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English as a lingua franca now requires the Bangladeshi people to learn this global language with the current demands of the competitive world. What is widely accepted is that a vast majority of Bangladeshi graduates are neither capable to stand out globally as efficient communicators in English nor accomplished enough to meet the challenges of the real world which implies that there are some short comings with the fulfillment of their needs. Hence, the paper investigates the complex world of multi-faced needs of the students at tertiary level, and highlights core consideration for analyzing these needs through a keen eye on the roots of problems. The research combines not only qualitative but also quantitative methods where research paradigm is pragmatic. Finally, the paper shows that need analysis can certainly be invaluable in successful implementation of autonomous learning among students enabling them to take responsibilities of learning in their own hands.

As a third world country and a former British colony, Bangladesh has seen a dramatic upsurge in the use of the English language. Built on the concept of imperialistic aspects of the English language, this paper draws on responses from anonymous survey results and interviews and attempts to provide deeper insights into the global aspects of English as a language and the credibility of this language in the minds of the populace. This paper assesses the English language as a feature of globalization where English is considered to be of the utmost value. Questionnaires were designed and interviews were arranged to evaluate the commercial and linguistic aspects of English in Bangladesh to reach a conclusion whether the mass perceives this very language as it should be or there are any other economic and cultural aspects. The findings were presented graphically and the study showed that English fails to meet the expectations of the stakeholders and policy makers of Bangladesh. The paper concludes with some recommendations that could help resolve the situation and present English to the people in a better light.

Communicative Language Teaching, popularly known as CLT, has become a newly adopted methodology in the teaching and learning context of Bangladesh. This methodology, since the initiation, has encountered and is still encountering a number of hurdles that need to be dealt with best care and feasible strategy. Of all methods, most of the educational institutes be- it secondary or higher secondary are inclined to accept and apply the CLT in classroom, though there has been a lack of resources, materials and language experts. Ignoring the reality, the policy makers would like to follow the other countries, though they are self-sufficient and self-dependent on their strategic plans and strong funds who have already executed CLT with success. This paper attempts to present the reality behind the implementation of CLT in the language teaching and learning environment and outlines the malpractices widely obvious in educational institutes of Bangladesh. This paper also focuses on the strategic points, data collection and analysis and probable remedy regarding the real picture of CLT in Bangladesh.

Now a day, the buzz word for a language classroom is "learner autonomy" that is defined differently by different experts. The fundamental of learner autonomy, however, is to involve the learning in the teaching and learning process. The term "webquest" is also a new concept to the teachers in this part of the world. A webquest is an internet based module designed by an instructor that presents a task with predefined process, resources and a rubric for the learners to undertake the tasks step by step and at the end they self-assess their performance based on the rubric provided in the module. This paper explores the possibility of implementing such a task that makes use of technology (i.e. a webquest) where the learners need to explore the resources by themselves' write down a paper based on their reading and the piece of writing is assessed by the learner her/himself based on a rubric provided. The research shows that when the learners are given autonomy in the classroom, their learning boosts up and their performance curve also rises.

This paper summarises experiences of efforts made by twenty individuals when implementing small-scale ICT development projects in their organizations located in seven developing countries. The main focus of these projects was the use of ICT in educational settings. Challenges encountered and the contributing factors for implementation success of the projects are systematically investigated using interviews and follow up surveys. Results show that the typical limitations of technology and infrastructure were the key obstacles. The commitment of individual project managers in the role of "change agents" and organizational support in the were the strengths behind the success of the projects. Based on the outcome of this study, professional development of the change agents is a key factor for the success of projects. IT and infrastructure limitations contributed to the failure of the majority of the ICT related projects.

Private Supplementary Tutoring (PST) have attracted enormous attention in recent days. Bangladesh experiences both forms of PST--formal and informal. There is a considerable amount of research based on the demand-side of PST. The tutors, who are the suppliers of PST in the market, are the center of attention in this paper. The forces that affect the satisfaction of a tutor from providing tuition have been investigated here through factor analysis and stepwise regression. Analyzing a set of tutors from University of Dhaka, tutoring environment and financial independence are found to have a positive relationship with the satisfaction level of a tutor. Transportation costs as well as disadvantageous factors of tutoring as in wasting productive time, hampering academic results, lack of recreation pull the level of satisfaction down. Tutors are thought to be self-concentrated since result and improvement of the tutees are absent from the formulation of their satisfaction. Driving a wedge of fellow feeling between tutors and tutees will enhance the quality of education.

The role of a mother tongue (L1) in the teaching and learning of a foreign language (FL) has been the subject of much debate and controversy. This paper reports on a piece of research carried out in our own teaching environments (at universities both in Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia) and presents an analysis of the attitudes of students and teachers towards the use of learners' mother tongue (in this case Bengali and Arabic) in English language classrooms at the tertiary level where English is taught as a non-major subject. For the study, two surveys with the same questionnaires were conducted in two universities each from Bangladesh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) with the participation of 1000 students and 30 teachers. Results suggest that a judicious and moderate use of L1 does not hinder learning; rather, it assists, aids and facilitates the teaching and learning process thus providing the teacher with an effective pedagogical tool for maximizing the learning outcomes.

In recent years, education quality and quality assessment have received a great deal of attention at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Bangladesh. Most of the HEIs in Bangladesh face severe resource constraints and find it difficult to improve education quality by improving inputs, such as better infrastructure and modernized classroom facilities. Thus, in response to the present government's demand to improve the quality of education at HEIs in Bangladesh, it is imperative to formulate plans that are more cost-effective. According to some previous studies, the quality of education depends largely on the teaching-learning process. These studies affirm that, with limited resources at hand, the employment of active learning in the classroom is one of the most effective ways to improve education quality. To conduct this qualitative research, we utilized multiple sources of data, including semi-structured and in-depth interviews, descriptive observations and self-administered questionnaires. This paper aims to explore three related issues: What are the various active learning strategies that can be employed by the instructors at HEIs in Bangladesh? What are the potential factors that can hinder the implementation process? Finally, what recommendations can be provided on how to successfully implement active learning strategies in the classroom? The findings suggest that a lack of teacher training and student prior experience in an active learning environment, large class sizes, excessive curriculum loads and students' academic backgrounds are some common factors that can hinder the implementation of active learning in Bangladesh. The findings of this study can be instrumental for HEIs in Bangladesh as they aspire to improve their education quality.

The paper aimed to explore the self assessment practices in higher education in Bangladesh with special reference to Department of Business Administration of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology. For self assessment purpose the researchers have collected opinion from students, alumni, employer and faculty members on eight areas. In collecting data the study used a semi-structured questionnaire on four point scale. To test the internal consistency the researchers have used Cronbach's a (alpha) test of coefficient. The study found that the department is in very weak position almost in all aspects from all assessors. The study suggested to the concerned authority of the department to allocate sufficient fund and logistic facilities for the development of higher education of the department.

