Pie Charts Research Articles

Knowledge, awareness, and use of folic acid among women of childbearing age living in a peri-urban community in Ghana: a cross-sectional survey.

Folic acid, a water-soluble B-complex vitamin, plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and maintenance, making it particularly significant during reproduction. Its well-known ability to reduce the risk of congenital anomalies during the periconceptional period underscores its importance. The increased requirement for folate during pregnancy and lactation is essential to support the physiological changes of the mother and ensure optimal growth and development of the foetus and offspring. This study assessed the knowledge, awareness, and use of folic acid among pregnant and lactating women of reproductive age residing in Dodowa in the Shai Osu-Doku District, Accra, Ghana. The study was a cross-sectional design that involved 388 randomly selected participants (97 pregnant and 291 lactating women). Structured questionnaires were administered to gather information on the socioeconomic demographic characteristics, knowledge, awareness, and use of folic acid of the participants. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square analysis tests and are presented as frequencies and percentages, means, standard deviations, bar graphs, and pie charts. The significance of the results was determined at a 95% confidence interval. The mean age of the participants was 31 ± 5.0 years. Among the study participants, 46.1% demonstrated knowledge of folic acid deficiency, while approximately 68.3% had a high awareness of folic acid supplementation. Approximately 75% of the participants indicated that they had not used folic acid supplements within the week, and 15.5% reported consuming folic acid-fortified food per week. The women exhibited high awareness but poor knowledge regarding the usage of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy and lactation. Consequently, this lack of knowledge influenced the low use of folic acid supplements and low intake of folate-rich foods among pregnant and lactating mothers.

Assessment of Factors Associated With the Acquisition of Competencies among Undergraduate Nursing Students in Ugandan Universities

Purpose: Like other developing countries, Uganda grapples with the critical challenge of equipping nursing students with essential clinical competencies. These competencies encompass vital nursing skills, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors crucial for effective nursing practice. This study assessed student perceptions and confidence in applying acquired clinical skills among undergraduate nursing students in Ugandan universities.
 Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was used to assess bachelor's in nursing students from central and western Ugandan universities. Data were entered into Excel and exported to SPSS version 22. Results were presented using frequencies, pie charts, percentages, and tables. Chi-square tests were conducted to assess associations of the variables in the study.
 Findings: The study showed that acquisition of clinical competencies is positively correlated with students’ perceptions (r=0.775) (p=0.000), Institutional factors(r=0.668) (p=0.000), clinical learning environment (r=0.556) (p=0.000), clinical feedback (r=0.439) (p=0.000). The study further shows that 69.9% (n=70) had adequate clinical learning experience, while 31% (n=31) had inadequate clinical learning experience. This implies moderate student supervision, feedback, and an unfavorable clinical learning environment. Competency acquisition in student nurses is positively influenced by the active involvement of students' perceptions, institutional factors, and a supportive clinical learning environment. A sufficient amount of clinical experience is pivotal in developing competent student nurses.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Management should always invite experienced professionals to share career experiences to enhance realistic perceptions among nursing students. Students should be given more time to practice in clinical settings, and management should advocate for including student attitude tests in orientation programs across nursing and clinical training universities.

Malicious Social Bot Using Twitter Network Analysis in Django

Malicious social bots generate fake tweets and automate their social relationships either by pretending to be a followers or by creating multiple fake accounts with malicious activities. Moreover, malicious social bots post shortened malicious URLs in the tweets to redirect the requests of online social networking participants to some malicious servers. Hence, distinguishing malicious social bots from legitimate users is one of the most important tasks in the Twitter network. To detect malicious social bots, extracting URL-based features (such as URL redirection, frequency of shared URLs, and spam content in URL) consumes less amount of time in comparison with social graph-based features (which rely on the social interactions of users). Furthermore, malicious social bots cannot easily manipulate URL redirection chains. In this article, learning automata-based malicious social bot detection (LA-MSBD) algorithm is proposed by integrating a trust computation model with URL-based features for identifying trustworthy participants (users) in the Twitter network. The proposed trust computation model contains two parameters, namely, direct trust and indirect trust. Moreover, the direct trust is derived from Bayes’ theorem, and the indirect trust is derived from the Dempster– Shafer theory (DST) to determine the trustworthiness of each participant accurately. Finally, we shown the user tweet data in terms of graph visualization of bar chart and pie chart of the system. Experimental results shown the better performance of the system.

