bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Frequency and factors associated with focused antenatal care in Guinea: Analysis of the DHS 2018
Authors: Baldé Maimouna , Loua Jean B.D. , Sidibé Tiany , Barry Fanta , Camara Bienvenu S. , Diallo Ramata , Toure Madeleine , Keita Kaba S. , Camara Sadan , Balde Mamadou D. 
Published: November 2024

Background: In Guinea, despite women’s recourse to antenatal care (ANC), little remains known about the use of focused antenatal care (FANC), contained in the ANC package.Aim: The aim of this study was to analyse the frequency and factors associated with FANC, using data from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) 2018.Setting: This study was conducted in Guinea.Methods: This was a secondary analysis of data from the DHS conducted in 2018 in Guinea. It included all women who achieved at least one ANC visit in the last 2 years prior to the survey. Multivariate logistic regression was received to identify factors associated with FANC. Stata 16 software was used for the analysis.Results: This study shows that in Guinea, between 2016 and 2018 only 33% of women undergoing ANC received a FANC. The most commonly used service was blood pressure measurement (93%), while the least commonly used service was deworming (42%). Factors associated with FANC were living in the Kindia region (odds ratio = 1.7; 95% confidence interval: 1.04–2.97); not intending to become pregnant for this pregnancy; belonging to a poor household; and having made 3, 4 or more ANC visits.Conclusion: This study reports a low proportion of women receiving the full package of ANC.Contribution: In order to improve this indicator, greater efforts need to be made in certain regions of the country to target pregnant women who achieve fewer ANC visits, carry pregnancies that were not intentional or belong to poorer households.
Dynamic factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Cameroon between 2021 and 2022
Authors: Tchiasso Dora , Mendjime Patricia , Njuwa Fai Karl , Nana Wandji Brenda S. , Yuya Francis , Youm Éric , Stanton Amelia M. , Karimu Ismaila , Bebell Lisa M. , Matchim Lucrece , Buri Bongkiyung D. , Ntone Rodrigue , Yonta Cyrille , Tchame Claudric R. , Essaka Rachelle , Eyong Justin B. , Ngosso Audrey , Nanda Herwin , Nsaibirni Robert , Ndifon Mark , Eteki Lucrèce , Mandeng Nadia , Zoung-Kani Bisseck Anne-Cécile , Koku Modeste T. , Epée Emilienne , Etoundi Mballa Georges-Alain , Tchocfe Ndoula Shalom , Esso Linda , Boum II Yap 
Published: November 2024

Background: Little is known about attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination in sub-Saharan Africa, where immunisation coverage is the lowest in the world.Aim: The study aimed to identify factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake in Cameroon, and assess changes in these factors over a period of time.Setting: The study was conducted in the ten regions of Cameroon.Methods: The authors conducted a two-phase cross-sectional survey in the 10 regions of Cameroon, from July 2021 to August 2021 (Phase one) and from August 2022 to September 2022 (Phase two). We analysed reasons for vaccine hesitancy descriptively and used logistic regression to assess factors associated with hesitancy.Results: Overall, we enrolled 12 109 participants: 6567 (54.23%) in Phase one and 5542 (45.77%) in Phase two. Of these, 8009 (66.14%) were not interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (n = 4176 in Phase one, n = 3833 in Phase two). The refusal rate increased significantly in the northern region from 27.00% in Phase 1 to 60.00% in Phase two. The leading contributor to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was fear that the vaccine was dangerous, which was significantly associated (95% confidence interval [CI], p 0.05%) with vaccine refusal in both phases. Overall, 32.90% of participants (n = 2578) perceived the COVID-19 vaccine to be dangerous. Advanced age, male gender, Muslim religion and low level of education were associated with vaccine acceptance. Participants reported that healthcare workers were the most trusted source of information about the COVID-19 vaccine by 5005 (42.84%) participants.Conclusion: Despite the investment of the Ministry of Health and its partners in community engagement, focussing on communication about the vaccine efficacy, tolerance and potential adverse events, fear of the vaccine remains high, likely leading to vaccine hesitancy in Cameroon between 2021 and 2022.Contribution: The study highlight regional variations in COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Cameroon, with factors age, gender, religion and education influencing willingness to vaccine. Trust in health workers was high, indicating that, tailored, community-led vaccination strategies are key for improving vaccine uptake, not only for COVID-19 but also for future epidemics.
Combined Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Transcystic Common Bile Duct Exploration for Choledocholithiasis
Authors: El-Dawy Wael A. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background:
There is no consensus on the ideal approach for managing patients with common bile duct (CBD) stones. The combined approach is less popular, possibly due to the complexity of the surgical technique and the availability of choledochoscope.

Aim:
We aim to assess the safety and feasibility of transcystic (TC) CBD exploration using the flexible bronchoscope for choledocholithiasis.