Typically, an ESP course is designed to develop students' communication skills not solely for the office, but also for useful in a specific workplace. Unfortunately, ESP for Schools of Business at some South-East Asian universities is not being very effective in promoting students' performance in the workplace. Behind this backdrop, this paper explores learners' pragmatic workplace learning practices that impact on their profession and have immediate applicability to their professional responsibilities. This article, in other words, addresses the gaps between what students learn in ESP class and what they need in real workplace. The data were collected through questionnaires from 30 ESP teachers. The data were analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. The research results revealed that the current ESP in use fails to capture the learners' needs and skills in workplace communication. It, therefore, suggests that ESP textbook has to adapt the practical workplace needs related materials as well as supplementing extra materials through teachers' constant "needs analysis".

Purpose: The main purpose of this research was to analyze the key issues related to quality of work life (QWL), which have become increasingly important to HRD scholars and practitioners. In addition, the significant differences between the academic professionals of public and private universities in Bangladesh in terms of QWL were also addressed. Design/methodology/approach: A total number of 202 academic professionals were selected as a sample based on stratified and random sampling techniques. Questionnaire survey method was used to gather primary data. Sirgy "et al.'s" survey instrument was adopted in this study. Discriminant analysis was utilized to differentiate QWL among academic professionals of the study sample and tested the hypotheses. Findings: The study findings show that the job design of an organization can have a significant effect on its organizational performance (OP) and hence the need to give proper attention to the quality of work life (QWL). Moreover, the two factors like "creativity of outside work" and "payment for work" were significantly differentiated between academic professionals of public and private universities in Bangladesh. Research limitations/implications: The main limitation of this paper is the relatively small sample size of only academic professionals in Bangladesh with regard to data concerning QWL, which limits the generalizability of the findings. However, the author feels that the outcomes of this research will be beneficial for policy makers and planners to formulate effective strategy of HRD in Bangladesh and other similar countries. Originality/value: The paper discusses the role of QWL in managing human resources which determines organizational success. To make the best use of human resources, organizational leaders need to give more attention to the human network (interpersonal relationship), the nature and content of jobs performed. (Contains 2 tables and 2 notes.)

This study aims to understand the parents' household decision-making process with respect to allowing girls to drop out of school, an area that has, thus far, been overlooked in the research regarding school dropouts. This paper has examined the household decision-making process between fathers and mothers and explores how their respective levels of participation affect on the educational outcome for girls. Data were collected in September 2010 from questionnaires administered to the parents of female students in the sub-district of Pirgonj in Bangladesh. The individual participation index (PI) of both the fathers and the mothers was estimated for four major household matters, and the bargaining level of fathers and mothers was measured by comparing the participation indices. Logistic regression was then conducted to examine how the participation levels of fathers and mothers predicted dropout outcomes for girls. The results show that mothers had less bargaining power than fathers in the decision-making process as the mean for the mother's participation index is found to be "rarely", while the father's index is found to be "very often" when using a 5-point Likert-typescale. In the logistic regression model, the participation levels of fathers and mothers indicate diverse effects on dropout outcomes in which the father's participation positively predicts the dropout outcome for girls and the mother's participation negatively predicts the dropout outcome for girls.

The universal importance of reading, a receptive skill, is enormous. It encompasses a major part of learning and teaching a language. Reading ameliorates language competence of learners and it has an all-inclusive effect on their acquisition of second language. But some students are not found appropriately motivated or found demotivated in reading classes across the world. This research aims at finding out why some students are less motivated in reading classes at Tertiary Level in Bangladesh. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods have been employed in conducting the research. Simple random sampling technique has been used to select the respondents from the population of different public and private universities of Bangladesh. This research shows that some students are less motivated in reading classes at Tertiary Level for quite a lot of reasons pertaining to themselves, teachers, reading materials, contextual factors, etc. This paper also highlights some recommendations carrying out of which might make learners motivated in reading classes.

Background: There is increasing interest in using verbal autopsy to produce nationally representative populationlevel estimates of causes of death. However, the burden of processing a large quantity of surveys collected with paper and pencil has been a barrier to scaling up verbal autopsy surveillance. Direct electronic data capture has been used in other large-scale surveys and can be used in verbal autopsy as well, to reduce time and cost of going from collected data to actionable information. Methods: We collected verbal autopsy interviews using paper and pencil and using electronic tablets at two sites, and measured the cost and time required to process the surveys for analysis. From these cost and time data, we extrapolated costs associated with conducting large-scale surveillance with verbal autopsy. Results: We found that the median time between data collection and data entry for surveys collected on paper and pencil was approximately 3 months. For surveys collected on electronic tablets, this was less than 2 days. For small-scale surveys, we found that the upfront costs of purchasing electronic tablets was the primary cost and resulted in a higher total cost. For large-scale surveys, the costs associated with data entry exceeded the cost of the tablets, so electronic data capture provides both a quicker and cheaper method of data collection. Conclusions: As countries increase verbal autopsy surveillance, it is important to consider the best way to design sustainable systems for data collection. Electronic data capture has the potential to greatly reduce the time and costs associated with data collection. For long-term, large-scale surveillance required by national vital statistical systems, electronic data capture reduces costs and allows data to be available sooner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates into the reading habits of the English medium private university students with Bengali medium background. It analyses the realities in the context, which are both nurturing the old and shaping new reading habits of the students. The data gathered by means of interview schedule have been analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. The data shows that our students' reading habits--avoiding text books, memorizing ready-made things for exam purposes, very little reading in not only English but Bengali as well--do not change remarkably during their tertiary level of study at the private universities. Rather they are further solidified and nurtured by the teachers' supply of lecture notes, an acute lack of motivation for reading the study materials in English, and the negative backwash of the exam system. These causes of the undesirable reading habits can be removed only if all the teachers dealing with the students come forward and work together with the English teachers for a long period of time to achieve the aims.

This paper reports on pre-service teachers' preparedness for inclusive education in Bangladesh through measuring their perceived teaching-efficacy, concerns and attitudes towards inclusive education and identifying predictor variables that contribute to those three variables. Using two standardized scales with 1,623 pre-service teachers from 16 teachers training institutions, it was found that variables such as length of training, gender, interaction with persons with disabilities, knowledge about local legislation, and level of training involved had significant relationship with participants' perceived teaching-efficacy, attitudes and concerns. In addition, it was also found that pre-service teachers' perceived teaching-efficacy is correlated to their attitudes towards inclusive education. This study also revealed that pre-service teachers having higher perceived teaching-efficacy showed lower level of concerns towards inclusive education. Implications of this study for further improvement of pre-service teacher education program for inclusive education are briefly discussed. (Contains 2 tables.)

