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The combined role of FinTech innovation and financial literacy in sustainable financial inclusion in Nigeria
Get PDFFinancial inclusion remains a critical challenge in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas where access to financial services and financial literacy levels are significantly low. While FinTech innovations have the potential to bridge this gap, existing research has not fully examined the comparative effects of financial technology adoption and financial literacy on financial inclusion. Specifically, prior studies fail to assess how both factors interact and whether financial inclusion is primarily driven by improved access to FinTech services, enhanced financial literacy, or a combination of both. This study investigates the adoption, accessibility, and affordability of FinTech products in Nigeria while assessing individuals’ ability to effectively utilize these technologies. Using survey data from rural populations, our study examines how FinTech innovations influence the uptake of financial services that contribute to wealth circulation and economic growth. We reveal that while FinTech adoption has increased among rural dwellers, financial literacy has a more significant impact on financial inclusion than access to FinTech services. This is largely due to the continued dominance of traditional banks as primary FinTech service providers, whose presence is predominantly concentrated in urban areas. Consequently, rural financial inclusion remains constrained despite the growing availability of digital financial solutions. We address the need for targeted strategies to enhance financial literacy and improve access to FinTech services in rural areas. Policymakers and FinTech companies should prioritise financial education initiatives and develop more inclusive digital financial solutions to accelerate financial inclusion in rural areas
The British object and action naming test for intraoperative mapping (BOATIM): A standardised and clinically tested framework for awake brain surgery
No full textBackground: Picture-naming tasks are widely used for identifying speech-eloquent regions during awake craniotomy. However, language-specific and culturally relevant task stimuli remain scarce. Current practices mostly rely on translated stimuli that do not reflect the everyday language use of the target speakers and might be susceptible to misinterpretations due to linguistic and cultural differences. Additionally, non-standardised homemade tasks are used. Here, we, for the first time, present the development, standardisation, and clinical application of two tests designed specifically for functional mapping in British English. Methods: 115 object and 86 action stimuli were developed using the British National Corpus (BNC) and controlled for confounding psycholinguistic variables using normative data from native speakers. Optimization of the items for intraoperative use was done by first standardising the tests in healthy volunteers followed by their application during the electrical stimulation of language-eloquent regions in brain tumour patients. In the standardised data, the influence of word- and subject-related factors on performance, and the test-retest reliability was explored. Results: The final items achieved above 80% naming agreement. Object naming proved easier compared to action naming, with accuracy positively influenced by word frequency and negatively affected by the age-of-acquisition variable in both tasks. No subject-related effects were found. Excellent test-retest reliability confirmed the consistency of the tests in measuring language abilities. Positive maps obtained during intraoperative functional mapping demonstrated the sensitivity of the tests in detecting speech-eloquent regions. Conclusion: The tests provide a reliable and robust tool containing stimuli that are linguistically and culturally appropriate to British-English speakers
On the prediction of corrosion fatigue in the presence of residual stresses
No full textResidual stresses can play a vital role in slowing down or accelerating corrosion fatigue in offshore structures, depending on their types and magnitudes. Despite the importance of this issue, considering their effects on corrosion fatigue assessments presents very challenging investigations. In the current study (which is a continuation of the authors’ previous research containing no consideration of residual stresses), corrosion fatigue behaviour as well as the capability of using artificially pitted specimens in corrosion fatigue tests in the presence of tensile and compressive residual stresses was studied. Furthermore, the shot peening process was examined as an alternative method of repairing to extend the life of corroded samples. Moreover, fatigue and corrosion fatigue lives in the presence of residual stresses were predicted based on the fatigue data and in the absence of residual stresses only. Also, predictions were made using a continuum damage mechanics and the finite element approach. Experimental results showed that the specimens containing artificial pits can be considered as a replacement for the pre-corroded samples in the experimental tests with some considerations. They also illustrated that the shot peening process could enhance the life of corroded specimens significantly. Numerical results were in a good correlation with the experiments which confirmed the potential of the adopted simulating strategy that eliminates the requirement of conducting many experiments for model calibration
