European Scientific Journal, ESJ
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A Socio-Cultural Analysis of Users’ Intentions to Use Facemask in the Post Covid-19 Era in Nigeria
Get PDFThis paper investigates individuals’ intention to use facemasks in the post-COVID-19 era using the extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, enforcement, rather than individual choice, drove facemask usage. In the post-COVID-19 era, the effects of facilitating condition, social influence, price value, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, hedonic motivation, experience and habit on the intention to use the facemask were investigated using the regressions analyses. A total of 417 respondents took part in the selection from government organisations, including higher institutions and public offices in South-West Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja). The result shows that facilitating conditions and hedonic motivation positively influenced the intention to use the facemask, while price value, experience and habit have negative impacts. Findings from this study suggest that facemask manufacturers and distributors must suitably design their products to suit the value perception of the user and beliefs that trigger social status and hedonic motivations in conjunction with the primary health benefits of the facemasks. It is recommended that further improvement of the facemask technology, such that it can convert traditional facemasks into smart technology with increasing emphasis on fashion and style, while adhering to safety measures be promoted by policymakers and manufacturers. While facemask manufacturers must see that the quality of their products meets up to ASTM (or relevant) standards, for which user-friendly, durable, microbe-resistant, yet biodegradable materials have been used, policymakers must organise regular sensitization programs on the importance of mask usage, and as well promote continuous development of improved technologies for nosemask designs
Effect of Capital Adequacy on Operational Efficiency of Commercial Banks in Kenya
Get PDFThis study investigates the impact of capital adequacy on the operational efficiency of Kenyan banks, highlighting its importance for financial stability and risk management using a two-step analytical approach: first, Stochastic Frontier Analysis was used to determine operational efficiency scores for each bank; second, a panel Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) regression model assessed the relationship between these scores and capital adequacy. The study employed a panel GMM Method, accounting for individual and time-specific effects as well as endogeneity and correlation biases. The study concentrated on data from 2008 to 2022, from verified audited financial statements from the Central Bank of Kenya and the respective banks' websites. The study revealed a positive relationship between capital adequacy and operational efficiency. Specifically, increased capital adequacy was associated with a 10.32% improvement in operational efficiency. The study also found that market structure plays a significant role in this relationship. Based on these findings, policymakers should adopt comprehensive strategies focusing on stringent capital adequacy regulations to enhance bank performance and stability
The Impact of Aligning Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory with a Comprehensive Teacher Education Model on Preservice Teachers’ Attitudes and Teaching Practice
Get PDFSince its inception, experiential learning has been a foundational tenant of teacher education. However, it is questionable as to the level of authentic experiential learning practices that are actually taking place. This paper presents one approach to addressing this situation, based on Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory Model. As such, this exploratory manuscript examines Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle (ELC) further, and considers the implications for Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) in teacher education. A description of teacher education program in the CRMEF (Centre Régional des Métiers de l’Education et de la Formation) is provided, then results from a quantitative and qualitative survey are triangulated with teacher trainees’ reflection journals to evaluate the training program in terms of the teacher trainees’ developing confidence and competence in teaching. Therefore, the present research will explore the implementation of this approach for teacher education in the CRMEF. Results indicate that the great majority of the participants have developed both their confidence to teach using this approach, thus, changing their perceptions and attitudes towards the teaching of English language. Specific learning experiences that help affect their sense of confidence and competence in teaching include in-person, experiential and hands-on approaches to learning relevant skills and knowledge, which confirms the importance of using Kolb’s ELC as the basis for teacher education program. The study recommends that teacher educators enhance their programs by providing instruction to pre-service teachers in authentic experiential learning pedagogy. Therefore, a comprehensive model for teacher education is suggested to demonstrate the role of experiential learning
