European Scientific Journal, ESJ
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Indoor Air Quality in Selected School Buildings in the Central Sector of Athens at the Attica’s Region and Potential Health Risks
Get PDF Aims and Scope: Indoor air pollution is a significant environmental risk factor for health, particularly in schools, where students and teachers spend a considerable portion of their day (about 30%). As a result, they are more exposed to indoor pollution than outdoor air pollution. This paper focuses on investigating the indoor air quality (IAQ) in school buildings within the Central Sector of Athens, in the Attica Region, by recording physical parameters and concentration levels of indoor air pollutants related to comfort, health, and safety conditions within classrooms. The study also seeks to identify factors contributing to diminished air quality in classrooms and propose measures to improve indoor air quality in school buildings to protect public health. Methods: The indoor air quality research was conducted in forty-seven (47) classrooms across twenty-six (26) school buildings in the Central Sector of Athens, in the Attica Region, from March 2022 to May 2023. Air pollutants, including Carbon dioxide (CO2), Carbon monoxide (CO), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and Particulate matters (PM10, PM2.5), along with physical parameters such as temperature (T) and relative humidity (RH), were monitored using the series 500 Portable Air Quality Monitor (AeroQual) during one teaching hour per day in each classroom. Some windows and doors were opened during sampling due to health and safety measures and recommendations for COVID-19 protection for students and teachers. Findings: The overall mean concentrations of the main parameters recorded inside the schools were 0.136 ppm for CO, 823.38 ppm for CO2, 12.07 ppm for VOCs, 0.006 ppm for NO2, 38.1 μg/m3 for PM10, and 15.4 μg/m3 for PM2.5. The mean recorded temperature was 24.52 oC, and the relative humidity was 45.78%. In this study, twenty- two (22) classrooms, representing 46.8% of the schools in the Attica Region, were found to have temperatures outside the comfort range for students. In all cases, indoor CO concentrations were lower than the recommended exposure limit (REL) of 35 ppm, as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) set by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Eight (8) of the forty-seven classrooms in the Attica region (17%) had CO2 concentrations exceeding 1000 ppm. VOCs exceeded the indoor limit value of 0.8 ppm in all schools (100%). There was a statistically significant difference between indoor and ambient air for CO, CO2, and ΝΟ2 (p<0.001), VOCs (p=0.004), and PM10 (p=0.028). Conclusion: The indoor air quality of the classrooms was influenced by outdoor air, the school’s location, the number of windows opened during lessons, the number of students in the classroom, the activities conducted, the furnishings, and the school equipment. Lack of comfort conditions and exceeded limits of indoor air pollutants can lead to diminished IAQ, thereby posing harmful effects on students. Proper ventilation of classrooms during lessons and breaks is necessary for better air quality. Ventilation is one of the most important factors affecting indoor air quality, as it dilutes exposure to agents originating indoors
The Influence of Conversational AI on Consumer Behavior and Counterfactual Thinking: A Systematic Review
Get PDFThis document evaluates the development and importance of conversational AI, chatbots, and virtual assistants in human behavior and the process of making decisions. Designed to investigate the impact of AI on the personalization of user experiences, the study maps how the automation of decision-making and the alteration of cognitive processes like thinking in the counterfactual mode and regret are affected. The main idea is that while conversational AI service might improve the user experience and be more efficient, problems with transparency, personalization overdone and emotive manipulation might emerge. The conclusion of the research is that it is necessary to operate in a balanced way in order for the trust to be established, to be transparent, and to be authentic, thus reinforcing the transformative impact of conversational AI in e-commerce and consumer engagement in the future
Exploring Prevalence and Implications of Burnout Among Nurse Practitioners in Canada
Get PDFAims and Scope: Nurse Practitioners are experiencing unprecedented levels of burnout exacerbated by factors unique to this professional group. Additional factors include undervalued professional worth, lack of autonomy, and organizational and systems pressures. This study was conducted to explore NP Burnout in Canada. Methods: The NP Burnout Survey, designed to capture the unique factors impacting NP burnout, was delivered to 229 NPs across Canada. Responses underwent descriptive and binomial logistic regression analysis. Findings: More than one third of NPs are experiencing high levels of burnout. NPs with high burnout are 17 times more likely to leave their position and 66 times more likely to leave the profession. Conclusion: Urgent attention and viable solutions are required to mitigate NP’s exodus from the profession. Addressing the issues impacting NP burnout will ensure that this profession will meet their full potential in Canada’s healthcare system