Bridging bricolage and effectuation: The mediating role of innovative behavior in student entrepreneurial action under resource constraints
Get PDFPurpose: The purpose of this article is to examine how entrepreneurial bricolage enables student entrepreneurs to overcome resource constraints and uncertainty, fostering entrepreneurial action. Specifically, it investigates the mediating role of innovative behavior in translating entrepreneurial bricolage into discovery and exploitation activities.Methodology: A quantitative research design was applied, based on effectuation and bricolage theories. Data were gathered from 101 student entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom using a structured survey. We employed PLS-SEM to examine how student entrepreneurs use resourceful practices to foster innovative behavior. This approach supports our dual aim: explaining underlying mechanisms and assessing predictive relevance within a complex, hierarchical model.Findings: The results reveal that entrepreneurial bricolage positively influences both discovery and exploitation activities, which together constitute entrepreneurial action. Innovative behavior fully mediates these relationships, enabling student entrepreneurs to transform resource limitations into actionable entrepreneurial outcomes. Four dimensions of innovative behavior were identified to facilitate this process: questioning assumptions, observing resource-use patterns, experimenting with resource combinations, and networking for resource mobilization.Implications for theory and practice: This study reveals how effectuation and bricolage work together as complementary approaches.Effectuation provides a strategic framework for navigating uncertainty, while bricolage offers a tactical approach to resource mobilization. Innovative behavior bridges these theories, transforming available means into entrepreneurial action. By identifying innovative behavior as the link between resourcefulness and entrepreneurial action, this study deepens the understanding of cognitive-behavioral mechanisms in effectuation and resource transformation. The findings reinforce the role of innovative behavior in shaping opportunities rather than merely recognizing them. Practically, student entrepreneurs should refine their ability to question assumptions, observe resourceful practices, experiment, and network strategically. Universities should focus on fostering experimentation, peer learning, and mentorship to enhance innovative behavior. Given its mediating role, entrepreneurship programs should prioritize capability-building over direct resource allocation.Originality and Value: This study provides a novel integration of effectuation and bricolage theories, demonstrating their interaction as complementary rather than independent frameworks unlike prior studies. This study contributes to opening the 'black box' of effectuation by explaining the cognitive and behavioral mechanisms through which resourceful and innovative actions lead to entrepreneurial action, and by evaluating their ability to predict entrepreneurial outcomes. Additionally, it extends bricolage theory by highlighting its behavioral dimensions, shifting its focus from improvisation to a dynamic problem-solving process. These contributions provide a richer theoretical perspective on how student entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty and leverage limited resources to drive venture creation
Collegiality as a critical professional concern among preservice art teachers in England
No full textIn this paper, a case is made for the value critical communities of learning practice can provide for preservice art teachers in England. Developing collegiality among this demographic is viewed as urgent, particularly in contexts such as England, where contemporary educational policy promotes individualistic concepts of professional development and simultaneously devalues the native epistemologies of artistic learning. Qualitative description of preservice art teachers’ experiences at a student conference illustrates the potential for interinstitutional activity during initial teacher education (ITE) to catalyze the value of collegiality and buttress the artistic disciplines against future political indifference
Exploring balanced modal split for freight transportation system: A case of the central region of South Africa