Creencias y conductas sanitarias para la prevención del contagio de COVID-19 adoptadas por usuarios de una Unidad Médica Familiar en México
Get PDFA finales de diciembre de 2019, se reportaron varios casos de neumonía atípica de origen desconocido en Wuhan, China. Poco después, se identificó al agente etiológico como un nuevo coronavirus, al cual se le dio el nombre de SARS-CoV-2. Se han desarrollado e implementado varios comportamientos protectores de salud para prevenir y reducir la propagación de la enfermedad, tal como se describe en la Jornada Nacional de Sana Distancia propuesta por la Secretaría de Salud en México. Objetivo: examinar las creencias y conductas protectoras de salud contra el COVID-19 adoptados por los usuarios de la Unidad Médica Familiar 15 del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Materiales y métodos: este estudio observacional, transversal y descriptivo incluyó a adultos que son usuarios de la Unidad Médica Familiar 15. Los datos se recolectaron utilizando una encuesta administrada a 162 personas con una edad promedio de 41.2 ± 16.9 años; el 41.4% (67) eran hombres, y el 58.6% (97) mujeres. Los resultados indicaron que el 61.7% (100) consideró importante saber cómo prevenir el COVID-19, el 53.7% (87) creyó que las personas vacunadas podrían contraer COVID-19, y el mismo porcentaje consideró que es una enfermedad potencialmente grave. Además, el 29% (47) seguía frecuentemente las medidas preventivas recomendadas por el gobierno, el 53.7% (87) se lavaba las manos regularmente, el 58% (94) siempre cubría su boca al toser o estornudar, el 37.7% (61) a veces mantenía el distanciamiento social en lugares públicos, y el 26.5% (43) rara vez saludaba con un beso o un apretón de manos. Conclusiones: los usuarios demuestran responsabilidad social y creen que el COVID-19 es una enfermedad potencialmente grave y prevenible. Los comportamientos protectores adoptados están alineados con las medidas para prevenir el contagio.
At the end of December 2019, a number of atypical pneumonia cases of unknown origin were reported in Wuhan, China. Shortly thereafter, the etiological agent was identified as a new coronavirus, which was named SARS-CoV-2. Various protective health behaviors have been developed and implemented to prevent and reduce the spread of the disease, as described in the Jornada Nacional de Sana Distancia proposed by the Secretaría de Salud in Mexico. Objective: to examine the protective health beliefs and behaviors against COVID-19 adopted by users of Unidad Médica Familiar 15 of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. Materials and methods: this observational, cross-sectional, descriptive study included adults who are users of Unidad Médica Familiar 15. Data was collected using a survey that was administered to 162 individuals with an average age of 41.2 ± 16.9 years; 41.4% (67) were male, and 58.6% (97) were female. The results indicated that 61.7% (100) believed it is important to know how to prevent COVID-19, 53.7% (87) believed that vaccinated individuals could contract COVID-19, and the same percentage regarded it as a potentially serious disease. Furthermore, 29% (47) frequently followed government-recommended preventive measures, 53.7% (87) regularly washed their hands, 58% (94) always covered their mouth when coughing or sneezing, 37.7% (61) sometimes maintained social distancing in public places, and 26.5% (43) rarely greeted with a kiss or handshake. Conclusions: the users demonstrate social responsibility and believe that COVID-19 is a potentially serious and preventable disease. The protective behaviors adopted align with measures to prevent contagion
Diversité floristique et importance socio-économique de la flore sauvage de la mare de Bougary (Assaba, Mauritanie)
Get PDFEn Mauritanie, les zones humides constituent l’un des habitats les plus riches en biodiversité dans la zone saharo-sahélienne ; cependant cette biodiversité reste très peu connue et les services que ces zones offrent sont rarement pris en compte dans le cadre de l’économie nationale. La présente étude cherche, sous l’angle botanique, à améliorer les connaissances et à relever la valeur écosystèmiques de la mare de Bougary. La démarche a consisté à inventorier et caractériser tous les taxons botaniques et à enquêter auprès des populations locales pour comprendre l’importance des espèces végétales pour la résilience communautaire. 95 espèces appartenant à 82 genres et 35 familles sont inventoriées ; les Fabaceae (20%) et les Poaceae (18%) représentent les principales familles dominantes. La répartition en types biologiques des taxons recensés indique la dominance des thérophytes (46%) et des phanérophytes (44%). Au plan biogéographique, 49% des taxons sont soudano-zambésiens et 30% de transition saharo-arabique /soudano-zambésienne. La cueillette des sous-produits forestiers est une activité discrète, mais très importante autour de la mare de Bougary, impliquant des fruitiers sauvages, des plantes médicinales et aromatiques et d’autres produits forestiers non ligneux. Suite à l’exploitation abusive de cette flore, 12 espèces semblent être disparues de la zone et d’autres sont menacées si des mesures lucides de protection ne sont pas urgemment engagées.
