bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
TVET SI: Evaluating Boundary Crossing Social Learning in Vocational Education and Training: A value creation approach
Authors: Lotz-Sisitka Heila , Sisitka Lawrence , Chakona Gamucharai , Matiwane Mandilive , Matambo Chamu 
Published: February 2024

This article focuses on the development and application of an evaluation model and approach for evaluating boundary crossing social learning in a Vocational Education and Training (VET) learning network in South Africa, with an emphasis on a Training of Trainers (ToT) course that helped to catalyse and strengthen this learning network via two iterations of the course over an eight-year period. The article shares how we adapted the value creation framework (VCF) of Wenger, Traynor and De Laat (2011; Wenger & Wenger-Traynor, 2020) in the evaluation of a VET Training of Trainers (ToT) programme and learning network that focussed on the uptake and circulation of rainwater harvesting and conservation (RWH&C) knowledge in a particular formal and informal VET context in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, where smallholder farmers were struggling to find water for producing food. The evaluated ToT course was catalytic in establishing a boundary crossing social learning network approach in a VET context that linked formal and informal VET (Lotz-Sisitka et al., 2016; Lotz-Sisitka et al., 2022; Pesanayi, 2019); hence we found it important to develop adequate tools for its evaluation. The focus of this article is to share how we developed an evaluation approach to this work. We share insights on the indicators developed for diff erent types of value created, and also insights gained into the use of this evaluation approach in a boundary crossing VET social learning project that took a ToT course as focus. In short, evaluation findings show that the boundary crossing ToT course off ers strong immediate, potential and applied value that can lead to realised and reframed value, especially if supported by ongoing learning network activities that follow the initial engagement in the boundary crossing ToT course. Th is leads, over time, to transformative value which is important in achieving the overall objective of such social learning, namely making knowledge more co-engaging, accessible and useful in the context where improved food security via better use of rainwater harvesting and conservation amongst smallholder farmers and household food producers is a necessary form of sustainable development. Orientation value, and enabling value were found to be vital for the emergence of other kinds of value. The evaluation model also allows for the lifting out of strategic value which points to wider uptake potential. All this creates the possibility for indicator development that can help inform iterative development of boundary crossing VET courses used to stimulate the co-construction of learning networks and ongoing social learning for sustainable development.
Keywords: Vocational Education and Training, evaluation, social learning, value creation framework
TVET SI: Designing the Future - Youth innovation, informality and transformed VET
Authors: Monk David , Muhangi Sidney , Akite Irine , Adrupio Scovia 
Published: February 2024

This article argues that Vocational Education and Training (VET) can be a valuable space to develop the innovation required to deal with the wicked problems of the world; however, radical and rapid transformation in approaches to VET is needed. While we use a case study from Gulu, Uganda, the fi ndings can be applied more broadly. A new approach cannot be taken in isolation from other social circumstances, and desperately needs to include epistemic contributions both in relation to content and approach so that it bolsters and supports the initiatives, designs and dreams of the intended participants, especially women. We argue that epistemic injustice is a major limiting factor for environmental learning and innovation. We share potential opportunities from our research to shift towards a climate and socially conscious social skills ecosystem capable of designing a positive future.
Keywords: Transformative Vocational Education and Training (VET), social skills ecosystem, epistemic justice, environmental sustainability, intersectionality and VET
Immunostimulating potentials of methanolic extract of <i>Plectranthus parviflorus</i> in chickens vaccinated against Newcastle disease and Infectious bursal disease
Authors: Esan O.O. , Abiola J.O. , Aliyu V.A. , Egbuejeh C.R. , Adewuni T. 
Published: February 2024