The aim of this small-scale research was to gain some understanding of Bangladeshi English language teachers' language preference for publication purposes and the extent of the use of Bangla (Bengali), the L1, in their professional practice. Qualitative data for the study were gathered by means of a self-produced questionnaire. Results show that about three-quarters of the teachers published or would publish entirely in English because they believed that it was, among other reasons, the usual professional practice. More importantly, a number of teachers stated that they felt more comfortable writing academic essays in English. Regarding the use of L1, all 37 respondents pointed out that they used it sparingly in the classroom, and only a small number considered it a barrier in learning English, the L2. While emphasising the study's limitations, the paper suggests that English teachers' lack of confidence in L1 academic writing may be seen as indicating the potential direction of a slowly emerging individual bilingualism among university teachers of English. However, the paper also argues that the emergence of this potential bilingualism can be seen only at the individual rather than societal level, and, within the academic context, only in the limited domain of academic writing. (Contains 1 figure and 5 notes.)

At present a new era has evolved in the education sector by means of ICTs. Different ICTs are now set to become instrumental to help expand access to education, strengthen the relevance of education to the increasingly digital workplace, and raise educational quality by, among others, helping make teaching and learning into an engaging, active process connected to real life. The application and exposure to and deployment of ICTs fundamentally change the way education is conceived and delivered to students. ICTs are enablers that optimize student-centered pedagogical methods. Due to its easy accessibility this means of education has become very popular all over the world. Distance education has got a thrust after the evolution of ICT-based education system. This paper intends to give an idea about ICT-based higher education all over the globe and its applicability in Bangladesh. Finally, it analyses the responses from different user groups to query about the current status of the ICT-based higher education system Bangladesh.

Purpose: From the perspective of developing countries, studies regarding the behavioral effects of quitting tobacco consumption on emerging psychological determinants are limited. The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of emotional intelligence (EI), social norms, susceptibility and self-efficacy on the behavioral effects of quitting tobacco consumption among young smokers in developing countries. Design/methodology/approach: By reviewing existing literature, this study developed a conceptual model to test the influences of significant psychological determinants in regards to a young smoker's intention to quit smoking. Accordingly, a survey instrument was designed to collect data from young smokers in Bangladesh using the convenience sampling method. A total of 500 self-administered questionnaires were distributed, out of which only 400 questionnaires were used in final data analysis. This study applied partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed model. Findings: Perceived EI, perceived social norms and perceived susceptibility were found to have significant direct positive effects on intention to quit smoking. Perceived susceptibility and perceived self-efficacy were observed to have moderating effects on intention to quit smoking through perceived EI and perceived social norms respectively. However, perceived self-efficacy was not found to have any significant direct effect on intention to quit smoking. Originality/value: This is the first study of its kind which combined EI, susceptibility, self-efficacy, and social norms in one theoretical framework to explain a young smoker's intention to quit smoking. Also, in the context of Bangladesh and similar developing countries, there are no such studies which used the psychological components investigated in this study to predict a young smoker's intention to quit smoking. Thus, the findings bring us closer to the goal of a tobacco-free society by allowing policy makers, NGOs, broader communities, and ultimately individual citizens to understand the psychological predictors of quitting tobacco consumption among young smokers in developing countries.

In Bangladesh, the system of assessment has always been guided by curriculum though the system only covered learners' ability of memorization and comprehension skills. Other categories of skills in the knowledge like application, analysis, synthesis and evaluation are hardly included in the assessment. Besides, some of the essential qualities such as oral presentation, leadership, tolerance, co-operative attitude, school behavior, co-curricular activities, and social values are not included in the assessment system. As a result, learners' trend to rely heavily on their memorization skill leads them to become crippled lacking required excellence to contribute fruitfully to the society. The government of Bangladesh has timely envisaged the reservation of its education system and has justly adjudicated the School Based Assessment (SBA) aspiring learners' holistic development. SBA has been implemented in junior secondary levels of general education in June, 2007. This paper reveals the current situation of the recently applied assessment system through a study of a group of teachers of secondary level and SBA trainers. It will discuss the issues that emerge from the arguments of the scholars that they hold regarding SBA and its potentiality in the context of Bangladesh.

Background: In Bangladesh, a common science curriculum caters for all students at the junior secondary level. Since this curriculum is for all students, its aims are both to build a strong foundation in science while still providing students with the opportunities to use science in everyday life--an aim consistent with the notion of scientific literacy. Purpose: This paper reports Bangladeshi science teachers' perspectives and practices in regard to the promotion of scientific literacy. Sample: Six science teachers representing a range of geographical locations, school types with different class sizes, lengths of teaching experience and educational qualifications. Design and method: This study employed a case study approach. The six teachers and their associated science classes (including students) were considered as six cases. Data were gathered through observing the teachers' science lessons, interviewing them twice--once before and once after the lesson observation, and interviewing their students in focus groups. Results: This study reveals that participating teachers held a range of perspectives on scientific literacy, including some naïve perspectives. In addition, their perspectives were often not seen to be realised in the classroom as for teachers the emphasis of learning science was more traditional in nature. Many of their teaching practices promoted a culture of academic science that resulted in students' difficulty in finding connections between the science they study in school and their everyday lives. This research also identified the tension which teachers encountered between their religious values and science values while they were teaching science in a culture with a religious tradition. Conclusions: The professional development practice for science teachers in Bangladesh with its emphasis on developing science content knowledge may limit the scope for promoting the concepts of scientific literacy. Opportunities for developing pedagogic knowledge is also limited and consequently impacts on teachers' ability to develop the concepts of scientific literacy and learn how to teach for its promotion.

