Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0108
Nancy Zaghloul, A. Awaisu, Ahmed A. Mahfouz, Sumaya Al Saadi, H. Elewa
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a growing health challenge in Qatar and worldwide. T2DM is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality, and progression of renal disease. Sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are the most recently approved class of glucose lowering medications (GLMs). To date, there is a limited knowledge about the adoption of SGLT2is by clinicians compared to other oral GLMs in Qatar and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Accordingly, this proposed study aims to explore the trends in SGLT2is use compared to other oral GLMs in Qatar from 2016 to 2020. Methods: This is a descriptive, retrospective cross-sectional study where information on all oral GLMs prescriptions dispensed as in- or out-patient from 2016 to 2020 in all Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) hospitals were collected. Outcomes included the number and relative frequency of quarterly prescriptions of different oral GLMs classes [metformin, sulfonylureas (SUs), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP-4is), thiazolidinediones (TZDs), meglitinides (MEGs), α-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs), and SGLT2is] from 2016 to 2020. Results: Overall, the prescription rate of GLMs increased during the last five years. SGLT2is use increased over the years after being introduced to the formulary in 2017, replacing SUs which exhibited significant decline between 2017 and 2020. There was a slight reduction in metformin use, and a slight increase in DPP-4is use. TZDs, MEGs, and AGIs prescriptions remained stable. Among SGLT2is, empagliflozin showed considerable increase on the expense of dapagliflozin which decreased significantly by the end of 2018. Conclusion: SGLT2is have been gradually replacing SUs in Qatar and the trend of their use is similar to that reported in other countries. The trend among SGLT2is suggests greater preference for empagliflozin over dapagliflozin.
{"title":"Trends of use of SGLT2 inhibitors in Qatar","authors":"Nancy Zaghloul, A. Awaisu, Ahmed A. Mahfouz, Sumaya Al Saadi, H. Elewa","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0108","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0108","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a growing health challenge in Qatar and worldwide. T2DM is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality, and progression of renal disease. Sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are the most recently approved class of glucose lowering medications (GLMs). To date, there is a limited knowledge about the adoption of SGLT2is by clinicians compared to other oral GLMs in Qatar and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Accordingly, this proposed study aims to explore the trends in SGLT2is use compared to other oral GLMs in Qatar from 2016 to 2020. Methods: This is a descriptive, retrospective cross-sectional study where information on all oral GLMs prescriptions dispensed as in- or out-patient from 2016 to 2020 in all Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) hospitals were collected. Outcomes included the number and relative frequency of quarterly prescriptions of different oral GLMs classes [metformin, sulfonylureas (SUs), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP-4is), thiazolidinediones (TZDs), meglitinides (MEGs), α-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs), and SGLT2is] from 2016 to 2020. Results: Overall, the prescription rate of GLMs increased during the last five years. SGLT2is use increased over the years after being introduced to the formulary in 2017, replacing SUs which exhibited significant decline between 2017 and 2020. There was a slight reduction in metformin use, and a slight increase in DPP-4is use. TZDs, MEGs, and AGIs prescriptions remained stable. Among SGLT2is, empagliflozin showed considerable increase on the expense of dapagliflozin which decreased significantly by the end of 2018. Conclusion: SGLT2is have been gradually replacing SUs in Qatar and the trend of their use is similar to that reported in other countries. The trend among SGLT2is suggests greater preference for empagliflozin over dapagliflozin.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"18 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"81737580","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0017
R. Abdou, Mohamed alHor, Z. Ahmed, Noora Althani
Organic – inorganic halide perovskite (OHP) has drawn researchers’ attention working in the field of optoelectronics from last ten years due to its remarkable optical properties such as adjustable band gap, ambipolar charge transport, high optical absorption coefficients, and extended carrier diffusion lengths. OHP based memristors (memory + resistors) are a newly introduced passive two-terminal, nonlinear device used for information storage. In this work we have fabricated methyl ammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) crystals-based device from MAPbI3 crystals. The crystals have been developed by simple solution process-based method. Developed crystals have shown highly porous geometry and trap charges across these pores facilitates higher conductivity. The fabricated device exhibits ~2.7 milli second response recovery time, which enabled elevated speed and showed hysteresis in the I-V characteristics thus demonstrating superior storage capacities. Hence, the developed device has been potential tool for next-generation non-volatile memories.