Outbreaks of Newcastle disease (ND) and Infectious Bursal disease (IBD) have been reported in vaccinated poultry flocks in many countries highlighting the need for the administration of immunostimulants to improve immunity in such birds. The immunomodulatory effects of methanol leaf extract of plectranthus parviflorus on ND and IBD antibody titre was investigated. One hundred day-old cockerels were randomly assigned into five groups each, A-E and A1-E1 for Newcastle disease and Infectious bursal disease studies respectively. Groups A and A1 were control groups and received water only while groups B and B1 received LaSota and IBD intermediate plus ® vaccine respectively. Groups C and C1, D and D1 were administered 100mg/kg and 200mg/kg of Plectranthus parviflorus orally for three days before vaccination respectively, while groups E and E1were given 100mg/kg of the extract orally three days post vaccination. Blood samples were obtained via jugular vein at day-old and 14 days as well as on days 7, 14 and 21 post vaccination. Haemagglutination- inhibition (HI) test and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to assay the antibody titre against ND and IBD respectively. A decline in maternal antibody over 14 days was observed for antibody titre against Newcastle disease and infectious bursal disease from 6.1 to 1.8 geometric mean (log2) and (1043.37±2.1) to (524.48±2.7) respectively. Group D was observed to have a significant titre value of 2.3 and 3.7 geometric mean (log2) 14 and 21 days post ND vaccination while group D1 also had a significant increase (1037.90±3.6) titre 14 days post-vaccination. This study showed that plectranthus parviflorus extract had a significant effect on Newcastle disease and Infectious bursal disease humoral response when administered orally at 200mg/kg before vaccination with ND and IBD vaccines respectively.
Efficacy of tacrolimus capsules in patients undergoing high-risk keratoplasty
Authors: Zhang Xiaorong , Yao Jia , Ma Tengfei , Chen Haoyu , Xu Hengju , Ye Yinghui , Zhai Liying 
Published: February 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of tacrolimus capsules in patients undergoing high-risk keratoplasty.
Methods: 40 high-risk patients who underwent penetrating keratoplasty at The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, China between January 2016 and December 2021 were included in this study. These patients were divided into two groups based on the specific immunosuppressant administered post-surgery. Twenty patients were administered oral tacrolimus capsules in conjunction with 0.1 % tacrolimus eye drops, constituting the combination with systemic treatment group (group 1), while another twenty patients were solely administered 0.1 % tacrolimus eye drops, forming the topical treatment group (group 2). The occurrence of rejection, corneal neovascularization, corneal graft edema and visual acuity were documented in both groups.
Results: In comparison to patients in group 2, patients in group 1 exhibited a significant reduction in rejection rate (p < 0.05). Additionally, the average time of neovascularization in group 1 was delayed and the number of cases was lower (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a smaller proportion of patients in group 1 experienced corneal graft edema (25 vs 60 %, p < 0.05), while a higher percentage of patients in group 1 demonstrated improved visual acuity (90 vs 60 %, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Concurrent administration of tacrolimus eye drops and capsules orally effectively mitigates anti-rejection reactions, regulation of neovascularization, management of graft edema and enhancement of visual acuity in high-risk keratoplasty patients when compared to the use of tacrolimus eye drops as a standalone treatment. These results have the potential to stimulate novel avenues of investigation in future clinical research.
Africa's Data Privacy Puzzle: Data Privacy Laws and Compliance in Selected African Countries
Authors: Kaddu Sarah , Ssekitto Francis 
Published: February 2024

This study sought to give a thorough analysis of data privacy legislation, compliance rates, enforcement strategies, and related issues in seventeen (17) African countries that were chosen for the study. The study's objectives were to assess the state of data privacy laws in selected African countries, analyse levels of compliance among entities operating within these countries, assess the effectiveness of enforcement mechanisms, and identify and analyse the common challenges African countries face in complying with and enforcing data privacy laws. Researchers conducted a systematic review of 48 data privacy publications to gain a deep understanding of the complex data privacy landscape. This involved rigorous criteria for inclusion/exclusion, comprehensive search strategies, quality assessment, and data extraction/synthesis. While 15 African countries have implemented comprehensive data privacy legislation, two (Ethiopia and Burundi) rely on general regulations. The analysis found that regulatory bodies significantly enhance compliance, and highlighted recurring challenges such as insufficient public awareness, resource limitations, and complex governance structures. The research underscores the crucial role of dedicated legislation, public education, empowered regulatory authorities, and regional collaboration in guaranteeing data privacy rights in the digital age across Africa.
Tolerância de dor à pressão, estresse e estilo de vida em docentes do ensino superior
Authors: Höring Andressa Carolina , Lima Bruna de Oliveira , Simão Silvana , Alfieri Fábio Marcon 
Published: February 2024

