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Open Access October 12, 2025

Assessment of Handling Practices and Awareness of Aflatoxin Contamination in Spices among Micro and Small-Scale Processors in Tanzania

Abstract Frequent consumption of aflatoxins-contaminated spices has been linked to serious adverse health effects among consumers. The likelihood of exposure to these toxins is influenced by the level of public awareness. Controlling aflatoxins contamination throughout the food chain is critical for public health. This study aimed to assess the handling practices and awareness of aflatoxin contamination [...] Read more.
Frequent consumption of aflatoxins-contaminated spices has been linked to serious adverse health effects among consumers. The likelihood of exposure to these toxins is influenced by the level of public awareness. Controlling aflatoxins contamination throughout the food chain is critical for public health. This study aimed to assess the handling practices and awareness of aflatoxin contamination among micro- and small-scale spice processors. A total of 60 processors from 4 districts of two regions of Tanzania were interviewed. The results showed that while 56.7% of interviewed processors were aware of aflatoxin contamination in spices primarily through training (38.3%) and mass media (30%). However, there were still misconceptions regarding the causes and effects of aflatoxins to human health. It was observed that, poor drying and storage practices, inadequate monitoring of processors aggravated the situation. Nonetheless, all interviewed processors expressed willingness to participate in training programs to ensure quality and safety along the chain. The study findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions to reduce aflatoxin risks in the spice value chain. These should include strengthened food safety inspections and enforcement, as well as tailored training and support for micro and small-scale spice processors. Enhancing their knowledge and ability to adopt proper handling, drying and storage practices is critical for enhancing food safety and safeguarding public health.
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Open Access October 27, 2024

Learners' Initial Conceptions in Science and School Performance

Abstract The theme of the study that catches our attention is the initial conceptions of learners in Science and school performance; this theme is based on the competency-based approach in force in Cameroon, which is implemented in several African countries. Insofar as learning is not the accumulation of new knowledge but a cognitive reorganization of old knowledge experienced, it is therefore a question [...] Read more.
The theme of the study that catches our attention is the initial conceptions of learners in Science and school performance; this theme is based on the competency-based approach in force in Cameroon, which is implemented in several African countries. Insofar as learning is not the accumulation of new knowledge but a cognitive reorganization of old knowledge experienced, it is therefore a question of knowing what is the influence of initial conceptions on the academic performance of learners in science. The objective of this research was to show that taking into account the initial conceptions of learners, Biology “SVT” has a lasting influence on learning and thus on the academic performance of learners. To achieve this objective, the study uses the mixed and quasi-experimental method, where two groups of learners were used: a control group and an experimental group. The experimental group was subjected to the teaching-learning system designed for this purpose, and in which the initial conceptions of the learners were taken into account according to do with or go against. In the light of the different hypotheses adopted and the different results of this study, it can be observed that the didactic consideration of the learners' initial conceptions improves their academic performance through the data of the experimental group. In relation to the field of education, this study shows that in order to enable learners to learn and build knowledge in the long term, their initial conceptions must be taken into account in concrete didactics; Otherwise, learning will be sporadic, learners' conceptions will be significant, which will lead to a learning defect perceptible by school failure.
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Open Access January 02, 2024