{"title":"Development of organic–inorganic Halide Perovskites (OHPs) based Memristors","authors":"R. Abdou, Mohamed alHor, Z. Ahmed, Noora Althani","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0017","url":null,"abstract":"Organic – inorganic halide perovskite (OHP) has drawn researchers’ attention working in the field of optoelectronics from last ten years due to its remarkable optical properties such as adjustable band gap, ambipolar charge transport, high optical absorption coefficients, and extended carrier diffusion lengths. OHP based memristors (memory + resistors) are a newly introduced passive two-terminal, nonlinear device used for information storage. In this work we have fabricated methyl ammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) crystals-based device from MAPbI3 crystals. The crystals have been developed by simple solution process-based method. Developed crystals have shown highly porous geometry and trap charges across these pores facilitates higher conductivity. The fabricated device exhibits ~2.7 milli second response recovery time, which enabled elevated speed and showed hysteresis in the I-V characteristics thus demonstrating superior storage capacities. Hence, the developed device has been potential tool for next-generation non-volatile memories.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"57 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"85927763","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0143
Dana Samir Al Kudsi, S. Hamad, Hanan Mohamed Al Keldi, A. Kerkadi, A. Agouni, R. Salih
Cardiometabolic risk (CMR) factors increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In Qatar, 24% of the total deaths are attributed to CVDs. Several nutritional disturbances have been linked to high risk of CVD. Many studies have discussed the effects of zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) on CMR factors; however, evidence has been controversial. This investigated the association between CMR factors and the status of Zn, Cu, and Zn/Cu ratio. A total of 575 Qatari adults (≥18 years) were obtained from Qatar Biobank. Plasma levels of Zn and Cu were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Anthropometric data and CMR factors were determined using standard methods. Adjusted associations between minerals and CMR were estimated by logistic regression. The associations’ strength was tested using partial correlation. Zn was not strongly correlated (p-value˃0.01) or significantly associated with CMR factors and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Cu levels correlated positively with body mass index (BMI) (0.23; p˂0.001), pulse rate (PR) (0.18; p˂0.001), total cholesterol (0.13; p=0.01), and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) (0.27; p˂0.001); and negatively with diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (−0.13; p=0.01). High Cu significantly decreased the risk of MetS (0.121; p˂0.001). Furthermore, Zn/Cu ratio positively correlated with waist circumference (0.13; p=0.01), systolic blood pressure (0.13; p˂0.01), and DBP (0.14; p˂0.01); and negatively with BMI (−0.19; p˂0.001), PR (−0.17; p˂0.001), and HDL (−0.27; p˂0.001). High Zn/Cu ratio increased the prevalence of low HDL (4.508; p˂0.001) and MetS (5.570; p˂0.01). These findings suggest that high Cu levels are associated with a protective effect on DBP, HDL, and MetS and that high plasma Zn/Cu ratio is associated with the risk of low HDL and MetS. We recommend future studies to focus on minerals status among abdominally obese and prediabetic subjects because of the probable link between low serum Zn and Cu and insulin resistance and CVD.
