Provision Of Environment Research Articles

Simulation-based education to facilitate clinical readiness in nursing and midwifery programmes in sub-Saharan Africa: a meta-synthesis

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the clinical readiness of simulation-based education (SBE) in preparing nursing and midwifery students for clinical practice in sub-Saharan Africa. This study has synthesised the findings from existing research studies and provides an overview of the current state of SBE in nursing and midwifery programs in the region.Design/methodology/approach A qualitative meta-synthesis of previous studies was conducted using the following steps: developing a review question, developing and a search strategy, extracting and meta-synthesis of the themes from the literature and meta-synthesis of themes. Five databases were searched for from existing English literature (PubMed, Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Professional Literature [CINAHL], PsycINFO, EMBASE and ScienceDirect Medline, CINAHL and Science Direct), including grey literature on the subject. Eight qualitative studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa between 2014 and 2022 were included. Hawker et al.'s framework was used to assess quality.Findings The following themes emerged from the literature. Theme 1: Improved skills and competencies through realism and repetition. Theme 2: Improved skills and competencies through realism and repetition. Theme 3: Improved learning through debriefing and reflection. Theme 4: Constraints of simulation as a pedagogical teaching strategy.Research limitations/implications The qualitative meta-synthesis intended to cover articles from 2012 to 2022. Between 2012 and 2013, the authors could not identify purely qualitative studies from sub-Saharan Africa. The studies identified were either mixed methods or purely quantitative. This constitutes a study limitation.Practical implications Findings emphasise educator training in SBE. Comprehensive multidisciplinary training, complemented by expertise and planned debriefing sessions, serves as a catalyst for fostering reflective learning. Well-equipped simulation infrastructure is essential in preparing students for their professional competencies for optimal patient outcomes. Additional research is imperative to improve the implementation of SBE in sub-Saharan Africa.Originality/value The originality and value of SBE in nursing and midwifery programs in sub-Saharan Africa lie in its contextual relevance, adaptation to resource constraints, innovative teaching methodologies, provision of a safe learning environment, promotion of interprofessional collaboration and potential for research and evidence generation. These factors contribute to advancing nursing and midwifery education and improving healthcare outcomes in the region. This study fills this gap in the literature.

The Role of Home Management in Suicidal Mediation among Undergraduates in Nigeria

This paper underscores the significance of home management in suicidal mediation especially among undergraduates in the three universities that offer Home Management in the Southeastern geopolitical zone in Nigeria. The Universities include, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, and Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki. The study adopts a descriptive survey design. The population comprises 173 respondents. This is made up of 126 students and 47 lecturers chosen from the universities. The entire populations were used as the sample of the study because of the manageable size. A 27-item questionnaire entitled, Questionnaire on Home Management Suicidal Mediation (QHMSM) was deployed to elicit data from the respondents. The instrument was validated by three experts. The instrument was subjected to Cronbach’s Alpha reliability method to determine the internal consistency which yielded a coefficient of 0.91. Data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions. The study revealed that provision of a stable environment through active Home Management for a child enables him experience a childhood filled with both love and bond which help to reduce suicidal mediation amongst undergraduates. The study recommends that parents should provide the basic needs of children, as these will boost their morale and prevent instability. Children should be engaged in positive habits and activities so as to reduce incidence of drug abuse and other social vices.

Users’ perception and satisfaction with library facilities, resources and services in Crawford University, Nigeria

The purpose of the study was to investigate the user’s perception and level of satisfaction with the facilities, resources, and services provided by Crawford University Library. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study, and the population of the study was one thousand six hundred (1,600) undergraduate students of Crawford University for the 2021–2022 academic year. A stratified random sampling technique was used to determine the sample size. A questionnaire was the instrument of data collection. Data generated were analysed using the statistical package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), and results were presented in descriptive and inferential statistics, frequency counts, simple percentages, means, standard deviations and charts. It was found that the majority of the undergraduate students at Crawford University were satisfied with the facilities, resources, and services provided to them by the library. Nonetheless, the study concluded and recommended that there should be improvement, especially in the areas of availability of newspapers, provision of a comfortable environment and quiet space, toilet facilities, and internet facilities. Also, maintenance culture should be upheld, and damaged equipment should be repaired or replaced, as a conducive environment will help to sustain a high level of user satisfaction among library users, among others.

