A service driven method for evaluating business and IT alignment

The adoption of Information Technology (IT) in organisations has brought significant benefits to business operations. However, achieving business and IT alignment has been and continues to be a major challenge for researchers and practitioners. The rapid changes in business and IT environments and the influence of social aspects on the business value generated by IT have contributed to its increased complexity. In order to be aware of the state of this alignment, organisations are advised to conduct a business and IT alignment assessment. The outcomes of such assessments provide a platform to achieve a better state of business-aligned IT. However, existing methodological approaches to evaluate business and IT alignment at the operational level have lacked the involvement of social values, to be balanced with other tangible values, as factors in the alignment assessment. Addressing this issue is the motivation for this research. Guided by the Design Science Research (DSR) paradigm, the Business and IT Alignment Assessment Method (B-ITAAM) is developed as the main research contribution. B-ITAAM comprises, in a novel approach, a set of business analysis techniques that assist for a comprehensive business-aligned IT assessment. Principles and concepts from multiple theoretical and methodological perspectives have been adopted to form the theoretical foundations upon which the assessment method is based. As such, concepts from Strategic Management are adopted to establish a link between the strategic and operational levels of an organisation to guide the alignment assessment. Principles from Socio Technical Systems and Organisational Semiotics form the basis for eliciting social values from relevant stakeholders influencing the value of business and IT. Additionally, principles from Service-Oriented Architecture and Enterprise Architecture enable the evaluation method to be service driven. Finally, principles from Task Technology Fit and Social Exchange theories support, respectively, the establishment and assessment of the business and IT alignment. B-ITAAM was applied in a higher education institution to evaluate its viability as an effective business and IT alignment assessment method. The application resulted in a set of recommendations that aim to enhance the alignment of a set of business and IT services offered by the institution, which received appraisal from nine experts involved in the institution. The application also reveals the complexity of the business and IT alignment assessment in the higher education sector, which, until now, has received little attention in business and IT alignment research

A genetic algorithm for shortest path with real constraints in computer networks

The shortest path problem has many different versions. In this manuscript, we proposed a muti-constrained optimization method to find the shortest path in a computer network. In general, a genetic algorithm is one of the common heuristic algorithms. In this paper, we employed the genetic algorithm to find the solution of the shortest path multi-constrained problem. The proposed algorithm finds the best route for network packets with minimum total cost, delay, and hop count constrained with limited bandwidth. The new algorithm was implemented on four different capacity networks with random network parameters, the results showed that the shortest path under constraints can be found in a reasonable time. The experimental results showed that the algorithm always found the shortest path with minimal constraints

Safety of pregnancy in uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroid is one of the most common intrauterine masses among females at the reproductive age. Pregnancy and uterine fibroids are highly correlated. Pregnancy-related hormones influence the size of uterine fibroids, and fibroids have many impacts on pregnancy. Although most if the uterine fibroids are asymptomatic during pregnancy, serious complications may occur. The main complications include abortion, premature rupture of membranes, premature labor, abruptio placentae, peripartum hemorrhage, fetal malpresentation, fetal intrauterine growth retardation, small for gestational age infants, and fetal anomalies. The main risk factors for complications are related to the fibroid number, size, volume, location, and type. Large, multiple, retroplacental, submucosal, subserosal, pedunculated, or low-lying fibroids carries the highest risk for complications during pregnancy. This review will address the prevalence of uterine fibroids during pregnancy, its effects, and complications

CAUSES AND MANAGEMENT OF VIRAL EYE INFECTION

Introduction: The eye is a fascinating organ for several reasons. It is not only have a composite structure, however it is considered an immune-privileged organ. The anatomy of the eye is composed of the anterior and posterior parts, the line of division is posterior to the lens. The anterior chamber lies within the anterior segment and is an immuneprivileged anatomical location, this is due to the fact that the T-cell response in this area is suppressed This protects the eye from potentially destructive immune attacks however it also makes defence against infectious agents challenging, particularly where T-cell responses are critical for immunological defence. Viruses could get into the eye by direct inoculation, or through haematogenous or neuronal spread. The diagnoses of viral eye infections are usually clinical one, helped by taking a thorough history and performing ophthalmic examination. But in challenging cases the lab tests are essential. In this review, we will discuss the most recent evidence regarding Causes and management of viral eye infection Aim of work: In this review, we will discuss the most recent evidence regarding Causes and management of viral eye infection Methodology: We did a systematic search for Causes and management of viral eye infection using PubMed search engine (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) and Google Scholar search engine (https://scholar.google.com). All relevant studies were retrieved and discussed. We only included full articles. Conclusions: A wide range of of viruses can affect the eye and cause viral eye infections, either as a primary infection or reactivation. Some affect the eye directly while the others indirectly but may still manifest with eye disease. One virus may affect several parts of the eye, while different viruses may cause the same eye disease. This could complicate the clinical diagnosis of viral eye disease, but the lab tests like PCR and antibody tests could assist in challenging cases where there may be diagnostic dilemma. The HIV epidemic has had an huge impact on ophthalmology clinics, this is because the virus can cause different eye diseases, and the associated decrease in cell-mediated immunity makes the person highly susceptible to opportunistic viral eye infections, sometimes with severe morbidity. There could be other viruses that may affect the eye that we did not discuss. Key words: Causes, management, viral eye infection