{"title":"The Association between Zinc and Copper and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Adults","authors":"Dana Samir Al Kudsi, S. Hamad, Hanan Mohamed Al Keldi, A. Kerkadi, A. Agouni, R. Salih","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0143","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0143","url":null,"abstract":"Cardiometabolic risk (CMR) factors increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In Qatar, 24% of the total deaths are attributed to CVDs. Several nutritional disturbances have been linked to high risk of CVD. Many studies have discussed the effects of zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) on CMR factors; however, evidence has been controversial. This investigated the association between CMR factors and the status of Zn, Cu, and Zn/Cu ratio. A total of 575 Qatari adults (≥18 years) were obtained from Qatar Biobank. Plasma levels of Zn and Cu were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Anthropometric data and CMR factors were determined using standard methods. Adjusted associations between minerals and CMR were estimated by logistic regression. The associations’ strength was tested using partial correlation. Zn was not strongly correlated (p-value˃0.01) or significantly associated with CMR factors and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Cu levels correlated positively with body mass index (BMI) (0.23; p˂0.001), pulse rate (PR) (0.18; p˂0.001), total cholesterol (0.13; p=0.01), and high-density lipoproteins (HDL) (0.27; p˂0.001); and negatively with diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (−0.13; p=0.01). High Cu significantly decreased the risk of MetS (0.121; p˂0.001). Furthermore, Zn/Cu ratio positively correlated with waist circumference (0.13; p=0.01), systolic blood pressure (0.13; p˂0.01), and DBP (0.14; p˂0.01); and negatively with BMI (−0.19; p˂0.001), PR (−0.17; p˂0.001), and HDL (−0.27; p˂0.001). High Zn/Cu ratio increased the prevalence of low HDL (4.508; p˂0.001) and MetS (5.570; p˂0.01). These findings suggest that high Cu levels are associated with a protective effect on DBP, HDL, and MetS and that high plasma Zn/Cu ratio is associated with the risk of low HDL and MetS. We recommend future studies to focus on minerals status among abdominally obese and prediabetic subjects because of the probable link between low serum Zn and Cu and insulin resistance and CVD.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"27 6 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"85198446","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0090
Wael K. M. Alhajyaseen, C. Timmermans, A. Soliman, T. Brijs, Khaled Bedair, Veerle Ross, Wondwesen Girma Mamo
This study aims to investigate the impact of ADHD traits on young drivers’ deviant driving behaviors that may contribute to their involvement in traffic crashes. Methods: A sample of 450 young drivers from the State of Qatar were asked to fill the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and the Driver Behaviour Questionnaire, in order to examine the impact of self-reported ADHD traits on ordinary violations, driving errors, lapses and aggressive violations. A path analysis model was developed to test the predictability of these ADHD traits on deviant driving behaviours. Results: Male drivers with hyperactivity-impulsivity traits are significantly more likely to report deviant driving behaviors. In contrast, female drivers with inattention traits are more likely to report deviant driving behaviors. The inattention trait has a minor predictive role for young male drivers and is not significantly related to aggressive violations. Female drivers’ aggressive violations are not predicted by the hyperactivity-impulsivity trait, but the inattention traits among those drivers are the strongest predictor of aggressive violations. Conclusion: Theses results have practical implication regarding creating inclusion environment to trainee drivers with ADHD in driving school. This can be achieved by developing special driving training and education programs.
{"title":"Impact of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder on Driving among Drivers in Qatar","authors":"Wael K. M. Alhajyaseen, C. Timmermans, A. Soliman, T. Brijs, Khaled Bedair, Veerle Ross, Wondwesen Girma Mamo","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0090","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0090","url":null,"abstract":"This study aims to investigate the impact of ADHD traits on young drivers’ deviant driving behaviors that may contribute to their involvement in traffic crashes. Methods: A sample of 450 young drivers from the State of Qatar were asked to fill the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale and the Driver Behaviour Questionnaire, in order to examine the impact of self-reported ADHD traits on ordinary violations, driving errors, lapses and aggressive violations. A path analysis model was developed to test the predictability of these ADHD traits on deviant driving behaviours. Results: Male drivers with hyperactivity-impulsivity traits are significantly more likely to report deviant driving behaviors. In contrast, female drivers with inattention traits are more likely to report deviant driving behaviors. The inattention trait has a minor predictive role for young male drivers and is not significantly related to aggressive violations. Female drivers’ aggressive violations are not predicted by the hyperactivity-impulsivity trait, but the inattention traits among those drivers are the strongest predictor of aggressive violations. Conclusion: Theses results have practical implication regarding creating inclusion environment to trainee drivers with ADHD in driving school. This can be achieved by developing special driving training and education programs.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"48 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"85297861","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0012
Hemalatha Parangusan, J. Bhadra, R. Al-Qudah, Hibballa Elgurashi, Marwa Abdelhakem, Ebtihal Mohaned
Polyaniline (PANI)/MoS2 composites with porous microspheres were prepared by a hydrothermal and in situ polymerization method. The structural, optical, and morphological properties were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, FTIR, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope. The XRD results confirmed that the PANI/MoS2 composite was formed. Morphological characterization reveals that the successful formation of few to multilayered MoS2 nanosheet intercalated with the PANI nanoparticles.
