Cultural Resistance Research Articles

DevOps Implementation: Essential Tools, Best Practices, and Solutions to Overcome Challenges for Seamless Development and Operations Integration

Aims: This study aims to explore the core principles, tools, and best practices for implementing DevOps, emphasizing its benefits, such as enhanced efficiency, better collaboration, and faster time-to-market. It also seeks to identify common challenges in DevOps adoption and provide practical solutions. Study Design: A qualitative research approach was used, incorporating case studies, industry reports, and expert interviews to analyze DevOps implementation across various industries. Place and Duration of Study: Conducted across organizations in technology, finance, and healthcare sectors from 2022 to 2023 [1,2]. Methodology: The research utilized both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through interviews with DevOps experts and consultants, while secondary data included published case studies, industry white papers, and academic research. This comprehensive analysis identified recurring themes, challenges, and effective strategies in DevOps adoption. The study also examined successful case studies to illustrate best practices and drew insights from experts to address barriers and propose actionable recommendations. Results: The analysis highlighted that strong leadership support (35%), continuous learning (30%), and effective communication (20%) are critical for successful DevOps implementation. Organizations that invested in automation tools such as Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes, and GitLab experienced significant gains in workflow efficiency, continuous integration, and delivery. Cultural resistance (40%) and lack of expertise (25%) were the main barriers to DevOps adoption. A positive relationship was noted between cultural change initiatives and successful DevOps implementation (R = 0.85). Conclusion: Effective DevOps adoption requires a cultural shift towards collaboration, shared responsibility, and continuous improvement, backed by strong leadership and strategic automation. To successfully implement DevOps, organizations should focus on cultivating a collaborative culture, ensuring leadership commitment, and investing in continuous learning and automation tools to overcome challenges and achieve their objectives.

Predictive factors associated with Bile culture positivity And phenotypiCal antIbiogram resistance patterns in patients taken to LaparOscopic cholecystectomy (BACILO): protocol for a prospective observational cohort study and development of a prognostic prediction model.

Bile fluid is aseptic under normal conditions; however, in the presence of cholecystitis, its susceptibility to bacterial colonisation varies, with reported rates of 20%-70% of cases. This process is referred to as bactibilia and/or bacteriobilia and can be considered a secondary complication of biliary stasis and cholecystitis in general. In the management of acute cholecystitis, the antibiotic regimen should be prescribed based on the presumed pathogens involved, taking into consideration the risk factors for resistance patterns according to demographics and local exposure. The aim of this study is to determine the predictive factors for bile culture positivity and antibiotic resistance in patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the Méderi Hospital Network. We hope to develop a predictive model that allows us to better guide antibiotic therapy. This is a prospective observational cohort study with prognostic prediction model. Patients who will undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy and have bile cultures taken in the Méderi Hospital Network during the study period will be included. The dependent variables will be positive bile culture and antibiotic resistance, and the predictive variables will be age, presence of diabetes, diagnosis of choledocholithiasis, diagnosis of cholecystitis and severity of cholecystitis according to the Tokyo criteria. The minimum sample size has been calculated at 703 patients. Follow-up will continue until a control appointment 15 days after the procedure. The primary outcomes are bile culture positivity and phenotypical antibiogram resistance. For each outcome, a multivariate logistic regression will be performed using frequentist and Bayesian prediction techniques. This study was approved by the Méderi network research department committee (CIMED) and by Universidad del Rosario's Research Ethics Committee (CEI-UR; DVO005 2555-CV1837). Written informed consent is required for participation. The results will be disseminated through the submission of an academic article to a high-impact scientific journal, presentations at academic conferences, and sharing with our institution's faculty to inform antimicrobial therapy management based on local epidemiological data. NCT06314399.

