Exploratory Design Research Articles

POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AND PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK FACTORS IN FIRST RESPONSE WORKERS TO EMERGENCIES. MIXED METHOD.

First responders to emergencies are exposed to various risks, including psychosocial risk factors. Caring for patients in critical situations, experiencing traumatic events, and working under highly complex conditions increase their probability of developing mental disorders, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The objective of the study was to determine the relationship between PTSD and psychosocial risk factors and to understand the experiences of the disorder in this population. An explanatory sequential mixed method research design was used. The quantitative phase was an analytical cross-sectional observational study (n = 193), and the qualitative phase was phenomenological (n = 5). The psychosocial risk factors that best explained the presence of PTSD symptoms were the influence of non-work conditions on work, religion, emotional avoidance, and professional support as individual factors related to coping strategies. Individual factors such as coping strategies were determining factors that explained the symptoms of PTSD, and the influence of non-work conditions on work. It was identified that the demands of the job and the organizational factors, such as leadership style and lack of institutional support, generate anguish in workers and affect their ability to regulate their emotions when exposed to critical incidents.

The cognitive alignment of mathematics teachers’ assessments and its curriculum

This study aims to explore how the cognitive level alignment between the teachers’ assessments and Mathematics curriculum in Indonesia related to students’ higher order thinking skills (HOTS) development. The study adopted a descriptive exploratory design with a qualitative approach. The participants of this study were 15 high school mathematics teachers from Malang City and the Nganjuk district. Data were collected from the results of the assessments and indicators of the mathematics curriculum used by teachers. The data collected were analyzed using Anderson & Krathwohl’s Taxonomy to determine the alignment of the cognitive level from assessments and curriculum. In the semi-structured interview session, we recorded teachers’ responses who were able to construct HOTS-based assessments. Our findings showed: i) mathematics indicators primarily targeted students’ thinking skills at the low cognitive level, namely applying; ii) teachers’ assessments were more dominant at the low cognitive level, and there was no assessment at create level; and iii) the alignment of the cognitive level was relatively low for the HOTS category. The study findings can be used to improve curriculum and assessment in education. They can also be used as reflections for Mathematics teachers on the importance of aligning the cognitive level, especially that develop students’ HOTS.

Analysis of the structural relationship emotional regulation, academic procrastination, and academic burnout

<span lang="EN-US">Academic burnout (AB) is a problem that many students are currently facing since the online learning policy was implemented. This research aims to analyze the structural relationship between emotional regulation (ER), academic procrastination (AP), and student AB. This research used ex post facto causal relationship explanatory design. The research subjects were 417 high school students in East Java. The sampling was cluster random sampling technique. The data analysis technique used the Rasch model and structural equation modelling (SEM). The results showed that there was a significant relationship between ER and AP and AB. The implication of findings on the school guidance and counselling program is that the counsellors must pay attention to the factors that contribute to student AB so that counselling services can be designed to prevent student AB.</span>

M-fisheries prototype: Innovating towards evidence-based planning and decision-making in marine fisheries management

Kenya’s marine fisheries sector has the potential for increased growth. However, fisheries managers in Kenya currently face the challenge of poor, missing or aggregated catch data. This paper explores Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-based solutions in the fisheries sector. The study adopts exploratory research design. It reports a review and analysis of two ICT-based solutions in the fisheries sector, conducted in the year 2020. From the analysis, the study proposes the development of M-Fisheries Prototype, as an answer to the challenges of the two reviewed solutions. The prototype introduces an SMS/USSD app for data collection. The SMS/USSD app aligns to the mobile-rich but internet-poor context of the fish landing sites, as it addresses the challenges of the other mobile-based systems that only require the use of smartphones. These challenges include infrastructural accessibility, technical usability and internet data costs.