{"title":"Liquid exfoliated MoS2 Sheet coupled with Conductive Polyaniline for Gas Sensor","authors":"Hemalatha Parangusan, J. Bhadra, R. Al-Qudah, Hibballa Elgurashi, Marwa Abdelhakem, Ebtihal Mohaned","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0012","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0012","url":null,"abstract":"Polyaniline (PANI)/MoS2 composites with porous microspheres were prepared by a hydrothermal and in situ polymerization method. The structural, optical, and morphological properties were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, FTIR, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope. The XRD results confirmed that the PANI/MoS2 composite was formed. Morphological characterization reveals that the successful formation of few to multilayered MoS2 nanosheet intercalated with the PANI nanoparticles.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"77 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"79984825","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0203
Raghad Alatoom, Aljazi Ali Al-Banai, Ghalya Nasser Al-Maadeed, Hanae Abdelwahab Taha, M. Major
The Research and its Purpose: • To conducted a post-occupancy evaluation of the QU Main Library, drawing on fieldwork observations of entries, movement, and room/space use. • This will positively contribute to future design refinements, alterations, and new university buildings in creating a world-class center of education and research. How can we study its success? • Collect information to determine the use of each space in the building. • Direct observations of the use of the library and the space functions.
{"title":"Configuration and Use in Building Evaluation (CUBE3): Space Syntax Modeling of Layout in the Main Library at Qatar University","authors":"Raghad Alatoom, Aljazi Ali Al-Banai, Ghalya Nasser Al-Maadeed, Hanae Abdelwahab Taha, M. Major","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0203","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0203","url":null,"abstract":"The Research and its Purpose: • To conducted a post-occupancy evaluation of the QU Main Library, drawing on fieldwork observations of entries, movement, and room/space use. • This will positively contribute to future design refinements, alterations, and new university buildings in creating a world-class center of education and research. How can we study its success? • Collect information to determine the use of each space in the building. • Direct observations of the use of the library and the space functions.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"47 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"78417806","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0136
Taimaa Adnan Hejazi1, Dana Mustafa, Lana Kattan, M. Zolezzi, Shimaa Aboelbaha, Shorouq Homs, A. Elhakim, Yazid Alhamarneh, Lily Yushko
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment and management (RAM) services face many challenges and barriers in the community. Mobile technology offers the opportunity to empower patients and improve access to health prevention strategies to overcome these barriers.1 The main goal of this study is to investigate whether the use of mobile technology for CVDRAM, combined with appropriate health care professional oversight, can improve access and management of CVD risk factors in Qatar. Methods/Case presentation: Pilot testing of an Arabic and English version of the online application EPIRxISK™ for CVDRAM by potential users from a sample consisting of the general population and pharmacists attending community pharmacies. Participants’ feedback was gathered in a qualitative interview which was recorded and transcribed for quality assurance and for review by the research team. Responses from all interviews were analyzed and recommendations were made to finalize the application prior to phase II of the study. In phase II, quantitative and qualitative methods will be utilized to assess the feasibility of implementing a community pharmacy-based CVD risk assessment program using the English and Arabic versions of the EPIRxISK™ online application. Results/Findings/Recommendations: In phase I, a total of 9 pharmacists from community pharmacies and 5 general participants from the general population were interviewed. As shown in table 1 and 2, the analysis of the interviews resulted in themes related to five frameworks: engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information, and subjective quality. Overall, the themes demonstrated acceptance and satisfaction with the features of the application. Phase II is in progress now. Conclusion: The overall results of the pilot testing are promising and conclude an overall acceptance and satisfaction with the features of the application.