Estresse, sobrecarga e estilo de vida dos docentes do ensino superior podem causar alterações na tolerância de dor à pressão, portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi observar a relação entre o nível de estresse, estilo de vida e limiar de tolerância de dor à pressão em docentes do ensino superior. Este foi um estudo transversal observacional no qual participaram 28 indivíduos de ambos os sexos. Os voluntários responderam ao questionário EPS-10 para avaliar o estresse, Questionário Estilo de Vida Fantástico, para avaliar o estilo de vida e realizaram avaliação por meio da algometria para avaliar limiar de tolerância de dor à pressão no músculo trapézio superior, na espinha da escápula, músculo esternocleidomastóideo, músculos paravertebrais T6-T7, músculos paravertebrais L4-L5 e base do occipital. Foram estabelecidos os coeficientes de correlação de Pearson (r) ou Spearman entre as variáveis citadas. Apenas houve uma correlação moderada e estatisticamente significante entre o estilo de vida e o nível de estresse. As demais foram fracas ou muito fracas. Diante dos resultados obtidos neste estudo com docentes do ensino superior conclui-se que o estilo de vida está relacionado com o nível de estresse destes profissionais.
INFLUENCE OF ASSESSMENT METHODS ON STUDENTS’ ACQUISITION OF ENGLISH READING SKILLS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KENYA
Authors: Omuna MacDonald Omuse 
Published: February 2024

This article examines assessment methods used when teaching English reading. The study sought to ascertain the most frequently used assessment methods in the teaching of English reading and the influence of assessment methods used on the acquisition of English reading skills in Kenya. This study employed a descriptive survey research design and involved form three students and 40 teachers of English language from 20 public secondary schools drawn from Teso North Sub-county. The sample size was obtained using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Data was generated using questionnaires, interview schedules, and classroom observation schedules. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics involves the computation of frequencies, means, standard deviations, and percentages. Inferential statistics included pairwise correlation and logistic regression analysis. The results show that teachers frequently used comprehension tests, diagnostic reading, and Cloze test to assess learners’ acquisition of English reading skills. While oral presentation, timed reading, and book reports were the least used assessment methods. The study findings confirmed that there was a significant relationship between assessment methods used and the acquisition of English reading skills. The study concludes that teachers of English language should use effective assessment methods as provided in the syllabus. There is a need for teachers’ professional development in pedagogy as they require knowledge of effective assessment methods for English reading skills.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0759/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
Características de los pacientes con artritis reumatoide que impactan en la satisfacción y la adherencia al tratamiento: subanálisis de los datos de Argentina, Chile y Uruguay del estudio SENSE
Authors: Rosemffet Marcos , Arzelán Clerici Carolina , Berez Goicochea Adriana , Capozzi Nieves , De La Vega María Celina , García Mercedes , Sariego Annelise Goecke , Kerzberg Eduardo , Fisher Martín Rebella 
Published: February 2024

Introducción: las necesidades y perspectivas de los pacientes son determinantes para tratar la artritis reumatoide (AR).
Objetivos: evaluar el impacto de la respuesta inadecuada a los fármacos antirreumáticos modificadores de la enfermedad (DMARD) sobre la satisfacción con el tratamiento, los resultados y las perspectivas de pacientes adultos con control inadecuado de la AR de actividad moderada/alta.
Materiales y métodos: se evaluó la satisfacción mediante el cuestionario Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM) v1.4. Se recolectaron datos sobre la calidad de vida, la adherencia y las estrategias de manejo. Se presentan los resultados para Argentina, Chile y Uruguay (n=202).
Resultados: el promedio de la escala de satisfacción global TSQM fue de 62,3±21,8. El 83% informó buena adherencia. Las principales expectativas del tratamiento fueron “alivio duradero de los síntomas” y “menos dolor articular”. El 53,47% prefirió tratamiento oral y el 75,74% eligió un rápido inicio de acción. El efecto secundario menos aceptado fue “mayor riesgo de neoplasias”. Se planificó rotar el DMARD en el 55% de los casos. De estos, el 84,7% se consideraron terapias avanzadas. La mayoría estaba abierto a un esquema combinado, pero el 25,2% prefirió no utilizarlo.
Conclusiones: los resultados reafirman el compromiso con las estrategias treat-to-target, considerando la individualización de las decisiones terapéuticas en el contexto regional.
Molecular Detection of mecA Gene in Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Surfaces of some Public Hospitals in Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Sunusi A A , Dangari M A , Salihu M K , Ado Aminu 
Published: February 2024

