European Scientific Journal, ESJ
Not a member yet
14433 research outputs found
Sort by
Etat des lieux de la biodiversité et de la dynamique écologique des communautés piscicoles du Lac Madarounfa (Niger)
Get PDFClassé site Ramsar en 2019, le Lac de Madarounfa est la zone humide la plus importante de la région de Maradi où les activités de pêches sont pratiquées toute l’année. Le présent travail vise à analyser la diversité et la dynamique des communautés ichtyologiques de ce plan d’eau. L’ichtyofaune a été inventoriée de juin 2023 à mai 2024 pendant 12 mois dans les prises des pêcheurs traditionnels et celles d’une senne de filet moustiquaire.. L’identification au niveau spécifique des poissons a été effectuée à l’aide de clés d’identification. Après identification des espèces, les individus sont comptés , mesurés et pesés.. Ainsi, après 12 mois d’inventaire et de caractérisation des communautés piscicoles du lac, 24 espèces appartenant à 12 familles ont été identifiées. Les Cichlidés représentés par 4 espèces et les mormyridés avec 3 espèces sont les familles les plus diversifiées. Les espèces les plus abondantes dans les captures sont : Oreochromis niloticus (30,96%) et Sarotherodon galillaeus (19,56%). Les indices de diversité spécifique (3,31 bits) et d'équitabilité (0,28) obtenus montrent que l’ichtyofaune du lac a une diversité moyenne et une mauvaise répartition des individus au sein des familles. Les résultats de ces investigations ichtyologiques serviront de données de références de l’ichtyofaune du lac de Madarounfa et enrichiront le répertoire national. Ces résultats serviront également aux décideurs les orientations à suivre dans le cadre de l’aménagement et de la gestion de la ressource piscicole.
Classified as a Ramsar site in 2019, Lake Madarounfa is the most important wetland in the Maradi region, where fishing activities are practiced all year round. This work aims to analyze the diversity and dynamics of the ichthyological communities of this body of water. The ichthyofauna was inventoried for 12 months in the catches of traditional fishermen and those of a mosquito net seine. Identification at the specific level of fish was carried out using identification keys. After species identification, individuals are counted, measured, and weighed. Thus, after 12 months of inventory and characterization of the fish communities of the lake, 24 species belonging to 12 families were identified. Cichlids represented by 4 species and mormyrids, with 3 species, are the most diverse families. The most abundant species in the catches are: Oreochromis niloticus (30.96%) and Sarotherodon galillaeus (19.56%). The indices of specific diversity (3.31 bits) and equitability (0.28) obtained show that the ichthyofauna of the lake has an average diversity and a poor distribution of individuals within families. The results of these ichthyological investigations will serve as reference data for the ichthyofauna of Lake Madarounfa and will enrich the national directory. These results will also be used by decision-makers in the context of the development and management of fish resources
La modélisation numérique dans la démarche d’investigation : Quel impact sur l'acquisition des concepts scientifiques chez les apprenants du primaire?
Get PDFDans cette recherche nous cherchons à évaluer l’impact de la modélisation numérique dans la démarche d’investigation sur l’acquisition des concepts scientifiques liées aux sciences de la vie par les élèves du primaire. Dans le cadre d’une démarche de recherche-action réalisée au sein d’un établissement privé de Marrakech, deux groupes d’élèves de 6 ème année primaire, composés de 18 enfants âgés de 10 à 11 ans, ont été impliqués dans l’étude. La collecte des données s'est déroulée en plusieurs phases ; un pré-test sous forme d’une évaluation diagnostique écrite a été administré aux apprenants, après un post-test sous forme d’une évaluation sommative écrite a été effectué pour comparer les progrès réalisés dans chaque groupe et évaluer l’impact de la modélisation numérique sur la compréhension des concepts scientifiques. L’analyse des résultats du pré-test et du post-test met en évidence l’impact de la modélisation numérique sur la compréhension des concepts liés à la reproduction humaine. Au départ, les deux groupes (témoin et expérimental) affichaient des niveaux de connaissances similaires en relation avec la reproduction humaine. Cependant, le post-test met en évidence une amélioration conceptuel notable chez le groupe expérimental. L’intégration des modèles numériques sous forme de simulations de phénomènes biologiques, tels que la fécondation et le cycle menstruel, pour aider les élèves à visualiser et comprendre ces processus complexes de manière interactive et dynamique semble avoir facilité une organisation plus structurée des connaissances liées à la reproduction chez l’Homme. Les résultats indiquent que les outils d’investigation tels que la modélisation numérique, contribuent à une meilleure compréhension des phénomènes biologiques complexes.