{"title":"Evaluation of a Mobile Application Tool to Assist Health Care Providers in Cardiovascular Risk Assessment and Management","authors":"Taimaa Adnan Hejazi1, Dana Mustafa, Lana Kattan, M. Zolezzi, Shimaa Aboelbaha, Shorouq Homs, A. Elhakim, Yazid Alhamarneh, Lily Yushko","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0136","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0136","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment and management (RAM) services face many challenges and barriers in the community. Mobile technology offers the opportunity to empower patients and improve access to health prevention strategies to overcome these barriers.1 The main goal of this study is to investigate whether the use of mobile technology for CVDRAM, combined with appropriate health care professional oversight, can improve access and management of CVD risk factors in Qatar. Methods/Case presentation: Pilot testing of an Arabic and English version of the online application EPIRxISK™ for CVDRAM by potential users from a sample consisting of the general population and pharmacists attending community pharmacies. Participants’ feedback was gathered in a qualitative interview which was recorded and transcribed for quality assurance and for review by the research team. Responses from all interviews were analyzed and recommendations were made to finalize the application prior to phase II of the study. In phase II, quantitative and qualitative methods will be utilized to assess the feasibility of implementing a community pharmacy-based CVD risk assessment program using the English and Arabic versions of the EPIRxISK™ online application. Results/Findings/Recommendations: In phase I, a total of 9 pharmacists from community pharmacies and 5 general participants from the general population were interviewed. As shown in table 1 and 2, the analysis of the interviews resulted in themes related to five frameworks: engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information, and subjective quality. Overall, the themes demonstrated acceptance and satisfaction with the features of the application. Phase II is in progress now. Conclusion: The overall results of the pilot testing are promising and conclude an overall acceptance and satisfaction with the features of the application.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"22 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"83295463","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0036
Noora Al-Shamary
Qatar sits in the middle of the world’s most important hydrocarbon producing areas where significant regional refining activity and shipping traffic take place. In addition to significant local coastline, development prominently along the eastern coast, has taken place over recent decades. Protecting Qatar’s marine ecosystems from the adverse effects of environmental contaminants is a core component of the Environmental Development pillar within the National Vision 2030. However, a limited number of studies have investigated contaminant concentrations in the coastal environment of Qatar. The accumulation of contaminants in aquatic environments can affect coastal and marine ecosystems, and cause adverse effect on marine organisms and human health. This study aims to determine contamination in Qatar’s coastal environment by measuring organic and inorganic contaminants, along with physiochemical parameters, at four sites located on the contrasting east and west coast of the country. The Pearl Oyster Pinctada radiata, which is considered an iconic organism in Qatar, was used to determine a baseline of contaminants in an aquatic organism. Surface seawater, surface sediment and oysters were collected four times over two years in different seasons from the four sites. In-situ parameters (temperature, pH, and salinity), and abiotic parameters (TOC and grain sizes) were measured for seawater and sediment. Organic (TPHs, PAHs) and inorganic contaminants (trace metals including: Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn, T-Hg) were measured in all samples. Overall, Al Wakra (higher in boat traffic and fueling activities) on the east coast reported the highest levels of contaminants. High PAHs were observed in oyster tissues, while high Pb was noted in seawater and high Zn was observed in sediment and oyster. Benzo (a) pyrene was the highest compound detected in oyster. However, high TPHs were also noted in oyster tissues from Simaisma. At Al Khor, also on the east coast, high level of TPHs were recorded in seawater, while high PAHs and TOC observed in surface sediment, which had a relatively higher clay and silt content than other sites. Umm Bab (with a desalination plant near the coast), the sole sample site on the west coast, showed the highest level of TOC in seawater and sediment, highest Ni in seawater and highest total mercury in oyster. Our results, in general, report lower levels in seawater and sediment compared to other studies in the region and more widely; however, in oysters most of the contaminants are higher when compared to international guideline values. These higher levels indicate the potential for these filter-feeding organisms to absorb contaminants into their tissues from the environment that surrounds them. Additionally, bioaccumulation can occur. This study provides background information for further investigation to understand the presence and distribution of organic and inorganic contaminants in Qatar’s rapidly changing coastal environment. It ind