Social Media for Conflict Escalation and De –Escalation: Two Sides of a Coin

Communication may be said to be "the conveying or shifting of information by speaking, writing or using some of the other media" (Oxford, 2021). Without communication, there will not be conflict. Conflict is a state when units of intercourse agents are in dissension. When two agreeing parties’ dissent, the conflict has happened. The term conflict is relative as its usage spans across different segments, sectors, institutions and areas of life. Conflict escalation refers to the spreading of minor disagreement between parties. Conflict de-escalation refers to the process of reducing the tension of any conflict, especially by not allowing it to be more destructive or going beyond the level it is. Social media is also part of the media type that is majorly centered on technological advancement. Examples of social media we have include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, google chat room, Eskimi, telegram, WhatsApp, Part of the profitable components of social media is that. A varied group of people use social media to formulate trouble. They use the medium to starts conflict and also use it to escalate it. The research procedure embraced was exploratory research design. Secondary reference of data was used. However, the study examines Glasl's conflict escalation model to properly understands how minor disagreement escalate to large scale conflict. This paper base its theoretical argument on the theory called “The Role of Resource Mobilisation Theory in Social Movement. Another theory to look at is the C - Escalation and D - Escalation A theory of the time dynamics of conflict by Randall Collins. Authority to fashion a bill directing social media usage. The paper concluded that every authority to fashion a bill directing social media usage.

Sexual functioning is not, but psychological burden is predictive for receiving help in pelvic physical therapy practice: A cross-sectional study

Background Pelvic floor complaints are common among women and often accompanied by sexual dysfunction and psychological burden. They are also associated with pregnancy and childbirth. However, not all women with these complaints receive help in pelvic physical therapy practice. This study explored if pregnancy, parity, pelvic floor complaints, sexual functioning, and psychological burden are predictive of receiving help in pelvic physical therapy practice. Methods In a cross-sectional exploratory design, women completed an online survey about pelvic floor complaints, sexual function, and psychological burden. Binary logistic analysis was used to analyze the predictive value of the above-mentioned factors. Results Data from 542 participants were analyzed. Pregnancy and parity, PFC severity, psychological burden, and the interaction between pelvic floor complaints and psychological burden were significant predictors of receiving help. Against expectations, sexual functioning was not predictive of receiving help. Conclusions Women’s psychological burden is an important factor in determining if or when women receive help in PPT practice. More research is needed to unravel the role of sexual functioning in the context of pelvic floor complaints and women’s psychological burden. More insight into this area of expertise could possibly improve and enhance pelvic health care for women with pelvic floor complaints.

Optimal sand transport roadbed geometry structure of Taklamakan Desert highway

In order to obtain the optimal geometric structure for sand transport in desert roads, this study fully utilizes the natural sand transport capacity of the desert roads, aiming to reduce occurrences of road damage due to sand burial. The research integrates Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) with optimization analysis theory. Various typical geometric structures of desert highway roadbed were modeled using the Design Exploration module in CFD. Optimization analysis methods were employed to model and compute the sediment transport optimization design on both the roadbed and road surface. Then, the initial sample points are obtained by using the Design of Experiments (DOE), and the response surface is established by using the Kriging model to obtain the change trend of the input parameters and the objective function. Finally, the cross-section parameters of the sediment transport subgrade corresponding to different inflow conditions are obtained. The results show that the sediment transport performance of embankment, cutting and semi-filled uphill subgrade is negatively correlated with the height of subgrade. The relationship between slope gradient and sediment transport performance of subgrade depends on the height of subgrade and the type of subgrade section. For embankment and cutting, when the subgrade height is less than 0.5 m, the sediment transport performance of the subgrade is positively correlated with the subgrade slope; however, when the subgrade height exceeds 0.5 m, the sediment transport performance is negatively correlated with the subgrade slope. For the semi-filled uphill flow subgrade, the sediment transport performance of the subgrade is negatively correlated with the subgrade slope. Comprehensive analysis shows that semi-filled and excavated downhill subgrade has the best sand transport performance, embankment subgrade has the second highest sand transport capacity, then cutting subgrades, while semi-filled and excavated uphill subgrade has the worst sand transport performance. The research conclusions provide valuable scientific guidance for the design of sand control embankment structures tailored to local conditions for desert highways. This is of significant importance for enhancing the sediment transport capacity of desert highways and prolonging their service life.