Newspaper Reading Habit of College Students: A Study of Guru Nanak College Budhlada

The present study was done to know the newspaper reading habits of the students studying at the Guru Nanak College Budhlada which is situated in the rural belt of Punjab. Structured questionnaire was prepared and distributed to one hundred students of college through google form. Study was conducted to know the various preferences regarding newspaper reading. Data received from the google form was presented through pie charts and graphs. Study found that most of the respondents daily read newspaper for current affairs purpose and education is their favorite section. Students prefer hard copy of the newspaper in Punjabi language. College students find availability of news on other media and busy schedule as major hindrances to reading newspaper.

Assessment of Fall Risk and its Association with Frailty among Elderly

Falls are a major public health concern about 10% of falls result in serious injuries like traumatic brain injury. Falls can cause poor quality of life and financial costs for both individuals and society. Early detection of who are at high risk of falling makes it easier to provide rehabilitation therapy in the future. Objectives: To assess functional mobility, fall risk and its association with frailty among elderly. Methods: This cross-sectional study design comprised 90 male / female elderly patients ages 65 to 75. Subjects with limb amputation history, cognitive impairment and ICU status were excluded. Data were gathered from DHQ Kasur andAriz Memorial Hospital. Non-probability convenience sampling was applied. Ethical approval was obtained from institute before conducting research study ran July 2022 to December 2022.Evaluation tools included Berg Balance Scale, Elderly Mobility Scale, Functional Reach Test, and FRAIL Scale. SPSS version 25.0 used to analyze data. Frequencies, percentages, cross tabulations, bar charts, and pie charts were used to display the categorical variables. Results: Frailty and fall risk are significantly correlated, with a p-value of less than < 0.001. Mobility and Frailty had significant relationship (p< 0.001). There was significant association between Frailty and balance dysfunction with (p<0.001). There was significant association between Frailty and fall risk with (p<0.001). Conclusions: Results suggested that frail elderly were at higher risk of fall and their functional mobility is more compromised as compared to non-frail.

Eksistensi Radio Melalui Konvergensi Siaran di Era Digital

Radio is a communication medium that must now be able to compete with new media which is currently increasingly massive. The aim of this research is to find out how national private broadcast radio in West Java is able to maintain its existence and the strategies it implements to continue to exist amidst competition with digital information platforms that currently exist. Research respondents were managers of local radio stations in West Java, especially those in Bandung, Cimahi, Sukabumi and Cirebon. This research uses qualitative methods by describing the result of questioners and interviewing and then processing them in the form of descriptive narratives and pie diagram. The results of this research are that almost all private broadcast radio stations in the West Java region that were respondents implemented a convergence strategy to maintain their existence and made changes to their broadcast model management. Some of the convergence strategies implemented are broadcasting via digital streaming, creating more interesting broadcast program content with an audio-visual style such as podcasts, choosing broadcasters who have popularity and character, upgrading broadcast equipment, having social media as a branding and content publication medium, and upload content to YouTube media. This convergence strategy is also carried out to increase interest and the number of advertisers so that they can continue to choose radio as a medium for marketing the products and services offered more widely and in a contemporary style.

Determinants of Full Vaccination Status Among Children Aged 12 to 23 Months in Calabar South, Cross River State, Nigeria

Background: Childhood immunization remains one of the most cost-effective preventive strategies against mortality and morbidity among children. The study sought to identify determinants of full vaccination status among children aged 12 to 23 months in Calabar South LGA, Cross River State. The study was a community-based cross-sectional study among 460 children in the 12 to 23 months age bracket, and information about them was obtained from their caregivers. The sample size of 460 was calculated using the Cochran formula. The study is a quantitative component of a bigger mixed-method study conducted from October to December 2023 among 5 wards selected from the 12 wards in Calabar South through a 2-stage cluster sampling. SPSS was used for data entry and analysis, and ethical approval was obtained from the CRS ethical committee (CRSMOH/RP/HREC/2023/401). The prevalence of full vaccination was presented as a pie chart. Bivariate analysis was carried out using Chi-square test statistics while significant variables at 5% were subjected to multivariable regression to identify independent determinants of full vaccination at a 95% confidence interval. The proportion with full vaccination status was 67%, factors associated with full vaccination included the child's sex/age, caregiver's age, education, occupation, relationship to the child, knowledge, and attitude towards vaccination. Independent determinants of full vaccination included caregivers' age, education, occupation, knowledge, attitude, and the occurrence of missed opportunities. Understanding these variations is crucial for policymakers and healthcare professionals to tailor interventions effectively, addressing region-specific challenges and enhancing overall vaccination coverage.