{"title":"Assessment of Organic and Inorganic Pollutants along the Qatari Coast","authors":"Noora Al-Shamary","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0036","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0036","url":null,"abstract":"Qatar sits in the middle of the world’s most important hydrocarbon producing areas where significant regional refining activity and shipping traffic take place. In addition to significant local coastline, development prominently along the eastern coast, has taken place over recent decades. Protecting Qatar’s marine ecosystems from the adverse effects of environmental contaminants is a core component of the Environmental Development pillar within the National Vision 2030. However, a limited number of studies have investigated contaminant concentrations in the coastal environment of Qatar. The accumulation of contaminants in aquatic environments can affect coastal and marine ecosystems, and cause adverse effect on marine organisms and human health. This study aims to determine contamination in Qatar’s coastal environment by measuring organic and inorganic contaminants, along with physiochemical parameters, at four sites located on the contrasting east and west coast of the country. The Pearl Oyster Pinctada radiata, which is considered an iconic organism in Qatar, was used to determine a baseline of contaminants in an aquatic organism. Surface seawater, surface sediment and oysters were collected four times over two years in different seasons from the four sites. In-situ parameters (temperature, pH, and salinity), and abiotic parameters (TOC and grain sizes) were measured for seawater and sediment. Organic (TPHs, PAHs) and inorganic contaminants (trace metals including: Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn, T-Hg) were measured in all samples. Overall, Al Wakra (higher in boat traffic and fueling activities) on the east coast reported the highest levels of contaminants. High PAHs were observed in oyster tissues, while high Pb was noted in seawater and high Zn was observed in sediment and oyster. Benzo (a) pyrene was the highest compound detected in oyster. However, high TPHs were also noted in oyster tissues from Simaisma. At Al Khor, also on the east coast, high level of TPHs were recorded in seawater, while high PAHs and TOC observed in surface sediment, which had a relatively higher clay and silt content than other sites. Umm Bab (with a desalination plant near the coast), the sole sample site on the west coast, showed the highest level of TOC in seawater and sediment, highest Ni in seawater and highest total mercury in oyster. Our results, in general, report lower levels in seawater and sediment compared to other studies in the region and more widely; however, in oysters most of the contaminants are higher when compared to international guideline values. These higher levels indicate the potential for these filter-feeding organisms to absorb contaminants into their tissues from the environment that surrounds them. Additionally, bioaccumulation can occur. This study provides background information for further investigation to understand the presence and distribution of organic and inorganic contaminants in Qatar’s rapidly changing coastal environment. It ind","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"90 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"83919536","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0078
B. Mukhalalati, A. Awaisu, S. Elshami, B. Javed, M. Abu-Hijleh, S. Hart, H. Bawadi, R. Almahasneh, A. Al-khal, Kristine Al-Amri
“The Practice Educators’ Academy Program” is an innovative educational intervention developed following a preceptor-focused needs assessment. This study evaluated the program’s effect on self-efficacy and knowledge amongst multi-disciplinary clinical preceptors who precept students across the Health Cluster in Qatar University, Qatar. Additionally, the study assessed satisfaction with the program’s comprehensiveness, appropriateness, and relevance. The program’s effectiveness was assessed utilizing a pretest-posttest pilot intervention study with a single group of preceptors. Preceptor self-efficacy was assessed using the Preceptor Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, a validated 21-item questionnaire. Preceptor knowledge was assessed through a 25-item multiple-choice question test. Satisfaction with program content and delivery was assessed through a 14-item questionnaire with open comments. Participation of 30 preceptors in the self-efficacy questionnaire resulted in a statistically significant increase in their posttest median score (pretest-to-posttest: 3.3-to-3.6, p= 0.001). Twenty-six preceptors completed the knowledge-based assessment, with a statistically significant increased posttest mean score (pretest-to-posttest: 10.2-to-15.7, p< 0.001). Participants indicated high levels of satisfaction with the program (average score= 4.42/5). Our findings suggest the pilot program is effective as demonstrated through a significant improvement in preceptors’ self-efficacy and knowledge. Recommendations for future iterations include placing greater focus on active learning strategies, and inter-disciplinary integration.
