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Rationale and Objectives This study aimed to investigate radiologists' and radiographers' knowledge, perception, readiness, and challenges regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration into radiology practice. Materials and Methods An electronically distributed cross-sectional study was conducted among radiologists and radiographers in the United Arab Emirates. The questionnaire captured the participants' demographics, qualifications, professional experience, and postgraduate training. Their knowledge, perception, organisational readiness, and challenges regarding AI integration into radiology were examined. Results There was a significant lack of knowledge and appreciation of the integration of AI into radiology practice. Organisations are stepping toward building AI implementation strategies. The availability of appropriate training courses is the main challenge for both radiographers and radiologists. Conclusion The excitement of AI implementation into radiology practise was accompanied by a lack of knowledge and effort required to improve the user's appreciation of AI. The knowledge gap requires collaboration between educational institutes and professional bodies to develop structured training programs for radiologists and radiographers.

Introduction Despite the existence of opportunities for postgraduate studies in radiography, the number of radiographers involved in postgraduate education is low and their research production is also considered low compared to other professions. The main aim of this study was to understand the profile of radiography Doctorate holders across the Arab countries, document their current role and identify barriers that may influence research and professional publication activity. Methods There is no formal database of doctoral radiographers in Arab countries, therefore a snowball sampling technique was used to recruit participants beyond those identified through organizational websites. An online survey was distributed to the participants with implied consent being applied through completion of the survey. Results From 53 responses, 78% were male and 98% were diagnostic radiographers. Fifty-one percent completed their PhD in non-Arab countries and 55% self-funded (paid for themselves) their PhD study. An increase in doctoral students was observed over time, where 36% (n = 19) of participants will graduate in 2020 and afterward. Barriers reported as preventing radiographers pursuing research/publication were support, employing institutions, lack of research focussed leadership and lack of collaboration. Conclusion Government support and direction from national professional bodies is needed. To enable research growth, there must be a foundational component within pre-registration/licensing education. Implications for practice Focussing on government or professional body supported projects that are divided into smaller linked investigations can provide foundational work for PhD development. It is through these opportunities that practitioner research enhancement and capability is improved. Potential Arabian regional and wider international collaborations should be pursued in future as a developmental approach.

Introduction This study is a part of an effort to determine the challenges faced by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) radiographers towards role extension and advanced practice. It reflects the current practice and challenges facing role extension compared to international advancement. The study aimed to assess the radiographers who worked at mammography screening perception and readiness to accept role extension and advanced practice in mammography. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study using an online survey was conducted among radiographers who practice mammography. The survey captured demographics, qualifications, professional education, future development plans, interest in role extension, and incentive to pursue the mammography profession. Results Forty-five radiographers were invited to participate in the study the response rate was 71% (n=32), 34.4 (11%) were UAE nationals with the remainder being expats. The majority were young between 25 and 45 years old (84.4%), 81.3% hold a BSc qualification. 56.3% completed a post-qualification training specialized mammography certificate. 81% of the participants showed interest in role extension after appropriate education, training, and supervision by radiologists. Conclusion This study reports on the perceptions and readiness of radiographers on advanced practice within breast-screening centers. The results show acceptance and support after proper training, clear career pathway, and licensing body recognition. The role of the radiographer in the UAE is still growing.

Purpose This study assessed the effectiveness of breast and eye shielding and measured the radiation dose to radiosensitive tissues (eyes and breasts) due to scatter radiation during cervical spine X-ray radiography examinations. Methods Using an anthropomorphic phantom, the scattered radiation dose was measured before and after the placement of the lead shield over the eyes and breasts in the anteroposterior (AP) and left lateral projection. A regression formula was utilized to determine the exposure. Mean values and standard deviation of breasts and eyes doses were calculated. The paired two sample t-test was used to compare the recorded dose before and after shielding placement. Results Radiation shielding of eyes and breasts during AP cervical spine X-ray decreased radiation dose to the breasts by 99.9% and to the left and right eye by 91% and 89%, respectively. For the left lateral cervical spine X-ray, the radiation dose decreased by 26% and 31% for the left and right eye, respectively, and by 23% and 99% for the left and right breast, respectively. A significant difference was noted comparing the dose before and after the implementing shielding on the eye and breast. Conclusion According to the results presented, the dose is significantly reduced, especially considering that they are not in the area of interest but are exposed to scatter radiation.