Neuroprotective effect of ranolazine improves behavioral discrepancies in a rat model of scopolamine-induced dementia

BackgroundRanolazine (Rn), an antianginal agent, acts in the central nervous system and has been used as a potential treatment agent for pain and epileptic disorders. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases and the leading factor in dementia in the elderly.AimWe examined the impact of Rn on scopolamine (Sco)-induced dementia in rats.MethodsThirty-two albino male rats were divided into four groups: control, Rn, Sco, and Rn + Sco.ResultsA significant decrease in the escape latency in the Morris water maze test after pre-treatment with Rn explained better learning and memory in rats. Additionally, Rn significantly upregulated the activities of the antioxidant enzymes in the treated group compared to the Sco group but substantially reduced acetylcholinesterase activity levels in the hippocampus. Moreover, Rn dramatically reduced interleukin-1 β (IL-1β) and IL-6 and upregulated the gene expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Furthermore, in the Sco group, the hippocampal tissue’s immunohistochemical reaction of Tau and glial factor activating protein (GFAP) was significantly increased in addition to the upregulation of the Caspase-3 gene expression, which was markedly improved by pre-treatment with Rn. The majority of pyramidal neurons had large vesicular nuclei with prominent nucleoli and appeared to be more or less normal, reflecting the all-beneficial effects of Rn when the hippocampal tissue was examined under a microscope.ConclusionOur findings indicated that Rn, through its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, as well as the control of the expression of GFAP, BDNF, and Tau proteins, has a novel neuroprotective impact against scopolamine-induced dementia in rats

Perspectives, practices, and challenges of online teaching during COVID-19 pandemic: A multinational survey

The result of the movement restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic was an impromptu and abrupt switch from in-person to online teaching. Most focus has been on the perception and experience of students during the process. The aim of this international survey is to assess staffs' perspectives and challenges of online teaching during the COVID-19 lockdown. Cross-sectional research using a validated online survey was carried out in seven countries (Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Indonesia, India, the United Kingdom, and Egypt) between the months of December 2021 and August 2022, to explore the status of online teaching among faculty members during the COVID-19 pandemic. Variables and response are presented as percentages while logistic regression was used to assess the factors that predict levels of satisfaction and the challenges associated with online instruction. A total of 721 response were received from mainly male (53%) staffs. Most respondents are from Brazil (59%), hold a Doctorate degree (70%) and have over 10 years of working experience (62%). Although, 67% and 79% have relevant tools and received training for online teaching respectively, 44% report that online teaching required more preparation time than face-to-face. Although 41% of respondents were uncertain about the outcome of online teaching, 49% were satisfied with the process. Also, poor internet bandwidth (51%), inability to track students' engagement (18%) and Lack of technical skills (11.5%) were the three main observed limitations. Having little or no prior experience of online teaching before the COVID-19 pandemic [OR, 1.58 (95% CI, 1.35–1.85)], and not supporting the move to online teaching mode [OR, 0.56 (95% CI,0.48–0.64)] were two main factors independently linked with dissatisfaction with online teaching. While staffs who support the move to online teaching were twice likely to report no barriers [OR, 2.15 (95% CI, 1.61–2.86)]. Although, relevant tools and training were provided to support the move to online teaching during COVID-19 lockdown, barriers such as poor internet bandwidth, inability to track students’ engagement and lack of technical skills were main limitations observed internationally by teaching staffs. Addressing these barriers should be the focus of higher education institution in preparation for future disruptions to traditional teaching modes

A population-based study of 15,000 people on Knowledge and awareness of lung cancer symptoms and risk factors in Saudi Arabia