Background: Many low- and middle-income countries cannot measure maternal mortality to monitor progress against global and country-specific targets. While the ultimate goal for these countries is to have complete civil registrations systems, other interim strategies are needed to provide timely estimates of maternal mortality. Objective: The objective is to inform on potential options for measuring maternal mortality. Methods: This paper uses a case study approach to compare methodologies and estimates of pregnancy-related mortality ratio (PRMR)/maternal mortality ratio (MMR) obtained from four different data sources from similar time periods in Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Bolivia—national population census; post-census mortality survey; household sample survey; and sample vital registration system (SVRS). Results: For Bangladesh, PRMR from the 2011 census falls closely in line with the 2010 household survey and SVRS estimates, while SVRS' MMR estimates are closer to the PRMR estimates obtained from the household survey. Mozambique's PRMR from household survey method is comparable and shows an upward trend between 1994 and 2011, whereas the post-census mortality survey estimated a higher MMR for 2007. Bolivia's DHS and post-census mortality survey also estimated comparable MMR during 1998–2003. Conclusions: Overall all these data sources presented in this paper have provided valuable information on maternal mortality in Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Bolivia. It also outlines recommendations to estimate maternal mortality based on the advantages and disadvantages of several approaches. Contribution: Recommendations in this paper can help health administrators and policy planners in prioritizing investment for collecting reliable and contemporaneous estimates of maternal mortality while progressing toward a complete civil registration system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This descriptive study describes the practice and challenges of occupational therapists in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic using an online survey. Eighty-four participants who are practising in both clinical and community settings anonymously participated in the study between January – March 2021. About a third (38.5%) of participants continued hands-on service, 29.5% started working from home, 19.2% worked in both methods, and 12.8% stopped working and almost 12% commenced telerehabilitation service as a new practice. This paper describes the practice as well as the different challenges. Implications of the results are explored as well as future needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The university cafeteria is a crucial element in shaping students' dining experiences and their physical well-being. This study was conducted at a public university in Bangladesh. This research has a dual purpose: firstly, to assess student satisfaction with the university cafeteria using key indicators and secondly, to identify critical factors influencing this satisfaction through advanced data analysis employing recursive feature elimination (RFE). The ultimate goal is to enhance cafeteria services, align them with student preferences, and boost overall satisfaction. Data collection involved 150 paper-based questionnaires with mixed data types, including questions based on prior research assessments. The model-building process included the chi-squared test and the recursive feature elimination process. The study identifies 12 factors significantly affecting cafeteria food satisfaction, with four factors having a notable impact: meal type and freshness, staff attitude, and wait length. This research highlights the interconnectedness of seemingly distinct cafeteria factors and their potential to influence health outcomes. Practical recommendations are made for improving cafeteria efficiency and adapting to changing student needs. Health education interventions aimed at enhancing the cafeteria experience for university students should include a quantitative analysis of factors impacting students' overall cafeteria satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The main aim of this paper is to examine the extent to which the major public university libraries in Bangladesh are meeting students' service expectations through analyzing LibQUAL+ core items. Design/methodology/approach: The survey data were obtained from students using a paper version of the questionnaire consisting of LibQUAL+ core 22 service items at four top-ranked public universities in Bangladesh. Students rated the items on three service levels each using a nine-point scale: Minimum level, Desired level and Perceived Level. Descriptive statistics, i.e. mean and SD were obtained and service adequacy gap (SAG) scores between perceived and minimum levels were computed to see whether the libraries are meeting students' minimum expectation. Non-parametric Wilcoxon sign rank test was conducted to examine the differences between minimum and perceived scores. Finally, Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests were conducted to see the effect of students' demographic variables on their ratings on minimum and perceived scores. Findings: The findings revealed that the service performances of major university libraries are lagging far behind from students' minimum expectation (minimum > perceived). There are significant differences between minimum and perceived scores. Significant differences are also found in students' gender, age and enrolment level concerning their ratings on minimum and perceived service levels. Practical implications: The result of this study analyzes the service quality of major university libraries in Bangladesh. These findings can be used to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the library services. Originality/value: LibQUAL+ has been used mostly in academic libraries in developed countries but this is for the first time a paper-version of the instrument was used in university libraries in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to document the impact of participation in microfinance programs on domestic violence against women. Design/methodology/approach: This paper uses the survey data from 69 villages in Bangladesh and the instrumental variable approach to estimate the effect of participation in microcredit programs on domestic violence. Findings: The results show that women's participation in microcredit programs does not reduce domestic violence. However, this result is possible only when the authors do not distinguish between female borrowers who have control over credit and those who do not have control over credit. Classifying female borrowers into these two categories can significantly change the results. The authors report significantly lower physical violence against those female who have control over credit. In case of psychological violence, the authors report no significant impact of control over microcredit. Originality/value: The novelty of the paper lies in distinguishing between physical and psychological violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Community day-care centers (or crèches) are gaining popularity; access to these centers can reduce cognitive gaps. This paper describes the sustained impact of enrollment in day-cares on cognitive gains. Methods: As part of a larger study, a census of all children was conducted in 2012–2013 to identify children between 9 and 17 months of age in rural Bangladesh. A sub-sample of children (n = ~1000) were assigned to receive either a day-care or playpen. Children from two sub-districts were randomly selected and assessed at 9–17 months of age for cognitive and behavioral domains using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-III. The same children were then followed-up with after one year to see if the scores obtained by the children in the day-care intervention were different from those enrolled in the playpen intervention using a difference-in-difference estimator. Results: Children enrolled in the day-care intervention performed better (in communication, gross-motor, personal-social, and problem-solving domains) than children enrolled in the playpens when followed up with after a one-year period. Total scores were 0.31 (95% CI 0.141–0.472) higher (p value < 0.001) among children in the day-cares. Family care indicators as well as the child's and mother's weight were significantly associated with sustained and increased cognitive gains. Conclusion and relevance: The cognitive and psychosocial improvements seen with short-term exposure to structured ECD programs (day-care) were observed to be sustained over time with continued exposure. Home stimulation and parental involvement add to the long-term benefits of ECD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The changing diabetes in children (CDiC) project is a public‐private partnership implemented by Novo Nordisk, to improve access to diabetes care for children with type 1 diabetes. This paper outlines the findings from an evaluation of CDiC in Bangladesh and Kenya, assessing whether CDiC has achieved its objectives in each of six core program components. Research design and methods: The Rapid Assessment Protocol for Insulin Access (RAPIA) framework was used to analyze the path of insulin provision and the healthcare infrastructure in place for diagnosis and treatment of diabetes. The RAPIA facilitates a mixed‐methods approach to multiple levels of data collection and systems analysis. Information is collected through questionnaires, in‐depth interviews and focus group discussions, site visits, and document reviews, engaging a wide range of stakeholders (N = 127). All transcripts were analyzed thematically. Results: The CDiC scheme provides a stable supply of free insulin to children in implementing facilities in Kenya and Bangladesh, and offers a comprehensive package of pediatric diabetes care. However, some elements of the CDiC program were not functioning as originally intended. Transitions away from donor funding and toward government ownership are a particular concern, as patients may incur additional treatment costs, while services offered may be reduced. Additionally, despite subsidized treatment costs, indirect costs remain a substantial barrier to care. Conclusion: Public‐private partnerships such as the CDiC program can improve access to life‐saving medicines. However, our analysis found several limitations, including concerns over the sustainability of the project