Data visualization guidance using a software product line approach

Data visualization aims to convey quantitative and qualitative information effectively by determining which techniques and visualizations are most appropriate for different situations and why. Various software solutions can produce numerous visualizations of the same data set. However, data visualization encompasses a wide range of visual configurations that depend on factors such as the type of data being displayed, the different displays (e.g., scatter plots, line graphs, and pie charts), the visual components used to represent the data (e.g., lines, dots, and bars), and the specific visual attributes of those components (e.g., color, shape, size, and length). A similar problem arises when designing data tables, where the dimensionality of the data and its complexity influence the choice of the most appropriate structure (e.g., unidirectional, bidirectional). Often, this broad spectrum of configurations requires a visualization expert who knows which techniques are best for which type of data source and what is to be conveyed. Typically, researchers and developers lack knowledge of data visualization best practices and must learn the design principles that enable effective communication and the technical details of the specific software tool they use to generate visualizations. This paper proposes a software product line approach to model and realize the variability of the visualization design process, using feature models to encode knowledge about design best practices in graphs and charts. Our approach involves solving visualization design variability through a stepwise configuration process and evaluating the proposal for a specific software visualization tool. Our solution facilitates effective communication of quantitative results by helping researchers and developers select and generate the most effective visualizations for each case. This approach opens up new opportunities for research at the intersection of data visualization and variability.

Perception of Higher Secondary School Students Towards Online Education

In recent years, the landscape of education has undergone a significant transformation with the rise of online learning platforms. The proliferation of internet access and advancements in technology has paved the way for a paradigm shift in how individuals access educational content. As traditional brick-and-mortar institutions grapple with challenges such as accessibility, flexibility, and scalability, online education has emerged as a viable alternative, offering unprecedented opportunities for learners worldwide. This research study aims to delve into the dynamics of online education, examining its impact on traditional educational models, its effectiveness in fostering learning outcomes, and its potential implications for the future of education. By exploring the various facets of online education, including its benefits, limitations, and evolving pedagogical approaches, this study seeks to provide insights into its role in shaping the educational landscape of the 21st century. The present study is related to Perception of Higher Secondary School Students towards Online Education. The method used for the present study was Descriptive Survey Method. The sample consists of 100 higher secondary school students from Samba district J&K. The data was collected using self constructed Questionnaire on Google Forms. Purposive Sampling Technique was used to collect the data and were analyzed using Percentage and data represented with the help of Pie Chart. The results of the study revealed that Online education is easily accessible, flexible in nature as students learn at their own pace and on their own schedule, offer variety of courses and programs,improved technical skills of students, material is available 24x 7hrs, but students don’t believe online classroom can replace traditional classroom teaching.

Optimizing biocompatible materials for personalized medical implants using reinforcement learning and Bayesian strategies

This study presents a comprehensive research methodology integrating computational approaches, statistical analysis, and visualization techniques to predict biocompatible materials for medical implants and evaluate predictive model performance (Whiting K. 2020, October). The initial phase involves data acquisition and preprocessing, organizing a representative dataset into a pandas data frame. Visualization of the dataset through bar, pie, and line charts provides insights into relationships between materials and functional attributes. The subsequent phase focuses on evaluating a predictive model using simulated datasets and key metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve with an area under the curve (AUC) value. Performance metrics are visually represented through bar charts and ROC curves, aiding stakeholders in understanding the model’s strengths and areas for improvement. The confusion matrix offers a granular examination of the model’s classification performance. The results and discussion section delves into graphical representations, emphasizing the material vs. strength/conductance/resistance/function chart, elucidating the diverse functional profiles of materials. The distribution of material functionality pie chart succinctly illustrates the proportional contribution of each material, aiding informed decision-making in material selection. The materials performance graph provides a nuanced understanding of material characteristics, guiding the development of personalized healthcare solutions. Model performance metrics and receiver operating characteristics graphs comprehensively assess the predictive model, while the confusion matrix details classification outcomes. This methodology and its visualizations contribute to predicting biocompatible materials, emphasizing the significance of advanced computational approaches for efficiently navigating the complex material space. The study’s outcomes inform both material scientists and healthcare professionals, guiding the development of personalized healthcare solutions tailored to specific patient needs.

