. Also, "COVID-19 risk perception" and beliefs toward COVID-19 vaccine benefits and barriers were assessed. Results: A total of 2,208 participants completed the survey with a participation rate of 13.1%. The mean±standard deviation age was 33.2±13.5, and 55.7% were females. Study participants were almost equally distributed between willingness, unwillingness, and indecision to take the COVID-19 vaccine (30.4%, 36.4%, and 31.5%, respectively). Younger adults, males, and those who were not married, do not have children, have a bachelor or higher education, employees or being students, healthcare workers, and those who reported receiving flu vaccine had higher rates of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance compared to their counterparts (p<0.001 for each category). COVID-19 risk perception, and perceived vaccine benefits, and barriers were significant predictors of intention. Among those undecided or unwilling to take the COVID-19 vaccine, its safety and side effects were the most common concerns. Conclusion: The low rate of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in a developing country is alarming, and a significant proportion are indecisive. Interventions to elevate vaccine acceptance by addressing its safety and efficacy and targeting vulnerable groups are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a technical and economic evaluation of the application of phase change material (PCM) in the cooling and thermal regulation of photovoltaic (PV) panels. The technical study is performed based on experimental tests carried out on two identical 3.99 kWp PV systems for one full year at the Hashemite University, Jordan. The backside of the first system was integrated with BioPCM. It is a safe, environmentally friendly, and economically sustainable product that is typically employed in the building industry to save energy in HVAC. This PCM has the potential to answer the many concerns associated with the traditional PCMs. The second PV system is used as a reference for performance comparison purposes. The actual performance results show there is an increase of 3.4% in the annual power production due to the application of BioPCM. The annual conversion efficiency is 12.50% for the PV/BioPCM system, while it is 12.08% for the reference PV system. The economic study investigates the viability of the inclusion of PCM in terms of the payback period, net present value, and internal rate of return. These parameters indicate that the PCM investment is economically unattractive at present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Student evaluation of teaching is a global predominant practice in higher education institutions. Therefore, a major university in Jordan developed a questionnaire for students’ use in evaluating their instructors’ teaching effectiveness. Since student evaluation of teaching is an important process, the present study tried to examine the psychometric properties of the instrument. Item-total correlations showed acceptable internal consistency. In addition, a two-factor structure of the scale (teaching effectiveness and course attributes) was supported by exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis from two independent samples. Convergent validity was supported by a moderate correlation coefficient between course averages of students’ ratings on the first factor and course averages of students’ final grades in each course. Finally, students’ responses on the factor that captures teaching effectiveness were found to have very high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha of 0.96). However, this instrument lacks evidences of content validity and convergent validity. Therefore, it is important to be cautious in evaluating faculty members and making promotion decisions that is based solely on the scores obtained using this instrument. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the pattern of antibiotic prescribing practice among endodontists in Jordan and to evaluate their adherence to internationally accepted guidelines regarding therapeutic and prophylactic use of antibiotics. An online survey instrument was designed, piloted, and pretested to collect information about types, indications, doses, and duration of antibiotic use by specialist endodontists. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi square test at p < 0.05. The response rate was 83.1%. The first-choice antibiotic was amoxicillin with clavulanic acid (49.2%), while clindamycin was the preferred antibiotic for penicillin-allergic patients (83.6%). Respondents routinely prescribed antibiotic for acute apical abscesses with systemic involvement (100%), replantation of avulsed teeth (73.8%), and those at risk of developing infective endocarditis (86.9%). Most endodontists (70.5%) followed the American Association of Endodontists' guidelines on antibiotic prescription. 6.6% followed the regulations of the European Society of Endodontology, while 9.8% did not follow any guidelines. Inappropriate prescription of antibiotics is common among endodontists. Emphasis should be placed on improving the knowledge of endodontists about available guidelines and indications of antibiotic use in the prophylaxis and management of endodontic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Proximal femoral osteotomy in cerebral palsy patients is a demanding procedure. The fixation of the osteotomy can fail due to the weak osteoporotic bone. The LCP pediatric hip plate with its good grip makes these procedures safe. The aims of the present study are to evaluate the radiological outcome of proximal femoral osteotomy that was fixed with the pediatric LCP in cerebral palsy patients and to raise safety issues regarding its low rate of complications. Patients and Methods: Sixteen patients with cerebral palsy who were operated in our department were included in this retrospective study. Data collected from medical charts and X-ray measurements retrospectively reviewed. Results: In total, 16 patients (21 hips), ie, 9 males and 7 females, were included in this analysis. The mean age at the time of the index surgery was 11.9 years (5.9– 18.0). The mean follow-up period was 4.78 years (1.5– 8.0). Five patients had bilateral hip involvement and 11 had unilateral involvement. All patients had spastic cerebral palsy. The mean values of varus correction and de-rotation were 25° (0°– 45°) and 35° (20°– 50°), respectively. Neck shaft angle and the Reimer's migration index were significantly improved postoperatively (p< 0.01 for both). Seventeen hips showed complete consolidation within 14 weeks of fixation and four hips needed 16 weeks. These four hips were in three patients who were 16 years of age or older. The correlation between age at surgery and the time needed for consolidation