in both countries. Any program reliant on external funding and delivered in a high‐turnover staffing environment will be vulnerable to sustainability concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Compared to smoking, which has major consequences in chronic kidney disease (CKD) initiation and progression, smokeless tobacco (SLT) consumption is considered to have fewer health consequences. We investigated the prevalence of SLT consumption and its association with risk factors of CKD in a rural and peri-urban Bangladeshi population. METHODS Using random sampling we recruited 872 adults in 2020, from the Mirzapur Demographic Surveillance System of Bangladesh, who had resided in the area for at least five years. Interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire, physical examination and anthropometric measurements were done, followed by blood and urine testing. The blood and urine tests were repeated in selected participants after three months as per the CKD Epidemiology Collaboration equation. RESULTS The prevalence of SLT consumption was 29%. Being aged ≥46 years (OR=7.10; 95% CI: 4.79-10.94), female (OR=1.64; 95% CI: 1.21 -2.22), housewife (OR=1.82; 95% CI: 1.35 -2.45), farmer (OR=1.71; 95% CI: 1.06 -2.76), widow (OR=3.40; 95% CI: 2.24- 5.17), and having no formal schooling (OR=4.91; 95% CI: 3.59- 6.72), family income of <$100/month (OR=1.66; 95% CI: 1.13-2.43), sleeping duration <7 hours per day (OR=2.33; 95% CI: 1.70-3.19), were associated with a significantly higher odds of SLT consumption. However, being aged 31-45 years (OR=0.25; 95% CI: 0.16-0.38) had significantly lower odds of being an SLT consumer. Among the diseases investigated, undernutrition (OR=1.63; 95% CI: 1.15-2.33), hypertension (OR=1.52; 95% CI: 1.13-2.05), anemia (OR=1.94; 95% CI: 1.39-2.71) and CKD (OR=1.62; 95% CI: 1.15-2.27) were significantly associated with SLT consumption. In the multivariable analysis, being aged 31-45 years (AOR=3.06; 95% CI: 1.91-4.90), ≥46 years (AOR=15.69; 95% CI: 4.64-53.09) and having no formal schooling (AOR=2.47; 95% CI: 1.72-3.55) were found to have a significant association with being an SLT consumer. CONCLUSIONS SLT consumption is associated with most of the established risk factors of CKD within the studied population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: About half of the 16% adolescents in the world experience menstruation. Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is a health concern and challenge especially in humanitarian situations as experienced by Myanmar Rohingya refugees living in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. This study aims to assess knowledge, practice and influencing factors for MHM among Rohingya refugee adolescent girls of 14–18 years. Design/methodology/approach: The study used both quantitative (a cross-sectional survey with 340 adolescent girls through a structured questionnaire) and qualitative (7 in-depth interviews with adolescent girls and 2 focus group discussions with the mothers) approaches. Quantitative data, analyzed using STATA version 13.0, were supported by qualitative data, grouped into themes and presented as matrix. Findings: Around 51% adolescent girls learned about menstruation after menarche, at the mean age of 12 years, from their mothers and older sisters. About 75% used sanitary pads as absorbents which they got mostly as relief material or bought from local stores (83%); the rest used cloths and other materials (25%). About 57% of the respondents disposed of their absorbent by burying. Those who used reusable absorbents washed them with soap and water (40%) and mostly dried them indoors (17%). Factors influencing healthy MHM practice included the use of absorbent, privacy, disposal, washing and drying of clothes, physical activities, hygiene and pain management. Adolescents with secondary or higher education were four times more likely to have better MHM practice (odds ratio = 4.27; confidence interval = 1.19–15.31) than those with no formal schooling. Originality/value: This paper is based on a research undertaken as part of academic requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continual course correction during implementation of nutrition programmes is critical to address factors that might limit coverage and potential for impact. Programme improvement requires rigorous scientific inquiry to identify and address implementation pathways and the factors that affect them. Under the auspices of 'The Micronutrient Powders Consultation: Lessons Learned for Operational Guidance,' 3 working groups were formed to summarize experiences and lessons across countries regarding micronutrient powder (MNP) interventions for young children. This paper focuses on how MNP interventions undertook key elements of programme improvement, specifically, the use of programme theory, monitoring, process evaluation, and supportive supervision. Methods included a review of published and grey literature, interviews with key informants, and deliberations throughout the consultation process. We found that although much has been written and published about the use of monitoring and process evaluation to inform MNP interventions at small scale, there has been little formal documentation of lessons for the transition from pilot to scaled implementation. Supervision processes and experiences are not documented, and to our knowledge, there is no evidence of whether they have been effective to improve implementation. Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of interventions requires identification of critical indicators for detecting implementation challenges and drivers of impact, integration with existing programmes and systems, strengthened technical capacity, and financing for implementation of effective monitoring systems. Our understanding of programme improvement for MNP interventions is still incomplete, especially outside of the pilot stage, and we propose a set of implementation research questions that require further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of urinary symptoms and infections among female garment factory workers in Bangladesh – a large developing country – is largely unknown. Garment sector is this country's main economic growth engine. OBJECTIVES: This paper focuses on garment industry workers and compares the findings with another group of low socioeconomic status working women. METHODS: Urinary tract symptoms (UTS) were determined by self-reported survey including International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire-Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ-FLUTS) and urinary tract infection (UTI) was determined among a subset population by urine dipstick tests. RESULTS: Data were collected from 310 garment workers and 297 comparison workers. About one third of garment workers (31.94%) and comparison workers (29.97%) could take up to 3 toilet breaks in a day. Garment workers reported to be more sexually active and menstruation was more common among them compared to comparison workers. They reported a significantly higher prevalence of malodorous urine and vaginal discharge. Garment workers were found to have a significantly higher ICIQ-FLUTS score of voiding than comparison workers (0.44 vs. 0.27; p-value = 0.0167). Among the study respondents, 148 garment workers and 134 other workers provided urine samples and 21 (7.45%) were found to have UTI. After considering all the risk factors in multivariate model, garment work had a significant impact on the probability of having UTI with Odds Ratio of 5.46 (p-value = 0.0374; 95% CI = 1.10, 26.97) compared to other workers. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the prevalence and burden of urinary symptoms and infections among female worker populations in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of social networks on contraceptive adoption in Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from 430 couples; the age of men was between 15 and 49 years. χ2 test was applied to test the association between independent variables and current contraceptive use. Binary logistic regression was applied to examine the effects of social network on contraceptive use, and multinomial logistic regression was applied to examine the effect of social network on the choice of method. Findings: Results from binary logistic regression reveal that social networks of both men (OR=2.71, 95% CI=1.371−5.354) and women (OR= 3.597, 95% CI=1.754−7.380) had a strong positive effect on current contraceptive use. The result from multinomial logistic regression also shows that men's social network (OR= 2.74, 95% CI= 1.356−5.548) and women's social network (OR=4.165,95% CI=1.958−8.860) were also associated with choosing a modern contraceptive method. Originality/value: Social networks have a significant effect on current contraceptive use and modern method choice in Bangladesh. A social network approach should be included in family planning program in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Transitions between different tobacco products are frequent among tobacco users in Bangladesh; however, the reasons leading to such transitions and why they quit are not well researched. The aim of the study is to examine perceptions and reasons reported by tobacco users in Bangladesh to transition to other products or quit. METHODS Data from four waves (2009-2015) of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Bangladesh Survey were used. Repeated data on perceptions and reasons for exclusive cigarette (n=520), bidi (n=130), and SLT users (n=308) to either start using other products or quit were analyzed with sampling weights. The percentages of responses across waves were used to calculate the pooled proportion data using a meta-analysis approach. RESULTS Common reasoning for respondents switching to other tobacco products were influence of friends/family (73.8-86.0%), and curiosity (44.4-71.3%). The perceived calming effect of smoking cigarettes and bidis (43.2-56.9%), and the impression that bidis were less harmful (52.3%) and taste better (71.2%) were major reasons for exclusive SLT users to switch products. Health concerns (16.5-62.7%) and disapproval from friends/family (29.8-56.4%) were generally the main reasons for quitting. For smoked tobacco users, doctor's advice (41.6%), package warning labels (32.3%), and price (32.4%) seemed to be the major driving factors to quit. CONCLUSIONS Results highlight that the reasons for switching between tobacco products and quitting include