Primary Education Level Research Articles

INFORMATION NEEDS ANALYSIS OF POULTRY FARMERS IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

Poultry production will fail to attain its peak and improve food security if the information needs of the farmers are not met. This study analysed the information needs of poultry farmers in Abia state, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was employed in selecting 117 respondents. Data on respondents’ socioeconomic characteristics, information needs, information sources and information utilization were collected using structured questionnaire and analysed using percentages, mean scores and ordinary least square. Results revealed 59.8% of the poultry farmers were male with mean age of 34years while, 94.0% had above primary level of education. Average stock size was 105 birds and average monthly income was N128,500.00. The farmers needed information on disease identification (87.2%), drugs and vaccine use (82.9%), veterinary services (79.5%), feed formulation (75.2%) and modern agricultural equipment (74.4%) among others. Most of the farmers sourced information from friends and relatives (94.9%), televisions (78.6%), the internet (73.5%), radios (72.6%), veterinary services (68.4%) and extension agents (60.7%). Furthermore, the farmers effectively utilised all information received, except that on modern day agricultural equipment (x̄ = 1.99). Farmers’ socioeconomic characteristics were significantly related to level of information utilization at 5% α-level. To succeed in the business and contribute to food security, poultry farmers need lots of information. It is therefore recommended that information service providers should source adequate, timely, appropriate, and authentic information from reliable sources like research institutes and communicate same to the farmers for their use. Modern day agricultural equipment should be provided at subsidized rates and the farmers taught how to use them to boost production.

Quality of school inclusion and digital technologies: A pilot study

The quality of school inclusion of children with disabilities is a complex construct that emerges from the interaction between individual needs and different systems and processes; therefore, it needs to be investigated through a multi-method approach, using tools capable of grasping its complexity.The general goal of the study is to describe and test the modified version of two instruments: ICP and SELFIE. The ICP (the Inclusive Classroom Profile; Soukakou, 2016) is an observational tool aimed at measuring and quantifying school inclusion quality through the observation of the teachers' daily practices and the analysis of the school's policy. For the present research, the ICP was adapted to the Italian school context. Moreover, other minor changes were applied to adapt the tool to the primary and secondary levels of education. The SELFIE (Self-reflection on Effective Learning by Fostering Innovation through Educational Technology; European Commission, 2018) analyses the use of digital technologies in the school context. Originally developed as a selfevaluation questionnaire, for the present study it has been transformed into a guided interview, allowing the research team to collect more comprehensive quantitative data.The tools were tested in a pilot study involving a kindergarten and a 3rdgrade class in the municipality of Genoa. Results outline the strengths and weaknesses of the modified versions of the instruments and further changes are proposed. Furthermore, the SELFIE interviews content analysis highlights valuable insights regarding kindergarten and primary school teachers' use of digital technologies.

Acceptability of artificial intelligence for cervical cancer screening in Dschang, Cameroon: a qualitative study on patient perspectives

BackgroundCervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer among women, with 90% of cervical cancer-related deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries like Cameroon. Visual inspection with acetic acid is often used in low-resource settings to screen for cervical cancer; however, its accuracy can be limited. To address this issue, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne and the University Hospitals of Geneva are collaborating to develop an automated smartphone-based image classifier that serves as a computer aided diagnosis tool for cancerous lesions. The primary objective of this study is to explore the acceptability and perspectives of women in Dschang regarding the usage of a screening tool for cervical cancer relying on artificial intelligence. A secondary objective is to understand the preferred form and type of information women would like to receive regarding this artificial intelligence-based screening tool.MethodsA qualitative methodology was employed to gain better insight into the women’s perspectives. Participants, aged between 30 and 49 were invited from both rural and urban regions and semi-structured interviews using a pre-tested interview guide were conducted. The focus groups were divided on the basis of level of education, as well as HPV status. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using the ATLAS.ti software.ResultsA total of 32 participants took part in the six focus groups, and 38% of participants had a primary level of education. The perspectives identified were classified using an adapted version of the Technology Acceptance Model. Key factors influencing the acceptability of artificial intelligence include privacy concerns, perceived usefulness, and trust in the competence of providers, accuracy of the tool as well as the potential negative impact of smartphones.ConclusionThe results suggest that an artificial intelligence-based screening tool for cervical cancer is mostly acceptable to the women in Dschang. By ensuring patient confidentiality and by providing clear explanations, acceptance can be fostered in the community and uptake of cervical cancer screening can be improved.Trial registrationEthical Cantonal Board of Geneva, Switzerland (CCER, N°2017–0110 and CER-amendment n°4) and Cameroonian National Ethics Committee for Human Health Research (N°2022/12/1518/CE/CNERSH/SP). NCT: 03757299.