Enquête ethnomédicale sur Vernonia djalonensis A. Chev à Dalaba, Guinée
Get PDFVernonia djalonensis A. Chev. est une plante endémique de Guinée, particulièrement menacée par l’urbanisation à Dalaba. Objectif : Cette étude visait à documenter ses usages ethno-médicaux et à sensibiliser sur la nécessité de sa conservation. Méthodologie : La collecte des données réalisée sur une période de huit (8) mois, a consisté à montrer la plante aux populations pour connaître les différents usages. Un échantillonnage raisonné a permis d’interroger 130 personnes (97 hommes et 33 femmes) dans la commune urbaine de Dalaba. L’utilisation d'entretiens directs et semi-structurés à l'aide d'une fiche validée par la Chaire de pharmacognosie a été realisée. Résultats : montrent que 98,53 % des répondants utilisent cette plante, principalement contre la toux symptomatique. La plante entière est utilisée, avec une préférence pour les feuilles. La décoction est la méthode de préparation la plus courante. Les analyses phytochimiques ont révélé la présence de tanins, flavonoïdes et saponosides dans les feuilles, tiges et racines. Conclusion : L'importance de cette recherche réside dans la documentation des usages ethno-médicaux de Vernonia djalonensis, une plante endémique menacée par l'urbanisation à Dalaba. En identifiant ses applications traditionnelles, notamment contre la toux symptomatique, et en mettant en évidence ses composés bioactifs. Cette étude ouvre la voie à l'exploitation de cette plante pour le développement de traitements naturels. De plus, elle souligne la nécessité urgente de préserver cette espèce, non seulement pour la biodiversité locale, mais aussi pour la conservation des savoirs médicinaux traditionnels.
Vernonia djalonensis A. Chev. is an endemic plant in Guinea, particularly threatened by urbanization in Dalaba. Objective: This study aimed to document its ethnomedicinal uses and raise awareness about the need for its conservation. Methodology: Data collection, conducted over eight (8) months, involved showing the plant to the local population to understand its various uses. A purposive sampling method was used to interview 130 people (97 men and 33 women) in the urban commune of Dalaba. Direct and semi-structured interviews were conducted using a form validated by the Chair of Pharmacognosy. Results: The findings show that 98.53% of respondents use this plant, primarily for treating coughs. The whole plant is used, with a preference for the leaves. Decoction is the most common preparation method. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, and saponins in the leaves, stems, and roots. Conclusion: This research highlights the ethnomedicinal uses of Vernonia djalonensis, an endemic plant threatened by urbanization in Dalaba. By documenting its traditional applications, particularly for treating symptomatic coughs, and identifying its bioactive compounds, this study provides a basis for developing natural remedies. Furthermore, it underscores the urgent need to preserve this species, not only to protect local biodiversity but also to conserve traditional medicinal knowledge
The Pivotal Role of Management Control in Times of Crisis: Enhancing Organizational Resilience and Strategic Adaptation
Get PDFThis article examines the transformation of management control, which has traditionally been regarded as a support function, into a central strategic lever in times of crisis. The study is focused on three core areas: the impact of management control mechanisms on organisational performance; their role in facilitating adaptation in a crisis context; and the influence of adopting new control tools on the company’s strategic direction. The research utilises a quantitative approach and is based on a sample of 97 companies across various sectors and sizes, ensuring diverse representation via non-stratified random sampling. Statistical techniques employed include Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Tests, quantile regression, and Spearman's correlation coefficients to validate the hypotheses. The findings demonstrate that management control is a key factor in enhancing performance, organisational resilience, and the implementation of a proactive strategy. Specifically, advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems were shown to enable companies to anticipate risks, seize opportunities, and strengthen their competitive advantage during crises. However, several limitations remain. These include the relatively small sample size, which restricts generalizability, the specific nature of the crises under study (COVID-19 crisis) and the potential for respondent bias, as most participants were senior executives or management controllers. These factors highlight the need for further research, particularly the exploration of additional crisis contexts and the use of mixed methodologies for a more comprehensive analysis
Défis et opportunités dans la gestion de carrière des enseignants africains: une analyse prospective