The increasing rate of antibiotic resistance demonstrated by bacterial pathogens is an emerging problem that is considered a major health concern globally, especially in low-and middle-income countries. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from hospital environment and to detect the presence of resistance genes in the MRSA isolates. One hundred and ninety-two (192) swab samples of doorknob, bedrail, table tops and drip stand were collected from 4 hospitals within Dutsin-Ma and Kurfi local government. Antibiotic Susceptibility testing and phenotypic detection of MRSA were conducted using disc diffusion method. MecA gene was detected using Polymerase Chain Reaction. One hundred and eleven 111(57.8%) out of 192 samples were positive for S. aureus. The result showed that cefoxitin was the most effective antibiotic (66.6%) against the isolates from all the four hospitals while erythromycin was the less effective against the isolates (35.1%). A total of six (5.40%) Methicillin Resistant S. aureus and MDR (12.61%) were detected from the four hospitals. In conclusion, all the four hospitals were found to be contaminated with Methicillin resistant S. aureus, with Kurfi General Hospital having the highest number of MRSA (3). Out of the 6 phenotypically detected isolates of MRSA screened, mecA gene was detected in five (5) isolates. It is recommended that, proper hygiene practice should be improved in the healthcare settings, and proper use of antibiotics should be highly encouraged among individuals in both community and hospital.
Implementasi Pengelolaan Bantuan Operasional Sekolah Reguler pada Peningkatan Sarana Prasarana dan Kualitas Pembelajaran di SD Yapis Kota Bogor
Authors: Nur Hayati Nur Hayati , Primarni Amie Primarni , Tholkhah Imam 
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to describe the management of Reguler BOS at SD Yapis Bogor City and its impact on improving infrastructure and the quality of learning at SD Yapis Bogor City.The approach used in this study is a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. The resource person consists of 6 people with positions, Head of school, Deputy Head of Curriculum, Deputy Head of Student Affairs, treasurer, operator and teacher at fifth grade. The results showed that the management of Reguler BOS increased the infrastructure at SD Yapis. In 2023 Yapis already has a Computer Lab with 12 sets of computers along with tables and chairs. While in the previous year there were only 6 sets. This also affects the increase in ANBK results. ANBK is an indicator of improving the quality of learning for elementary school level students which is implemented in grade 5 students. From the 2023 Education Report Card, the proportion of students with numeracy skills reaching a minimum competency increased by 42.86%. Where in 2022 it will be 23.33 and in 2023 it will be 33.33.
Ensuring the economic security of Russian regions
Authors: Синильщиков П.Ю. 
Published: February 2024

В статье рассмотрены теоретические основы обеспечения экономической безопасности регионов, подходы к определению этого понятия, критерии и показатели для оценки ее уровня. Предложены организационно-экономические и правовые меры, которые будут способствовать обеспечению экономической безопасности регионов в России.
The article discusses the theoretical foundations of ensuring the economic security of regions, approaches to defining this concept, criteria and indicators for assessing its level. Organizational, economic and legal measures are proposed that will contribute to ensuring the economic security of regions in Russia.
Innovative "nudging" techniques as a tool for managing cognitive distortions affecting consumer choice
Authors: Стефанова Н.А. , Копылова Д.А. 
Published: February 2024