Get PDFEnsuring sustainability in transportation systems demands a harmonious distribution of freight. In the regional context of South Africa, road and rail transportation play pivotal roles, yet a significant imbalance exists, posing sustainability challenges. This study aims to identify key factors influencing freight transport, develop empirical cost models, and simulate scenarios to achieve equilibrium in regional freight distribution. Employing survey research, data was collected from freight companies and analysed using inferential statistics and empirical modelling. It employed a utility choice function model for simulating scenarios conducive to achieving a balanced freight transport system. Findings suggest that currently, compared to rail freight, road freight transport dominates, leading to an imbalanced system. Critical factors that influence include load cost, loading/offloading times, fuel expenses, and travel duration. However, sensitivity analyses revealed that targeted reductions in travel time, loading/offloading times, load cost, and fuel expenses could lead to a substantial shift towards rail transport, promoting a more balanced system. This study provides actionable insights for stakeholders. By addressing influential variables, such as load cost, loading/offloading times, fuel expenses, and travel duration, the freight industry can work towards equitable coexistence of road and rail transport. This study highlights the prevalence of road-based freight transport in the region and demonstrates the potential for equilibrium through interventions in key variables
Self-management interventions for chronic widespread pain including fibromyalgia: A systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis
Get PDFSupporting behavioural self-management is increasingly important in the care for chronic widespread pain (CWP), including fibromyalgia. Understanding peoples' experiences of these interventions may elucidate processes and mechanisms that lead to or hinder their intended impact. We conducted a systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative studies exploring peoples' experiences of self-management interventions for CWP, including fibromyalgia. MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched. Primary qualitative or mixed-methods studies were included if they explored people's self-management intervention experiences for their CWP, including fibromyalgia. Screening, data extraction, and critical appraisal were conducted by 2 reviewers. Data analysis was conducted through thematic synthesis. Twenty-three studies were included, mostly were rated as high or moderate quality. We developed 4 analytic themes: A multifaceted experience of the intervention, potential for transformative experience of group cohesion, a new outlook, and striving for change after the loss of support. Broadly, personalisation was perceived as beneficial and people experienced a range of emotional experiences. These appeared to support positive behavioural and cognitive changes. For most, group activities promoted acceptance and support, fostering new perspectives and improved self-management, although some found aspects of group contexts challenging. Lack of on-going support after interventions led to challenges in applying behavioural strategies, and some struggled without social support from the group. The experiences of self-management interventions for CWP reflect a complex, multifaceted process. Although many reported positive experiences, addressing issues with integration of physical activity, group dynamics and postintervention support may improve effectiveness for a broader range of people. [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the International Association for the Study of Pain.
Exploring patient activation and self-management experiences in adults with fibromyalgia: A qualitative evidence synthesis
Get PDFLay Summary: What does this mean for patients? Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a long-term condition that causes chronic widespread pain and fatigue, which commonly affects people’s ability to perform day-to-day activities. Research shows that self-management strategies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. However, following self-management advice often depends on a concept called ‘patient activation’ (PA), which refers to the knowledge, skills and confidence a person has for managing their health. Therefore, we explored the influences on PA and how it may contribute to the successful self-management of FMS. After reviewing nine studies, we found four main factors. Firstly, people living with FMS feel more confident managing their conditions when others acknowledge it. Secondly, support from medical professionals through self-management programmes helped individuals gain knowledge and better understand the condition. People with FMS particularly value empathic clinicians and individualized treatments based on their circumstances. Thirdly, support from friends and social networks helped people to stay motivated to manage their FMS. Lastly, people living with FMS are on a self-management journey, finding strategies and interventions that work best for them. Therefore, we recommend that healthcare professionals provide medical expertise, empathy, education and personalized treatments to support those living with FMS
Fluctuations in daily happiness and nervousness based on depressive and anxious symptoms in adolescents or young adults across 3 Latin American cities: Experience sampling study