Rematerialization

In this essay, I examine memory optimization as both a fundamental component of digital operations and a feminist form of cultural resistance to digital colonialism through a multimedia installation by the Latinx artist collective Cog•nate Collective. Through close reading, I demonstrate how their 2021 installation And will be again…transforms the work of memory optimization through an ecofeminist countermapping of the US-Mexico border and its histories of data extraction through dispossession. I analyze the various components of the multimedia installation, including the collaborative process of Indigenous language translations of an eponymous passage by Gloria Anzaldúa. I frame my analysis through a sociotechnical reclamation of the computer science term rematerialization. In doing so, I reorient the term rematerialization to showcase how Latinx artists recompute historical data of the US-Mexico borderlands to produce anticolonial collective memories as spiritual technologies of resistance.

A comparative model for financial advisory standardization in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa

The development of a theoretical model for harmonizing local and international product standards for Nigerian exports Financial inclusion remains a significant challenge in Nigeria and across Sub-Saharan Africa, with millions of individuals, particularly in rural areas, lacking access to formal financial systems. Financial advisory services play a critical role in addressing this challenge by helping individuals understand and effectively use financial products such as savings, credit, and investments. However, the lack of standardization in the delivery of these advisory services has hindered their effectiveness, resulting in inconsistent practices and limited reach, especially among the unbanked population. This review proposes a comparative model for the standardization of financial advisory services in Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan African countries. It seeks to examine the current landscape of financial advisory services, comparing Nigeria’s approach with successful models in countries such as Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa. The model emphasizes key components of standardization, including financial literacy programs, digital advisory platforms, and microfinance initiatives, which are critical to reaching underserved communities. By analyzing case studies, such as Kenya’s M-Pesa platform, which has significantly advanced financial inclusion through mobile money and advisory services, the review identifies best practices that can be adapted to Nigeria’s context. The comparative analysis highlights the importance of leveraging technology, particularly mobile platforms, to provide accessible and scalable financial advisory services. It also underscores the need for public-private partnerships, regulatory support, and tailored programs that address the unique socioeconomic and cultural characteristics of Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan countries. While digital infrastructure remains a challenge in rural areas, the success of mobile banking and advisory platforms in countries like Ghana demonstrates that technology can play a transformative role in financial inclusion. Challenges such as cultural resistance, economic disparities, and infrastructure gaps are discussed, emphasizing the need for a flexible yet standardized approach to advisory services. Additionally, the review outlines the critical role of regulatory frameworks in ensuring that financial advisory services are consistent, transparent, and accessible to all segments of the population. The review advocates for a standardized advisory model tailored to Nigeria’s specific needs, drawing lessons from successful models across Sub-Saharan Africa. Such standardization, supported by regulatory reforms and technology integration, has the potential to bridge the financial inclusion gap, empowering individuals and fostering economic growth. The review also calls for regional collaboration in Sub-Saharan Africa to promote knowledge-sharing and create unified strategies for advancing financial inclusion across the continent.

Data-driven employee engagement: A pathway to superior customer service

This paper explores the significant correlation between employee engagement and customer service quality, emphasizing the role of data-driven strategies in enhancing organizational outcomes. The paper highlights the importance of using data analytics to understand and improve employee engagement by analyzing key theories that link engagement to customer satisfaction. It discusses the critical metrics used to measure engagement and how data-driven insights can inform HR strategies, leading to superior customer service. The paper also examines the implications of implementing these strategies, addressing potential challenges such as data privacy, misinterpretation, and cultural resistance. Finally, it suggests future research directions, particularly in integrating emerging technologies like AI and machine learning, to refine engagement strategies further and adapt them to diverse work environments. This review underscores the evolving role of data analytics in HR and its potential to transform employee engagement into a key driver of business success.

Critique of Colonialism and Cultural Imperialism in Selected Poems of Tanveer Anjum from Nai Zaban Kay Huroof Alphabet of a New Language

Postcolonial complexity of thought is an integral discourse in Pakistani writers’ works. Tanveer Anjum is a contemporary Pakistani Urdu poetess and her poetry is perceptive of personal, social and political concerns of modern times. In a postcolonial country, the colonial past is never detached from the common consciousness and the unending imperialism and post war traumas are part of its subjects’ collective memories. Five poems are selected from her recent collection of Urdu poetry, Nai Zaban kay Huroof (Alphabet of a New Language) for the postcolonial analysis. The poems are: ‘Interview’, ‘There Was a Village’, ‘The Last Nail’, ‘Sister Caroline’s Dappled Cats’ and ‘Like Sunbeams’. The research is qualitative in nature and the theories of Edward Said and Homi K. Bhabha are used for the textual analysis of the selected poems. The analysis reveals a parallel structure of thoughts in her poems which at one side endorses the need of cultural resistance and on the other, calls for a negotiation, which further affirms the complexities of postcolonial thought process.