The Role of PAI Teachers in Embedding the Value of Wasathiyah Islam in Students of Al Madinah Islamic Primary School

Teachers have an important responsibility to guide students in understanding and practicing moderate Islamic teachings. The author explores various strategies and methods used by teachers in the learning process, as well as their impact on the formation of student character. Apart from that, it also reviews the challenges faced by teachers in implementing the Wasatiyah approach amidst the complexity of the school environment and other factors. This research provides in-depth insight into how Islamic Religious Education teachers can effectively play their role in instilling Wasatiyah values at the primary education level.

Nature’s food – the contribution of edible insects to household nutrition and income in Western Kenya

Abstract This study investigates the nutritional contribution of insects to the diets and income of an entomophagous region in western Kenya. We used a random sample of households from two sub-counties in western Kenya and collected quantities harvested, consumed, and sold of three common insects (termites, dung beetles, and grasshoppers). We then estimated the nutritional composition from literature and determined the household nutrient requirements for proteins, vitamin A, iron and zinc to understand the contribution of insects. Insects were found to be a source of protein, vitamin A, iron, and zinc, with average contributions of 2%, 14%, 20% and 4% of the recommended (household) dietary intake of each nutrient, respectively. Households that earned income from insects had 24% higher household income compared to those that did not earn income from insects. The study further examined factors influencing the contribution of insects to diets and found that household size and wealth (measured by land size) have an inverse relationship with insect contribution to diets and income while attaining primary level of education and being a farmer as the main occupation are associated with a higher contribution of insects to diets. For future research, understanding factors influencing entomophagy is vital for promoting sustainable and nutritious food systems that incorporate insects as a viable protein source, particularly in regions where alternative protein sources are limited.

Movement games from the point of view of primary education teachers in Slovakia

The main goal of the survey carried out by us is to find out the current opinions of teachers at the primary level of education in Slovakia for teaching the thematic unit activities in nature and seasonal movement activities with a focus on the place of movement games in their teaching. Using a survey, they obtained data from 1,363 teachers of primary education who teach physical and sports education in 75 elementary schools from 8 regions of Slovakia. As many as 15% of all respondents answered that they do not teach the thematic unit outdoor activities and seasonal physical activities at all. Overall, the most commonly taught activity in nature is hiking and spending time in nature. The least respondents like teaching cross-country skiing. Despite the broad and demanding focus of teachers in the primary level of education, we consider it necessary that the teaching of the thematic unit outdoor activities and seasonal physical activities (due to their importance from the point of view of health and the creation of a future lifestyle) is implemented either in winter or summer with 100% occupancy. The obtained results are applicable for compensation of identified deficiencies and subsequent optimization of the educational process in this important period of children's development. Since the results of our study are from the whole of Slovakia, they have a nationwide social impact and significance.

Stress and Quality of Life in Caregivers of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis.