Purpose Occupational radiation exposure for medical workers in radiology and cardiology was analyzed in nine hospitals in the UAE between 2002 and 2016. The purpose of the study was to determine the time trend and the differences in occupational radiation exposure among worker groups and hospitals in the country. Methods Readings of 5700 thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLDs) were obtained from 1011 medical workers and grouped into 5 worker groups (radiographers, diagnostic radiologists, nurses, cardiologists and physicians). Results The mean annual effective dose was from 0.38 to 0.62 mSv per worker. Even though an increase in the collective effective dose has been noticed during the study period, no significant time trend was observed in the mean effective dose. Furthermore, cardiologists received higher mean and maximum effective doses than the other worker groups. Conclusion The annual effective doses were below the limits set by national legislation and international standards, and for the average worker, the likelihood of high exposure is small. However, improvements in radiation protection practices could be implemented to reduce occupational radiation dose to cardiologists, who were the most exposed worker group in this study.

Falls are an important clinical, socioeconomic, and public health problem in the older adult population. Advancing age is a major risk factor for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The preclinical phase of AD, which is regarded as an important window for early therapeutic intervention before the onset of MCI and subsequently AD, can serve as a critical period to reduce or prevent falls among elderly people at risk of AD. In this chapter, first, a discussion is provided on the degrees of fall-related injuries, pain, and severity of falls in elderly people at risk of AD. Secondly, a discussion is provided on the clinical, socioeconomic, and public health implications of falls. Studies that integrated neuroimaging techniques were also reviewed to identify brain biomarkers that can be targeted for the prevention of falls among the elderly. It is anticipated that the outcome of this chapter may have a critical role in the prevention of falls among elderly people at risk or suffering from AD.

A two-phased retrospective cross-sectional study analysed the occupational dose and radiation protection practice among medical workers in two hospitals in the UAE. Phase 1 evaluated radiation protection practice using a questionnaire, whereas phase 2 assessed the occupational dose. Readings of 952 thermoluminescence dosimeters were analyzed. The result showed 52% of medical workers have a good level of radiation protection practice. Readings of 952 thermoluminescence dosimeters were analyzedAverage annual effective dose per worker ranged from 0.39 to 0.83 mSv. Cardiologists and nurses displayed a higher average of occupational radiation dose compared to other workers. There were no significant correlations between radiation protection practice and hospital, occupation or department. Finally, the occupational dose was within the international and national limits, but the reduction of radiation dose to cardiologist and nurses is essential. Moreover, training is essential to promote radiation safe practice among medical workers.

Introduction The current technological developments in medical imaging are centred largely on the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into all equipment modalities. This survey assessed the perspectives of African radiographers on the integration of AI in medical imaging in order to offer unique recommendations to support the training of the radiography workforce. Methods An exploratory cross-sectional online survey of radiographers working within Africa was conducted from March to August 2020. The survey obtained data about their demographics and perspectives on AI implementation and usage. Data obtained were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results A total of 1020 valid responses were obtained. Majority of the respondents (n = 883,86.6%) were working in general X-ray departments. Of the respondents, 84.9% (n = 866) indicated that AI technology would improve radiography practice and quality assurance for efficient diagnosis and improved clinical care. Fear of job losses following the implementation of AI was a key concern of most radiographers (n = 625,61.3%). Conclusion Generally, radiographers were delighted about the integration of AI into medical imaging, however; there were concerns about job security and lack of knowledge. There is an urgent need for stakeholders in medical imaging infrastructure development and practices in Africa to start empowering radiographers through training programmes, funding, motivational support, and create clear roadmaps to guide the adoption and integration of AI in medical imaging in Africa. Implication for practice The current study offers unique suggestions and recommendations to support the training of the African radiography workforce and others in similar resource-limited settings to provide quality care using AI-integrated imaging modalities.