An exploratory cross-sectional study of awareness and barriers to adoption of telemedicine services among patients in Bangladesh

Objectives Telemedicine has emerged as a promising solution to address healthcare challenges, particularly in resource-constrained settings such as Bangladesh. Understanding patient perspectives on telemedicine adoption is vital for improving healthcare delivery in such contexts. Material and Methods This cross-sectional study surveyed 120 patients in Bangladesh to explore awareness, acceptance, and barriers to telemedicine adoption. Data were collected using structured surveys administered face-to-face in 2024. Descriptive statistical techniques were employed for data analysis. Results Most respondents demonstrated awareness of telemedicine services, primarily learning about them through friends or online sources. They viewed telemedicine positively, especially for follow-up appointments and mental health services, expressing satisfaction with the services used. However, concerns regarding its effectiveness for emergency consultations were noted. Barriers to adoption included limited internet connectivity, trust/security issues, lack of awareness, regulatory challenges, and cultural resistance. Conclusion Despite positive attitudes towards telemedicine, challenges such as internet connectivity, trust concerns, and cultural barriers persist in Bangladesh. Addressing these challenges is essential for the successful implementation and widespread adoption of telemedicine, ultimately improving access to quality healthcare services. Future research should explore the perspectives of healthcare providers and policymakers and employ longitudinal and qualitative methods to gain deeper insights.

Strategies, challenges, and outcomes of heat stress resilience in sub-Saharan African community-based cattle feedlots: a systematic review.

In sub-Saharan Africa, cattle feedlots face a significant challenge in dealing with heat stress. However, there is a lack of inclusive strategies for resilience in these situations. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the strategies, challenges, and outcomes related to heat stress resilience in community-based cattle feedlots in sub-Saharan Africa. The PRISMA approach, which is a method for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses, was used to identify, screen, and analyze 30 peer-reviewed articles published over the last 20 years from Google Scholar and Scopus. The review found that key strategies to mitigate heat stress include providing shade through natural and artificial means, ensuring constant access to cool, clean water using water spraying systems and cooling ponds, and implementing nutritional adjustments such as high-energy feeds and electrolyte supplements. Additionally, genetic selection for heat-tolerant breeds and management practices like adjusting feeding times and improving ventilation were found to be effective in dealing with heat stress. In particular, local germplasm and genetic traits of cattle in sub-Saharan Africa play a crucial role in heat stress resilience. Indigenous breeds, which have adapted to the region's harsh climate over centuries, exhibit traits such as higher heat tolerance, better water-use efficiency, and improved feed conversion rates under heat stress conditions. This genetic resilience can be enhanced through targeted breeding programs aimed at amplifying these beneficial traits. Implementing these strategies resulted in improved cattle health and productivity, as evidenced by enhanced weight gain, better reproductive performance, and lower mortality rates. The socio-economic benefits of these strategies included reduced economic losses and increased farmer incomes, which in turn contributed to improved community health and nutrition. However, the review also identified significant challenges, including financial constraints, limited access to knowledge and training, and cultural resistance. To address these barriers, the review recommends increased investment in affordable cooling technologies, farmer education, and community-based initiatives. Additionally, leveraging the genetic strengths of local cattle breeds should be prioritized to maximize the effectiveness of heat stress resilience strategies.