Background and Objectives: Multiple sclerosis is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Individuals with multiple sclerosis may require daily care and support from caregivers due to the disease's progressive and unpredictable nature. However, the role of caregiving is not without its challenges, and caregivers themselves often face significant repercussions in terms of their quality of life, mental health, and stress levels. Our study aims to investigate the level of stress caregivers experience in their everyday life and the way stress affects their quality of life. Materials and Methods: We conducted a multicenter, cross-sectional study from 11 November 2023 to 20 March 2024 in healthcare units in Western Greece. All 96 participants were adult caregivers of patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). We assessed caregivers' quality of life and stress levels using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey and Kingston Caregiver Stress Scale, respectively. Non-parametric tests (Spearman's rho test, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests) were used to identify possible correlations between the aforementioned scales and between stress levels and caregiver characteristics. Results: Caregivers reported high stress, with an average KCSS score of 36.82 ± 0.851. The mean SF-36 physical component summary score (PCS) was 59.59 ± 2.77, whereas the mental component summary score (MCS) was 45.69 ± 2.32. Stress levels in the KCSS were negatively correlated with both PCS and MCS of SF-36 and female gender, education level, monthly income, limits of mobility, and patient's level of dependence were associated with higher levels of stress. Conclusions: Stress was found to be negatively connected with caregivers' quality of life, affecting both physical and mental health. Female caregivers, caregivers with a primary education level and a low monthly income, and caregivers of patients with serious illnesses who rely primarily on daily help were the most affected.

Who do I Look like More, Mom or Dad? An Exploratory Survey about Primary Students’ Ideas about Heredity

AbstractUnlike in other countries, heredity and genetics appear first in Spanish science standards in secondary levels. However, some researchers have suggested the need of progressively introducing some basic genetic ideas already from primary education levels. In this context of no formal instruction in early stages, the objectives of our work were to characterize the incipient heredity model of primary school pupils and to evaluate its progression, to identify the most appropriate time to introduce these ideas. We designed a 12-item questionnaire referred to two constructs: (1) the difference between biologically inherited and environmental acquired traits and (2) the mechanism of inheritance. 535 primary school pupils (6–12 years; grades 1–6) took part in the study. In addition, 1–2 pupils per class were interviewed, totalling 30 interviewees. The results showed that pupils clearly identified physical resemblance as inheritable but had more difficulties in assessing physiological traits. Most pupils (84%) correctly identified that accidentally acquired traits were not transmitted to the descendance. However, only 32,2% of them use terms related to inheritance (77,1% of them in G4 – G6). Regarding the mechanism of inheritance, the idea that siblings express traits of both parents becomes more prevalent from grade 3, even suggesting the appearance of new traits or the mixture of previous ones. Older pupils accepted that a trait could skip a generation, although most of them were unable to explain the mechanism, that involves the idea of dominance/ recessiveness. These results allow identifying key leverage points for constructing the inheritance model at Primary levels.

Non Stop Educational Support: Exploring the Opportunities and Challenges of Intelligent Chatbots Use to Support Learners from the Viewpoint of Practitioner Educators

Chatbots use in education is still in need for the identification of opportunities resulting from their use as well as the challenges facing the expansion of such use despite the massive spread of these Chatbots recently. The merits of Chatbots have prompted some teachers to use them to provide learners' with educational support, which consequently helped the appearance of a group of teachers who start practice using Chatbots techniques in education. Therefore, the present study aims to identify the viewpoints of practitioner teachers regarding the opportunities and challenges of Chatbots use in providing learners with educational support. The phenomenological approach is used via conducting Semi-structured interviews with practitioner teachers, five main motivating questions were used to generate the data. Participants were (11) teachers who were purposefully selected from the practitioner teachers who were using Chatbots to provide support services in the primary, middle and secondary educational levels. The results showed that Chatbots in education provide many opportunities that contribute to increasing the efficiency of the educational support through flexibility of support, motivation, accessibility and availability, in addition to guidance and counseling processes. This study also revealed a number of physical, technical and ethical challenges in front of using this technology in providing educational support.