Methods:
Forty patients with symptomatic calculus gallbladder with concomitant CBD stones were randomized into two groups. Single-session laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and laparoscopic TC CBD exploration were performed for one group using the flexible bronchoscope. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by LC after 4–6 weeks was conducted for the other group.

Results:
Twenty patients were randomized to each group. The clearance rate of CBD stones was significantly higher in the single-session Group A (95%) than in the two-session Group B (70%). Group B was associated with a significantly prolonged operative (P = 0.01). The total hospital stay and operative time were significantly longer in Group B than in Group A (P = 0.004). There was no significant difference between both groups regarding the intraoperative or postoperative complications.

Conclusion:
Combined LC and TC CBD exploration is a safe and feasible approach and is associated with significantly shorter operative time and length of hospital stay.
Chromosome-level genome assembly and annotation of the crested gecko, Correlophus ciliatus, a lizard incapable of tail regeneration
Authors: Gumangan Marc A. , Pan Zheyu , Lozito Thomas P. 
Published: November 2024

The vast majority of gecko species are capable of tail regeneration, but singular geckos of Correlophus, Uroplatus, and Nephrurus genera are unable to regrow lost tails. Of these non-regenerative geckos, the crested gecko (Correlophus ciliatus) is distinguished by ready availability, ease of care, high productivity, and hybridization potential. These features make C. ciliatus particularly suited as a model for studying the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms underlying loss of tail regeneration capabilities. We report a contiguous genome of C. ciliatus with a total size of 1.65 Gb, 152 scaffolds, L50 of 6, and N50 of 109 Mb. Repetitive content consists of 40.41% of the genome, and a total of 30,780 genes were annotated. Our assembly of the crested gecko genome provides a valuable resource for future comparative genomic studies between non-regenerative and regenerative geckos and other squamate reptiles.

Findings
We report genome sequencing, assembly, and annotation for the crested gecko, Correlophus ciliatus.
Prevalência de agressividade e nível de atividade física de mulheres privadas de liberdade
Authors: Silva Aline Neves da , Santos Amanda Alves dos , Souza Daniela Freitas de , Costa Jessica Santos Passos , Epifania Patrícia Soares 
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: Descrever a prevalência de agressividade e nível de atividade física (AF) de mulheres privadas de liberdade, em presídio do semiárido baiano. Métodos: Estudo de prevalência, descritivo, quantitativa, em presídio regional do semiárido baiano. Coletaram-se informações, aleatoriamente, de 65 mulheres, por meio dos registros dos prontuários e históricos de saúde. Levantaram-se dados sociodemográficos, e a prevalência da agressividade foi categorizada, baseando-se em critérios internos (comportamento diário, brigas e indisciplina). O nível de atividade física foi verificado por meio do Internacional Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), os dados de AF foram descritos pelos profissionais de saúde baseados na rotina de banho de sol e na área de convivência em comum. Resultados: Da amostra, 70,8% possuíam idade média de 31 anos, 91,8% não brancas, 59,7% tinham companheiro fixo. A maioria estudou até o fundamental II. A prevalência de agressividade foi de 67%, classificadas como irregularmente ativas. Conclusão: O perfil socioeconômico foi de detentas jovens, não brancas e com baixa escolaridade e elevada prevalência de agressividade. Observou-se que o confinamento apresenta oportunidade para implementação da prática de atividade física como contribuinte para redução de comportamentos agressivos.
THE ROLE OF BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN SECURING BANKING TRANSACTIONS IN AFRICA
Authors: Agyapong Kwakye , Boakye Isaac 
Published: November 2024

<p>The rise of digital financial services in Africa has highlighted the growing need for secure and efficient banking systems. Blockchain technology, with its decentralized and immutable nature, offers promising solutions to address the security challenges inherent in traditional banking infrastructures across the continent. This study explores the potential of blockchain technology in enhancing the security of banking transactions in Africa by minimizing fraud, ensuring data transparency, and facilitating cross-border payments. The research examines how blockchain can revolutionize banking in Africa by providing secure transaction validation, improved customer privacy, and increased trust in financial institutions. Furthermore, it addresses the current barriers to blockchain adoption in African banks, such as regulatory challenges, technological infrastructure, and financial inclusion issues. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for integrating blockchain into the banking sector, emphasizing its capacity to foster financial innovation, increase transaction security, and drive economic growth across Africa.</p><p><strong>JEL:</strong> K24, L86</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0799/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
FOSTERING VIETNAMESE EFL LEARNERS’ LEARNER AUTONOMY AND READING COMPREHENSION ABILITY THROUGH ONLINE PLATFORMS
Authors: Duc Duong Thanh Hung , Hang Vo Thi Thu 
Published: November 2024