Online learning has become the new normal in many medical and health science schools worldwide, courtesy of COVID-19. Satisfaction with online learning is a significant aspect of promoting successful educational processes. This study aimed to identify factors affecting student and faculty satisfaction with online learning during the new normal. Online questionnaires were emailed to students (n = 370) and faculty (n = 81) involved in online learning during the pandemic. The questionnaires included closed- and open-ended questions and were organised into two parts: socio-demographic information and satisfaction with online learning. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the responses to the satisfaction scales. Students’ and faculty responses to the open-ended questions were analysed using the thematic analysis method. The response rate was 97.8% for students and 86.4% for faculty. Overall satisfaction among students was 41.3% compared to 74.3% for faculty. The highest areas of satisfaction for students were communication and flexibility, whereas 92.9% of faculty were satisfied with students’ enthusiasm for online learning. Technical problems led to reduced student satisfaction, while faculty were hampered by the higher workload and the required time to prepare the teaching and assessment materials. Study-load and workload, enhancing engagement, and technical issues (SWEET) were the themes that emerged from the thematic analysis as affecting student and faculty satisfaction. Adopting a combination synchronous and asynchronous approach, incorporating different applications to engage students, and timely feedback are imperative to increasing student satisfaction, while institutional support and organisational policy could enhance faculty satisfaction.

Background: Fear of infection, the epidemic situation, unexpected lockdown, and implementation of online classes are most likely affecting the psychological well-being of students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this study aims to assess the level of knowledge, anxiety, and psychological distress concerning COVID-19 and their association with fear, gender, age, history of mental illness, time spent reading about COVID-19, program of study, and type of dwelling among students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods and Materials: In this cross-sectional study, 433 students participated in a web-based survey. These were students at the University of Sharjah, coming from all the emirates of the UAE. Demographic scale, COVID-19 knowledge, anxiety, fear, and psychological distress scales were used to screen these problems. Results: Of the 433 students, 278 (64.2%) were male and 155 (35.8%) were female. Overall, 353 (81.5%) exhibited adequate knowledge of COVID-19. Sixty-nine (15.9%) of students were anxious and 221 (51%) were in psychological distress. Students who exhibited anxiety concerning COVID-19 anxiety (odds ratio [OR]: 2.98) and fear (OR: 1.27), and who spent more than 4 h reading about COVID-19 (OR: 11.20) were more psychologically distressed. Students with a history of mental illness showed adequate knowledge of COVID-19; however, they were more psychologically distressed (OR: 5.93). Older students were less likely to have psychological distress (OR: 0.87). Conclusion: Students possess adequate knowledge concerning COVID-19; however, they are psychologically distressed. Age, dwelling status, history of mental illness, anxiety, and fear significantly predicted psychological distress. Frequent web-based workshops that include insight, guidance, online counseling, scheduled activity, and coping mechanisms for COVID-19 are highly recommended. The authors discuss the implications for future research and provide recommendations for students and educational institutions.