In this research, we seek to evaluate the impact of digital modelling in the investigative process on primary school learners' acquisition of scientific concepts related to life sciences. As part of an action-research approach carried out in a private school in Marrakech, two groups of 6th-grade primary students, composed of 18 children aged 10 to 11, were covered in the study. Data collection took place over several phases; A pre-test in the form of a written diagnostic assessment was administered to the learners, after a post-test in the form of a written summative assessment was carried out to compare the progress made in each group and to assess the impact of digital modelling on the understanding of scientific concepts. The analysis of the pre-test and post-test results highlights the impact of digital modelling on the understanding of concepts related to human reproduction. Initially, the two groups (control and experimental) had similar levels of knowledge related to human reproduction. However, the post-test showed a noteworthy conceptual improvement for the experimental group. The integration of digital models in the form of simulations of biological phenomena, such as fertilization and the menstrual cycle, to help students visualize and understand these complex processes in an interactive and dynamic manner seems to have facilitated a more structured organization of knowledge related to human reproduction. The results indicate that investigative tools such as digital modelling contribute to a better understanding of complex biological phenomena
Approche sociologique de l’économie de la précarité dans ville de Bouaké en Côte d’Ivoire
Get PDFL’étude porte sur l’économie de la précarité dans la ville de Bouaké, deuxième pôle urbain de la Côte d’Ivoire, caractérisé par une forte diversité ethnique, la prépondérance du secteur informel et l’impact de crises socio-politiques récentes. Son objectif principal est d’analyser les mécanismes sociologiques structurant cette économie en s’intéressant aux activités précaires (vente de vivriers, restauration, artisanat, commerce d’électronique de seconde main, travail du sexe), aux stratégies de survie des acteurs et à leur impact sur le développement urbain. Adoptant une démarche qualitative et s’appuyant sur la théorie des réseaux sociaux, l’étude mobilise l’observation participante, des entretiens semi-directifs, des focus groups et l’analyse documentaire. Les résultats montrent que l’économie précaire s’organise autour de réseaux sociaux et ethniques, avec une hiérarchisation fondée sur la rentabilité et une adaptation continue aux contraintes urbaines. Les stratégies économiques incluent la diversification des activités, le recours à des systèmes de crédit informel et la création de solidarités professionnelles. Bien que cette économie renforce les liens communautaires et stabilise le tissu social en créant des emplois informels, elle reste marquée par des défis tels que la précarité des conditions de travail, l’absence de protection sociale et la vulnérabilité aux chocs économiques.
The study focuses on the economy of precarity in the city of Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire’s second-largest urban hub, characterized by significant ethnic diversity, a predominant informal sector, and the lasting effects of recent socio-political crises. The main objective is to analyze the sociological mechanisms underpinning this economy, examining precarious activities (selling foodstuffs, street food, artisanal work, second-hand electronics trade, and sex work), survival strategies, and their impact on urban development. Using a qualitative approach grounded in network theory, the study employs participant observation, semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and document analysis. Findings reveal that the precarious economy is structured around social and ethnic networks, with activities ranked by profitability and continuous adaptation to urban constraints. Economic strategies include activity diversification, reliance on informal credit systems, and the establishment of professional solidarities. While this economy strengthens community bonds and provides informal employment, it faces persistent challenges, such as precarious working conditions, lack of social protection, and vulnerability to economic shocks
Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness in Undergraduate Education through Curricular Reform: Post-COVID-19 Insights
Get PDFAims and Scope: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed widespread educational gaps in preparing future healthcare professionals for public health emergencies. This study aimed to identify key curricular indicators for strengthening pandemic preparedness in undergraduate biomedical and health sciences education, with Georgia as a representative case study of a resource-constrained setting.
Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured virtual interviews with 33 educators from the programs of medicine, public health, nursing, dentistry, and pharmacy - 30 based in Georgian institutions and three international experts contributing to triangulation. Data collected between May and August 2024 were analysed using inductive thematic analysis with MAXQDA.
Findings: Thematic analysis revealed three core areas for reform: (1) strengthening institutional readiness by embedding pandemic-focused content and simulation-based learning; (2) enhancing public health communication, including vaccine advocacy and crisis response messaging; and (3) expanding research and collaborative capacity through interdisciplinary and international engagement.
Conclusion: This study offers practical, curriculum-level strategies to close educational gaps and strengthen pandemic preparedness in undergraduate biomedical and health sciences education. Using Georgia as a case example, the findings present a scalable reform framework that can strengthen system resilience and better prepare future professionals for public health emergencies
Quantum Narratives: The Impact of Language On Acute and Chronic Pain
Get PDFThe Quantum Leap Technique (QLT) is a transformative framework for physical wellness by reprogramming subconscious belief systems through intentional language shifts, internally and vocally. Rooted in principles of neuroscience, psychoneuroimmunology, and quantum theory, QLT facilitates the conversion of self-limiting narratives into affirming statements that promote physiological balance and healing. This study employed a mixed-methods approach with 41 participants who engaged in QLT workshops and coaching sessions. Quantitative results demonstrated a median score of 7.5/10, a mean of 6.969, a mode of 10 and a standard deviation of 2.95 reporting improvements in physical health, with participants reporting relief from chronic pain, autoimmune conditions, inflammation, and enhanced energy levels. Qualitative data revealed a direct correlation between shifting language patterns and physical recovery, as individuals experienced increased mobility, resolution of chronic conditions, and heightened overall vitality. These findings align with existing research on the physiological impacts of cognitive reframing, which suggests that positive self-perception enhances immune function, reduces inflammatory responses, and accelerates recovery from illness. By integrating linguistic restructuring with a quantum-based perspective on healing, QLT offers a novel approach to addressing the mind-body connection. Future research employing biomarker analysis and neuroimaging could provide further insights into its mechanisms and efficacy in facilitating physical well-being
Determinants of Competitiveness Among Georgian Commercial Banks in the Financial Market
Get PDFThis study investigates the competitiveness of Georgian commercial banks by examining their financial performance, market positioning, and the role of innovation in achieving and maintaining market leadership. A stable and efficient banking sector is fundamental to a country’s economic health, as commercial banks facilitate the allocation of financial resources and support sustainable growth. However, bank failures can pose systemic risks and undermine public trust. The research employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative analysis of key financial indicators with qualitative assessment through structured interviews with banking professionals. The financial data was collected from annual reports and official statistics of leading Georgian banks, while interviews provided insights into strategic management practices and innovation-driven competitiveness. The results indicate that JSC TBC Bank and JSC Bank of Georgia have maintained strong market positions through diversified financial services, customer-centric innovations, and strategic segmentation. Furthermore, banks like JSC ProCredit Bank and JSC Credo Bank have established niche competitiveness by focusing on SME lending and inclusive finance models. The findings highlight that technological adaptation, effective risk management, and customer satisfaction are critical determinants of competitiveness in the Georgian banking sector. In conclusion, the study reveals that both financial robustness and non-financial capabilities, such as innovation and managerial efficiency, contribute significantly to the sustained competitiveness of Georgian commercial banks in an increasingly dynamic and globalized financial market
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Among Greek Solid Waste Landfill Workers