The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Post-Operative Corneal Decompensation after Cataract Extract among Patients in Khartoum Eye Hospital - Sudan June 2021 - January 2022

 Background: Corneal decompensation is a medical condition characterized by opacity of the cornea. This condition arises as a result of mechanical injury caused by inadvertent contact of intraocular instruments with the cornea during surgery. Cataract extraction involves a surgical procedure to remove a clouded lens from the eye that has developed over, which can impede vision in the affected eye.  Objectives: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of post-operative corneal decompensation after cataract extraction according to the type of surgical procedure  Methodology: This is a Descriptive, retrospective, Cross sectional, hospital-based study, was conducted in Khartoum eye hospital, from June 2021 to January 2022. Patients who underwent cataract extraction between June 2021 - January 2022 Patients who were diagnosed with corneal decompensation were included. Data collection was conducted from medical record by using data sheet. The data will be analyzed via SPSS program (Statistical Package for The Social Sciences) and Microsoft Excel program. using chi square, t-test and correlation then be presented in the form of tables, bar charts and pie charts.  Results: About patient’s gender, males were 53(48.2%), females were 57(51.8%), patients from 70 – 79 years were 42(38.2%), 60 – 69 years were 33(30%), 50 – 59 years were 20(18.2%), and 40 – 49 years were 15(13.6%). About Diagnosed with symptoms of corneal Decompensation, yes 17(15.5%), No 93(84.5%), ; Extracapsular surgery was done in 55(50%) of patients, Phaco was done in 35(31.8%) of patients, and small incision cataract surgery was done in 20(18.2%) of patients, Glaucoma 7(15.5%) was the most common other contributing factors in followed by Trauma 4(36.4) and previous steroid use was 1(25%) respectively, About experience any intra-operative complications, no 108(98.2%) patients, yes 2(1.8%) patients.  Conclusion: Most of patients were females, between 70-79 years old, Extracapsular surgery was the most occuring type of surgery. Extracapsular surgery had the largest percentage of corneal decompensation. There was a notable correlation (significant association) that was observed between between gender, age and corneal decompensation.  Recommendations: Further research involving a larger sample size is necessary to validate the results of this study, Education programs should be developed to raise the awareness of patients.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Puerperal Sepsis among Women Attending the Postnatal Ward at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital

Puerperal sepsis is a global problem. It causes maternal morbidity in every hospital in the world. Some people acquire the sepsis after they have been admitted to the hospital maternity ward. Usually about 4-6 percent of patients who come into the hospital and maternity ward acquire some kind of clinical infection. The study aimed to determine the factors contributing to puerperal sepsis in postnatal mothers in maternity ward at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital. A cross sectional study was conducted whereby questionnaires were availed to mothers in maternity ward to fill. All mothers who delivered from Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital and develop puerperal sepsis were included in the study. Quantitative data was analyzed using Microsoft excel manually and interpreted into average and percentages and presented on tables, graphs and pie charts. The study found out that the prevalence of puerperal sepsis at fort portal regional referral hospital is 22.4% and most respondents were multiparous (80.6%0, 49.4% delivered from the hospital, 41.7% from home while 8,8% delivered from the traditional birth attendant. 64.7% had spontaneous vaginal delivery, while 35.3% had caesarean section, and 58.8% were assisted by doctors while 41.2% were assisted by midwives/nurses, 57.6% took the normal period of labor and 42.4% had prolonged labor and 12.9% experienced antepartum hemorrhage. The prevalence of puerperal sepsis was found to be 22.4% and it as associated to factors such as parity, mode of delivery, place of delivery, duration of labor and other medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension and HIV infection. Government through the Ministry of Health should partner with hospitals creating affordable costs to mothers whenever serious conditions a rise. Aseptic technique should be practiced when assisting mothers during delivery. Keywords: Puerperal sepsis, Clinical infection, Patients, Postnatal mothers, Caesarean section, Vaginal delivery.

