Practical Knowledge Research Articles

Mainstreaming Indigenous Knowledge of Pastoralists into Climate Change Policies in Cameroon

Indigenous pastoralists are hardest hit by the impacts of climate change because of their dependence on nature and limited adaptation. This paper seeks to examine the level of integration of traditional knowledge systems into adaptation policies in Cameroon, using the specific case of Mbororo pastoralists in the Western Highlands. Using a mainly qualitative approach in data collection, in-depth interviews were conducted with 28 purposively selected pastoralists from 4 divisions with intense pastoral activity, comprising 19 Mbororo pastoralists, 2 members of the Mbororo Social and Cultural Association (MBOSCUDA), 2 Mbororo traditional rulers, 5 Mbororo women and one focus group discussion. Discussions were recorded and voice notes were transcribed, coded and treated according to content and thematic with the aid of Atlas. Ti software. Results show that Mbororo pastoralists migrated into the region in the 1950s as nomadic herders and occupied marginal lands due to the nature of their activity. With climatic aberrations being acute, their closeness to nature permitted them to develop a wide array of knowledge and traditional practices to adapt and exploit existing opportunities. Semi-nomadic and transhumance methods of rearing, cross-breeding local species with high-breed species to produce resistant breeds of cattle, cultivating resistant pasture species, rotational grazing and using traditional medicines to treat cattle diseases have reduced resource degradation and curbed the effects of climatic aberrations. Nevertheless, these indigenous knowledge systems are eroding fast due to poor indigenous institutions and non-integration into policy. This work will reinforce capacities of decentralized communities in developing and implementing local adaptation plans on climate change.

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE REGARDING MENSTRUAL HYGIENE AMONG FEMALE NURSING STUDENTS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Objectives: Menstruation, though a normal physiological process in the females of reproductive age group, is surrounded by various misconceptions and social taboos. Inadequate knowledge and unhygienic menstrual practices can adversely affect female health. Poor menstrual hygiene practice has been negatively associated with infection of the reproductive and genitor-urinary tract, cervical cancer, absenteeism from school, or drop-out, poor academic performance, lower self-esteem, and poor quality of life. We conducted this study to evaluate the knowledge and practices regarding menstruation in female nursing students in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted over for three months on female B.Sc nursing students in the first year to the fourth year through face-to-face interview at the department of Pharmacology in a tertiary care hospital. Data regarding socio-demographic profile, knowledge of obstetric and gynaecological factors, perception of menstruation, and hygienic practice of the participants during their menstruation were collected. Results: Responses from 165 participants were analyzed. The mean (± SD) age of the students was 19.64 (± 1.09) years. Most of their parents had education up to a diploma and above (47.27% among mothers and 70.9% among fathers). The majority of the participants used to experience dysmenorrhea (52.72%) and had pre-menarcheal ideas about menstruation (78.18%). Mother was the most common source of information (54.54%) followed by teachers (16.96%) and media (13.33%). The majority knew the source (89.09%) and cause (100%) of menstrual bleeding. A considerable portion (45.45%) thought menstruation as the sign of conception. The majority (96.36%) used commercially made sanitary pads, and used to dispose of the used sanitary pads in the dustbin (98.19%) by wrapping them with paper (98.19%). Conclusion: Present study found an encouraging picture regarding knowledge and hygienic practices during menstruation among the participants. Education about menstrual hygiene needs to be imparted at the grass root level. In this regard Anganwadi and health care workers, teachers and media can play a major role. All mothers need to be taught about the importance of hygienic practices during menstruation, convey correct information to their daughters, and should be encouraged to break the age-old myths and taboos associated with menstruation.

Ethnobotany study on wild edible plants used by the Tujia ethnic group in Laifeng, southwest Hubei, China.