Constructability and Rigor of Angles Multiples of 3 in Euclidean Geometry

Abstract This paper investigates the constructability of angles multiples of 3 within the framework of Euclidean geometry. It makes a significant contribution by presenting the first geometric construction for all such angles, offering a rigorous solution to a longstanding geometric problem. The paper reaffirms the efficacy of Euclidean geometry in providing precise constructions and robust proofs for [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the constructability of angles multiples of 3 within the framework of Euclidean geometry. It makes a significant contribution by presenting the first geometric construction for all such angles, offering a rigorous solution to a longstanding geometric problem. The paper reaffirms the efficacy of Euclidean geometry in providing precise constructions and robust proofs for these angles, demonstrating the enduring strength of Euclidean principles from classical to modern times. The presented workflow goes beyond Euclidean geometry to examine non-Euclidean methods, particularly analytical approaches, revealing misconceptions that compromise the genetic and geometric rigor of Euclidean principles. The paper exposes incongruities when algebraic proofs related to angle constructability are applied to the Euclidean system, emphasizing the misalignment of fundamental geometric concepts. A notable result in the paper is the construction of a angle, introducing the “ angle chord” as a novel geometric property. This property challenges assumptions made by non-Euclidean methods and highlights the nuanced geometric properties crucial for rigorous constructions. The paper refutes the fallacy of relying solely on algebra for solutions to angles multiples of , emphasizing the necessity of embracing Euclidean geometry for geometric discoveries. The paper underscores the merits and resilience of Euclidean geometry, showcasing its independence and depth across historical and modern perspectives. The newly presented geometric construction not only resolves a longstanding question but also emphasizes the intrinsic strength and uniqueness of Euclidean principles in contrast to alternative methodologies.
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Open Access March 11, 2025

Why High Income Fails to Reduce E-Cigarette Use: The Knowledge-Attitude Paradox in the SMOKES Study

Abstract Background: Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use and vaping tobacco have increased rapidly worldwide, raising concerns about their health effects, social acceptability, and regulatory challenges. In many countries, e-cigarettes are more commonly used by individuals from higher socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds, who, in theory, should have greater knowledge about e-cigarettes and [...] Read more.
Background: Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use and vaping tobacco have increased rapidly worldwide, raising concerns about their health effects, social acceptability, and regulatory challenges. In many countries, e-cigarettes are more commonly used by individuals from higher socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds, who, in theory, should have greater knowledge about e-cigarettes and their associated risks. However, it remains unclear why a group with more knowledge about e-cigarette risks would also hold more positive attitudes toward vaping and exhibit higher usage rates — a phenomenon that may represent a knowledge-behavior paradox. Understanding this paradox, along with the complex relationships between e-cigarette knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors, is critical for informing effective public health interventions, campaigns, social media messaging, and regulatory policies. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the complex relationship between SES, e-cigarette knowledge, pro-vaping attitudes, and e-cigarette use. Methods: The SMOKES Study (Study of Measurement of Knowledge and Examination of Support for Tobacco Control Policies) used a multi-center, cross-sectional design, collecting data from 2,403 college and university students across 15 provinces in Iran (covering nearly half of the country's provinces). The survey measured family income, age, sex, ethnicity, e-cigarette use, knowledge, and attitudes. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to examine the interrelations between SES, knowledge, attitudes, and behavior, while adjusting for age, sex, and ethnic minority status. Results: SEM analysis confirmed the hypothesized paradox. Although greater knowledge about e-cigarettes was linked to less favorable attitudes toward vaping and lower use, pro-vaping attitudes emerged as the strongest predictor of vaping behavior, while knowledge played a weaker protective role. Notably, individuals with higher SES simultaneously showed higher knowledge and, paradoxically, more pro-e-cigarette attitudes and greater usage. Female students and ethnic minority students reported higher correct knowledge and lower pro-vaping attitudes and use. Although age and higher family income were associated with more favorable attitudes, they did not directly predict vaping behavior. These results suggest that for higher SES individuals, poor knowledge is not the main driver of e-cigarette use; rather, their pro-e-cigarette attitudes, which seem to outweigh the influence of knowledge, play a key role. Conclusions: Although individuals from higher SES backgrounds report greater correct knowledge about e-cigarettes, this knowledge does not necessarily translate into reduced positive attitudes or lower usage. This study highlights the complexity of these paradoxical effects and suggests that public health strategies need to go beyond simple education and knowledge-based interventions. Targeted approaches should address industry messaging, challenge misconceptions, and strengthen regulatory efforts to reduce e-cigarette use among young adults, including those from higher SES backgrounds.
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