Background: Lung cancer is currently the most fatal form of cancer worldwide, ranking as the fourth most prevalent type in Saudi Arabia, particularly among males. This trend is expected to increase with growing population, lifestyle changes, and aging population. Understanding the awareness of the Saudi population regarding the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer is necessary to attenuate the predicted increase in cases. Method: A cross-sectional, population-based survey was performed using a previously validated questionnaire (Lung CAM). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess variables associated with deficiency in knowledge and awareness of risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer. Results: Majority of the 15,099 respondents were male (65%), aged between 18 and 30 years (53%), 50% of which were educated up to a bachelor’s degree level. Overall awareness of lung cancer signs and symptoms was 53%, with painful cough and coughing up blood being the best-known symptoms. Conversely, persistent shoulder pain (44%) and clubbing fingers (47%) were the least known lung cancer symptoms. Also, 60% of the respondents showed low confidence in identifying the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. The overall awareness of the risk factors for lung cancer development was 74%, with first-hand (74%) and second-hand (68%) smoking being the most known risk factors. However, only ≤ 62% know the other non-smoking risk factors. Awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer depended on age, gender, education, marital and employment status (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Public awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer in Saudi Arabia is inadequate and heavily dependent on education and socio-economic status. Awareness can be improved through campaigns to raise awareness about other lesser-known lung cancer risk factors and symptoms

A population-based study of 15,000 people on Knowledge and awareness of lung cancer symptoms and risk factors in Saudi Arabia

Background: Lung cancer is currently the most fatal form of cancer worldwide, ranking as the fourth most prevalent type in Saudi Arabia, particularly among males. This trend is expected to increase with growing population, lifestyle changes, and aging population. Understanding the awareness of the Saudi population regarding the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer is necessary to attenuate the predicted increase in cases. Method: A cross-sectional, population-based survey was performed using a previously validated questionnaire (Lung CAM). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess variables associated with deficiency in knowledge and awareness of risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer. Results: Majority of the 15,099 respondents were male (65%), aged between 18 and 30 years (53%), 50% of which were educated up to a bachelor’s degree level. Overall awareness of lung cancer signs and symptoms was 53%, with painful cough and coughing up blood being the best-known symptoms. Conversely, persistent shoulder pain (44%) and clubbing fingers (47%) were the least known lung cancer symptoms. Also, 60% of the respondents showed low confidence in identifying the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. The overall awareness of the risk factors for lung cancer development was 74%, with first-hand (74%) and second-hand (68%) smoking being the most known risk factors. However, only ≤ 62% know the other non-smoking risk factors. Awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer depended on age, gender, education, marital and employment status (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Public awareness of the risk factors and symptoms of lung cancer in Saudi Arabia is inadequate and heavily dependent on education and socio-economic status. Awareness can be improved through campaigns to raise awareness about other lesser-known lung cancer risk factors and symptoms

Impact of Smoking Exposure on Pregnancy and Perinatal Outcome Among Saudi Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: To assess the impact of smoking exposure on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes among Saudi women. Methods: This research will employ a cross-sectional study design to assess the impact of smoking exposure on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes among Saudi women. Cross-sectional studies are particularly suitable for examining associations and prevalence within a defined population at a specific point in time. In this case, the study aims to collect data on smoking behavior, pregnancy history, and perinatal outcomes among a representative sample of Saudi women in healthcare facilities across different regions of the country. The cross-sectional design allows for the efficient collection of data from a diverse population, providing insights into the relationship between smoking and perinatal outcomes without the need for long-term follow-up. Results: The study included 450 participants. The most frequent age among them was 35 and more years (n= 309, 68.7%) followed by 30-34 (n= 94, 20.9%). The most frequent educational level among study participants was the university (n= 408, 90.7%) followed by the school (n= 39, 8.7%). The most frequent job among study participants was a Governmental job (n= 159, 35.3%) followed by a housewife (n= 135, 30%). Number of previous births among study participants with most of them having a previous birth (n= 396, 88%) followed by this is the first birth (n= 54, 12%). Number of previous pregnancies among study participants with most of them having a previous pregnancy (n= 408, 90.7%) followed by this is the first pregnancy (n= 42, 9.3%). Number of abortions among study participants with most of them nothing (n= 234, 52%) followed by there is (n= 216, 48%). Participants were asked about smoking. The most frequent were don’t smoke (n= 315, 70%) followed by smoking (n= 135, 30%). The most frequent exposure to smoking among them was yes (n= 333, 74%) followed by no (n= 117, 26%). Conclusion: Study results showed that most of the study participants are the university according to their educational level. Most frequencies of participants had a previous birth. Most of them don’t smoke in another hand most of them were exposed to smoking. In addition, most of the study participants had good social connection

Агрессивная форма ювенильной макромастии

ПОДРОСТКИМОЛОЧНЫЕ ЖЕЛЕЗЫ ЧЕЛОВЕКА /АНОМАЛБОЛЕЗНИ РЕДКИЕМАКРОМАСТИЯГИПЕРТРОФИЯМОЛОЧНОЙ ЖЕЛЕЗЫ ПЛАСТИКАХИРУРГИЧЕСКИЕ ОПЕРАЦИИ ВОССТАНОВИТЕЛЬНЫЕМОЛОЧНОЙ ЖЕЛЕЗЫ БОЛЕЗНИ /ТЕР /ХИ