Environmental Provisions in Trade Agreements

This article investigates the impact of environmental clauses in regional trade agreements on the international trade of CAN and MERCOSUR countries between 2001 and 2019. We use a gravity model estimated with the PPML estimator to analyze the relationship between environmental provisions in trade agreements and total exports. We find that the simple inclusion of environmental provisions does not have a significant effect on trade. However, the presence of a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) in the midst of compliance is associated with a negative and significant effect on total exports. This result is accentuated if the trade occurs in a South-North structure. This finding complements previous research and provides a more complete understanding of the impact of environmental clauses on international trade in the countries of the region.

Enforcing Sustainability

After the Lisbon Treaty, the European Union (EU) has prioritized sustainable development as a key aspect of its external trade and investment policy. This emphasis on sustainability has been reinforced through treaty- making and has received support from the Court of Justice of the European Union (cjeu). However, there are notable variations and nuances in the understanding and implementation of sustainability in the EU’s treaties. Moreover, these treaties introduce innovative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration and alternative dispute resolution methods, which can significantly impact international dispute settlement practices. Opinion 2/ 15 on the EU- Singapore Free Trade Agreement marked a crucial moment in clarifying the scope and nature of sustainable development chapters within the EU’s trade and investment policy. Different agreements concluded after the Lisbon Treaty reflect diverse approaches to sustainability. In the context of environmental protection, these agreements encompass a range of provisions, from generic to more specific clauses addressing particular aspects. This article critically analyzes the effectiveness and scope of “green conditionality” within the Sustainable Development Chapters of EU-established Trade and Investment Agreements. It examines the incorporation of environmental provisions in these agreements, evaluates their role in promoting sustainable development objectives, and explores the implications of dispute settlement and international arbitration mechanisms. This analysis aims to provide a cutting- edge perspective on the topic.

Safeguarding and Preserving Africa’s Ritual Objects in the Face of Modernity: The Mwaghavul Case

The focus of this paper is to study ritual objects among the Mwaghavul people and their preservation as heritage materials for posterity. The paper looks into the ritual objects of the Mwaghavul and the challenges facing their preservation. In doing this study, primary and secondary sources of data were used. While rituals and ritual objects represent a major defining attribute of the Mwaghavul people, most of these objects are now abandoned on hilltops or caves, forest and rock shelters, and at the mercy of bad weather conditions and agents of destruction like termite, fire, and other things that can destroy them naturally. The paper admonishes that these materials are the people's heritage that deserve preservation. The paper identifies globalization, stereotype, migration of young people into the cities, human and natural factors, and activities of heritage looters as some of the contributory factors. The paper however argues that the challenges can be addressed through public enlightenment, provision of conducive worship environments for adherents of traditional Mwaghavul religion, introduction of traditional religion into our school curriculum and provision of good places for the preservation of ritual objects. The paper concludes that as an important aspect of their culture, the Mwaghavul people should ensure that their ritual objects are safeguarded and preserved for posterity.

Title: Assessment of Student Perception Regarding Clinical Training in Undergraduate Dental Programs Using Clin Ed IQ.