Understanding Multifaceted Determinants of Contraceptive Utilization among Adolescent Females: Insights from Wakiso District, Uganda

Despite global efforts to enhance contraceptive utilization, adolescent females in Uganda face persistent challenges accessing and utilizing modern contraceptive methods, resulting in high fertility rates and maternal mortality. This cross-sectional study investigated the intricate factors influencing contraceptive usage among adolescent females attending Kasangati Health Center IV in Wakiso District, Uganda. Employing questionnaire-based surveys, the study targeted adolescent females attending the health center, utilizing simple random sampling to select 220 participants, as determined by Fisher's formula. Data analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 20, presenting comprehensive findings through tables, pie charts, bar graphs, and narratives. The study uncovered a concerning contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) of 19% among adolescent females, despite existing awareness of family planning methods. Key determinants of contraceptive usage included limited knowledge about contraception, constrained access to services, entrenched societal norms, and gender dynamics. The findings highlight the urgent need to address these multifaceted barriers to enhance contraceptive utilization and mitigate unmet needs among adolescent females. The study's recommendations encompass targeted educational campaigns, improved accessibility of family planning services, and fostering the engagement of both genders in reproductive health decision-making processes. Ethical considerations were meticulously observed, with informed consent obtained from participants and ethical approval secured from relevant authorities. This study contributes seminal insights into the complex landscape of contraceptive utilization among adolescent females in Uganda, offering critical guidance for policy formulation and programmatic interventions aimed at improving reproductive health outcomes and curtailing maternal mortality rates. Keywords: Contraceptive utilization, Adolescent females, Reproductive health, Family planning, Wakiso District and Uganda

An Analysis of The Students' Perceptions Towards The of Google Classroom in Pnline Classes

The purpose of this research is to identify and describe the perception of the sixth-semester students towards the use of Google Classroom in online classes. The subjects of this study were ten Regular A students, in the English Language Education study program, Universitas Tanjungpura. This study uses a quantitative approach with a descriptive study method. The data in this study were collected through a close-ended questionnaire which was divided into two sections, students' perception and features of Google Classroom. Furthermore, the data in this study were analyzed using descriptive statistics which were described and interpreted through diagrams and pie charts. The research findings show that most students have a positive perception of the use of Google Classroom in online classes. In addition, the feature that helps students the most in online classes is submitting assignments.Keywords: perceptions, Google Classroom, online classes

Assessment of fracturing and blockiness of the Pshenychne gabbro deposit massif

Proper development of the deposit and the choice and use of effective technologies for block stone extraction are impossible without evaluating the structural indicators of the massif. It consists in studying the propagation of cracks in the array, orientation of the main crack systems, studying the anisotropic properties of stone, and predicting the yield of commercial stone blocks in the deposit. This allows both to increase the efficiency of block extraction and to reduce the loss of stone during its extraction, which increases the economic performance of field development. The assessment of fracturing and blockiness of the Pshenychne gabbro deposit was carried out based on the results of studying the core documentation of 11 exploration wells and the documentation of a pilot production quarry. Rose diagrams, pie charts, and fracturing plans were constructed in isolines, and crack systems common in the field were identified.

Recent advances in anticorrosive coatings based on sustainable polymers: Challenges and perspectives

The present paper provides a comprehensive review of sustainable polymer-based anticorrosive polymeric coatings. We have presented the economical and environmental impact of corrosion in terms of Gross National Product (GDP) in a pie chart to highlight the motive behind using sustainable polymer-based anticorrosive coatings as an effective and most convenient method for protecting the underlying metal surface. Also, consumer awareness for eco-friendly considerations, followed by health protection, has driven a significant change in the aforementioned sector. Accordingly, about 16.8 % increase has been found in the use of sustainable resource-based coatings during the last two decades. Besides presenting literature on different sustainable polymers, the review also highlights the corrosion protection mechanism of barrier, sacrificial, and inhibitive coatings. A comparative study of different coating systems, along with their corrosion protection summaries and relevant industrial applications, has been given in a separate table.