was statistically significant (p=0.005). Avascular necrosis, revision surgeries, failure of fixation, acetabular penetration, screw loosening or fracture of the femur were not seen in this study. Conclusion: The LCP pediatric hip plate can be used safely in CP patients. The plate provides a strong stable fixation on osteoporotic bone with a low rate of complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The behavior of the general public in Jordan will likely have an important effect on the how the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic spreads. Human behavior is influenced by people's knowledge and awareness. The aim of the study is to determine the knowledge and awareness of COVID-19 among the general public in Jordan. Method: Cross-sectional online survey conducted between March 17 and March 23, 2020. A sample of 3,791 adults in Jordan who were representative of the general population by gender, age, occupation, marital status, employment status and educational level. Measurements: Response to 23 survey questions. Results: Participants generally had satisfactory knowledge of the main mode of disease transmission and the common symptoms of COVID-19, as half of the participants confirmed that transmission is via droplets from sneezing or coughing and from contaminated surfaces. In addition, most (77%) of the respondents stated that more than one category could be at high risk of complications from COVID-19, including the elderly, people with weak immune systems, those with heart problems, and diabetic patients. However, a substantial proportion of participants had misconceptions about how to prevent infection. For instance, about 80% of participants thought that wearing a mask was effective in protecting them from acquiring COVID-19. Conclusion: These findings can guide government information campaigns that will be covered by media. Rapid online surveys could be an important tool in tracking the public's knowledge and misperceptions of COVID-19 over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For oncology nurses, compassion fatigue, burn out and compassion satisfactions are frequently experienced psychosocial consequences of the oncology work environment. Surveying such phenomena helps to understand how nurses feel and behave when cancer care is provided. Besides, tracking the evolving nature of those three concepts can lend a hand for the early detection of personal and professional suffering of nurses while offering some healing remedies to their struggling bodies and souls. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the level of compassion fatigue, burn out and compassion satisfaction among a group of specialized oncology nurses. Besides, this study aimed to detect some probable interesting inferences between compassion satisfaction and the concept of rest and leisure. Correlations between compassion fatigue, burn out and compassion satisfaction were investigated. Correlations between oncology nurses' scores on the three subscales and a group of demographic, organizational and leisure-related variables were examined. Methods: This study adopted a descriptive correlation design to survey compassion fatigue, burn out and compassion satisfaction among a convenient sample of 100 oncology nurses who work in a specialized cancer care centre. Participants completed compassion fatigue self-test developed by Figely (Compassion fatigue, New York: Brunner/Mazel. B. HudnallStamm, Traumatic Stress Research Group; 1995–1998. http://www.dartmouth.edu/~bhstamm/index.htm, 1995) and a literature-based demographic survey. Analysis of data included descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation co-efficient. Results: Nurses reported a low level of compassion satisfaction, moderate risk for burn out and an extremely high risk for compassion fatigue. Results revealed significant negative relationships among compassion satisfaction and the number of dependents per nurse. Additionally the correlation between compassion satisfaction and the nurses' number of hours slept was positive. Only two components of the concept rest and leisure yielded statistical significance when correlated to the concept of compassion satisfaction. A significant negative relationship was observed between compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue while a strong positive relationship was observed between compassion fatigue and burn out. Conclusions: The studied oncology nurses sample had evidently low level of compassion satisfaction when contrasted to the significantly increased risks of burn out and compassion fatigue. Thus, health authorities and management are advised to care, in a holistic approach, for nurses who work in oncology departments. Staff-oriented services that offer comfort, reward, leisure, screening, consultation and support are urgently recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insomnia is one of the most common minor ailments to which patients seek advice in a community pharmacy setting. Due to the availability of a wide variety of over-the-counter (OTC) products, community pharmacists are in the front line to safe-guard patients looking for self-medication or advice for treatment of insomnia. The purpose of this study was to assess the content of community pharmacists' interactions with patients seeking advice for insomnia in Jordan. A cross-sectional study using a simulated patient methodology was conducted across a stratified convenience sample of community pharmacies in three major cities in Jordan. The visits were evaluated using pre-defined criteria adapted from published literature relating to content and counseling skills. Visits were audio-recorded using a hidden microphone and the simulated patient completed a data collection form immediately after each visit. A total of 67 community pharmacies (response rate = 93.0%) agreed to participate and were all visited once by the simulated patient. The median duration of the visit was 2 minutes (range: 0.2–4 minutes). The majority (86.6%) of visits resulted in the sale of a drug, most commonly a combination product (paracetamol and diphenhydramine) for 30 recommendations (44.8%). This was followed by a natural plant extract combination product, namely valerian and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) for 23 (34.3%). Pharmacists often did not question medical history or other symptoms prior to product sale. Frequently, the recommended dose (49.3%) and administration time (38.8%) were the only information provided to the patient. No information was provided in relation to potential drug interactions or contraindications. No advice was offered on lifestyle or good sleeping hygiene. This study provided evidence that community pharmacists in Jordan in general did not offer adequate counseling for patients seeking advice for insomnia. Exploration of the reasons and factors contributing to this practice and highlighting professional opportunity and responsibility is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess inhaler technique demonstration skills of community pharmacists located in Amman, Jordan via incorporating the trained secret simulated patient (SSP) approach. Secondly, to evaluate the effectiveness of a 2-hour educational workshop focused on SSP feedback. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved community pharmacies located in Amman, Jordan. Initially, a trained SSP was involved to enact baseline visits requesting advice on how to use Ventolin® (a pressurized metered-dose inhaler; pMDI) and Pulmicort® (a Turbohaler inhaler, TH). Immediately after each visit, the SSP completed an inhaler technique evaluation form with inhaler checklists based on previously published checklists (consisting of 9 and 10 items for pMDI and TH respectively). The SSP invited all participating pharmacists to a 2-hour workshop that included feedback on their demonstration skills, and the second evaluation of their inhaler technique. The workshop included a summary of the initial visits' results highlighting pharmacists' performance. Results: Sixty pharmacies were visited and 120 inhaler assessments were completed. During baseline assessment, pharmacists scored an average of 4.5 out of 9 for pMDI and 4.9 out of 10 for TH. Only 11 pharmacists (18.3%) attended the workshop. During the workshop, inhaler technique demonstration skills significantly improved, as scores improved from 5.4 (SD 1.6) to 7.8 (SD 0.9) (p=0.008) and from 4.6 (SD 2.5) to 9.9 (SD 0.6) (p=0.003) for pMDI and TH respectively. Conclusions: The SSP approach revealed a lack of ability to demonstrate correct inhaler technique for pMDI and TH inhalers by community pharmacists in Amman, Jordan. A focused educational workshop based on SSP feedback improved inhaler technique significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated the association between satisfaction with the dentition and dentalprostheses and personality profiles among patients who received implant-supported prostheses. Materials and Methods: Patients seeking dental implant therapy were recruited for this study. A Dental Impact on Daily Living questionnaire was used to assess dental satisfaction and the effects of implant-supported prostheses on daily living. The NEO Five Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) was used to assess participants' personality profiles. Participants completed the questionnaires before implant insertion and 3 months after rehabilitation with implant-supported prostheses. Results: Eighty patients (42 men and 38 women, mean age 40.99 years) participated. Patients were more satisfied with their dentition after implant treatment. Neuroticism and conscientiousness had significant relationships with patient satisfaction and impact on daily living both before and after implant therapy. Openness and agreeableness had significant relationships with patient satisfaction and impact on daily living only after implant treatment. Extraversion had a significant relationship with patient satisfaction and impact on daily living only before treatment. After implant treatment, neuroticism was helpful in predicting total satisfaction, as well as satisfaction with appearance, pain, oral comfort, performance, and eating. Conscientiousness was helpful in predicting satisfaction with appearance, whereas openness was helpful in predicting satisfaction with pain. Before implant treatment, neuroticism was helpful in predicting total satisfaction as well as satisfaction with appearance, oral comfort, and performance. Conclusion: Implant-supported prostheses had positive impacts on participants' daily living and satisfaction with the dentition. Personality traits (such as neuroticism, openness, agreeableness, and consciousness) affectpatients' daily living and satisfaction with implant-supported prostheses. Selected personality traits might predict patients' satisfaction with implant-supported prostheses prior to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In the past, clinicians have sometimes been unwilling to provide care to patients known to be infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, this lack of patient care should have lessened following the introduction of effective HBV vaccination for health care workers. The purpose of this study was to determine the willingness of clinicians in Jordan to provide care to HBV-infected patients. Method and Materials: A total of 290 general dental practices were randomly selected and surveyed for their willingness to provide treatment for toothache and routine dental care of individuals infected with HBV. Results: Only 45% of the dental practices were willing to provide care to a person infected with HBV. The unwillingness to provide treatment did not seem to be influenced by financial factors. Conclusion: HBV-infected individuals will have difficulty obtaining dental health care in Jordan. There is a need for dental heath care workers in Jordan to be better informed and/or provide more effective treatment of HBV-infected individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the feminization of dentistry in many areas of the world, female representation in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) is poor. The purpose of this study was to identify factors perceived by female oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia as being obstacles to their career progression and to compare them to factors identified by their male colleagues. This was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study. A Google Forms questionnaire was designed to collect data on socio-demographics and perceived career obstacles in OMFS. This was distributed to oral and maxillofacial surgeons in Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. Statistically significant differences between the genders were evident in terms of marital status (P = 0.001), spouse's education (P = 0.005), and spouse's occupation (P < 0.001). When compared to male surgeons, female surgeons more often considered that their spouse's occupation hindered their career progression (P < 0.001). Female surgeons, but not male surgeons, perceived sexism and social factors such as marriage, children, and the attitudes of society to be major career obstacles (P < 0.005). In conclusion, female maxillofacial surgeons in some Middle Eastern countries were found to have different socio-demographic characteristics compared to their male colleagues and they considered sexism, marriage, children, and the attitudes of society to be major career obstacles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]