Purpose. Clinical training is essential part of the dental curriculum. Both clinical environment and Teachers are essential factors which affect the acquired clinical skills. The objective was to assess the perceptions of dental students regarding their clinical training. Methods. This mixed method study using Clin Ed IQ questionnaire was conducted on Dental students graduating from both Private and Public sector institutes of Karachi. The questionnaire had four sections, the first three based on various aspect of clinical training, with responses based on 5-point Likert scale. Section four had open-ended items about dental curriculum. Results. For responses of 220 participants related to the first three sections, mean and standard deviation was calculated. Section two about Involvement in specific learning activities, had the lowest composite mean score (8.4). Results for all responses of agreement were tabulated as percentages. Overall, the scores were positive, with Section three regarding interaction with clinical instructors having highest positive responses. Dental graduates of Private sector institutes were more satisfied by their clinical training. Thematic analysis of open-ended questions yielded themes related to trained faculty, communication skills, patient safety skills, diversity, and integrated curriculum. Conclusion. The students of both types of institutes reported lack of diversity in clinical cases and deficient feedback from instructors as their major concern. However, the results showed a positive perception to their clinical experiences. Institutes and regulatory authorities should address areas of concern, to ensure provision of a holistic clinical learning environment to dental graduates.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES IN SERBIA AND THE VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD

Several aspects of the rights of the child depend on environment quality and conservation and the breach of environmental provisions may result in the violation of the rights of the child, either through criminal offences against environment, or through long-term application of environmental policies that are harmful for of the rights of the child or do not take into consideration the needs and best interest of the child. The authors analyse normative framework of the Republic of Serbia, including ratified international conventions as well as national legislative and strategic documents, pertinent to both children’s rights and environmental protection. The authors also analyse the data obtained from relevant reports describing current state of both - environmental and children’s rights protection in Serbia. The authors conclude that the rights of the child are not given enough attention in documents regulating environmental protection and sustainable development in the Republic of Serbia, particularly when it comes to children from marginalized groups living in substandard settlements.

Enforcing Sustainability: Assessing the Effectiveness of the EU’s Trade and Investment Policy in Promoting and Implementing Sustainable Development Provisions

After the Lisbon Treaty, the European Union (EU) has prioritized sustainable development as a key aspect of its external trade and investment policy. This emphasis on sustainability has been reinforced through treaty- making and has received support from the Court of Justice of the European Union (cjeu). However, there are notable variations and nuances in the understanding and implementation of sustainability in the EU’s treaties. Moreover, these treaties introduce innovative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration and alternative dispute resolution methods, which can significantly impact international dispute settlement practices. Opinion 2/ 15 on the EU- Singapore Free Trade Agreement marked a crucial moment in clarifying the scope and nature of sustainable development chapters within the EU’s trade and investment policy. Different agreements concluded after the Lisbon Treaty reflect diverse approaches to sustainability. In the context of environmental protection, these agreements encompass a range of provisions, from generic to more specific clauses addressing particular aspects. This article critically analyzes the effectiveness and scope of “green conditionality” within the Sustainable Development Chapters of EUestablished Trade and Investment Agreements. It examines the incorporation of environmental provisions in these agreements, evaluates their role in promoting sustainable development objectives, and explores the implications of dispute settlement and international arbitration mechanisms. This analysis aims to provide a cutting- edge perspective on the topic.

Environmental Provisions in ASEAN Investment Agreements: Reserving Member States’ Right to Regulate Environmental Issues

Environmental Provisions in ASEAN Investment Agreements: Reserving Member States’ Right to Regulate Environmental Issues

Repositioning Universal Basic Education: A Need For Teachers Retraining And Motivation For National Development

Motivation is the driving force that generates and sustains action towards the achievement of a set goal. It is closely related and affects teachers’ efficiency and effectiveness in the classroom, which have far reaching implications for national transformation since the teacher is the live wire of education enterprise. This paper delves into the place of motivation for repositioning Universal Basic Education (UBE) for national transformation. The status of UBE teachers’ motivation was portrayed in relation to motivational factors and it is evident that UBE teachers lack proper motivation and this affects their service delivery negatively. The lack of motivation among UBE teachers is evidence in the poor and irregular payment of salaries as well as lack of incentives; work overload, poor teaching environment and facilities as well as low status of teachers in the society. The paper also elucidated the roles of motivation in teaching profession for national transformation. These roles include: Production of goal-oriented teacher; production of conscientious and pain-staking teacher; helps to make a teacher maintain a friendly classroom environment; and helps to check brain drain in the teaching profession. Suggested strategies for motivating UBE teachers for national transformation include: enhancement and prompt payment of teachers’ salaries and allowances; provision of car and housing loans; provision of free medical services for teachers and their children/wards; provision of free and compulsory in-service training, and provision of better teaching and learning environment in UBE school. Conclusion was drawn.
 