CLINICAL OBSERVATION OF TREATMENT EFFICACY IN SEPSIS: A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Objective: To examine the safety and efficacy associated with various treatment approaches and to identify trends and variations in the management of severe sepsis, including the usage of antibiotics, and supportive care. To examine factors associated with improved or worsened outcomes in severe sepsis cases, such as patient demographics, comorbidities, or timing of treatment. Design: A hospital-based prospective study was done on all inpatients and outpatients in Princess DurruShehvar Childrens & General Hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana for 6 months. Methods: The data collection form and patient consent form were designed for this study. It comprises information regarding the study subjects data such as demographics, medical and medication history, laboratory investigations, diagnosis, present prescribed medication, and progress chart. Investigators collected the relevant data and recorded it in data collection form. The prescription will be selected based on inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria. The data obtained was compiled and analysed using appropriate statistical tests. Quantitative variables were summarized using descriptive studies (percentages, mean, standard deviation, number of observations). The data was statistically analyzed using spss and pair t test, graphs, pie diagrams, and bar graphs. Results A total of 115 patients were included in this prospective study and 60% of them show culture sensitivity. Meropenem was found to be the most potent antibiotic. The analysis of the treatments impact reveals noteworthy outcomes across multiple parameters. The intervention demonstrates a significant effect in reducing systolic blood pressure, although no major influence on diastolic blood pressure is observed. Regarding erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), a substantial and statistically significant decrease is indicated post-treatment. Notably, arterial blood gas (ABG) levels exhibit a considerable difference pre- and post-treatment, with a p-value below 0.05, suggesting a rejection of the null hypothesis. Additionally, the treatment is associated with a significant increase in total leukocyte counts, as evidenced by the positive mean difference and a 95% confidence interval entirely above zero. These findings underscore the diverse impacts of the treatment on various physiological markers. Conclusion Prospective sepsis treatment studies offer a nuanced grasp of real-world effectiveness, linking controlled experiments to clinical reality. Despite biases, they contribute to evidence-based strategies, acknowledging clinical complexities. This practical approach guides healthcare professionals with adaptable, patient-centered methods. Emphasis on rigorous statistical methodologies enhances comprehension. Integrating observational and experimental data enriches our understanding of sepsis management. Overall, these studies shape holistic approaches for effective treatment.

Relationship between Grief and Loss Counselling and Adjustment of Social Behaviours among the Elderly in Sigowet-Soin Sub County of Kericho County

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between grief and loss counselling and the adjustment of social behaviours among the elderly in Sigowet-Soin Sub County of Kericho County, Kenya. The study utilized a person-centered theory and adopted a concurrent mixed methods research design, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative study employed an experimental design, while the qualitative study utilized a case study design. The target population consisted of 60 elderly individuals, with 30 selected for the study group and another 30 for the control group using stratified random sampling. Data collection involved the use of questionnaires and in-depth interviews, with research instruments validated by experts and supervisors. The reliability of the instruments was determined through a pilot study in Sigowet-Soin constituency, employing test-retest method and Pearson correlation coefficient. Quantitative analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, presenting findings through frequency distribution tables, diagrams, pie charts, and bar graphs. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. The study revealed no statistically significant differences between the intervention group and control group in terms of grief and loss counselling (p >0.05). Thus, the study concluded that grief and loss counselling interventions did not help improve the social behaviours of the elderly. Grief and loss counselling has no significant effect in enhancing social behaviour of the elderly. The assessment of the grief and loss social behaviour reveals the need for further analysis to understand the effective strategies to assist elderly people cope up with the profound losses. Since the program implemented was not statistically significant. Further studies can help the influential factors on depression, stress management, self-esteem and relationship problems among the elderly.