Get PDFIntroduction: Hearing loss at work is currently considered the most common cause of permanent hearing loss in adults and one of the most important health problems with economic and psychosocial consequences. The present study has the aim to investigate the prevalence and the determinants of hearing loss among solid waste workers. Material and methods: Eight-three (83) solid waste workers underwent audiometric test in the facilities of the Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility (OEDA) in the area of Αttica, Greece. To assess hearing, an occupational history was first taken, followed by an otoscopy and audiogram. The findings of the audiograms were initially assessed as normal and pathological and then classified using diagnostic criteria (NIOSH, OYDOS). Findings: Statistical analysis has shown that 23% of solid waste workers had sensorineural hearing loss located mainly at 4000 Hz. Multivariate analysis confirmed that the intensity of occupational exposure to noise appears to be the strongest predictor of noise-induced hearing loss (p=0.02326) followed by the years of work (p=0.02728). Particularly, the analysis with the NIOSH criterion (probability of having a positive NIOSH criterion in at least 1 of both ears) increased by 1.33 times/year or 32.84%/year on average. Finally, no univariate statistically significant associations were found with any of the two criteria and smoking, BMI, hypertension or tinnitus Estimating exposure through self-reported data is not sufficient and accurate and in fact workers who are exposed to higher risk measures tend to underestimate the risk. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that solid waste workers are occupationally exposed to high levels of noise, and present high rates of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). It is necessary to estimate the noise exposure with appropriate measurements in the work environment (individual sound exposure of employees and environmental measurements in the workplace) and take appropriate measures
Does corporate governance affect M&As’ impact on social and environmental performance? Evidence from Milan Stock Exchange’s listed firms
Get PDFThis study’s aim is twofold: (1) to explore the effect of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) on bidders’ social and environmental performance, and 2) to determine the potential drivers of this process by focusing on corporate governance characteristics. The analysis is based on M&As performed by firms listed on the Milan Italian Stock Exchange during the 5-year period of 2018–2022. The research data were retrieved from the FactSet and Refinitiv Eikon databases and examined using regression analyses. The findings demonstrate that M&As positively affect social and environmental performance, as long as good corporate governance practices are in place. The current research draws on stakeholder-agency theory and identifies the potential drivers of the value creation process in the M&A context enhancing the limited existing literature on this topic. The findings highlight the role of corporate governance in strengthening the impact of M&As on bidders’ non-financial performance, offering valuable practical implications. First, investors and financial analysts should develop a comprehensive perspective to assess the M&A’s impact on non-financial performance. Second, regulators should consider strengthening specific corporate governance requirements. Finally, policymakers should encourage M&As undertaken by firms with sustainability-oriented boards of directors
Phénotypage d’un Germoplasme de Variétés Locales et Exotiques de Patate Douce [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] sur la Base des Caractères Quantitatifs: Implications pour l’Amélioration Génétique au Togo
Get PDFLa patate douce est une plante à racines tubérisées qui contribue à la sécurité alimentaire au Togo. Cependant, peu de données scientifiques existent sur la variabilité génétique au sein des cultivars du Togo, alors que ces informations sont un prérequis pour une mise en œuvre efficace des stratégies de conservation et de développement de nouvelles variétés. L’objectif de cette étude était d’explorer la diversité phénotypique au sein des cultivars de patate douce du Togo. Le phénotypage a porté sur soixante-cinq (65) variétés du Togo et seize (16) variétés exotiques de l’Unité d’Amélioration Génétique du Burkina Faso. Le dispositif expérimental adopté est un « lattice carré 9 x 9 ». Au total, seize (16) caractères quantitatifs ont été évalués conformément à l’ontologie de la patate douce établie par le Centre International de la Pomme de Terre (CIP). Les statistiques descriptives, l’Analyse de Variance (ANOVA) et l’Analyse en Composantes Principales (ACP) ont mis en évidence une forte variabilité au sein du germoplasme pour les caractères tels que le rendement en racines tubéreuses, leur teneur en matière sèche, la biomasse aérienne, la longueur de la tige, la longueur des entre-nœuds et le diamètre des tiges. La classification ascendante hiérarchique (CAH) réalisée sur la base de la distance euclidienne avec comme critère d’agrégation la méthode de Ward a révélé quatre (4) groupes hétérotiques. Les groupes I et II sont composés de variétés à faibles rendements en racines tubéreuses (12,95 et 15,87 t.ha-1) et à teneur élevée en matière sèche (29,68 et 26,86 %). Les groupes III et IV sont constitués de variétés à hauts rendements en biomasse (37,74 et 50,75 t.ha-1), en racines tubéreuses (16,06 et 20,18 t.ha-1) et à teneur modérée (entre 15% et 25%) en matière sèche (24,62 et 23,84 %). La forte variabilité phénotypique observée dans cette banque de gène constitue une base pour les programmes de conservation et d’amélioration génétique de la patate douce au Togo.