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Eco-Criminological Security as a New Type of National Security

The issues of ensuring national security in general as well as its specific types are now regarded as basic and defining for the life of modern society. In this sense, the provision of a safe natural environment for the person, the society and the state is the solution to the global problem of surviving and preserving life on Earth. The doctrine of national security shapes the modern criminal policy of the state. The processes of changing the world order in the last decade have posed the task of changing the paradigm of criminal policy. The concept of national security is at the stage of formation, the theoretical concept is already developed but the research of specific types of national security started relatively recently. It is especially true regarding the theories emerging through the contact of specific types of security and forming new structurally complex forms of interaction. This article presents the author’s views on the expediency of singling out the eco-criminological security as an independent area of scientific research. The complex emerging through the partial juxtaposition of ecological and criminological security is characterized by internal integrity and its thorough research helps create new knowledge that will make it possible to change the existing strategy and increase the effectiveness of ensuring a safe natural environment. A working definition of eco-criminological security that corresponds to the modern legislative and doctrinal approaches is presented for discussion in the research community. The author proves the need for a holistic research concept of ensuring eco-criminological security that will provide the systematization of the existing doctrinal works within a topical criminological paradigm. The author also presents her own vision of the object and subject of eco-criminological security as a new type of national security. It is suggested that the object of the theory of eco-criminological security should include six basic problems whose solution will provide protection for the most valuable rights and freedoms of the individual, the society and the state in the sphere of nature protection and sustainable use of natural resources. It is believed that the core of the eco-criminological security is the right to a favorable natural environment as a paramount value for the individual, the society and the state within the sphere of protection against criminal threats. The development of the presented research field is possible through a large-scale application of the principles of integrative criminological knowledge.

Integration of xeno-free single-cell cloning in CRISPR-mediated DNA editing of human iPSCs improves homogeneity and methodological efficiency of cellular disease modeling

The capability to generate induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines, in tandem with CRISPR-Cas9 DNA editing, offers great promise to understand the underlying genetic mechanisms of human disease. The low efficiency of available methods for homogeneous expansion of singularized CRISPR-transfected iPSCs necessitates the coculture of transfected cells in mixed populations and/or on feeder layers. Consequently, edited cells must be purified using labor-intensive screening and selection, culminating in inefficient editing. Here, we provide a xeno-free method for single-cell cloning of CRISPRed iPSCs achieving a clonal survival of up to 70% within 7-10days. This is accomplished through improved viability of the transfected cells, paralleled with provision of an enriched environment for the robust establishment and proliferation of singularized iPSC clones. Enhanced cell survival was accompanied by a high transfection efficiency exceeding 97%, and editing efficiencies of 50%-65% for NHEJ and 10% for HDR, indicative of the method's utility in stem cell disease modeling.

Sustainable development and the environment in EU and Japanese free trade agreements: embedding anthropocentric narratives

ABSTRACT New generation’ free trade agreements now include ‘Trade and Sustainable Development’ (TSD) chapters designed to improve environmental provisions within overall trading arrangements. The wide-ranging European Union (EU)-Japan agreement of 2018 represents the culmination of a trend towards the greater inclusion of such TSD elements, and, as it covers one-third of global GDP, the significance of this agreement for trading relations cannot be understated. Comparing it with other agreements involving Japan and the EU, I argue that greater attention to sustainable development in trade connections, notwithstanding tangible significant environmental improvements, further embeds an anthropocentric narrative of trade-environment linkages and supports a ‘win–win’ linkage between enhancing economic growth and ensuring environmental protections. Through an eco-centric critique, I seek to challenge the fundamental anthropocentric assumptions underpinning such inclusions and explore the ways in which the language of environmental protection and climate change has been depoliticised by a particular framing of sustainable development.