{"title":"Pilot Evaluation of the “Practice Educators’ Academy” Preceptor Development Program for Continuing Health Professional Education Programs in Qatar","authors":"B. Mukhalalati, A. Awaisu, S. Elshami, B. Javed, M. Abu-Hijleh, S. Hart, H. Bawadi, R. Almahasneh, A. Al-khal, Kristine Al-Amri","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0078","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0078","url":null,"abstract":"“The Practice Educators’ Academy Program” is an innovative educational intervention developed following a preceptor-focused needs assessment. This study evaluated the program’s effect on self-efficacy and knowledge amongst multi-disciplinary clinical preceptors who precept students across the Health Cluster in Qatar University, Qatar. Additionally, the study assessed satisfaction with the program’s comprehensiveness, appropriateness, and relevance. The program’s effectiveness was assessed utilizing a pretest-posttest pilot intervention study with a single group of preceptors. Preceptor self-efficacy was assessed using the Preceptor Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, a validated 21-item questionnaire. Preceptor knowledge was assessed through a 25-item multiple-choice question test. Satisfaction with program content and delivery was assessed through a 14-item questionnaire with open comments. Participation of 30 preceptors in the self-efficacy questionnaire resulted in a statistically significant increase in their posttest median score (pretest-to-posttest: 3.3-to-3.6, p= 0.001). Twenty-six preceptors completed the knowledge-based assessment, with a statistically significant increased posttest mean score (pretest-to-posttest: 10.2-to-15.7, p< 0.001). Participants indicated high levels of satisfaction with the program (average score= 4.42/5). Our findings suggest the pilot program is effective as demonstrated through a significant improvement in preceptors’ self-efficacy and knowledge. Recommendations for future iterations include placing greater focus on active learning strategies, and inter-disciplinary integration.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"5 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"81916144","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-10-20DOI: 10.29117/quarfe.2021.0076
D. N. Prasad, S. Al-Máadeed, Asan Gani Abdul Muthalif, K. K. Sadasivuni
The aim of this research is to design and develop a non-invasive cholesterol sensor based on the principle of light absorption. The current existing invasive methods can be replaced with non-invasive techniques. The interaction of light with matter has been utilized to design a smart device that measures blood cholesterol without collecting blood samples. It requires developing an optical sensor that focuses on the use of near infrared (NIR)-LED.
{"title":"Optical Non-invasive Technique for Cholesterol Detection in Blood","authors":"D. N. Prasad, S. Al-Máadeed, Asan Gani Abdul Muthalif, K. K. Sadasivuni","doi":"10.29117/quarfe.2021.0076","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29117/quarfe.2021.0076","url":null,"abstract":"The aim of this research is to design and develop a non-invasive cholesterol sensor based on the principle of light absorption. The current existing invasive methods can be replaced with non-invasive techniques. The interaction of light with matter has been utilized to design a smart device that measures blood cholesterol without collecting blood samples. It requires developing an optical sensor that focuses on the use of near infrared (NIR)-LED.","PeriodicalId":9295,"journal":{"name":"Building Resilience at Universities: Role of Innovation and Entrepreneurship","volume":"52 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2021-10-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"91552689","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
京公网安备 11010802042870号
京ICP备2023020795号-1
扫码关注我们
求助内容：
应助结果提醒方式：