Socio-demographic Characteristics and Clinical Profiles of Women Presented with Post-Caesarean Section Complications

Background: Post-caesarean section complications can occur in different Socio-demographic Characteristics with varied clinical profiles. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to see the socio-demographic characteristics and clinical profiles of women presented with post-caesarean section complications. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from January 2013 to June 2013 for a period of six months. All women admitted with post caesarean section complications referred from different level of hospitals with the age group of more than or equal to 18 years were included as study population. All relevant data were recorded in a predesigned data collection sheet which included age, social status, economic condition and parity. Results: A total number of 50 women who were underwent caesarean section outside DMCH and admitted with post-caesarean section complications were included in this study. Maximum (40.0%) patients were within the age group of 21 to 25 years. Majority of the patients completed their primary and secondary level of education which was 16(32.0%) cases and 18(36.0%) cases respectively. Majority (56.0%) were multiparous. Primi was found in 20(40.0%) cases. Conclusion: In conclusion most the women are in younger age group with secondary and higher secondary education. Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research, July 2023;10(2):49-52

Perspectives of English Education Graduates in Shaping Corpus-Based Research Courses for EFL Teaching: An Exploratory Research

This study investigates the implementation of Corpus-Based Research (CBR) in English language instruction in Papua, Indonesia. Through interviews with six graduates of an English Education study program who experienced in teaching across primary, secondary, and tertiary education levels in diverse formal and informal settings, the research explores the perceived relevance and importance of CBR. While some participants acknowledged the potential benefits of CBR, others noted limited familiarity and encountered challenges in its integration. However, a subgroup exhibited enthusiasm for CBR, recognizing it as a valuable tool to tailor teaching materials. These findings align with earlier research and highlight the adaptable nature of teachers' attitudes. Additionally, participants emphasized the need for early CBR introduction in teacher training and ongoing professional development. They recommended support systems and access to resources for effective CBR integration. The study informs the development of CBR-integrated courses, addressing Papua's unique educational landscape. It underscores the importance of comprehensive training and support to facilitate CBR incorporation into language teaching

Investigation of the Demographic Characteristics of Patients Addicted to Opioids Undergoing Drug Maintenance Treatment in Addiction Treatment Centers in Bojnurd City

Introduction: Opium addiction is one of the most significant problems in Iran. This study investigates demographic information of opium-addicted patients undergoing maintenance treatment in Bojnurd addiction treatment centers. This study aims to identify high-risk groups and those who need therapeutic and psychosocial interventions to maintain treatments. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted from 2016 to 2021 on 300 addicted patients referring to Bojnurd addiction treatment centers. These patients participated in the opioid maintenance treatment program for at least six months. The investigation utilized a checklist of demographic information and examined the files of addicted people undergoing maintenance treatment in eight addiction treatment centers in the city. The data were analyzed in SPSS23 software using the Chi-square statistical test. Results: The mean age (standard deviation) of the participants was 52.17±14.13 years. Besides, 76.6% of the participants were male, 70.0% resided in the city, and 73.6% were married. The majority of the participants had a primary education level and were self-employed. Opium juice was the most consumed substance, and smoking was the most common method of use. Conclusion: It appears that married and middle-aged individuals constitute the largest population undergoing maintenance treatment in Bojnurd city. The high frequency of individuals with low or no literacy in the studied population underscores the importance of education.

Improvement in Inhaler Techniques After Training and Counseling in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or Asthma.

Background Chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma significantly impair quality of life and impose a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Proper inhalation technique is important for effective management of these diseases, yet remains poorly performed by many patients. This study evaluated the impact of structured counseling and training sessions on inhaler use among patients with COPD and asthma, aiming to enhance technique correctness and disease control. Methodology This cross-sectional study analyzed 150 patients with asthma and COPD who fulfilled the inclusion criteria for inhalation techniques. Patients were counseled regarding the proper seven-step inhalation technique for each inhaler type [metered-dose inhaler (MDI), MDI with spacer, and dry powder inhaler (DPI)] through practical demonstration at baseline visits. Correct use of inhalers was assessed by a predefined checklist for each inhaler device at the baseline visit and after three months. The correctness of the inhalation technique was evaluated by scoring each of the seven steps. The disease control assessment was done using the COPD assessment test (CAT) and asthma control test (ACT) at the baseline visit and after three months. Results In this study of 150 patients, there were 97 (64.7%) males and 53 (35.3%) females. In total, 67 (44.7%) were diagnosed with asthma and 83 (55.3%) with COPD. The mean age was 45.33 ± 12.62 years. Post-counseling improvements in inhaler technique were marked, with MDI users enhancing their technique score from an average of 4.4 to 6.1, MDI with spacer from 4.56 to 6.26, and DPI from 4.92 to 6.24 (p < 0.001 for all). Disease control also showed significant gains; CAT scores decreased for MDI users from 23.4 to 20.5, MDI with spacer from 23.92 to 20.96, and DPI from 24.89 to 21.96. Concurrently, ACT scores increased for MDI users from 16.4 to 18.0 (p = 0.002), MDI with spacer from 17.29 to 19.04, and DPI from 16.42 to 18.37 (p < 0.001 for both), reflecting substantive advances in managing COPD and asthma symptoms. Furthermore, patients with primary education exhibited a significant boost in technique mastery post-counseling (p < 0.001), underscoring the potential of well-crafted counseling to transcend educational barriers in promoting effective inhaler use. Conclusions Post-counseling, inhaler technique improved significantly across all types, with MDI with spacer users demonstrating the most progress. Technique scores increased notably (p < 0.001), and disease control scores for COPD and asthma, measured by CAT and ACT, also showed significant improvements (p < 0.001). Remarkably, primary education level participants exhibited substantial technique gains post-intervention, emphasizing the effectiveness of counseling irrespective of initial educational status in enhancing inhaler use and disease management.