In Mauritania Wetlands constitute one of the richest habitats in biodiversity in the Saharo-Sahelian zone in; However, this biodiversity remains little known and the services that these areas offer are rarely taken into account within the framework of the national economy. This study seeks, from a botanical perspective, to improve knowledge and identify the ecosystem value of the Bougary pond. The approach consisted of inventorying and characterizing all botanical taxa and surveying local populations to understand the importance of plant species for community resilience. 95 species belonging to 82 genera and 35 families are inventoried; Fabaceae (20%) and Poaceae (18%) represent the main dominant families. The distribution of biological types of the taxa recorded indicates the dominance of therophytes (46%) and phanerophytes (44%). Biogeographically, 49% of the taxa are Sudano-Zambesian and 30% Saharo-Arabic/Sudano-Zambesian transition. The collection of forest by-products is a discreet but very important activity around the Bougary pond, involving wild fruit trees, medicinal and aromatic plants and other non-woody forest products. Following the abusive exploitation of this flora, 12 species appear to have disappeared from the area and others are threatened if clear-minded protection measures are not urgently taken
The Big Catch-up: Addressing Zero-Dose Children as a Surrogate of Vaccination Disruptions During Public Health Emergencies
Get PDFThe COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted global immunization programs, resulting in a sharp increase in the number of zero-dose children-those who have not received any vaccinations. This disruption poses a critical threat to public health, exacerbating the risk of vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks. This paper investigates the pandemic's impact on routine childhood immunization, with a particular focus on zero-dose children. Through a comprehensive review of data from WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and key informant interviews, we highlight evidence-based interventions aligned with the strategic framework of the Zero Dose Guidelines. Our findings emphasize the importance of context-specific approaches, particularly in vulnerable settings such as urban slums, remote rural areas, and conflict zones. We identified key thematic areas for intervention: community engagement, health systems strengthening, and technological innovations. These strategies are critical for reaching zero-dose children and rebuilding resilient immunization systems. However, gaps remain in the evidence surrounding the long-term effectiveness and cost-efficiency of these interventions, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study underscores the urgency of addressing the growing number of zero-dose children through coordinated global efforts like "The Big Catch-Up" campaign, which aims to recover and strengthen immunization coverage worldwide. By focusing on equity, innovation, and tailored strategies, we can mitigate the pandemic’s long-term effects and ensure that no child is left unprotected
Désarticulation de la hanche secondaire à une gangrène du membre pelvien droit : A propos d’un cas au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire la renaissance de Ndjamena
Get PDFIntroduction : La désarticulation de la hanche est un geste mutilant avec un impact psychologique non négligeable. Observation : nous rapportons le cas d’un élève de 19 ans admis pour une gangrène mixte secondaire à un traitement traditionnel chez qui une désarticulation de la hanche a été réalisée. La désarticulation est souvent réalisée en chirurgie cancérologique lors des tumeurs siégeant à la partie proximale du fémur. En traumatologie, elle reste le dernier recours lorsque le pronostic vital du patient est engagé. Cet acte pose souvent un problème de couverture cutanée dans notre contexte lié à l’absence de banque de lambeau de jambe. La cicatrisation dirigée associée à une greffe de peau mince fait partie de l’arsenal thérapeutique en l’absence des lambeaux libres. Conclusion : L’éducation des tradipraticiens sur les limites de leur pratique et la sensibilisation de la population sur les complications liées au traitement traditionnel demeurent les meilleurs moyens.