Awareness and Knowledge Level of Puerperal Mothers on Neonatal Jaundice: A Qualitative Study in Northern Ghana

Background: Neonatal Jaundice is a major contributing cause of newborn hospitalizations and a major cause of newborn mortality. It should not be a major cause of mortality even in developing countries Inadequate knowledge of mothers about NNJ results in delayed decision-making to seek timely medical interventions. Methods: Using an exploratory design, a semi-structured interview guide was used to assess puerperal mothers' knowledge of NNJ. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 15 mothers Too small size attend health services at the Tamale West Hospital with newborns sick of NNJ. An interview guide through an in-depth interview process was used to gather data. Interviews were recorded and transcribed before analyzing thematically to organize the data into major and sub-themes. Results: Awareness of NNJ was above average, the majority of mothers had knowledge of NNJ. Reported signs and symptoms of NNJ include yellowish eyes, palms, and skin. Treatment of jaundice was cited to include the use of phototherapy, and frequent breastfeeding. Causes and risk factors associated were; infections, G6PD defects, and consumption of herbal concoctions. Conclusions: Health education should be intensified at the various units of the hospital to correct cultural and religious practices and improve caregivers' and mothers understanding of NNJ.

How Do Identities of Afro-Colombian Women from The Community Council of San Andrés Village Contribute to Their Community Development

Identity leads to conditionate actions in context, and these actions can contribute to community development. This paper will present a historical overview of afro-women in Colombia; will describe how afro-women from the Afrodescendant Community Council of San Andrés village identify themselves. Based on this, the main goal of this research is to discover how afro-women contribute to community development based on their self-identity conception. The research is done following a mixed method with an exploratory sequential design, applying qualitative and quantitative analysis. A new finding is presented that evidences individual and collective identity and their historical and current contribution to the community development of the Afrodescendant Community Council of San Andrés village.

Efficacy of Digital Pricing Strategies on Customer Buying Decisions in the ECommerce Industry: A PLS-SEM Approach

E-commerce is a vital component of global retail sustainability, expanding at a rate of 14% annually, fuelled by increased internet adoption (55%), with over five billion users worldwide. In Africa, e-commerce revenues have surged to $31.18 million, with Nigeria’s Business to Consumer (B2C) index hitting 53.2 points and boasting a 55% internet penetration rate in 2023, ranking fourth highest on the continent. The globalisation of markets has exposed ecommerce companies to economic downturns, compelling them to adopt strategic pricing approaches to ensure sustained profitability and competitiveness. Consumers have become more price-sensitive, emphasising the need for firms to accurately gauge pricing sensitivity to influence purchasing decisions effectively. This research explores how ecommerce stores utilise digital pricing strategies to impact the purchasing behaviour of Gen Z consumers in Nigeria. By employing an exploratory research design, the study utilised an online survey distributed through Google Form, targeting tech-savvy Gen Z consumers, who represent over 85% of the 384-sample size derived using the Borden sampling model. By being guided by the theory of planned behaviour, the PLS-SEM model indicates that special event pricing (0.433, 91.8% effect), sample product pricing (0.236, 85.0% effect), and loss leader pricing (0.236, 93% effect) significantly impact Gen Z’s consumer patronage (62.4%). Furthermore, product lining pricing (0.457, 93.7% high effect), captive pricing (0.161, 96.21% high effect), and optional pricing strategy (0.252, 96.0% medium effect) influence Gen Z’s online purchase satisfaction (67.2%). This underscores the importance of digital pricing strategies in shaping Gen Z’s online purchase behaviour. The research recommends the need for online stores to incorporate promotional and product mix strategies in business tactics; governments should monitor fair pricing practices, and online retailers should educate consumers about pricing strategies to foster informed purchasing decisions. The research acknowledges potential biases in data collection, stemming from unequal online access among Gen Z consumers, resulting in a partial representation of the diverse range of Gen Z behaviours across the continent, as various cultural, economic, and social factors can influence purchasing behaviours.

Development and psychometric properties of an instrument to measure perception of aphrodisiac use among undergraduates in a southwestern Nigerian university.