Sweet potato is a root crop that contributes to food security in Togo. However, little scientific data exists on the genetic variability of varieties grown in Togo, although this information is a prerequisite for the effective implementation of germplasm conservation strategies and the development of new varieties. The objective of this study was to explore the phenotypic diversity within Togo’s sweet potato varieties. The plant material is composed of sixty-five (65) varieties from Togo and sixteen (16) exotic varieties introduced from Burkina Faso Breeding Unit. The experiment was laid out using a lattice square design. In total, sixteen (16) quantitative traits were evaluated in accordance with the sweet potato ontology as described by Centre Internationale de la Pomme de Terre (CIP). Descriptive statistics, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Principal Components Analysis (PCA) revealed high variability among varieties for traits such as root yield, dry matter content, aboveground biomass, stem length, internode length, and stem diameter. Cluster analysis performed on the basis of the Euclidean distance using the Ward method as aggregation criterion revealed four phenotypic clusters. Clusters I and II are composed of varieties with low root yield (12.95 and 15.87 t.ha-1) and high dry matter content (29.68 and 26.86%). Clusters III and IV are made up of varieties exhibiting high aboveground biomass (37.74 and 50.75 t.ha-1), high fresh root yield (16.06 and 20.18 t.ha-1), and moderate (comprised between 15% and 25%) dry matter content (24.62 and 23.84%). The variability observed in this gene bank constitutes a basis for conservation and genetic improvement programs of sweet potatoes in Togo
Contribution des pratiques agroécologiques au développement des exploitations familiales dans la Commune de Notto Diobass au Sénégal
Get PDFL’agriculture sénégalaise influencée par les pratiques conventionnelles est dominée par des exploitations de types familiales à 95% (DAPS, 2009). Ses pratiques ont eu des impacts négatifs sur l’environnement, l’appauvrissement des sols, la raréfaction des ressources naturelles, la déforestation et l’effondrement de la biodiversité. Pour jouer pleinement son rôle, elle doit nécessairement opérer à des ruptures transformationnelles vers une transition agroécologique avec des systèmes de cultures plus durables et diversifiés. C’est pourquoi cette étude faite dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre du projet de promotion et de développement de l’agroécologie (PDAE) s’intéresse aux contributions des pratiques agroécologiques au développement des exploitations familiales. L’objectif visé à travers cette étude est d’étudier la contribution des pratiques agroécologiques au développement des exploitations familiales. Pour se faire deux groupes ont été ciblés : les exploitations familiales (EFs) accompagnées par le projet PDAE (47) et celles non accompagnées (47). Au total 94 EFs ont été enquêtées dans 08 villages de la commune pour avoir des données quantitatives. Les données qualitatives sont obtenues à travers des entretiens semi-structurés auprès de quelques structures d’accompagnement et de spécialistes qui interviennent dans la zone. L’étude a montré globalement que les accompagnements proposés sont adaptés aux types d’EFs de la zone et la mise en application des pratiques agroécologiques permettait effectivement aux EAF d’améliorer le niveau de fertilité des sols et de l’accès aux intrants, de développer les compétences technico-pratiques des producteurs, d’augmenter les rendements agricoles, de faciliter l’accès aux marchés porteurs et de renforcer l’autonomie financière des ménages.
Senegalese agriculture influenced by conventional practices is dominated by 95% family farms (DAPS, 2009). Its practices have had negative impacts on the environment, soil depletion, scarcity of natural resources, deforestation, and the collapse of biodiversity. To fully play its role, it must necessarily operate transformational ruptures towards an agroecological transition with more sustainable and diversified crop systems. This is why this study carried out as part of the implementation of the PDAE project focuses on the contributions of agroecological practices to the development of family farms. The objective of this study is to study the contribution of agroecological practices to the development of family farms. To do this, two groups were targeted: family farms (EFs) supported by the PDAE project (47) and those not supported (47). A total of 94 EFs were surveyed in 08 villages of the commune to obtain quantitative data. Qualitative data are obtained through semi-structured interviews with some support structures and specialists who operate in the area. The study showed overall that the support offered is adapted to the types of EFs in the area and the implementation of agroecological practices effectively allowed the EAF to improve the level of soil fertility and access to inputs, develop the technical and practical skills of producers, increase agricultural yields, facilitate access to promising markets and strengthen the financial autonomy of households