social factors (e.g. friends/family) and (mis) perceptions regarding the products. Tobacco control policy could emphasize cessation support, increased price and education campaigns as key policies to reduce overall tobacco use in Bangladesh. Data from four waves (2009-2015) of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Bangladesh Survey were used. Repeated data on perceptions and reasons for exclusive cigarette (n=520), bidi (n=130), and SLT users (n=308) to either start using other products or quit were analyzed with sampling weights. The percentages of responses across waves were used to calculate the pooled proportion data using a meta-analysis approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Eclampsia, haemorrhage, and other direct causes are the primary burden of maternal mortality in Bangladesh, often reducing attention given to indirect maternal deaths (IMDs). However, Sustainable Development Goals may not be achieved without actions to prevent IMDs. We examined the levels, trends, specific causes, timing, place, and care-seeking, and explored the barriers to IMD prevention. Methods We used three nationally representative surveys conducted in 2001, 2010, and 2016 to examine levels and trends in IMDs. The analysis of specific causes, timing, and place of IMDs, and care-seeking before the deaths was based on 37 IMDs captured in the 2016 survey. Finally, we used thematic content analysis of the open history from the 2016 survey verbal autopsy (VA) questionnaire to explore barriers to IMD prevention. Results After increasing from 51 deaths per 100 000 live births in 2001 to 71 in 2010, the indirect maternal mortality ratio (IMMR) dropped to 38 deaths per 100 000 live births in 2016. In 2016, the indirect causes shared one-fifth of the maternal deaths in Bangladesh. Stroke, cancer, heart disease, and asthma accounted for 80% of the IMDs. IMDs were concentrated in the first trimester of pregnancy (27%) and day 8-42 after delivery (32%). Public health facilities were the main places for care-seeking (48%) and death (49%). Thirty-four (92%) women who died from IMDs sought care from a health facility at least once during their terminal illness. However, most women experienced at least one of the "three delays" of health care. Other barriers were financial insolvency, care-seeking from unqualified providers, lack of health counselling, and the tendency of health facilities to avoid responsibilities. Conclusions IMMR remained unchanged at a high level during the last two decades. The high concentration of IMDs in pregnancy and the large share due to chronic health conditions indicate the need for preconception health check-ups. Awareness of maternal complications, proper care-seeking, and healthy reproductive practices may benefit. Improving regular and emergency maternal service readiness is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this study is analyzing factor and measuring the level of satisfaction of the borrowers toward the services of the private commercial banks (PCBs) in Bangladesh. The study surveyed 112 customers of PCBs from Dhaka and Rajshahi city to determine the key influential factors that significantly influence on their level of satisfaction. These customers were surveyed through judgmental sampling method with a structured questionnaire from June to July 2016. Required data were gathered from the sample units through two methods of survey, i.e. personal interviews with a structured questionnaire and direct observations. Questionnaires were analyzed by using the statistical computer package SPSS version 16.0. All the data were incorporated in the analysis according to their suitability and needs with due care and acknowledgments. The findings of the paper will contribute and create some new dimensional knowledge for obtaining the banking target, developing the service style and process, and increasing borrowers' satisfaction. This research will benefit the banking policy makers, and top-level bank executives to provide concrete and effectual guidelines for developing a new area of banking services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This paper presents updated prevalence estimates of awareness, ever‐use, and current use of nicotine vaping products (NVPs) from 14 International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project (ITC Project) countries that have varying regulations governing NVP sales and marketing. Design, Setting, Participants and Measurements: A cross‐sectional analysis of adult (≥ 18 years) current smokers and ex‐smokers from 14 countries participating in the ITC Project. Data from the most recent survey questionnaire for each country were included, which spanned the period 2013–17. Countries were categorized into four groups based on regulations governing NVP sales and marketing (allowable or not), and level of enforcement (strict or weak where NVPs are not permitted to be sold): (1) most restrictive policies (MRPs), not legal to be sold or marketed with strict enforcement: Australia, Brazil, Uruguay; (2) restrictive policies (RPs), not approved for sale or marketing with weak enforcement: Canada, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand; (3) less restrictive policies (LRPs), legal to be sold and marketed with regulations: England, the Netherlands, Republic of Korea, United States; and (4) no regulatory policies (NRPs), Bangladesh, China, Zambia. Countries were also grouped by World Bank Income Classifications. Country‐specific weighted logistic regression models estimated adjusted NVP prevalence estimates for: awareness, ever/current use, and frequency of use (daily versus non‐daily). Findings NVP awareness and use were lowest in NRP countries. Generally, ever‐ and current use of NVPs were lower in MRP countries (ever‐use = 7.1–48.9%; current use = 0.3–3.5%) relative to LRP countries (ever‐use = 38.9–66.6%; current use = 5.5–17.2%) and RP countries (ever‐use = 10.0–62.4%; current use = 1.4–15.5%). NVP use was highest among high‐income countries, followed by upper–middle‐income countries, and then by lower–middle‐income countries. Conclusions: With a few exceptions, awareness and use of nicotine vaping products varied by the strength of national regulations governing nicotine vaping product sales/marketing, and by country income. In countries with no regulatory policies, use rates were very low, suggesting that there was little availability, marketing and/or interest in nicotine vaping products in these countries where smoking populations are predominantly poorer. The higher awareness and use of nicotine vaping products in high income countries with moderately (e.g. Canada, New Zealand) and less (e.g. England, United States) restrictive policies, is likely due to the greater availability and affordability of nicotine vaping products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with language disorder across languages have problems with verb morphology. The nature of these problems varies according to the typology of the language. The language analyzed in this paper is the Standard Bangla spoken in Dhaka, Bangladesh, by more than 200 million people. It is an underexplored language with agglutinative features in its verb inflections. Some information on the acquisition of the language by typically developing children is available, but to date we have no information on the nature of ALD. As in many places in the developing world, the circumstances for research into language disorder are challenging, as there is no well‐ordered infrastructure for the identification of these children and approaches to intervention are not evidence based. This study represents the first attempt to characterize the nature of morphosyntactic limitations in standard Bangla‐speaking children with language disorder. Aims: To describe the performance of a group of children with language disorder on elicitation procedures for three Bangla verb inflections of increasing structural complexity—present simple, present progressive and past progressive—and to compare their abilities on these forms with those of a group of typically developing Bangla‐speaking children. Methods & Procedures: Nine children with language disorder (mean age = 88.11 months) were recruited from a special school in Dhaka. Eight of the children also had a differentiating or co‐occurring condition. They responded to three tasks: a semi‐structured conversation to elicit present simple, and two picture‐based tasks to elicit present progressive and past progressive. Their performance was compared with data available from a large group of younger typically developing children. Outcomes and Results: Group data indicated a comparable trajectory of performance by the children with language disorder with the typically developing children (present simple > present progressive > past progressive), but with significantly lower mean scores. Standard deviations suggested considerable individual variation and individual profiles were constructed for each child, revealing varying patterns of ability, some of which did not accord with the typical developmental trajectory and/or substitution patterns. Conclusions & Implications: This study identified verb morphology deficits in Bangla‐speaking children with language disorder who had asociated conditions. Variation in performance among the children suggests that individual profiles will be most effective in guiding intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an overview of a study conducted to examine the influence of teacher attitudes, teacher efficacy and perceived school support on teachers’ intentions to include students with disabilities in government primary schools in a region of Bangladesh. All of the variables were conceptualized within the Theory of Planned Behaviour. The participants in the study were 1387 in-service teachers drawn from government primary schools located in urban, semi-urban and rural sectors of Dhaka. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that all three Theory of Planned Behaviour variables (teacher attitudes, teacher efficacy and perceived school support) explained 40% of the variance in teachers’ intentions to include students with a disability in regular classrooms. This paper describes the process for conceptualizing the variables, discusses the methodology and presents the outcomes concluding with implications for educational policy reform and practices in Bangladesh. Areas for further research are also identified. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