Wild edible plants hold a significant position in the lives of local residents, serving as a primary food source or supplement. Laifeng County, located in the hinterland of the central mountainous area of China, boasts abundant wild edible plant resources. The Tujia people, residing here for generations, have accumulated a wealth of traditional knowledge in the long-term practice of utilizing wild edible plants. The aim of this study is to document and organize the traditional utilization of wild edible plants by the Tujia ethnic group in Laifeng. An ethnobotanical investigation, comprising semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews, and participatory observations, was conducted in 26 traditional villages in Laifeng County from May 2023 to June 2024. A total of 252 informants were interviewed, from whom information about wild edible plants, including edible parts, food categories, consumption modes, and multiple uses was collected. The relative frequency of citation (RFC) and the cultural food significance index (CFSI) were calculated to identify the cultural importance of wild edible plants. A total of 163 species of wild edible plants consumed by the Tujia people in Laifeng, belonging to 64 families and 118 genera and related traditional knowledge were collected, including vegetables (78), fruits (52), wine-soaking plants (12), spices (11), food substitutes (9), tea substitutes (6), nuts (5), coagulants (2), and oil (1). The most frequently used families were Rosaceae, Asteraceae, and Poaceae, with 23, 10, and 10 species, respectively. The most commonly utilized plant parts were fruits, leaves, and stems. RFC and CFSI analyses identified 14 species of wild edible plants with high cultural importance in the local diet, such as Allium macrostemon, Houttuynia cordata, and Hovenia acerba. The Tujia ethnic group in Laifeng demonstrates extensive knowledge in their traditional usage of wild edible plants, offering unique and robust insights into the harvesting, processing, and consumption of these resources. Over time, this practice has become an integral part of the local food culture. These findings contribute to the preservation of the Tujia culture of wild edible plants in Laifeng and the conservation and development of wild edible plant resources.

Research progress on knowledge discovery in traditional Chinese medicine medical records based on artificial intelligence

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) medical records represent the clinical practice records of physicians, encapsulaing a wealth of TCM clinical diagnosis and treatment experiences as well as academic thoughts of numerous TCM practitioners. Such various information provide certain basic conditions for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology with TCM. Through analysing successful clinical records, AI technology can extract practical and understandable knowledge. Therefore, this paper summarizes and analyzes the application of information technology in the field of knowledge discovery research from Chinese medical records. It focuses on three key aspects: the resources of TCM Medical Records, the objects of TCM records mining, and the application of AI technology. The aim is to provide beneficial references for maximizing the value of TCM medical records.

Deep mapping Uncertain Historical Sources

This article navigates through the challenge of preserving and presenting uncertainties in digital maps, which are used to reconstruct practical knowledge in early modern artists’ businesses. It introduces a novel methodology—deep mapping—as a multi-layered spatial visualization within the Geographical Information Systems (GIS). This method adeptly facilitates the processing and visualization of complex art historical data, offering a nuanced approach that addresses the dual need of managing large-scale spatial analysis and maintaining the precision requisite in scholarly work. To operationalize the concept of deep mapping in knowledge production, this research has collected and integrated location-related descriptions of early modern addresses from various sources, translating them into geo-referenced areas and visualizing them on historical maps with varying levels of uncertainties. Applying deep mapping to visualize painters’ distribution patterns in seventeenth-century Amsterdam as an example, this article discusses two ways of presenting uncertainties in digital maps to facilitate historical observation. It shows that uncertainty is most effectively presented as fuzzy heat maps in the background to accentuate painters’ choices of locations for their painting businesses. The deep maps demonstrate that painters in early seventeenth-century Amsterdam pragmatically practiced their business knowledge by making clustering decisions following market conditions.

In-service teacher education in death education through participatory action research (PAR)

ABSTRACT Current teacher education neglects educational needs, such as death education. A participatory action research (PAR) approach based on the needs and interests of teachers was adopted. One private and two state schools at all levels of non-university education were involved. The objective was to understand a process of change in teaching facilitated by PAR in the context of a teaching innovation project in death education. The results are presented according to the PAR phases. Conclusions are that the training process reduced the gap between scientific knowledge and educational practice, and that specific death education competencies were developed alongside personal growth amongst teachers.

Use of Skillful Techniques in Maintaining Sustainability of Green Environment

During the atmosphere of Sustainable Development, India as a developing country showing focus on Enterprise development & infrastructural assistance hence in this circumstances where the situation of Covid intended to give an emphasis on importance on maintaining Environmental heritage then Horticulture can be a prime subject of being a topic to be discussed of. The Paper focuses more on the areas, where the training of the potential skill, enforcement in the area of maintaining sustainability of Green Environment with innovative tools & techniques. Secondary data have been utilized for developing the theme of Capacity Building and Skill Development: Providing training sessions and workshops to empower participants with practical knowledge and skills. It is factual to mention that India as a developing nation need to provide access to information & training on the part of the cauterization & categorization of the concept of Capacity Building & skill development in the field of Green Management (Horticulture).