Introduction This study aimed to investigate the response of the radiology workforce to the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on professional practice in India and eight other Middle Eastern and North African countries. It further investigated the levels of fear and anxiety among this workforce during the pandemic. Methods A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey from 22 May-2 June 2020 among radiology workers employed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey collected information related to the following themes: (1) demographic characteristics, (2) the impact of COVID-19 on radiology practice, and (3) fear and (4) anxiety emanating from the global pandemic. Results We received 903 responses. Fifty-eight percent had completed training on infection control required for handling COVID-19 patients. A large proportion (79.5%) of the respondents strongly agreed or agreed that personal protective equipment (PPE) was adequately available at work during the pandemic. The respondents reported experiences of work-related stress (42.9%), high COVID-19 fear score (83.3%) and anxiety (10%) during the study period. Conclusion There was a perceived workload increase in general x-ray and Computed Tomography imaging procedures because they were the key modalities for the initial and follow-up investigations of COVID-19. However, there was adequate availability of PPE during the study period. Most radiology workers were afraid of being infected with the virus. Fear was predominant among workers younger than 30 years of age and also in temporary staff. Anxiety occurred completely independent of gender, age, experience, country, place of work, and work status. Implications for practice It is important to provide training and regular mental health support and evaluations for healthcare professionals, including radiology workers, during similar future pandemics.

This multicenter study evaluated computed tomography dose index volume (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) to contribute to establishing computed tomography (CT) national diagnostic reference levels (NDRLs) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Data from 240 patients, who underwent CT head, chest, abdomen–pelvis and urography examinations, were analyzed, including patient age, sex and weight, CTDIvol (mGy) and DLP (mGy cm). The proposed DRLs for each examination were calculated as the third quartile. DRLs are proposed using CTDIvol (mGy) and DLP (mGy cm) for CT head (67 and 1189, respectively), chest (8 and 302, respectively), abdomen–pelvis (28 and 1122, respectively) and urography (20 and 714, respectively). These values are comparable with the initial NDRLs and published international DRLs. Baseline values for International Radiology Center (IRC) CT DRLs were calculated on frequently performed CT examinations. Implementation of DRL values improves dose optimization based on procedures, scanner type and patient characteristics while maintaining acceptable image quality and diagnostic confidence.

Introduction This study forms part of a needs assessment in relation to the challenges United Arab Emirates (UAE) radiographers face as they move beyond the role of a technician, and their learning needs to facilitate role advancement. It presents a snapshot of the workforce in terms of qualifications, clinical experience, and responsibilities, as it transitions towards an Emirati, led profession. The results will aid the radiography workforce to embrace a broader role within medical imaging and radiographic practice in the UAE. Methods An electronically distributed cross-sectional study was conducted among radiographers in the UAE. The questionnaire captured radiographer demographics, qualifications, professional experience, postgraduate training, professional development plans, and their interest in future role developments. Results 272 radiographers were invited to participate with a response rate of 68% (n = 185). Thirty-four (18%) radiographers were UAE nationals with the remainder educated overseas. BSc qualifications were held by 153 (82.7%) and had 6–20 years of experience. There were 12 masters’ qualified and two with doctoral qualifications. Modality vendors were significant providers of professional development. Improved job satisfaction and the development of an Emirati led radiography profession were identified as the main gains for role advancement by 171 (92.4%) respondents. Conclusion Currently, UAE radiographers work within traditional professional boundaries focussing on image acquisition under direct radiologist supervision. At the same time, many respondents revealed they had embraced advanced practice roles after appropriate education and training. Implications for practice The findings suggest an Emirati led profession requires the creation of a distinct professional body to represent the interests of radiographers, more investment in postgraduate education, and the creation of a career structure that encompasses positive role development.

Interventional cardiologists (ICs) receive the largest radiation dose of any medical specialist working with X-ray techniques. The aim of present study has been to obtain dose estimates received by ICs during fluoroscopically-guided imaging and interventional procedures. TLDs in the form of badges, rings, and chips have been used, measuring Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) as appropriate. During the course of 41 coronary angiography (CAG) cases, 50 percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) cases and 9 (CAG + PCI) procedures, cardiologist doses to the skin of the hands, upper neck area and to the eyes were assessed. Two-TLD badges were placed at the level of the Pb-composite collar exterior to the shielding, with a further two placed under and two more over the Pb-composite apron. Four chip-form TLDs were positioned above the eyebrows (two for the right- and two for the left eye), and two ring dosimeters were worn on the left and right hands. Cardiologist doses correlated with total fluoroscopy time over the five month period of the survey, the annual effective doses received by the body, eyes, hands and upper trunk area being estimated to be 8.0-, 10.7-, 24.3- and 10.2 mSv respectively, all well below the ICRP recommended equivalent dose limits, indicating well-controlled radiation protection practices.