Vitamin A-related nutrition knowledge gaps and predictors among caregivers of preschool children in Eastern Uganda: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundVitamin A (VA) remains a core micronutrient as VA Deficiency (VAD) in children has persisted as a public health problem in parts of Africa with adverse effects. Caregivers of children are essential in the control of VAD; however, there is a paucity of data on their knowledge of VA, dietary sources, and VAD. This study sought to assess the level of VA-related nutrition knowledge (VANK) and its predictors among caregivers of preschool children in Eastern Uganda.MethodsA cross-sectional analytical design was used. Both socio-demographic and knowledge and attitude (KA) data were collected using a structured questionnaire partly adapted from the FAO model Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) questionnaire. A sample size of 256 was used. Caregivers of 24–59 months-old children were selected from Bukwo District in Eastern Uganda using purposive and random sampling methods. Knowledge scores (%) based on responses to ten questions were determined and eventually classified as low (≤ 40%) and moderate or high (˃40%). Descriptive and inferential statistics were computed using SPSS (version 24). Logistic regression was used to identify predictors with p < 0.05 considered significant.ResultsThe study had 247 caregivers with a mean age of 30.9 ± 7.7 years. The majority were female (90%), married, subsistence crop farmers and had primary-level education or lower. The mean VANK score was 18.9 ± 24.7%. Overall, most of the caregivers had low VANK as only about 20% had moderate or high. The proportions that knew the different aspects of VANK were correspondingly small. About half of the caregivers (46.6%) knew VA itself and only 27% knew any of its sources. Those who knew VAD, its causes, signs/symptoms and prevention measures were 31, 22, 13 and 24% respectively. The caregivers’ VANK was significantly associated with their overall VA-related attitude, age and level of education. However, education and age were the significant predictors.ConclusionCaregivers had very low VANK. They barely knew VA and its food sources or VAD. The main predictors of VANK were caregiver age and level of education. The study recommends education of caregivers about VA for effective VAD control which contributes to achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2.

Serological Evidence of Epstein-Barr Virus Capsid Antigen (EB-CA) Among Pregnant Women from Cottage Hospital, Ilorin