A tool to measure perception of aphrodisiac use by undergraduates students of University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria was developed and validated. The study was hinged on several theories that could explain potential to use aphrodisiac among the youths. An exploratory mixed methods design was used to develop a scale to measure perception of aphrodisiac use by undergraduate students of University of Ibadan. Qualitative data collection was performed among thirty equally represented male and female students and five key informant interview participants while 919 participants completed the quantitative phase (surveys). Integration of matched qualitative themes from FGD/KII to survey domains was achieved through the 'building approach'. Qualitative themes assessing perceptions of aphrodisiac use by university undergraduate students were used to develop original survey items as well as new survey items peculiar to research subjects. Exploratory factor analysis was deployed on polychoric correlation matrix of the items using R-statistical packages. Further model fit analysis was conducted using confirmatory factor analysis on the items suggested by EFA as well as composite reliability and construct validity tests for the constructs. Mean Z-scores of factors were computed against socio-demographics and symptoms of aphrodisiac use among respondents that have ever used it. Most respondents (84.3%) were under 25 years, mostly male (58.4%) and singles (96.3%), with 41.3% earning ≤20,000 naira monthly. The enhanced content validity of the items from mixed method analysis yielded two major domains. Two succession of factor analyses and a structural equation modeling suggested that a first-order model is good fit for experimental data (TLI = 0.931; CFI = 0.948; SRMR = 0.047; RMSEA = 0.083). The four-factor solution to the model included: prolonged sexual performance, use without erectile dysfunction or medical advice, treatment of erectile dysfunction and recreational purposes with an internal and composite reliability that ranged from 0.62-0.92 and 0.63-0.92. The validation with socio-demographics and consequences of aphrodisiac use indicated that: Male respondents, those older than 20years, the married, those from poorly educated parent and sufferers of all related consequences had statistically significant differences with poor perception of aphrodisiac use' domains. This validated instrument is good for assessment of perception of aphrodisiac use among students in tertiary institution albeit with caution. A version of the scale that is broadened with highly refined items and tested for high internal validity is suggested.

Efficiency enhancement techniques in finite element analysis: navigating complexity for agile design exploration

Purpose This paper aims to comprehensively explore techniques for reducing solution time in finite element analysis (FEA), addressing the critical need for expediting computations to facilitate agile design exploration within project timelines. Design/methodology/approach Drawing from a wide array of literature sources, this paper synthesizes and analyzes various methodologies used to enhance the efficiency of FEA. Techniques are scrutinized in terms of their applicability, effectiveness and potential limitations. Findings The review signifies application of linear assumptions across multiple facets of analysis and delves into matrix order reduction strategies, geometry simplification, symmetry exploitation, submodeling and mesh attribute control. It reveals how these techniques can effectively reduce computational burdens while maintaining acceptable levels of accuracy. Research limitations/implications While this review provides a comprehensive overview of existing efficiency enhancement techniques in FEA, it acknowledges inherent limitations of any synthesis-based study. Future research should focus on refining these methodologies. Practical implications The insights provided in this paper offer practical guidance for structural engineers and researchers seeking to optimize FEA workflows. By implementing these techniques, practitioners can expedite solution times and enhance their ability to explore design alternatives efficiently ultimately leading to cost savings and more robust structures. Originality/value This review contributes to the existing literature by offering a comprehensive synthesis of efficiency enhancement techniques in FEA. By highlighting the originality and value of each discussed methodology, this paper provides a roadmap for future research and practical implementation in the field of structural engineering.

SENSE-ational schools: physical literacy enriched opportunities for students with neurodiversity

ABSTRACT Purpose Given the various social, physical, and environmental factors at play during a physical education (PE) class, some components of the PE experience can be overstimulating for individuals with neurodiversity. There have been repeated calls to action for the creation of inclusive experiences for all children in schools, however, very few have examined inclusive movement experiences across various movement contexts in schools (e.g. PE, recess, hallways, before/after school, etc.). This study reports on the SENSE-ational schools program as a model of an inclusive pedagogical approach for students with neurodiversity across school movement contexts. Data collection/analysis An exploratory case study design was used to examine inclusive practices within 4 elementary schools (grades K-5). Observations were grouped into four thematic categories: (1) School staff communication and engagement; (2) ‘Soft landings’; (3) Pre-teaching and reflective practice; (4) Lesson plans and equipment as a tool to support pedagogy. Findings Consistent with a physical literacy enriched pedagogy approach, the SENSE-ational schools program provided an opportunity for individualized movement journeys regardless of student level of ability or interest. The multiple success pathways for each individual student, afforded by different equipment deployed and strategies implemented, allowed for all students to feel successful in shared movement experiences. The SENSE-ational schools program is illustrated as a ‘best practice’ exemplar of inclusion for students with neurodiversity.