ABSTRACT This study examines the relationship between institutional investment (II) and corporate social performance (CSP) of public listed companies (PLCs) in Bangladesh using cross-sectional data. The sample includes 152 firms as listed in Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE). Structured questionnaires, annual reports, CSR reports, websites, regulatory notifications, and newspaper articles were used for data collection. The results of the study indicate that CSP has a positive but insignificant relationship with institutional investment in Bangladesh. This would also improve the investment climate by encouraging the institutional investors to make their investment decisions based on long-term sustainability. To the best of our knowledge, the paper investigates, for the first time, the linkage between institutional investment and CSP in the context of a developing country like Bangladesh. In the process, this paper attempts to develop the first known comprehensive CSP Index in the context of Bangladesh. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Improving infant and young child feeding practices is critical for improving growth and reducing child mortality and morbidity. This paper aims to compare predictors of minimum dietary diversity, an important indicator of adequate complementary feeding practices, in Bangladesh in 2011 and 2014. The 2011 and 2014 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey were used to examine predictors of minimum dietary diversity among 6–23 months. An additional analysis was conducted for the 18–23‐month group, because a significant increase in meeting minimum dietary diversity recommendations was seen in this age group only. Factors found to be associated with practices were compared across time points. In 2011, minimum dietary diversity was 23.8% and increased to 28.8% in 2014. Among children 18–23 months, in 2011, minimum dietary diversity was 32.5% and increased to 42.8% in 2014. Among all children, wealth, education, exposure to media, and antenatal care were significant predictors of dietary diversity. In the 18–23‐month age group, significant predictors in 2011 were wealth and decision making. In 2014, significant predictors were education and exposure to media. Demographic trends indicated a significant increase in education and exposure to media between 2011 and 2014. As these were significant for minimum dietary diversity in 2014 overall and for 18–23 months, they might be important targets of future interventions, specifically utilizing media channels and tailoring special strategies for women with low education and limited exposure to media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Behaviour change communication (BCC) can improve infant and young child nutrition (IYCN) knowledge, practices, and health outcomes. However, few studies have examined whether the improved knowledge persists after BCC activities end. This paper assesses the effect of nutrition sensitive social protection interventions on IYCN knowledge in rural Bangladesh, both during and after intervention activities. We use data from two, 2-year, cluster randomised control trials that included nutrition BCC in some treatment arms. These data were collected at intervention baseline, midline, and endline, and 6-10 months after the intervention ended. We analyse data on IYCN knowledge from the same 2,341 women over these 4 survey rounds. We construct a number correct score on 18 IYCN knowledge questions and assess whether the impact of the BCC changes over time for the different treatment groups. Effects are estimated using ordinary least squares accounting for the clustered design of the study. There are 3 main findings: First, the BCC improves IYCN knowledge substantially in the 1st year of the intervention; participants correctly answer 3.0-3.2 more questions (36% more) compared to the non-BCC groups. Second, the increase in knowledge between the 1st and 2nd year was smaller, an additional 0.7-0.9 correct answers. Third, knowledge persists; there are no significant decreases in IYCN knowledge 6-10 months after nutrition BCC activities ended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Bangladesh, the most prevalent musculoskeletal condition among office employees is considered as BlackBerry thumb (BBT). Alike official perspectives, our educational system was significantly regulating with the digital interfaces at COVID-19 lockdown, where a greater reliance on Android phones were experienced among the adults. Numerous studies have been conducted in studying the incidences of BBT in young individuals as a result of hazards of Android phone usage (HAPU) in Bangladesh. Objective: This research sought to determine the relationship between BBT symptoms and the risks associated with the using Android phones among Bangladeshi university students. Methods: A nationwide cross-sectional study was undertaken on a group of university students between the ages of 18 and 25 to determine if BBT symptoms were present based on the Finkelstein test and HAPU, which were also assessed using a well-designed questionnaire. We calculated the crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and used a generalized linear model from the Poisson family, using their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: There were 2455 individuals in this research, with a median age of 20 and an interquartile range (IQR) of 19 to 23. Of them, 1185 males (48.27%) and 1270 women (51.75%) made up the study's participant population. Physical exams showed that 1300 individuals had positive Finkelstein test results (52.95%), whereas 1040 people had occasional risks from using an Android phone and 115 participants had occasional risks from using an iPhone. In our generalized linear model, we observed that participants with occasional and frequent HAPU had higher rates of BBT symptoms than responders without HAPU (aPR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.47–2.05, and aPR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.29–2.00), respectively. Conclusion: The current study found that Bangladeshi university students experiencing BlackBerry thumb symptoms were more likely to have risks associated with using Android phones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Labor migration has a profound effect on families, but evidence documenting the impact of migration on women left behind is still lacking. Utilizing the Matlab Health and Socioeconomic Surveys, we examined the roles of migration and families in four domains of empowerment for women in Bangladesh. We found that women with international migrant spouses saw significant improvements in economic empowerment, mobility, and decision-making relative to women with coresident spouses (p <.0001). However, women who lived in multigenerational households with their parents or in-laws experienced significant reductions in empowerment across these three domains. Both having a migrant spouse and living in a multigenerational household had negative effects on beliefs about gender equivalence and reduced joint decision-making for women. Results, which were robust to migration selection controls (including propensity approaches), indicate that the benefits of migration for women left behind might be diluted by family structures that perpetuate unequal gender dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored underlying reasons for the expression of dissatisfaction with services among Bangladeshi and Pakistani social care users in England and investigated, using a collaborative approach, how these could be addressed. In-depth interviews were conducted in Birmingham, Leeds and London during 2012-2013 with 63 Bangladeshi, Pakistani and white British service users and 24 social care managers, social workers and care workers. A further 34 cognitive interviews were conducted within the same study. Following data analysis, three collaborative workshops involving service users and providers were held to validate the findings and to draw out policy and practice recommendations. Analysis of the cognitive interviews showed that higher dissatisfaction among Bangladeshi and Pakistani service users reported in social care surveys was not due to questionnaire design. Instead in-depth interviews showed that