The ability of learner autonomy is a prerequisite for many university students in Vietnam. However, it is a daunting task for EFL teachers and learners to achieve that learning outcome. The present study aims to delineate second-year English majors’ perceived learner autonomy and reading comprehension ability in an online reading course at Van Lang University, Vietnam, with two online platforms (synchronous via Microsoft Teams and asynchronous via Moodle). During the ten weeks of this course, different online reading and vocabulary practices were assigned to 65 students in two intact classes. The results were obtained from reading tests, questionnaires, and a follow-up interview. The findings revealed that they could perceive their learner autonomy more positively and statistically remarkably improve their reading comprehension ability after the course. The students’ insights into the course’s effectiveness confirmed several benefits in addition to a few barriers (i.e., technical issues, English proficiency levels, learning motivation, and online self-study skills). The results have specific implications for the practice of English reading instruction at the faculty. Viable online platforms and pedagogical techniques should be applied to foster the students’ learner autonomy and reading comprehension ability.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0796/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
PERCEPTIONS TO CONTEXTUAL FACTORS AND ATTITUDE OF TEACHERS TOWARDS INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Authors: Magtuba Chona G. 
Published: November 2024

Early childhood educators' perception of inclusive education is likely consistent with their attitude towards the practice of inclusion in the kindergarten class. This study aimed to determine the relationship between primary school teachers' perception of contextual factors of inclusive education and their attitude towards inclusion. This study used the descriptive correlational research design. The data were obtained from a sample size of 82 public school primary education teachers who were selected through purposive sampling. A researcher-made data instrument was used to collect the data. Results of the study showed that early childhood educators have a strong perception of the contextual factors of inclusive education, and their attitude is in agreement with inclusion. Specifically, curriculum registered the highest mean score among the contextual factors, while teacher training registered the lowest mean score. In terms of attitude, professional development registered the highest mean score, while opportunity to learners registered the lowest mean score. Further, a strong significant relationship exists between perceptions of the contextual factors of inclusive education and attitudes towards inclusion. A positive perception of teachers in the context of an inclusive education curriculum is crucial to developing attitudes towards inclusion. Professional development and curriculum alignment are recommended to strengthen their confidence in their engagement in the inclusive class.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0715/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
STAFF MOTIVATION IN THE PROVISION OF QUALITY EDUCATION IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN BUNDA DISTRICT, TANZANIA
Authors: Arende Erasto George , Yambo John M. Onyango , Nyakundi Eliud 
Published: November 2024

This study dealt with staff motivation in the provision of quality education in primary schools in Bunda District, Tanzania. Despite the efforts by the government, NGOs, parents and other stakeholders in promoting quality education, the quality of education in Bunda primary schools, in particular, is still a challenge. It employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population was 109 primary schools, 1290 teachers, 2450 parents and 1 district education officer. The researcher used 30% to get a sample size of 28 out of 109 head teachers. The researcher also considered using Saunders, Philip, and Adrian's (2003) table to get a representative sample of 278 teachers from the population of 1290 and 370 parents from 24650, respectively. Data collection instruments were questionnaires and interview schedules. Validity was established by giving the instruments to the experts in the Department of Education Administration Planning and Economics of Kisii University to ascertain. The reliability was ascertained by a pilot study conducted in the same district among the head teachers who were not included in the final study population. From the schools where the five head teachers were stationed 10 teachers were randomly selected for the pilot study, and 13 parents were also randomly selected. Split-Half technique was employed for the test. Pilot questionnaires were divided into two equivalent halves, and their correlation coefficient for the two halves was computed using the Spearman-Brown prophecy formula, describing the internal consistency of the test and then showing that the instrument was reliable. A correlation coefficient of 0.70 was obtained and recommended as reliable. The findings revealed that 16 (57.1 %) of headteachers reported that pupils are motivated by the provision of certificates whenever they do anything exemplary, while 12 (49.9 %) indicated that they are motivated by providing them with special meals. The study concluded that motivation was done by rewarding performing head teachers and staff in various ways. The study recommended that motivation by rewarding performing head teachers, staff and pupils be encouraged in various ways. The researcher sought permission from the National Council for Science Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) through Kisii University as required. The researcher equally got permission from the Bunda District Education Officer. The respondents were assured of strict confidentiality. The researcher acknowledged all sources referred to so as to avoid plagiarism.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0745/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
ASSESSING THE INFLUENCE OF CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES ON THE TEACHING METHODOLOGIES OF HISTORY TEACHERS IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Wosu Uchechi Ngozi , Alikor Oroma , Orlunga Bartholomew Godstime 
Published: November 2024