Determinants and Factors of Physical Activity After Oncology Treatments (DEFACTO) in Metropolitan France: Protocol of a Mixed Methods Study and Intervention.

While the scientific community widely recognizes the benefits of physical activity (PA) in oncology supportive care, cancer survivors who have undergone chemo- or radio-immunotherapy treatments struggle to meet PA recommendations. This underscores the importance of identifying factors influencing active lifestyle adoption and maintenance and proposing a multilevel model (micro-, meso-, and macrolevel) to better understand facilitators and barriers. Currently, no socioecological model explains an active lifestyle in the posttreatment phase of breast, colorectal, prostate, and lung cancers. The objective is to identify factors influencing an active lifestyle in cancer survivorship and assess the feasibility of an individualized program targeting an active lifestyle. The objectives will be addressed in 3 stages. Stage 1 aims to elucidate factors associated with the active lifestyle of cancer survivors. Stage 2 involves developing an explanatory model based on previously identified factors to create a tailored health education program for an active lifestyle after oncology treatments. Stage 3 aims to evaluate the feasibility and potential effects of this personalized health education program after its national implementation. First, the exploration of factors influencing PA (stage 1) will be based on a mixed methods approach, using an explanatory sequential design and multilevel analysis. The quantitative phase involves completing a questionnaire from a socioecological perspective. Subsequently, a subset of respondents will engage in semistructured interviews to aid in interpreting the quantitative results. This phase aims to construct a model of the factors influencing an active lifestyle and develop an individualized 12-week program based on our earlier findings (stage 2). In stage 3, we will implement our multicenter, multimodal program for 150 physically inactive and sedentary cancer survivors across metropolitan France. Program feasibility will be evaluated. Measured PA level by connected device and multidimensional variables such as declared PA and sedentary behaviors, PA readiness, motivation, PA preferences, PA knowledge and skills, and barriers and facilitators will be assessed before and during the program and 52 weeks afterward. The institutional review board approved the mixed methods study (phase 1) in April 2020, and the intervention (phase 3) was approved in March 2022. Recruitment and data collection commenced in April 2022, with intervention implementation concluded in May 2023. Data collection and full analysis are expected to be finalized by July 2024. The Determinants and Factors of Physical Activity After Oncology Treatments (DEFACTO) study seeks to enhance our understanding, within our socioecological model, of factors influencing an active lifestyle among cancer survivors and to assess whether a tailored intervention based on this model can support an active lifestyle. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05354882; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05354882. DERR1-10.2196/52274.

Individual differences in learning agility at work: A mixed methods study to develop and validate a new scale

AbstractThe unprecedented complexity of today's business and working environment increases the need for leaders and employees to learn new skills, be adaptable, and open to embracing change. New abilities and mindsets emerge, and their evaluation is challenging. This research utilized an exploratory sequential mixed methods design to develop and provide a preliminary validation of a scale measuring individual differences in learning agility (LA) at work. The measure has been tested in Central‐Eastern European countries, Italy, and Egypt. Results showed satisfactory reliability and nomological validity. The final scale of 11 items provides HRD researchers and practitioners with a reliable and concise tool suitable for investigating individual differences in LA across different job roles and positions. The scale has been tested in a cross‐cultural setting and is available in English, making it especially appropriate for multinational contexts.