Introduction: Hip disarticulation is a mutilating procedure with a significant psychological impact. Observation: we report the case of a 19-year-old student admitted for mixed gangrene secondary to traditional treatment in whom hip disarticulation was performed. Disarticulation is often performed in cancer surgery for tumors located in the proximal part of the femur. In traumatology, it remains the last resort when the patient's vital prognosis is in jeopardy. This procedure often poses a problem of skin coverage in our context linked to the absence of a leg flap bank. Directed healing associated with a thin skin graft is part of the therapeutic armamentarium in the absence of free flaps. Conclusion: Educating traditional practitioners on the limits of their practice and raising public awareness of the complications linked to traditional treatment remain the best means
Consumer Perception of Private Label Products in Hungary
Get PDFPrivate labels have emerged as a significant force in the retail sector, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) market. Their importance has grown as consumers increasingly prioritise value for money, often choosing these products over manufacturer-branded items. As a result, private labels have become a competitive tool for retailers, driving down costs and fostering customer loyalty through consistent quality at lower prices. This study investigates Hungarian consumers' perceptions of private label products, focusing on quality comparison between private labels and manufacturer brands. A comprehensive online survey was conducted between April and June 2024, with over 10,000 respondents providing insights into their shopping habits and quality assessments of private label products. The primary findings reveal that more than half of the respondents (52.3%) believe that the quality of private label products is comparable to that of manufacturer-branded products, while 14.7% even consider it superior. Interestingly, 33% of the respondents perceive private label products as inferior in quality, although the differences are often seen as slight. These perceptions are influenced by both objective and subjective factors, including brand loyalty, price, and packaging. Demographic analysis using Cramer's V coefficient indicates that factors such as age, gender, income, and education have minimal impact on these quality perceptions. However, slight variations were noted, with men more likely to view private label products as lower in quality compared to women. Additionally, those with higher education tend to rate the quality of private label products more favorably. The study also explores consumer behavior in hypothetical purchasing scenarios, finding that 85.9% of respondents would prefer a private label product if it were identical in content and produced by the same manufacturer as a more expensive branded option. This suggests a strong potential for growth in the private label sector, particularly if retailers continue to emphasize the quality and value of these products. In conclusion, the research highlights the growing trust in private-label products among Hungarian consumers, driven by the perception that these products offer comparable quality at lower prices. Retailers are advised to leverage this trust by expanding their private label offerings, particularly in categories where consumer preference is already strong, and by continuing to market these products effectively to different demographic groups
Philanthropy: A Customary Practice to Meet Donor Expectations Lesson from Islamic NPOs in Indonesia
Get PDFPhilanthropy is a form of altruism that comprises private initiatives that enhance the public good. Throughout history, benevolence or voluntary contributions have appeared in numerous shapes and objectives, representing the economic and political framework of the time and various motivations. Non-profit organizations (NPOs) in Indonesia have undergone tremendous transformations, evolving to be more modern and professional. They determine market segments, manage donor networks, formulate fundraising strategies, and construct appropriate, impactful, and beneficial programs with the organization's system and human capital. Aside from that, Islamic NPOs have become more strategic and able to preserve a clear vision and mission. They have also established organizational structures, appointed qualified leaders, and designed long-term, medium-term, and short-term activity plans and budgets. Moreover, they have appointed program supervisors and assessed the effectiveness and efficiency of their plans. This research aims to investigate the broad issues confronting Islamic charity in Indonesia as it evolves towards a strategic institution. This study adopted qualitative methodologies to discover comprehensive explanations for the occurrences studied. In-depth semi-structured interviews with an array of practitioners and academics were employed to gather data. This study found that a great deal of effort is required to improve the capabilities of Islamic NPOs in terms of good governance, system strengthening, cultural internalization, public openness, and accountability. Such aspects are important for establishing effective intermediary organizations that meet donor expectations. Therefore, Islamic NPOs must accelerate capacity building by enhancing each aspect of the organization to sustainably impact its beneficiaries positively