International Obligations Calling for Constitutional Protection of the Right to a Healthy Environment

The international recognition of a universal right to a healthy environment is reaching its pinnacle. At least 156 States have recognised this right through the adoption of international treaties and 161 States have recognised it through their endorsement of UN General Assembly Resolution 76/300. While codified in several regional agreements, the right is not binding on all States through treaty law. The European Convention on Human Rights makes no explicit reference to the environment which might lead to the conclusion that States Parties are under no obligation to implement a right to a healthy environment into their domestic legal systems. However, the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights indicates that this right may be a precondition to the enjoyment of other rights safeguarded by the Convention. Furthermore, it may be becoming universally binding as a standalone right under customary international law. This article concludes that various international obligations require States to ensure an explicit or implicit right to a healthy environment and that such a right should enjoy constitutional status. It explains that elements of the right may be implicitly embedded in constitutions even if they have no environmental provisions, as is the case of the Icelandic constitution. However, that is not an appropriate implementation of the standalone right to a healthy environment.

Analysis of the relationship of CRM-based library services with head librarians' personal and academic variables: a survey of university libraries in Pakistan

Purpose This study aimed to examine the relationship between customer relationship management (CRM)-based library services and head librarians' personal and academic variables. The status of CRM-based library services in the university libraries of Pakistan was also assessed.Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey research design and quantitative research approach were applied. A structured questionnaire was emailed to the heads librarians of all university libraries recognized by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, and the response rate was 74 percent.Findings The analysis showed that a relationship to CRM-based library services was confirmed by the head librarians' age, academic qualification, professional experience, CRM awareness and training. Moreover, several CRM-based library services such as face-to-face interaction, current awareness services, orientation for new users, coordination through e-mail services, special goodwill to regular users, make telephone calls, complaints/suggestions boxes, online services, provision of a conducive learning environment, user education, selective dissemination of information services, users' participation in the collection and service development, ask a librarian services and users' help desk services were currently being practiced by the university libraries.Originality/value This study is a valuable resource for developing user-centered library services and culture. Findings are helpful in enhancing CRM applications in libraries and making their users satisfied and loyal. This study makes a significant contribution to the body of literature and knowledge on library CRM.

Legal regulation of the digital environment: digitization of the state-legal and law enforcement sphere

The rapid development of society and the impact of information technology have significantly changed the legal field and contributed to the creation of a legal framework for the digital environment. Successful development of digital relations in Ukraine requires effective legislative regulation. The favorable appearance of this process is determined by effective strategic planning, active participation of the government and an appropriate legal framework. From this point of view, it is considered important to consider issues of legal regulation of the digital environment in the context of the activities of state and law enforcement agencies. The purpose of the work is to research the regulatory and legal provision of the digital environment with an emphasis on the regulation of digitalization of state legal and law enforcement activities. Research methodology includes such methods as: historical, systematization, analysis and synthesis, structural-functional and comparative analysis. The result of the scientific analysis of scientific research and regulatory and legal regulation of the relevant relations was the study of the legal plane of digital transformations in Ukraine. Internal legislative norms were studied, relevant laws aimed at digitization were analyzed, their purpose was determined; the existing legislative basis for building a digital society and economy in Ukraine is highlighted. The analysis of strategic documents on digitalization in the spheres of public administration and law enforcement was carried out. The internal concepts of the development of e-government have been studied. The experience of foreign countries in the regulation of the digital environment and electronic management was studied, progressive means of regulation of the studied issues abroad were determined.