Get PDFCet article examine les défis et les perspectives d’avenir liés à la gestion des carrières des enseignants en Afrique, mettant en lumière des obstacles majeurs tels que la pénurie d’éducateurs qualifiés, des conditions de travail précaires et un manque de reconnaissance professionnelle. Ces facteurs compromettent non seulement la qualité de l’éducation, mais aussi la motivation des enseignants. L’étude repose sur un échantillon de 217 enseignants répartis dans plusieurs bassins pédagogiques, utilisant un questionnaire structuré pour évaluer la motivation professionnelle, la reconnaissance et l’accès à la formation continue. Les résultats révèlent des disparités significatives : par exemple, 75 % des enseignants du bassin de Mangavé se sentent reconnus, contre seulement 55 % dans le bassin de Doualaré. En matière de formation continue, 70 % des enseignants du bassin de Mangavé y ont accès, tandis que ce chiffre tombe à 45 % dans le bassin de Doualaré. La moyenne de motivation professionnelle est de 3.8 sur une échelle de 5, avec une motivation intrinsèque (4.2) supérieure à la motivation extrinsèque (3.6). De plus, 66 % des enseignants se sentent reconnus dans leur profession, soulignant l’importance de la reconnaissance pour maintenir l’engagement professionnel. Les analyses statistiques confirment ces résultats : les différences en motivation professionnelle (p <0.05) et en reconnaissance professionnelle (p <0.01) sont significatives, tandis que l’accès à la formation continue ne montre pas de variation significative (p >0.05). L’article souligne qu’une approche systémique et globale est nécessaire pour remédier à ces défis, nécessitant des réformes des politiques éducatives et un accroissement des investissements dans le secteur. Il appelle à une collaboration étroite entre les gouvernements, les établissements d’enseignement et les communautés locales pour créer un environnement propice au développement professionnel des enseignants africains. Malgré les obstacles rencontrés, l’engagement collectif peut contribuer à construire un avenir éducatif durable pour les enseignants et les étudiants en Afrique, garantissant ainsi une éducation de qualité pour les générations futures.
This article examines the challenges and future prospects related to the career management of teachers in Africa, highlighting major obstacles such as the shortage of qualified educators, precarious working conditions, and a lack of professional recognition. These factors compromise not only the quality of education but also the motivation of teachers. The study is based on a sample of 217 teachers distributed across several educational districts, using a structured questionnaire to assess professional motivation, recognition, and access to continuous education. The results reveal significant disparities: for example, 75% of teachers in the Mangavé district feel recognized, compared to only 55% in the Doualaré district. In terms of continuous education, 70% of teachers in the Mangavé district have access to it, while this figure drops to 45% in the Doualaré district. The average professional motivation score is 3.8 on a scale of 5, with intrinsic motivation (4.2) being higher than extrinsic motivation (3.6). Additionally, 66% of teachers feel recognized in their profession, underscoring the importance of recognition in maintaining professional engagement. The statistical analyses confirm these results: the differences in professional motivation (p <0.05) and professional recognition (p <0.01) are significant, while access to continuous education shows no significant variation (p >0.05). The article emphasizes that a systemic and comprehensive approach is necessary to address these challenges, requiring reforms in educational policies and increased investment in the sector. It calls for close collaboration between governments, educational institutions, and local communities to create an environment conducive to the professional development of African teachers. Despite the obstacles faced, collective commitment can contribute to building a sustainable educational future for teachers and students in Africa, thereby ensuring quality education for future generations
Análisis de las dimensiones económica, social y ambiental de la sostenibilidad en las estrategias de las principales empresas de turismo espacial
Get PDFEste estudio examina las estrategias de sostenibilidad implementadas por SpaceX, Blue Origin y Virgin Galactic en el contexto del turismo espacial emergente. A partir de una revisión de la bibliografía académica sobre las prácticas y políticas sostenibles de las empresas, así como de la consulta de sus sitios web oficiales, se realiza un análisis de las dimensiones económica, social y ambiental de la sostenibilidad con el fin de evaluar el compromiso de las principales empresas de turismo espacial con la reducción de costos, la inclusión social y la mitigación del impacto ambiental. El estudio concluye que, si bien se han realizado progresos notables, para lograr una sostenibilidad integral en el turismo espacial se requiere un enfoque más holístico y colaborativo que aborde de manera equitativa las dimensiones de la sostenibilidad.