Examining the Effectiveness of Interactive Webtoons for Premature Birth Prevention: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Premature birth poses significant health challenges globally, impacting infants, families, and society. Despite recognition of its contributing factors, efforts to reduce its incidence have seen limited success. A notable gap exists in the awareness among women of childbearing age (WCA) regarding both the risks of premature birth and the preventative measures they can take. Research suggests that enhancing health beliefs and self-management efficacy in WCA could foster preventive health behaviors. Interactive webtoons offer an innovative, cost-effective avenue for delivering engaging, accessible health education aimed at preventing premature birth. This protocol describes a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of a novel, self-guided, web-based intervention-Pregnancy Story I Didn't Know in Interactive Webtoon Series (PSIDK-iWebtoons)-designed to enhance self-management efficacy and promote behaviors preventing premature birth in WCA. Using an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, this study first conducts a quantitative analysis followed by a qualitative inquiry to evaluate outcomes and feasibility. Participants are randomly assigned to 2 groups: one accessing the PSIDK-iWebtoons and the other receiving Pregnancy Story I Didn't Know in Text-Based Information (PSIDK-Texts) over 3 weeks. We measure primary efficacy through the self-management self-efficacy scale for premature birth prevention (PBP), alongside secondary outcomes including perceptions of susceptibility, severity, benefits, and barriers based on the health belief model for PBP and PBP intention. Additional participant-reported outcomes are assessed at baseline, the postintervention time point, and the 4-week follow-up. The feasibility of the intervention is assessed after the end of the 3-week intervention period. Outcome analysis uses repeated measures ANOVA for quantitative data, while qualitative data are explored through content analysis of interviews with 30 participants. The study received funding in June 2021 and institutional review board approval in October 2023. Both the PSIDK-iWebtoons and PSIDK-Texts interventions have been developed and pilot-tested from July to November 2023, with the main phase of quantitative data collection running from November 2023 to March 2024. Qualitative data collection commenced in February 2024 and will conclude in May 2024. Ongoing analyses include process evaluation and data interpretation. This trial will lay foundational insights into the nexus of interactive web-based interventions and the improvement of knowledge and practices related to PBP among WCA. By demonstrating the efficacy and feasibility of a web-based, interactive educational tool, this study will contribute essential evidence to the discourse on accessible and scientifically robust digital platforms. Positive findings will underscore the importance of such interventions in fostering preventive health behaviors, thereby supporting community-wide efforts to mitigate the risk of premature births through informed self-management practices. Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) KCT0008931; https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/detailSearch.do?seq=25857. DERR1-10.2196/58326.

Evaluating a Trauma-Informed Care Training Program for Mental Health Clinicians

AbstractThe aim of this study was to evaluate the interRAI Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) training program based on evidence-informed Collaborative Action Plans. Focus groups and the Attitude Related Trauma-Informed Care (ARTIC) questionnaire addressed clinicians’ and mental health professionals’ attitudes toward the application of TIC with their child and youth clients. An explanatory sequential design was conducted. In total, 105 clinicians and mental health professionals who participated in a 4-hour, in-person or virtual TIC training, two comprehensive seminars, and 28 trauma-informed training web-based modules completed the ARTIC questionnaire. Researchers conducted seven focus groups with clinicians/participants (N = 23) to discuss the views and effectiveness of the interRAI TIC educational training modules. To quantitatively measure the change of attitudes towards TIC, descriptive statistical analysis was completed using the means and standard deviation of the ARTIC scores at the initial time point, the follow-up time point, and the difference between scores at both time points. Paired sample t-tests were conducted on both the overall score and each of the subscales in each of the three samples (total sample, online subsample, and hybrid subsample). A thematic analysis was conducted to generate qualitative findings from the focus groups. Findings from the quantitative and qualitative analyses suggest that the interRAI TIC training provided clinicians with an improved sense of knowledge and ability to apply trauma-informed care planning with their clients.