Study’s Excerpt/Novelty This study reveals a significant Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) prevalence among pregnant women attending Cottage Hospital in Ilorin, with 95.69% of participants testing positive for anti-EBV IgG antibodies. Notably, the highest prevalence was observed among younger women, those in the first trimester, individuals from polygamous families, and those with lower educational levels. These findings underscore the need for increased community awareness and improved personal hygiene practices to reduce EBV infection rates and associated congenital defects. Full Abstract Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), a member of the Herpesvirus family, has been observed to be increasing among pregnant women, leading to congenital defects. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of EBV infection among pregnant women attending Cottage Hospital in Ilorin. A total of 45 pregnant women were tested, and questionnaires were administered to volunteer subjects after obtaining their informed consent. Approximately 5 ml of blood was aseptically collected via venous puncture from the antecubital fossa and dispensed into EDTA containers. Plasma was separated after centrifugation of the blood, and the obtained plasma was screened for anti-EBV IgG antibodies using ELISA techniques. Results revealed that 43 subjects (95.69%) tested positive for EBV, while 2 (4.4%) tested negative. Among different age groups, women aged 19-20, 26-30, and 36-40 showed a prevalence rate of 100%, with the lowest prevalence of 88.8% recorded among the 31-35 age group. Regarding the pregnancy stage, 100% was seen among first-trimester participants, while the lowest prevalence of 92.3% was noted during the third trimester. The majority of respondents were married, with those from polygamous families and single individuals showing a prevalence of 100%. Participants with primary and secondary education levels displayed the highest prevalence, while those with tertiary education had the lowest. Muslims had the highest prevalence, whereas Christians had the lowest. Moreover, regarding occupation, the unemployed, artisans, and students had the highest prevalence, while civil servants and businesswomen had the lowest prevalence. In conclusion, the results from this study highlight a notable prevalence of EBV (IgG) antibodies among pregnant women. These outcomes emphasize the necessity of raising awareness in the community about the implications of EBV infection and the Significance of maintaining proper personal hygiene to mitigate the chances of infection and spread

Factors influencing consumer choices and food safety awareness in street-vended foods: A case study of Meru town, Kenya

The consumption of street-vended foods is common in many developed and developing countries, including Kenya. This study investigated the food safety knowledge of street food consumers (SFCs) and the factors influencing their choices of street-vended foods in Meru town, Kenya. A total of 456 respondents were randomly selected from different streets in Meru town to participate in this study. Data collection was carried out through in-person interviews using pretested structured questionnaires. The results of the survey revealed that a significant proportion, 79.2% of the participants were consumers of street vended foods. In addition, the study found a gender disparity that 58.8% of respondents were male and most of them had a primary or secondary education levels, while the majority of the female respondents reported that they had obtained college education. Furthermore, the majority of the respondents were self-employed (48.7%) and earned between KES 10,000 (USD 74) and KES 20,000 (USD 148) per month. The study also found that the average weekly expenditure on street-vended foods was estimated at KES 694.25 (USD 5.14). There was a highly significant association between the income range of the SFCs and their education level (p &lt; 0.001), age category (p &lt; 0.001) and employment category (p &lt; 0.001). Education level (p=0.0274) and age (p=0.0205) of the SFCs were significant factors in predicting the personal hygiene knowledge scores of the SFCs. About 31.6% of consumers reported being sick once or twice a month after eating street foods. The study revealed that convenience, cost, quantity, hygiene and service were important factors considered by SFCs when purchasing street vended foods. The findings of this study offer valuable insights that can inform the development of appropriate strategies and policies aimed at promoting food safety awareness and ensuring the availability of safe and hygienic street-vended foods in Meru town, Kenya.

Exploring Challenges in Walking Frame Use Among the Elderly: A Study in Klang Valley, Malaysia

The elderly utilize a walking frame to address deficiencies in balance, coordination, strength, and the risk of falling during walking. Despite previous research highlighting the advantages and benefits of walking frame use for this demographic, some individuals have encountered various issues concerning its use. Thus, this study aims to explore issues of walking frame use among the elderly in Klang Valley, Malaysia. A total of 30 participants of community-dwelling elderly aged 60 and above in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur who are current and former walking frame users and were selected via purposive sampling, were involved in this study. This study utilized the qualitative approach using semi-structured questions. Interview data in the form of verbatim transcripts were analyzed thematically. The majority of respondents were female with a mean age of 71.7 years old, (SD=8.06), Malay, married, primary education level, retirees, living with a spouse and children and staying in Selangor. On the health aspect, the majority of them had hypertension and Body Mass Index (BMI) was pre-obese (25.0 – 29.9 kg/m2). In terms of walking frame usage, most respondents used a standard walking frame (without wheels), used a walking frame for 1 year or less, purchased it by themselves or through family members, indoor usage and reason for use because of leg weakness due to injury. Thematic analysis results show that there were several issues identified such as the respondents’ physical and psychological condition, as well as walking frame issues on quality, design, use and cost. Furthermore, issues concerning the physical environment of the home were reported. It is hoped that these findings can serve as a reference for relevant parties to further explore aspects related to the use, product development, and management of physical environments concerning walking frames.