This study examines the sustainability strategies implemented by SpaceX, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic in the context of emerging space tourism. Based on a review of the academic literature on the companies' sustainable practices and policies as well as consultation with the companies' official websites, an analysis of the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainability is conducted to assess the commitment of the leading space tourism companies to cost reduction, social inclusion and environmental impact mitigation. The study concludes that while notable progress has been made, achieving comprehensive sustainability in space tourism requires a more holistic and collaborative approach that equitably addresses the dimensions of sustainability
Ramón Pané, las Primeras Décadas del Descubrimiento, el Caribe, Mayas, y la Supervivencia Biológica Nativa
Get PDFEl objetivo de este estudio es una investigación exhaustiva de la historiografía de América desde el descubrimiento hasta mediados del siglo XX diferenciando las analogías del manuscrito original de fray Ramón Pané realizado entre 1494 y 1498 y publicado en 1571. El estudio crítico de ese paralelismo refleja cómo los pueblos oriundos en la antigüedad caribeña y de América con anterioridad al descubrimiento del Nuevo Mundo perduraban íntimamente ligados a tierra, mar y cielo en una topografía orgánica y específica a cada parentela, tribu o nación. En esta revisión de la historia esas semejanzas entre las diversas naciones y sus entornos geográficos identifican como los originarios vivían una economía de seguridad en sus propias leyes y comunidades siendo dueños absolutos e integrados en una hermandad taumatúrgica y espiritual. Encontramos que en un corto plazo de décadas ese ambiente originario que contribuyó al perfeccionamiento de su atesoramiento mitológico y cultural en su propia cosmovisión entra en un grave peligro del cual numerosas comunidades no tenían escape.
Este estudio sistematiza las semejanzas ancestrales compartidas entre el Caribe, Yucatán, Florida, Centroamérica y el norte de Sudamérica en sus conceptos mitológicos, cosmovisión, suicidios y muertes sacrificadas conforme a sus tradiciones y costumbres en el marco de sus propias diversidades. Se analiza esa trágica periodización histórica que fundamentó el suicidio cultural y personal masivo de los naturales caribeños. Durante esa primera década la mitología y cosmovisión de los naturales fue narrada por el ermitaño de la orden de San Jerónimo fray Ramón Pané cimentando la historia, origen y la herencia nativa caribeña. Este estudio específico de nuestra área geográfica presenta a Ramón Pané el autor del primer manuscrito de América por su valor histórico y antropológico aún poco estudiado desde la perspectiva de las semejanzas ancestrales de los naturales de América.