Ungrading: The Case for Abandoning Institutionalized Assessment Protocols and Improving Pedagogical Strategies

Our current grading system assumes everyone starts at approximately the same place. This assumption presumes uniformity and impartiality to be inherent in our school system. We argue that this is not the case. This work explores the evolution of grading systems and the integration of new technologies in education, focusing on the development of more inclusive, dynamic, and adaptable teaching and assessment strategies. Key methods include diversified assessments, experiential learning approaches such as problem-based learning and the generated question learning model, and the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) in hyperflex learning strategies. The proposed work astutely identifies the critical flaws within the modern grading system and puts forth a compelling solution: shifting the focus towards assessing students’ improvement scores. This approach not only offers a progressive path forward, but also significantly enhances equity by holding students accountable for their knowledge gaps while promoting a more comprehensive evaluation. Additionally, creative engagement techniques, such as mock banking reward systems, are employed to enhance student motivation and participation. AI-facilitated formative assessments and personalized learning plans are also discussed, emphasizing the importance of real-time insights into student progress and the provision of flexible personalized learning environments. This comprehensive approach to education fosters student ownership of learning, promotes active participation, and equips students with essential lifelong learning skills. Moreover, a more accurate assessment of student learning and progress would be fostered, thus creating a paradigm shift from the currently flawed grading system.

Provisions regarding organizational and social work environment and future sickness absence in Sweden

Abstract Background Sickness absence is high among healthcare employees in many European countries, including Sweden. In addition to physical workload, the importance of psychosocial work factors for this is emphasized. To promote a good psychosocial work environment, provisions on organisational and social work environment, mandatory to all work sectors, was launched in 2016 in Sweden. We compared sickness absence (SA) due to mental diagnoses two years before and two years after these provisions were introduced, among healthcare employees, employed by the municipality, the region, or private organisations. Methods Register microdata were used for analyses of all employees in the healthcare sector in Sweden in 2014 (N = 260,709) and in 2018 (N = 277,901). The odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) of new SA (in SA spells >14 days) and of long-term SA (>90 days) with a mental diagnosis in 2018 compared to 2014 were calculated, using logistic regression. Results The ORs of new SA and long-term SA with mental diagnoses among healthcare employees were somewhat higher in 2018 than in 2014 (OR = 1.14; 95% CI 1.11-1.17), (OR = 1.12; 1.07-1.17). The OR for the private sector for a new SA spell was 1.11; 1.02-1.19, and for the regional sector, OR 1.05; 1.01-1.08. The highest probability of long-term SA with mental diagnoses in 2018 compared to 2014 was found among employees in the municipal sector, OR 1.33, CI; 1.11-1.61, and in the private sector, OR 1.15, CI; 1.03-1.29. Discussion The mandatory provisions aim to promote good work environment and prevent risks of ill health due to organisational and social conditions at work. We observed a somewhat higher probability of SA with mental diagnoses two years after the provisions were introduced. SA due to mental diagnoses is influenced by many factors of which psychosocial work environment is only one part and maybe longer follow-ups are needed. Key messages • Sickness absence due to mental diagnoses among healthcare employees was somewhat higher two years after the introduction of an organisational and social work environment provision. • Many factors influence sickness absence with mental diagnoses; other factors and longer follow-ups are needed to gain knowledge on possible effects of the work environment provision.

The role of bridging programmes in supporting student persistence and prevention of attrition: a UK case study

ABSTRACT Social mobility, and in particular, intergenerational mobility, can be driven by increased opportunities for extended education. Movement beyond a family’s social class will often see positive changes to overall life satisfaction, however, this movement can introduce feelings of alienation. This in turn can lead to detachment either from the social group or, more likely, from the educational provision. As such, institutions are spending time and resources to investigate strategies for retention. This study looks at the impact of foundation year bridging programmes and the potential they have to increase course retention and persistence of students. A retrospective statistical analysis of seven academic years (using chi square) highlighted that completion of a foundation year bridging programme before a traditional undergraduate degree increased the likelihood of persistency and decreased the attrition rate of students from low participation neighbourhoods. These findings, when considered alongside seminal theoretical frameworks such as Spady, Pascarella, and Tinto, confirm the role which family and social background must play in a student’s ability to complete an undergraduate degree. Family and other social support networks are known to play a role in the provision of a supportive environment for students and the undertaking of a bridging programme allows time for the adaptation and development of new friendship groups and increase a family’s familiarity with the pressures of higher education. Higher education providers may, therefore, be able to begin to tackle attrition and improve their course retention through family education and through the encouragement of social integration via bridging programmes.