Cross-sectional study to investigate the seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii among women attending the antenatal clinic in Namwala, Zambia

BackgroundToxoplasmosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). It has a wide host range and is capable of vertical transmission in pregnant women, which may lead...

Husband's involvement in utilization of maternal health services by their spouse in district Rohtak, Haryana.

Husband and wife as a couple are fully responsible for their current and future. In our society, the husband is mostly responsible for making the decision regarding any expenses. In India, there is a need to reduce the maternal mortality rate, and Husband's involvement in antenatal care could be a key to success as it will enable them to support their partner in adequate preparation for birth and to utilize emergency obstetric care early if complications arise. To find out about male involvement in the utilization of maternal healthcare services by their spouse and various factors affecting male involvement in the utilization of maternal healthcare services. This study was conducted in urban and rural field practice areas attached to the Department of Community Medicine, PGIMS, Rohtak. The study included 400 couples where 200 each were recruited from rural and urban areas. Out of 17 subcenters under CHC Chiri eight, subcenters were selected randomly by lottery method. A line list of these couples was prepared at each subcenter using ANC and birth register. Couples were enrolled from this line list till a sample size of 25 was reached at each of these eight subcenters. In this way, a total of 200 couples were enrolled from rural areas in which women delivered and availed maternal health services in the last 6 months. In urban areas, an equal number of couples were enrolled from each of these three urban health posts till the sample size of 200 was reached in an urban area. The majority of the husbands (73%) reported that they participated in their wives' utilization of maternal health services. Twenty-seven percent did not participate in their wives' utilization of maternal health services. It also showed that 71.0% of the husbands did not know about the investigations that needed to be performed during a woman's pregnancy. Only 29% were aware of it. On analysis, it was observed that 73% of the husbands had good participation in their spouses' maternal and child health (MCH) care, while the rest had poor participation (27%). It also showed that as the education level of the participants' husbands increased, their participation in their spouses' MCH care increased, with the highest being observed among graduates (91.3%) and the lowest among those with primary schooling level education (66.7%) which were statistically significant.

Global Competence and Sustainable Development in Teacher Training: Preparing for a Changing World

Abstract This cross-cultural study examines the inclusion of global competences (GCs) in the curriculum of teacher education programs across three Baltic Sea countries: Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland. Using van den Akker’s (2003) substantive approach to curriculum analysis, the researchers analyzed official documents and course descriptions of Daugavpils University (Latvia), Vilnius University Šiauliai Academy (Lithuania), and Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce (Poland). Employing Rapley’s (2007) document analysis method, the study focused on both explicit content and implicit gaps to assess how well GCs are integrated into teacher training programs for primary and preschool education. The research involved a detailed examination of 262 syllabi, comprising 63 from Latvia, 61 from Lithuania, and 138 from Poland. The researchers used a template based on the PISA 2018 Global Competence Framework to identify which competences and sub-competences were included in the syllabi. The study aimed to answer the question: How are all the dimensions of global competences included in the syllabi of courses taught at the primary and preschool education levels in three Baltic Sea countries? The findings reveal that the Lithuanian curriculum includes the most GC-focused courses (92 courses, 276 ECTS), followed by Poland (44 courses, 99 ECTS), and Latvia (30 courses, 161 ECTS). The analysis was conducted in four steps: comparing the total number of courses and ECTS credits, ranking the development level of each GC dimension, characterizing the development of each dimension, and analyzing the general approach towards incorporating GCs into the curricula. The results indicate a significant variation in how GCs are integrated across the three countries, with Lithuania demonstrating the most comprehensive incorporation. The study highlights the need for a more sustainable, systematic and consistent inclusion of global competences in teacher education to better prepare educators for a globalized world.