Get PDFExperience sampling methods (ESMs) have been used in clinical research to collect data on emotional and behavioral states in real-life contexts among different populations. Although the use of ESMs in mental health has increased, it has not been applied to larger samples of young people in disadvantaged urban settings. This study aimed to determine the extent to which mood status scores (happiness and nervousness) vary during a week, as a function of having or not having symptoms of depression or anxiety, in a sample of adolescents and young adults in the cities of Buenos Aires, Bogotá, and Lima. A secondary objective was to identify factors associated with mood scores, including sociodemographics, quality of life, and daily activities. This study was part of the Building Resilience and Resources to Reduce Mental Distress in Young People in Latin America research program, which focuses on mental health resources for young people. Participants (n=143) aged 15-24 years completed daily ESM assessments over a week using the mobile app, resulting in 5246 reports. Data were analyzed using descriptive analyses with 2-tailed t tests and chi-square tests, and multilevel linear regression was used to examine associations between depressive or anxiety symptoms, mood variability, and factors influencing mean mood. Finally, Spearman correlation assessed the relationship between happiness and nervousness. The analysis revealed that depressive or anxiety symptoms were not significantly associated with increased variability in mood scores (happiness P=.40 and nervousness P=.84). However, males exhibited greater variability in happiness and nervousness scores (P<.001) than females. Additionally, young people showed higher variability in nervousness than adolescents (P=.02). Regarding average happiness scores, young adults reported higher average happiness than adolescents (β=.604; P=.003). Engaging in structured activities (eg, sports, music lessons, and dance classes) was associated with increased happiness (β=.266; P=.01). In contrast, instrumental activities (eg, cleaning, shopping, meal preparation, or taking medication; β=-.144; P=.02) and work-related tasks (β=-.205; P=.01) were linked to lower happiness and higher nervousness (β=.387; P<.001). Quality of life was positively correlated with happiness (β=.486; P<.001) and negatively correlated with nervousness (β=-.273; P=.005). Finally, as for average scores, a strong negative correlation was found between happiness and nervousness (rs=-0.92; P<.001). The simple multilevel analysis showed that for each point of happiness, nervousness decreased by 0.45 points (95% CI -0.48 to -0.42; t3=-41.7; P<.001; SE 0.01). Our study reveals that depressive and anxiety symptoms do not significantly affect the variability in predicted happiness and nervousness scores. However, we observed that demographic factors, such as gender and age, play a role in emotional variability. [Abstract copyright: © Ana L Vilela-Estrada, David Villarreal-Zegarra, Nikol Mayo-Puchoc, Nicola Holt, Ángela Flórez-Varela, Catherine Fung, Karen Ariza-Salazar, Fernando Luis Carbonetti, Sumiko Flores, Adriana Carbonel, Natividad Olivar, Carlos Gomez-Restrepo, Luis Ignacio Brusco, Stefan Priebe, Francisco Diez-Canseco. Originally published in JMIR Formative Research (https://formative.jmir.org).
Biohybrid computing with proteinoids and algae
Get PDFProteinoids, or thermal proteinoids, are produced by heating amino-acids. When placed in water, proteinoids swell into microspheres which produce neuron-like spikes of electrical potential. This study combines proteinoid microspheres with Emiliania huxleyi algae to create advanced bioelectronic signal processing systems with neuromorphic characteristics. The morphologies of L-Glu:L-Phe proteinoid microspheres and their interactions with algae are studied using scanning electron microscopy, revealing complex structures with budding forms and traits of self-assembly. Electrical measurements demonstrate that both pure algae and algae-proteinoid mixtures generate spontaneous oscillations with unique amplitude and frequency patterns across different recording channels. The algae-proteinoid mixture exhibits a broad range of oscillatory dynamics with amplitudes varying from 25.49 to 191.42 mV and periods ranging from 251.92 to 5471.01 s. These oscillatory behaviors are utilized to perform Boolean logic operations, through post-processing of biological signals rather than autonomous computing, with pure algae systems showing superior performance for direct gates (AND, OR) while the mixture excels at inverse gates (NAND, NOR). Temperature and pH emerge as critical factors controlling oscillatory dynamics. The findings indicate that algae-proteinoid electrochemical systems represent a step toward biohybrid computing and offer a sustainable and biocompatible alternative for unconventional computing, providing enhanced signal stability, environmental resilience, and more effective information processing compared to traditional electronic systems while acknowledging current limitations in autonomous learning capabilities