The Link between Capital Adequacy and Financial Stability: Evidence from Deposit Taking Savings and Credit Co-Operative Societies in Kenya

In Kenya, financial stability of Deposit Taking (DT) Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) as evident in non-performing loans of DT SACCOS has been an issue of concern over the past few years due to evidence indication fluctuating trends. Consequently, should this continue then this sector’s contribution to financial intermediation through provision of financial services will be negatively affected. Though DT SACCOs have sought to enhance their capital adequacy, its effect on enhancement of financial stability remains an issue for further empirical investigation. In view this, the study sought to investigate the effect of capital adequacy on financial stability of DT SACCOS in Kenya. The study was anchored on agency theory. Positivist research philosophy was adopted in this study. The study adopted explanatory research design. The target population for the study comprised 160 DT SACCOs which were fully operational in the period. A census approach was used for the study. This study utilized quantitative secondary data which was obtained from the society’s financial statements and supervision reports from the savings and credit cooperatives regulatory authority. The study utilized annual panel data for the period of 2017 to 2021. Multicollinearity test, normality tests, autocorrelation test, homoscedasticity, stationarity test and model specification test were carried out prior to panel data analysis. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation analysis and panel regression analysis. STATA software was used for the analysis. Ethical standards and regulations were adhered to accordingly. The regression results revealed that capital adequacy had a significant negative effect on NPLs (β=-0.3249614, p-value=0.000<0.05). In view of the findings, the study recommends that regulatory authorities in Kenya should take a proactive response in establishing and enforcing robust capital adequacy standards for DT SACCOs. In addition, higher levels of capital adequacy and improved management efficiency are associated with reduced NPLs ratio among DT SACCOs in Kenya, hence improved financial stability. Keywords: Capital Adequacy, Financial Stability, Deposit Taking, Savings and Credit, Co-Operative Societies

"We are not being taught sustainable citizenship!"

Education on sustainability is a crucial goal that requires a transformative shift in teacher education to drive meaningful changes oriented to action. A cross-sectional study with an exploratory design investigated preservice science teachers' perceptions regarding teaching sustainable citizenship, specifically focusing on the climate crisis and earthquakes-tsunamis. The study was conducted in two Chilean universities with similar teacher preparation programs. The team designed a podcast series, which was used and evaluated by the 13 participants through action research. Three group discussions explored their perceptions of the resources, as well as the aims and challenges of teaching sustainable citizenship and the podcasts. We used Grounded Theory steps, including triangulation by the researchers to ensure reliability, to qualitatively analyse the data. The results reveal a constraint on teaching in areas where the participants lacked the necessary preparation and background knowledge as students and preservice teachers. The main challenges were related to interdisciplinarity, the social dimension of socio-scientific issues and context-responsive teaching methods. The perceived aims were the development of students' critical thinking, informed positioning, and encouraging active citizen participation. Preservice teachers found the podcast series to be a valuable new epistemic and pedagogical resource that can support their efforts to teach sustainable citizenship and implement pedagogical strategies. The autonomous usage of the device triggered reflection processes, particularly regarding the human rights perspective, which unveiled the socio-political dimensions inherent in science education. It promoted personal re-positioning as active citizens and educators and empowered them to seek out and pursue the changes needed to reshape future classrooms. We discuss these findings in the context of teacher preparation and the use of educational technology in teacher education.

Identifying solutions to minimize meal tray waste: A mixed-method approach

Background & aimsOver $150,000 are lost annually due to meal tray waste in a large hospital in the United States. This study aims to explore the root causes of meal tray waste within a decentralized foodservice model and strategies to mitigate waste. MethodsA mixed methods sequential explanatory design was used by first identifying hospital units high and low in meal tray waste using recorded food management data from January 2021 through September 2022, then conducting observations, mobile-interviews (n=16), and in-depth interviews with hospital foodservice staff (n=6) and nurses (n=6) in each unit. Lastly, hospital and topic experts (n=10) were engaged in strategizing solutions to reduce meal tray waste. ResultsFindings indicate meal tray waste is increased when patients discharge and when standard trays (i.e., also known as house trays, which include items not requested by patients) are provided. Meal tray waste points to the unpredictability in a hospital that often arises due to patient circumstances, lack of coordination between nursing and foodservice staff, patients' food preferences, and the need for system and workflow improvements in a decentralized foodservice model. ConclusionsFindings highlight considerations that may be applicable across diverse medical institutions seeking to reduce meal tray waste. Hospitals should choose the best foodservice model that suits their institution to manage operations efficiently, focusing on reducing waste, cost optimization, patient satisfaction, and sustainability.