Sosialisasi Strategi Digital Marketing pada UMKM di Desa Gisting Bawah : Studi Kasus Keripik Pisang Anggun

This study examines how micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Gisting Bawah Village, Tanggamus Regency, Lampung Province, use digital marketing strategies. The focus of the study is Anggun banana chips. The purpose of this study is to examine current digital marketing practices, identify problems and opportunities, and find ways to increase sales and expand market reach. Using an observation and interview approach, this study found that, although Anggun banana chips have growth potential due to their high-quality products and organized production processes, the company faces difficulties in creating consistent content and creating effective promotional strategies on the internet. This part of the study provides MSME owners with practical knowledge on how to create engaging content, optimize the use of social media, and use successful digital marketing strategies. This study shows that MSMEs such as Anggun banana chips can significantly increase their market visibility, strengthen customer relationships, and potentially increase their revenues by using the right digital marketing techniques. This study will add to the body of research on rural MSMEs using digital marketing and offer practical insights for similar businesses looking to improve their brand's digital presence.

Employer Brand Knowledge (EBK), Sustainability Practices and Employer Attractiveness: A Perspective of Millennial Employees

Employer attractiveness is crucial in talent management as it helps attract, retain, and engage top talent, thereby ensuring a competitive edge and long-term organizational success. This study aims to determine the relationship between Employer Brand Knowledge (EBK) and various dimensions of sustainability practices on employer attractiveness, particularly among Millennial employees. A quantitative research method was employed, with 90 questionnaires collected from Millennial employees in a publicly listed company in Malaysia. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 to test the hypotheses. The findings reveal that only one dimension of EBK namely employer image has a significant positive relationship with employer attractiveness. Contrary to our expectations, none of the sustainability practices was found to be related to employer attractiveness. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how EBK influences the perception of employer attractiveness as it not only broadens the theoretical understanding but also provides practical insights for employers seeking to improve their attractiveness to the Millennial workforce. It is also suggested that employers who are more familiar with employees, have a positive reputation, and maintain a strong image are more likely to be attractive to millennials. Implications and recommendations for future research are also discussed in the study.

How Individual Factors Shape Innovative Work Behavior in Malaysian HEIs: The Role of Innovation Capability, Knowledge Sharing and Psychological Empowerment

This study investigates the factors driving academics' innovative work behavior (IWB) in Malaysian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), focusing on individual innovation capability, psychological empowerment, and knowledge sharing. The respondents comprised 382 academics from 24 Malaysian universities listed in the QS World Ranking 2023, selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected via a Google Form questionnaire distributed by email. The descriptive analysis assessed individual innovation capabilities, psychological empowerment, and knowledge-sharing levels, and their impact on IWB. The findings indicate high engagement in innovative activities, with academics demonstrating strong innovative capabilities, a sense of empowerment, and active knowledge-sharing practices. These individual factors significantly contribute to fostering IWB, highlighting the importance of continuous professional development, supportive institutional environments, and collaborative cultures in promoting innovation within HEIs. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and university administrators to enhance the innovative potential of academics, ultimately contributing to the advancement of knowledge and improvement of educational practices in Malaysian HEIs. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and potential moderating factors to further understand innovative work behavior dynamics in academic settings.

The Relevance of Kwame Nkrumah’s Education for Pan-Africanism in Decolonizing the Nigerian Educational System.