A financial inclusion model for Nigeria: Standardizing advisory services to reach the unbanked

Financial inclusion remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, where a large segment of the population, particularly in rural areas, lacks access to formal financial services. This review proposes a standardized advisory services model designed to bridge the gap between financial institutions and the unbanked. The model aims to address key barriers, including low financial literacy, lack of trust in financial systems, and limited access to technology and infrastructure. By integrating financial literacy programs, digital advisory platforms, and community-driven partnerships, the model offers a comprehensive solution to expand financial inclusion in Nigeria. The review explores the demographic characteristics of Nigeria’s unbanked population and the underlying reasons for their exclusion from the formal financial system. It highlights the role of standardized advisory services in building trust and providing accessible financial education, savings, and credit opportunities. Drawing from global examples such as Kenya’s M-Pesa and India’s Jan Dhan Yojana, the model incorporates best practices for outreach and engagement. A critical component of the model is its reliance on digital and mobile technology to deliver services to underserved communities. Additionally, the review emphasizes the importance of a strong regulatory framework, with the Central Bank of Nigeria playing a key role in monitoring and enforcing standards. The model also outlines challenges to implementation, including cultural resistance, technological infrastructure gaps, and sustainability concerns. By promoting financial inclusion, this advisory services model is expected to foster economic empowerment, poverty reduction, and overall economic growth in Nigeria. The review concludes with policy recommendations, urging collaboration between public and private sectors to ensure the scalability and success of the model across diverse regions. Keywords: Financial Inclusion, Advisory Services, Nigeria, Review.

EVALUATION OF THE APPLICATION OF SOCIAL INTERACTION THEORY IN INSTILLING CHARACTER VALUES

This research aims to evaluate the application of social interaction theory in instilling character values within Islamic Religious Education (PAI) subjects at Islamic educational institutions. The study investigates the extent to which social interaction theory is applied, the factors influencing its effectiveness, and the impact of social interaction on students' character formation. A qualitative approach was utilized, employing a case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with PAI teachers, school administrators, and students, as well as classroom observations and document analysis. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes from the data. The findings reveal that social interaction plays a significant role in character education, especially when teachers actively engage students in discussions, peer collaboration, and group work. Schools that provide adequate institutional support and have smaller class sizes create an environment where social interaction can flourish, leading to stronger internalization of values such as empathy, respect, and responsibility. However, the study also highlights challenges such as rigid curricula, cultural resistance, and technological limitations, which hinder the effective implementation of interactive learning methods. In conclusion, social interaction theory offers a valuable framework for character development in PAI learning. Its success depends on the commitment of educators and institutions to fostering collaborative and reflective learning environments. Addressing the identified challenges will be essential for maximizing the benefits of social interaction in character education.

The Role Of Knowledge Management In Increasing Organizational Flexibility To Face The Changes Brought By The Industrial Revolution 4.0

The importance of knowledge management integration in increasing organisational flexibility in the midst of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, which demands rapid adaptation and responsiveness, requires organisations to continue to innovate in the dynamics of change. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between knowledge management and organisational flexibility and provide practical recommendations to optimise the application of knowledge management to improve organisational responsiveness. The research method uses a qualitative approach with literature study as the main source of data. The results revealed that effective integration between knowledge management and organisational flexibility can provide a significant competitive advantage. However, in its implementation, there are obstacles such as cultural resistance and technological limitations. The conclusion of this study confirms that a thorough and integrated application of knowledge management is the key to increasing organisational flexibility in the digital era. The implication of these findings is the need for organisational commitment to build a culture of knowledge sharing, adopt technologies that support knowledge management and align strategies with overall business objectives to ensure success in the face of change and maintain competitiveness in a dynamic market.