The study assessed the influence of continuous professional development programmes on the teaching methodologies of history teachers in senior secondary schools in Rivers State. Three research questions with corresponding three hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted descriptive survey designs. The population for the study consisted of 604 History teachers in public senior secondary schools in Rivers State. A retrieved sample was used for analysis, and there were 280 respondents. Stratified random sampling was used to stratify Rivers State into Rivers East, Rivers West and Rivers South East senatorial districts. Stage Quota sampling technique was applied to select History teachers from each senatorial district in Rivers State. The instrument constructed was a questionnaire titled “Influence of Continuous Professional Development Programmes on the Teaching Methodologies of History Teachers Questionnaire (ICPDPTMHTQ). The content and face validity instrument was validated by experts and History head teachers. Cronbach alpha was used to determine the reliability index of 0.80. Out of 302 copies of the instrument distributed to the respondents, 280 copies of the instruments were returned. Multiple Regression statistics method associated with ANOVA and t-test was used to answer research questions and test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that Continuous professional development significantly enhances teaching methods for history teachers in Rivers State. However, project-based learning, field trips, virtual tours, game-based learning, visual learning, and the Socratic method show no significant influence, indicated by high p-values and low coefficients. The study recommended that school administrators should be encouraged to offer CPD programmes that include training on innovative teaching strategies, like project-based learning and field trips, to enhance the overall effectiveness of history instruction.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0702/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
COMPARING THE IMPACT OF SYNCHRONOUS AND ASYNCHRONOUS ONLINE LEARNING ON STUDENT RETENTION AND SATISFACTION
Authors: Chafouk Oumaima , Marjanei Driss 
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the effect of synchronous and asynchronous online learning methods on learners’ retention and satisfaction. The research aims to answer two primary questions: (1) Does real-time interaction in synchronous learning foster better short-term and long-term retention compared to asynchronous learning? (2) Are students more satisfied with the flexibility of asynchronous learning or the engagement of synchronous learning? A sample of 30 intermediate-level English learners was randomly divided into two groups: one receiving a synchronous lesson via Google Meet or Preply virtual classroom, and the other accessing an asynchronous lesson via pre-recorded video and PDF materials. The results of independent t-tests and paired t-tests revealed no statistically significant difference in retention between the groups, although both showed a slight decline in performance over time. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests indicated that the synchronous group reported higher engagement and a positive impact of interaction on understanding, while the asynchronous group appreciated flexibility. However, there was no significant difference in overall satisfaction between the two groups. These findings suggest that while synchronous learning may offer greater engagement, both learning methods are similarly effective in terms of retention and satisfaction.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0715/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
SWOT ANALYSIS OF NATIONAL CURRICULUM FRAMEWORK 2021 AND ITS TEXTBOOKS FROM GENDER PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Barua Arpa , Arafat Yasin , Shahriar A.B.M Feroz 
Published: November 2024

The education system of any country shapes its society by socializing youth with skills, values, and attitudes. Bangladesh declared its National Curriculum Framework 2021, which replaced the National Curriculum 2012 nine years ago, so the New Curriculum Framework is the first country’s curriculum framework of the 21st century, which is known for competency-based education. The New Curriculum Framework mainly focuses on competency, which is interdisciplinary and skill-based education. Components of competency-based education are knowledge, skill, values, and attitudes, which provide interdisciplinary, comprehensive and flexible knowledge as the demand of the 21st century. This curriculum framework states how the learning experience will change — learners will be instructed in the classroom with real-life experience and content, and they will examine societal norms and values and be active in bringing about positive changes in society by eliminating all forms of discrimination. Therefore, a gender transformative approach has been adopted in this curriculum, through which every learner seeks to analyze gender roles by transforming unequal gender norms, roles, and relations to gender equality while working towards redistributing the economy and services in society to be more equal. Thus, in this study, we have covered the SWOT Analysis of the New National Curriculum Framework 2021 and the analysis of textbook content. Thus, this study reveals the implementation of NCF - 2021 by analyzing Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0773/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
MEDIATING EFFECT OF WORK ENVIRONMENT OF SCHOOL HEADS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ETHICAL LEADERSHIP AND SCHOOL CULTURE
Authors: Manluyang Shara Mie B. , Apostol Raymunda L. 
Published: November 2024

This study sought to ascertain the role that the workplace environment played in mediating the link between ethical leadership and school climate. Data were collected from 300 respondents who are elementary public school teachers of the public elementary schools in the province of Davao Oriental using a quantitative, non-experimental design using a correlational approach. For data gathering, the researcher used an online survey and stratified random sampling. Additionally, the researcher used the Pearson r, Med graph employing the Sobel z-test and mean statistical methods. According to the study's findings, there are very high levels of mean scores for ethical leadership, a high level for school culture, and a high level for work environment. Additionally, the findings showed a substantial association between ethical leadership and work environment, a large relationship between work environment and school culture, and a substantial relationship between ethical leadership and both. Additionally, it was discovered that the relationship between ethical leadership and school culture was somewhat mediated by the workplace.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0799/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>