It is often contended that the system of education which the colonial masters brought to Nigeria was not entirely for the good of the citizens. It was a system of education that was meant to serve the colonialists without adding any meaning to the individual. The formulators of Nigerian Educational system, instead of formulating a unique policy of education that integrates our indigenous African educational system with essential elements from colonial education system, still continued with the structures of colonial elements which are not of great benefits to the Nigerian educational system like, the use of the English language as mode of communication in schools, the acceptance and inclusion of the Colonizers’ cultures and religion in the curriculum with the neglect of the indigenous cultures and religions, the too much emphasis on theoretical academic certification rather than merging both the theoretical and practical technical knowledge together for better development. This article presupposes the relevance of Kwame Nkrumah’s Education for Pan-Africanism in Decolonizing the Nigerian Educational System. It acknowledges the legacy of Nkrumah’s education for Pan-Africanism and contends that it can be used as a paradigm in recommending ways of decolonizing the Nigerian educational system. The article contends that with Nkrumah’s education for Pan-Africanism we can remove the colonial educational elements in the Nigerian Educational system that neither edify the indigenous educational system nor efficiently address the needs and problems of the people of Nigeria.

International experience of foreign countries in the field of light industry

This article presents an extensive analysis of international experience in the field of light industry, in particular, using the example of several effectively functioning foreign countries. Which is a valuable source of knowledge and best practices that can be applied in the context of Kazakhstan.The purpose of this study is to study in depth the international experience in light industry, especially in the context of globalization and increased international competition.This article presents various segments of light industry and types of its products, as well as a comparative analysis of the leading countries of the world and Kazakhstan in the share of GDP attributable to light industry. An important aspect of the study is the analysis of effective experience in creating jobs, promoting social stability, increasing exports and expanding the trade balance, as well as stimulating innovation and technological development. The value of this study lies not only in the study of international experience, which helps to avoid repeating mistakes, but also in adapting successful strategies to the local conditions of Kazakhstan. This will accelerate the development of the light industry by introducing innovations in light industry technology, changes in consumer behavior, taking into account trends in sustainable development, etc. The results of this study will allow us to identify not only the main trends and strategies for the successful development of light industry abroad and consider them, but also apply them in practice in the context of our own country.

Knowledge Attitude and Practice regarding Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccination among Medical Students in India: A Cross - Sectional Study

Knowledge Attitude and Practice regarding Cervical Cancer and HPV Vaccination among Medical Students in India: A Cross - Sectional Study

Musculoskeletal Disorders Among the United Arab Emirates Healthcare Professionals: Ergonomics Knowledge and Practice Study

Background: Healthcare professionals (HCPs) are particularly vulnerable to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to job demands such as prolonged standing, patient handling, and awkward postures. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSDs among HCPs, examine the association between ergonomic knowledge and practices with MSDs, and identify predictors of ergonomic knowledge. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCPs, including doctors and nurses, working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The prevalence of MSDs was determined using the Nordic Questionnaire. Ergonomic knowledge and practice were assessed through a validated questionnaire covering sociodemographic and work-related factors, ten knowledge items, and fifteen practice items. A scoring system was used, where correct answers received a score of one, and incorrect answers received a score of zero. Ergonomic knowledge and practices were considered inadequate when participant scores fell below the median values of six for knowledge and eight for practice. The calculated sample size was 398, with a response rate of 96%, resulting in 380 participants. The chi-square test, binary, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: The twelve-month prevalence of MSDs was 90.4%, with the highest percentage reported in the lower back (56%), followed by the upper back (43.4%), neck (39.2%), shoulder (38.9%), and elbow (21.3%). Inadequate ergonomic knowledge and incorrect ergonomic practices were found in 61.8% and 36.3% of HCPs, respectively. A significant association was observed between inadequate ergonomic knowledge (P < 0.001) and practice (P = 0.035) and the presence of MSDs. Significant predictors of inadequate ergonomic knowledge included the number of years worked (OR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.00 - 3.5, P = 0.049), the provision of ergonomics training and awareness at the workplace (OR: 3.7; 95%CI: 1.9 - 7.2, P < 0.001), and inadequate ergonomic practices (OR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.1 - 3.0, P = 0.014). Conclusions: A very high prevalence of MSDs was found among HCPs, with the lower back being the most commonly affected site. Significant predictors of inadequate ergonomic knowledge included the number of years worked, the availability of ergonomics training at the workplace, and inadequate ergonomic practices. This study underscores the need for ergonomic training programs and ergonomically friendly workplaces to equip HCPs with the knowledge and practices necessary to prevent MSDs.