Building a framework to drive government systems' adoption of cloud computing through IT knowledge

abstractMany governments in developing countries are finding it challenging to integrate cloud computing into their e-government systems because of the limited effective identification and evaluation of important factors. Cloud computing usage in government organizations is still restricted due to concerns over security, regulatory challenges, cultural resistance to new technologies, infrastructure limitations, and other factors (Abied et al. in Sustainability 14:15590, 2022). This research suggests a model that analyses the factors influencing the adoption of cloud computing in e-government systems within Jordanian government organizations by decision-makers. The survey was distributed online to a purposive sample consisting of 373 IT professionals and top-level managers in government organizations in Jordan. The study demonstrates that the technological factors which include complexity, compatibility, relative advantage, and security, the organisational factors which consist of top management support and cost, and the environmental factors which include industry competition and government rules and regulations, had a significant and positive impact on the adoption of cloud-based services in government systems. Furthermore, IT knowledge held by decision makers was recognized as a key factor in the adoption of cloud computing for e-government systems. This research is anticipated to provide significant insights for any organizations making investment decisions about the use of cloud-based services. This research considers the assessment of multiple aspects to encourage top management to analyse the consequences of implementing cloud services for e-government systems. This case study might not be applied broadly to all types of organizations in Jordan. Future research should employ large-scale samples to ensure the study's representativeness and could also broaden the scope by including samples from similar countries to validate the model or its implementation across different cultures, IT infrastructure and geographical settings. In addition, it is recommended that upcoming research consider using the level of experience and education as moderators.

“Impacts of neo-banks on North African migrants’ remittances and financial inclusion”

This study examined remittance trends and financial institution preferences among North African migrants in Europe and assessed neobanks' potential to foster financial inclusion and cost reductions. The main objetive was to explore how neobanks can alleviate economic pressures on North African migrants and help achieve the World Bank Group's goal of reducing remittance costs to 5 % and the UN-SDG target of 3 %. Exploratory in nature, both surveys and interviews were used for data collection. The sample consisted of 64 North African migrants from Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria (North Africa) residing in France, Spain, and Italy (EU). Key findings revealed that North African migrants had diverse remittance behaviors, with varying frequencies and amounts sent home. Trust in traditional banks remained high due to familiarity, cultural norms, and accessibility issues in rural areas. However, neobanks offered significant cost savings, with potential annual savings ranging from €30 to €134 depending on the monthly remitted amount that ranges between a €100 and a €1000 . Adoption of neobanks was higher among younger, and digitally literate migrants with better access to technology. Barriers to wider adoption of neobanks included limited digital and financial literacy, lack of necessary technology in home countries, and cultural resistance to change. High regulatory and compliance costs for traditional banks also contributed to inflated remittance fees. To address these issues, the paper recommends enhancing market competition, improving access to new payment technologies, encouraging larger remittances through incentives, learning from successful public bank models like France's La Banque Postale, and fostering financial literacy and digital inclusion. Additionally, it suggests building trust and cultural sensitivity, investing in robust cybersecurity measures, and developing offline transaction capabilities to increase accessibility for migrants in remote areas.

Challenges and strategies of gamification in family businesses: the moderating effects of supervision and engagement

Purpose This paper aims to unravel how family businesses can harness the power of gamification and to illuminate the hurdles that obstruct this path to success. The research identifies these challenges providing valuable insights into the application of gamification in family businesses and the role of supervision and engagement as moderator variables in this relationship. Design/methodology/approach Using a structural modeling approach in a qualitative research methodology, the authors collected responses from n = 200 participants. The results were analyzed using Spearman’s test and multiple linear regression. Findings The research findings reveal that family businesses need to carefully redefine costs when introducing gamification, considering both fixed and variable expenses. The moderating effects of supervision are crucial for user evolution and the correlation, while user engagement influences user and useability experience. Additionally, a positive attitude enhances engagement. Finally, the five key challenges lead to difficulties when implementing gamification strategies. Practical implications This research provides valuable insights for the literature on gamification and family business and offers practical guidance for family business owners seeking to introduce a tailored value proposition adapted to their unique organizational needs and challenges. Originality/value A novel approach is proposed which, through the integration of gamification strategies with family business dynamics, explores the unique challenges and opportunities that arise within this context. By focusing specifically on family businesses, this study highlights how generational differences, ownership structures and cultural resistance can impact the successful implementation of gamification.