The objective of this study is an exhaustive investigation of the historiography of America from the discovery until the middle of the 20th century, differentiating the analogies of the original manuscript by Friar Ramón Pané published in 1571, written between 1493 and 1498. This critical study of those parallelism reflects how the native peoples in ancient Caribbean and America prior to the discovery of the New World remained intimately linked to land, sea and sky in an organic topography specific to each family, tribe or nation. This study undertakes a critical look at how the native peoples of the Caribbean antiquity prior to the discovery of the New World were intimately rooted to land, sea and sky in an organic topography specific to each family, tribe or nation. In our history review, the similarities between the various nations within their own natural geographical environments identify how the original people lived an economy of security in their laws and communities, being absolute owners and integrated into a thaumaturgical and spiritual brotherhood. We found that in a short period of decades that original environment that contributed to the perfection of their mythological and cultural treasures in their own worldview entered into a serious danger from which numerous communities had no escape. In a short period of decades, that original environment which contributed to the perfection of their mythological and cultural treasure in their own worldview entered into a serious danger from which numerous communities had no escape.
This study systematizes the ancestral similarities shared between the Caribbean, Yucatan, Florida, Central America and northern South America in their mythological concepts, worldview, suicides and sacrificial deaths according to their traditions and customs within the framework of their own diversities. This tragic historical periodization that fundaments the massive cultural and personal suicide of Caribbean natives is analyzed. During that first decade, the mythology and worldview of the natives was narrated by the hermit of the order of San Jerónimo, Fray Ramón Pané, cementing the history, origin and native Caribbean heritage. This study in its specific geographical area presents Ramón Pané, the author of the first manuscript of America for its historical and anthropological significance still understudied from the perspective of the original natives and their ancestral similarities
How do Travel Bloggers Influence Generation Z‘s Travel Decisions? An Exploratory Study through Five Italian Famous Travel Bloggers
Get PDFThe increasing adoption of new communication channels such as social networks among Generation Z has created new professional job roles over the last decade, including travel bloggers. This paper focuses on understanding the influence of travel bloggers on Generation Z’s travel decisions. A mixed qualitative and quantitative survey design was employed for this study. Empirical data were drawn from 475 Generation Z travelers in Italy using a purposive sampling technique. The quantitative component involved a structured questionnaire consisting of four sections and thirty questions, including demographic information, travel habits, and perceptions of travel bloggers’ influence. Responses were collected via face-to-face interviews and analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Product and Service Solutions). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests to compare sample means, and Likert-scale evaluations to measure the frequency of social media usage in travel decision-making. Findings reveal that travel bloggers play a moderately relevant role in Generation Z’s travel decisions, particularly in the realm of social and mobile business. This study contributes to the literature in several ways. First, it enriches Generation Z travel decision-making theory by providing empirical evidence on factors leading to increased influence sharing among travelers. Second, it expands knowledge on the role of influencers, particularly regarding video and photo content in online tourism communities. From a managerial perspective, the study highlights key drivers of travel decision-making in Generation Z within social networks, and it provides strategic guidelines for travel bloggers to effectively promote tourism destinations. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to empirically investigate the impact of travel bloggers on the tourism decision-making process of Generation Z travelers in the hospitality and tourism literature
Dynamic Evolution of Electric Vehicle Trade Network between China-Europe
Get PDFChina and Europe have promoted the development of electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions and cope with climate change. In recent years, the sales share of Chinese electric vehicle brands in the Europe market has increased rapidly, and Europe has become China's largest export market for electric vehicles. However, the European Union implemented various temporary tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle brands in 2024, which posed a major challenge to the development of the China-Europe electric vehicle trade. Based on the social network analysis, the paper focuses on examining the dynamic evolution of the electric vehicle trade network between China and Europe from 2018-2022. The empirical results indicate a general upward trend in tighter trade groups and increased connectivity efficiency within the network, while the network density and reciprocity display some fluctuations during this period. From a structural perspective, countries that hold central positions in both centrality measures and core-periphery indicators show statistically significant convergence patterns in the electric vehicle trade network between China and Europe. This study has theoretical and practical implications, in highlighting the dynamics changes in the electric vehicle trade network between China-Europe, and providing critical insights for Chinese policymakers and Chinese electric vehicle enterprises to refine their trade strategy and enhance strategic partnerships in European countries