The Effectiveness of Hybrid Learning in English Pronunciation Pedagogy in the Nigerian ESL Context

This paper is a study on the effectiveness of hybrid learning; a blend of traditional and technology-based training, vis-à-vis the second language (L2) learner of English pronunciation. Specifically, our motivation is centred on the functionality of combining the habitual classroom teaching style with the Telegram app (a mobile-based technological tool) for studies relating to speech production and perception. The methodical procedure and design for this study is both quantitative and descriptive; employing the use of a multiple-choice questionnaire in data collection from 401 Nigerian undergraduate and postgraduate students in the University of Benin, Nigeria, to ascertain the effectiveness of digital designs and stratagems. Pie charts are employed to display multiple divisions of the study's data comparison. This study emphasizes the Online-Driver Blended Learning Model; such a pedagogical approach exposes the L2 learner to a more involved and effective way of understanding how to avoid imposing an unfamiliar accent upon the target language. Consequently, we see a merger of online practical exercises and exposure to uploaded multimodal texts and native speakers' spoken data (audio-visual recordings/voice notes) with scheduled direct classroom interludes. Findings confirm that exploiting such a hybrid model enhances students' cognitive abilities and retentive capacity regarding English pronunciation. Such digital audio-visual tools are paramount phonetic strategies for learning how to avoid unacceptable phonetic alterations. Thus, we see the effectiveness of integrating the Telegram app into the traditional brick-and-mortar educational method in handling problems associated with speech sound production and second-language phonological interference.

Preparing for the ‘Blues’: Building Midwives’ Capacity for the Delivery of Perinatal Mental Health Care and Services in Ghana

Background: There is limited empirical evidence on the use of standardized and validated assessment tools such as PHQ-9 and GAD-7 by midwives in Ghana to screen perinatal women for symptoms of anxiety and depression and provide the needed support accordingly. Preliminary studies have reported a lack of sufficient knowledge, skills, and preparedness among medical staff, including midwives for the task of screening pregnant women for mental health disorders [21]. This study intends to inform midwives of the availability of tools to assist them make appropriate diagnostic impression of depression and anxiety and to provide a clear pathway to support the perinatal women in their care. Overall, the aim of this study is to promote the exchange of ideas and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that the training and practice of midwifery in Ghana become more robust and meet global standards. Additionally, it is meant to inform, prepare competent, resourceful, knowledgeable, and most importantly adaptable midwives who can contribute to and promote the overall health of the women in their care. Objective: To address the gap in maternal mental health practice by equipping midwives with the requisite knowledge and skills on the use of globally validated and reliable assessment tools for depression and anxiety to support the perinatal women in their care. Methods: The study involved different two sections. In the first section, a structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 319 participants (midwives) to explore their knowledge on perinatal depression and anxiety assessment tools whiles the second component involved equipping midwives with the requisite mental health assessment skills through a two-week seminar that was organised and facilitated by the research team. Feedback on the level of confidence, suitability, and competence as well as the resourcefulness of the use of the tools was collected from participants (midwives) after three (3) months. The study was conducted in selected hospitals across all 16 regions in Ghana. The regions have several government and private hospitals that provide primary and specialised health care services to the public. They include teaching hospitals, regional hospitals, municipal hospitals, district hospitals as well as clinics within the sub-districts. Basic descriptive quantitative analysis was used based on frequency tables, pie chart and graphical illustration to interpret the data. Results: The study revealed that lack of resources and inadequate capacity-building to practically equip midwives are a major setback for the delivery of perinatal mental health services. It also identified perceived discrimination and stigmatisation on the part of the perinatal women as a major barrier in the provision of maternal mental health services. However, the participants demonstrated having adequate knowledge on the impact of perinatal anxiety and depression on birth and maternal outcomes. Nonetheless, there remains a huge deficit in their ability to use the validated and reliable assessment tools in recognizing clinical cues related to anxiety and depression among perinatal women. Surprisingly, over 50% of the midwives were unfamiliar with the commonly used assessment tools for depression and anxiety such as the GAD-7 and PHQ-9. Additionally, nearly 40% of the participants lack the requisite assessment skills for assessing perinatal anxiety and depression. In furtherance, over 97% of the participants demonstrated an appreciable level of confidence in terms of using the PHQ-9 and the GAD-7 following the post-assessment tool seminar. Conclusion: Perinatal mental health should be made a critical component of perinatal care, with midwives being well situated to recognize the manifestations of deteriorating mental health among the perinatal women in their care and provide the needed support and required level of supervision. It is therefore imperative to train midwives on basic mental health assessment skills and encourage them to incorporate mental health care into the delivery of routine perinatal care and services.