Case study: structural feasibility analysis for a reinforced concrete building

Currently, the residential building sector in Brazil is experiencing continuous growth, despite the adverse impacts caused by 2 years of the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, there is a demand for structural projects that enable the execution of these works from a structure that is viable from the point of view of safety, good conditions of use, comfort and economy. Technical and practical knowledge is a fundamental requirement for a good project, combined with skill in a technological analysis and sizing tool. Having said that, the present work proposed to develop the analysis and structural design, with the help of the Brazilian software TQS®, of a multi-family residential building in reinforced concrete, using both linear and nonlinear static analyses. The central motivation was to address structural challenges and ensure that the design complies with Brazilian standards, thereby improving the quality and safety of residential buildings. The work sought to follow all the design steps of a structure in order to meet the requirements recommended by Brazilian standards. Based on the analyses, it was possible to adopt solutions for the various structural problems that arose during the design and, finally, obtain the final document with all the details of the structure.

Factors influencing educators’ implementation of quality teaching practices in Australian engineering education

ABSTRACT Improving teaching quality within engineering education is a long-standing challenge, made more difficult by the complex economic, political, and social environment in which educators operate. Understanding the enablers and barriers to implementing quality educational practices from a holistic perspective is thus critical for developing evidence-based actions for improving practice. This study addresses the research question: ‘what key factors influence engineering educators’ implementation of quality educational practices, and how?’. Using Bourdieu’s Theory of Practice as the theoretical lens, interviews were conducted with 21 engineering educators from 11 distinct Australian universities. Conceptualising the field as the engineering departments of Australian universities, data were thematically analysed to identify key themes relating to capital (what is valued within the field) and habitus (characteristics influencing individuals’ perceptions). Five factors emerged relating to capital: knowledge of engineering subject matter, knowledge of quality educational practices, recognition of teaching quality, resource allocation for teaching, and collegial network. These interacted with four factors relating to educators’ habitus: role context, personal motivation towards teaching, subject and student characteristics, and institutional context. Recommendations for educational leaders include increasing the value of educational and industry acquired engineering knowledge, developing enhanced impact evaluation approaches aligned to recognition processes, and supporting engagement between educators.

Knowledge, skills, and household food preparation practices in the north of Pretoria - Gauteng province, South Africa

Knowledge, skills, and household food preparation practices in the north of Pretoria - Gauteng province, South Africa

Knowledge and Preventive Practices among Construction Workers work in KTFT Project Regarding Occupational Health Hazards and Safety: A Descriptive Cross Sessional Study

Knowledge and Preventive Practices among Construction Workers work in KTFT Project Regarding Occupational Health Hazards and Safety: A Descriptive Cross Sessional Study

Journal club as a teaching–learning strategy: a case for plant genetics lectures during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges for both students and educators, particularly because of the virtualization of classes and the consequent lack of practical sessions following the closure of laboratories and experimental fields in universities. The absence of interaction among students and practical classes led to a diminished interest in studies, as students found it difficult to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application. This study explores the implementation of a Journal Club (JC) as a collaborative-metacognitive use of the science literature teaching approach (CMSLTA) to enhance theoretical and practical knowledge through the reading and discussion of scientific literature in an e-learning environment. In this approach, students read scientific articles, write essays, and engage in group discussions. The methodology was applied over two consecutive academic semesters in 2021 and 2022 within plant genetics courses. Academic achievement was evaluated through essay assessments, and surveys were conducted at the end of each semester. The results revealed notable progress in student grades throughout the semester, with over 80% of participants endorsing JC implementation and recognizing its relevance to their education. The Journal Club facilitated the integration of theoretical knowledge covered in lectures and equipped students with various digital research tools.

Who Gets to Talk When “WE” Talk about Israel: An Intersectional Meditation on Inclusivity

Abstract Occasioned by a recent article by Jill Jacobs criticizing the underrepresentation of women in American Jewish debate about Israel and by a recently implemented policy by the Association for Jewish Studies (AJS) requiring gender diversity on panels at the association’s annual conference, this article explores the space where knowledge production, rhetorics of inclusivity, and disciplinary organization intersect: Despite its policies of inclusion, is the AJS able to avoid exercising a Jewish supremacy in its Israel/Palestine-oriented knowledge practices?