В статье рассматривается влияние когнитивных искажений на выбор потребителей. Применение инновационных методов, таких как «nudging», анализируется как средство управления этими искажениями для достижения желаемых результатов в потребительском поведении. Исследование проводится с целью создания основы для более информированного и осознанного процесса принятия решений со стороны потребителей.
The article examines the impact of cognitive distortions on consumer choice. The use of innovative methods such as "nudging" is analyzed as a means of managing these distortions to achieve the desired results in consumer behavior. The research is conducted in order to create the basis for a more informed and informed decision-making process on the part of consumers.
Le recours massif à l’enseignement à distance lors de la pandémie de COVID-19 est-il susceptible de modifier en profondeur les valeurs et les normes de l’enseignement à l’université? Le cas d’une grande école de gestion canadienne
Authors: Mesny Anne , Pelletier Patrick , Didillon Lancelot 
Published: February 2024

Les universités « traditionnelles » fondées sur l’enseignement présentiel n’ont pas eu le choix de recourir massivement à l’enseignement à distance durant la pandémie Covid-19. Chaque université a dû réagir en fonction des logiques institutionnelles dans lesquelles elle s’insère et en fonction de son propre « archétype organisationnel » en matière d’enseignement. Certaines valeurs, croyances, normes et mécanismes de fonctionnement relatifs à l’enseignement ont été soit renforcés, soit bousculés, par le recours massif à l’enseignement à distance. À partir de l’étude qualitative en profondeur du cas d’une grande école de gestion canadienne, nous analysons dans quelle mesure les actions et décisions relatives à l’enseignement prises pendant la pandémie renforcent ou fragilisent son archétype organisationnel. L’analyse suggère que les décisions prises ont solidifié l’archétype organisationnel fondé sur la valeur de l’enseignement présentiel et des interactions entre enseignant et étudiants, mais l’ont aussi fragilisé, notamment concernant les valeurs et normes relatives à l’autonomie et l’expertise des enseignants, ainsi qu’au partage des rôles et décisions entre enseignants, gestionnaires et étudiants.
Optimisation of virtual monoenergetic reconstructions for the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism using photon-counting detector computed tomography angiography
Authors: Chamberlin Jordan H. , Toth Adrienn , Hinen Shaun , O’Doherty Jim , Baruah Dhiraj , Maisuria Dhruw , McGuire Aaron , Knight Heather , Schoepf U. Joseph , Munden Reginald F. , Kabakus Ismail M. 
Published: February 2024

PurposeComputed tomography (CT) pulmonary angiography is considered the gold standard for pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnosis, relying on the discrimination between contrast and embolus. Photon-counting detector CT (PCD-CT) generates monoenergetic reconstructions through energy-resolved detection. Virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) at low keV can be used to improve pulmonary artery opacification. While studies have assessed VMI for PE diagnosis on dual-energy CT (DECT), there is a lack of literature on optimal settings for PCD-CT-PE reconstructions, warranting further investigation.Material and methodsTwenty-five sequential patients who underwent PCD-CT pulmonary angiography for suspicion of acute PE were retrospectively included in this study. Quantitative metrics including signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise (CNR) ratio were calculated for 4 VMI values (40, 60, 80, and 100 keV). Qualitative measures of diagnostic quality were obtained for proximal to distal pulmonary artery branches by 2 cardiothoracic radiologists using a 5-point modified Likert scale.ResultsSNR and CNR were highest for the 40 keV VMI (49.3 ± 22.2 and 48.2 ± 22.1, respectively) and were inversely related to monoenergetic keV. Qualitatively, 40 and 60 keV both exhibited excellent diagnostic quality (mean main pulmonary artery: 5.0 ± 0 and 5.0 ± 0; subsegmental pulmonary arteries 4.9 ± 0.1 and 4.9 ± 0.1, respectively) while distal segments at high (80-100) keVs had worse quality.Conclusions40 keV was the best individual VMI for the detection of pulmonary embolism by quantitative metrics. Qualitatively, 40-60 keV reconstructions may be used without a significant decrease in subjective quality. VMIs at higher keV lead to reduced opacification of the distal pulmonary arteries, resulting in decreased image quality.