Radiation dose monitoring for radiography students during clinical training is necessary to demonstrate the extent of radiation protection issues present, as well as to instill in them an awareness of safe practices that they will carry with them throughout their careers. The study assess the radiation dose incurred by the undergraduate during clinical training. 312 students were monitored using (thermoluminescence dosimetry) between 2009 and 2015. The results establish that the radiation dose received by the students is well below the dose recommended by national and international authorities. Findings indicate that the dose did not reach the value of 1 mSv, which indicate that current radiation protection measures are acceptable and there was no risk of overexposure, as well as reinforces the importance of nuturing a culture of radiation protection and provides evidence to students that their future as professionals will be a safe one.

Introduction Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) is collaborative learning in which students from the same or different academic levels learn from each other. It is meant to support the regular teaching and learning process. Learning in PAL can be explained by constructive social learning theories and has many advantages such as, students' perception of it and the ease of discussion between peers. This study aims to measure students’ perception of PAL in the context of radiography education. Methods A PAL programme was implemented in one module taught to second year radiography students. A questionnaire was then distributed to the participating students (n = 28) to measure their perception of PAL; the questionnaire consisted of 13 questions with a Likert scale of 5 (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree). The results were analysed using SPSS to calculate the percentages, means, standard deviations, and factorial analysis. Results Twenty-six students responded to the questionnaire (92.8%). The range of agreement in all questionnaire items ranged from 79.9% to 92.3%. The factor analysis revealed two main factors affecting students' acceptability. PAL enriched students’ learning experience and helped them in preparation for exams. Conclusion The use of PAL is highly acceptable by students in context of radiography education. Implications for practice More studies are necessary to confirm the best methods of using PAL. These may involve both students and educators, and pre- and post-methods.

Introduction Assessment is a central part of student learning. Student involvement in peer assessment leads to significant improvement in students' performance, supports students' learning, promotes the development of evaluation skills and encourages reflection. Aim The aim of this study is to assess perceptions of the Formative Peer Assessment (FPA) initiative within a higher education setting for undergraduate radiography students. Methods Qualitative action research was conducted. Students were allowed to anonymously assess each other's assignments using a standardized evaluation sheet that they had been trained to use. Participants' perceptions were assessed through focus group discussion. Results The findings showed that students' experiences with peer assessment were positive. Students acknowledged that they received valuable feedback and learned from assessing their peers. Students recommended the need for training and suggested using more than one evaluator. Conclusion The FPA initiative in the study institution believed to be succeed as the students had a positive experience with the FPA. Students learnt from PA and from self-assessment. Implementation of PA will promote reflection and critical thinking and problem solving skills, that are important traits in radiography graduate profile as in radiography clinical practice the professional require to modify imaging techniques and critique images to ensure the quality of care.

Purpose The aim of the study was to investigate the occupational radiation dose for medical workers in the equine hospital and to compare it with the national and international recommended limits. Methods A retrospective study analysed the occupational dose record for the years 2015 and 2016. The study included all workers (physicians, radiological technologists, and grooms) who are potentially exposed to radiation during routine work. Results Total of 112 TLD readings were analysed. The annual average effective dose was 0.77 mSv for all workers. The highest annual effective dose was 2.23 mSv. Individual doses were below the recommended limit by the ICRP, but grooms and radiological technologists received higher annual effective doses compared to doctors. Conclusion It is crucial to promote radiation awareness among veterinary workers. Particular attention should be directed to the protection of radiological technologists and grooms, who were the most exposed worker group. The study recommends the utilization of ALARA principle and radiation protection guidelines to reduce radiation dose to radiological technologists and grooms.