A normative study of the raven coloured progressive matrices test for omani hildren aged 5-11 years*

Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices test has been extensively used across a wide variety of settings in different countries all over the world as a fair culture measure of non-verbal intelligence. The objective of the present study is to extract norms of the test for Omani children. The test was applied on an individual basis on a random sample of 1042 children from different age groups ranging from 5 to 11 years old. All of the estimated psychometric properties including validity, reliability, and norms indicate that the test could be practically utilized when applied in several situations. The study has a number of implications including that the Ministry of Education may use it to diagnose and detect those children with learning difficulties; the Ministry of Health may use it in hospitals to measure the IQ of certain patients in order to make medical decisions. In addition, researchers in psychological and social areas would be able to conduct studies aiming at measuring the intelligence of children

Real-time health monitoring using IoT devices for patients with chronic conditions

Background: The healthcare sector is experiencing a transformative shift due to advancements in technology, particularly with the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT integration in healthcare is poised to revolutionize patient monitoring and management, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions. The Grand View Research Inc. analysis projected a significant increase in IoT penetration in healthcare, with a market value of approximately $409.9 billion by 2022. Aim: This article aims to explore the applications, benefits, and future potential of IoT devices in real-time health monitoring for patients with chronic conditions. Methods: The review encompasses various IoT-based health monitoring systems, including wearable and implantable devices, biosensors, and remote patient monitoring systems. The methodologies of existing IoT applications, such as the UbiMon project and various ZigBee-based systems, are analyzed to understand their impact on patient care. Results: IoT technologies facilitate real-time monitoring of vital signs, improve chronic disease management, and enhance emergency response systems. Examples include smart inhalers, ECG monitors, and remote surgery systems. The integration of IoT in healthcare has led to improved patient outcomes, reduced emergency waiting times, and better resource management in hospitals. Conclusion: IoT is transforming healthcare by enabling continuous, real-time monitoring of chronic conditions and enhancing overall patient care.&nbsp

Use of wearable health devices for early detection of medical disorders: Applications at different medical departments

Background: Wearable Health Devices (WHDs) represent a rapidly advancing technology that enables continuous monitoring of vital signs in various settings, including personal and clinical environments. Emerging in the late 1990s, these devices integrate biomedical technology with micro- and nanotechnology, materials engineering, and information and communication technologies. WHDs aim to enhance patient empowerment by facilitating self-management of health and improving interaction with healthcare providers. Aim: This review evaluates the current applications and technological advancements of WHDs in different medical departments, including emergency care, health information systems, nursing, and pharmacy. It explores their role in continuous monitoring, diagnostics, and patient management. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on recent developments in WHD technology, their applications in various medical contexts, and future trends. Key areas of investigation included vital sign monitoring, sensor technologies, and device usability. Results: WHDs have shown significant promise in diverse applications. In emergency care, they provide real-time monitoring for critical conditions, improving early detection and response. In health information systems, they enhance data collection and integration with electronic health records. Nursing applications focus on continuous patient monitoring and managing chronic conditions, while pharmacists benefit from accurate medication adherence tracking

Use of Virtual Reality (VR) for medical training: Applications at different medical departments

Background: The rapid evolution of medical practice necessitates innovative training methods to keep pace with the demands of modern healthcare. Traditional education methods are increasingly complemented by simulation-based approaches, which provide practical and clinically relevant experiences. Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a significant tool in this realm, offering immersive, interactive training environments that aim to enhance learning outcomes. Aim: This paper explores the application of VR across various medical departments, including emergency medicine, health information management, nursing, and pharmacy. It examines VR's effectiveness in providing experiential learning, its advantages over traditional methods, and the challenges associated with its implementation. Methods: The study involves a comprehensive review of current literature and practical implementations of VR in medical training. It assesses the benefits and limitations of VR, evaluates evidence supporting its use, and discusses its applications in different medical fields. Key metrics include knowledge gain, cost efficiency, and user engagement. Results: VR offers distinct advantages such as immersive learning experiences, repeatable practice opportunities, and cost-effective simulation solutions. It simplifies access to clinical training, supports flexible learning schedules, and fosters engagement through gamification.&nbsp