dissatisfaction across all three groups was expressed along the social care journey, including accessing care, communication with social workers and the nature of care received. While many issues were common to all three groups, cultural differences also emerged as affecting experiences of social care. These included misunderstandings about family roles in care; gender issues, especially relating to women; language and communication barriers, alongside the need for a more nuanced approach to ethnic 'matching'; and continuing limited cultural understanding among care workers. The collaborative workshops identified practical actions that could address some of the issues identified. These covered raising awareness of services within communities; improving support for informal carers; service user input to assessments; consistent and ongoing sharing of information; improving access; and more efforts to diversify and appropriately train the social care workforce. In conclusion, the paper presents the reality of dissatisfaction among these groups and argues for more action involving communities and service providers to address these persistent issues collaboratively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major cause of death worldwide. Although arsenic exposure has been associated with the risk of hypertension, this association appears nonuniform due to inconsistent results from studies conducted in different populations. Moreover, hypertension is a complex condition with multiple underlying mechanisms and factors. One factor is impaired production and bioavailability of vascular nitric oxide (NO). However, the implications of the effects of arsenic exposure on circulating NO and its association with hypertension in humans are largely unknown. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the dose–response relationship between arsenic exposure and hypertension with vascular NO levels as a potential mediator of arsenic-related hypertension in individuals exposed to a broad range of arsenic. METHODS: A total of 828 participants were recruited from low- and high-arsenic exposure areas in Bangladesh. Participants’ drinking water, hair, and nail arsenic concentrations were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. Hypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) value of = 140 and a diastolic (DBP) value of = 90 mmHg. Serum NO levels reflected by total serum nitrite concentrations were measured by immunoassay. A formal causal mediation analysis was used to assess NO as a mediator of the association between arsenic level and hypertension. RESULTS: Increasing concentrations of arsenic measured in drinking water, hair, and nails were associated with the increasing levels of SBP and DBP. The odds of hypertension were dose-dependently increased by arsenic even in participants exposed to relatively low to moderate levels (10–50 µg/L) of water arsenic [odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs): 2.87 (95% CI: 1.28, 6.44), 2.67 (95% CI: 1.27, 5.60), and 5.04 (95% CI: 2.71, 9.35) for the 10–50 µg/L, 50.01–150 µg/L, and >150 µg/L groups, respectively]. Causal mediation analysis showed a significant mediating effect of NO on arsenic-related SBP, DBP, and hypertension. CONCLUSION: Increasing exposure to arsenic was associated with increasing odds of hypertension. The association was mediated through the reduction of vascular NO bioavailability, suggesting that impaired NO bioavailability was a plausible underlying mechanism of arsenic-induced hypertension in this Bangladeshi population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the teaching-learning materials and methods used by the teachers at the Higher Secondary Level in Bangladesh. This study tried to find out the types of methods and materials used by the teachers, how they used these, and how these catered to the diverse needs of the learners. This research followed a quali-quantitative method using questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews. A total of 530 students, 28 teachers, 10 teacher-interviewees, and 5 key informants participated in this study. The findings revealed that the materials and methods employed in teaching English at the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) level do not align with the curriculum objectives. Moreover, the teachers follow a medley of methods and materials that neither significantly match the latest teaching-learning approaches nor serve the purpose of making the students proficient in English. It was also found that most teachers have no training in language teaching methods, materials, and pedagogy. So, this study felt the necessity for arranging teacher training, redesigning materials, and creating interactive teaching-learning environments to ensure learners' more comprehensive grasp of English language proficiency in real contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: More than 80% of all smokeless tobacco (ST) products in the world are consumed in South Asia; yet little is known about their consumption behaviour, addictiveness, and toxic properties. This paper, for the first time, describes associations between salivary cotinine concentrations among ST users in Bangladesh and their socio-demographic characteristics and tobacco use behaviours. Methods: In a survey of ST users in Dhaka, Bangladesh, we purposively recruited 200 adults who were non-smokers but consumed ST on a regular basis. In-person interviews were conducted to obtain information about socio-demographic and ST use behaviours, and saliva samples were collected to measure cotinine concentration. Simple and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to test associations between the log transformed salivary cotinine concentration and other study variables. Results: The geometric mean of cotinine concentration among ST users was 380ng/ml (GSD:2). Total duration of daily ST use in months had a statistically significant association with cotinine concentration. Other ST use characteristics including type and quantity of ST use, swallowing of tobacco juice, urges and strength of urges and attempts to cut down on tobacco use were not found to be associated with cotinine concentration in a multivariable model. Conclusion: This is the first report from Bangladesh studying cotinine concentration among ST users and it points towards high levels of addiction. This warrants effective tobacco control policies to help ST cessation and prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Physical inactivity is an established risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCD) and identified as the major public health concern worldwide. However, nationally representative and internationally comparable data on physical activity (PA) are lacking in Bangladesh. The objective of this paper was to determine nationally representative prevalence of PA levels among Bangladeshi adults. Study design: Cross-sectional survey. Methods: Data, on PA for this paper, were analysed from the NCD risk factors survey 2010 in Bangladesh. A standardized approach known as STEPS (STEPSwise approach to Surveillance for NCD risk factors) was followed for this survey. A total of 9275 adults (aged ≥25 years) were interviewed. Data on PA were processed and analysed according to Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) version 2 analysis framework. Results: Of total 9275 respondents 4312 were men and 4963 women with a mean age of 42.4 (±13.5) years. Median MET-minutes of total PA in a typical week was double in rural areas (3360) than urban (1680) areas. The overall country wide prevalence of low PA was 34.5% (95% confidence interval, 33.5-35.5), urban 37.7% (36.3-39.1) and rural 31.6% (30.3-32.9). Women in general were more inactive (women, 53.6% [52.2-55.0], men 15.4% [14.9-17.1]). The main contributions to total PA were from work (urban 47.0%, rural 61.0%), and active commuting (38.0%, 30.0%) domains. Leisure-time PA represented only a small proportion (15.0%, 9.0%). Conclusions: Insufficient physical activity is highly prevalent among the Bangladeshi adult population. Promoting overall PA at leisure-time and commuting considering country context can be feasible options with special attention to the women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]