Managing the visibility of dissent: Stigma, social media, and family relationships among Azerbaijani activists

This study examines the strategies young Azerbaijani activists use to manage the visibility of their stigmatized political identities, particularly in relation to their families. Drawing on concepts of socially mediated visibility, stigma, and honor culture, we analyze interviews with 29 activists to explore how they navigate the complex trade-offs between visibility and concealment in an authoritarian context. Our findings highlight the central role of courtesy stigma and relational repression in shaping activists’ decisions, as they seek to balance their desire for political expression with the potential risks to their families. We also show how social media platforms both enable and complicate activists’ visibility management strategies. The study contributes to understanding the dynamics of activism and resistance in honor culture and authoritarian contexts.

Heroic girls as figures of resistance and futurity in popular culture By SimonBacon (Ed.), New York: Routledge. 2024. pp. 290. $180.00 (hbk)

Heroic girls as figures of resistance and futurity in popular culture By SimonBacon (Ed.), New York: Routledge. 2024. pp. 290. $180.00 (hbk)

The Centro Cultural Ciudad de Buenos Aires during the last military dictatorship: officialism, negotiations and cultural resistance, 1979-1983

The Centro Cultural Ciudad de Buenos Aires during the last military dictatorship: officialism, negotiations and cultural resistance, 1979-1983

Symbols of Resistance and Transformation in Nigerian Collage Art

This paper explores the dynamic role of collage art in Nigerian cultural and political discourse, focusing on how artists employ various symbols and motifs to navigate and critique post-colonial themes. By analyzing artworks that integrate both traditional and contemporary materials, the study highlights how these pieces reflect and influence perceptions of cultural identity, resistance, transformation, and societal progress. Through detailed examinations of specific artworks, the paper demonstrates how Nigerian collage artists articulate issues of colonial legacy, identity reaffirmation, and socio-political challenges. Furthermore, it discusses the broader cultural impact of these artworks, showing how they foster public dialogue and inspire community actions that address ongoing post-colonial challenges. This study underscores the power of visual art as a medium for social reflection and change, contributing significantly to both academic and cultural discussions about post-colonialism in Nigeria.

Assessing Drug Uptake and Response Differences in 2D and 3D Cellular Environments Using Stimulated Raman Scattering Microscopy.

The architecture of cell culture, two-dimensional (2D) versus three-dimensional (3D), significantly impacts various cellular factors, including cell-cell interactions, nutrient and oxygen gradients, metabolic activity, and gene expression profiles. This can result in different cellular responses during cancer drug treatment, with 3D-cultured cells often exhibiting higher resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. While various genetic and proteomic analyses have been employed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of this increased resistance, complementary techniques that provide experimental evidence of spatial molecular profiling data are limited. Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy has demonstrated its capability to measure both intracellular drug uptake and growth inhibition. In this work, we applied three-band (C-D, C-H, and fingerprint regions) SRS imaging to 2D and 3D cell cultures and performed a comparative analysis of drug uptake and response with the goal of understanding whether the difference in drug uptake explains the drug resistance in 3D culture compared to 2D. Our investigations revealed that despite similar intracellular drug levels in 2D and 3D A549 cells during lapatinib treatment, the growth of 3D spheroids was less impacted, supporting an enhanced drug tolerance in the 3D microenvironment. We further elucidated drug penetration patterns and the resulting heterogeneous cellular responses across different spheroid layers. Additionally, we investigated the role of the extracellular matrix in modulating drug delivery and cell response and discovered that limited drug penetration in 3D could also contribute to lower drug response. Our study provides valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms of increased drug resistance in 3D tumor models during cancer drug treatments.

Nematode Diversity and Root-Knot Nematode Management Approaches for Sustainable Mulberry Production

Mulberry ecosystems are beset by the clandestine menace of nematodes, precipitating devastating consequences on plant productivity. This review highlights the importance of nematode diversity in mulberry ecosystems and explores various eco-friendly and sustainable approaches for managing the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita involving cultural, biological and host resistance methods. Various eco-friendly management strategies viz., cultural approaches like summer deep ploughing, mulching and trap crops; biological methods like bio-agents and plant extracts; and resistant varieties against the root-knot nematode infecting mulberry are reviewed and discussed providing an impetus for integrating multiple approaches for effective and sustainable root-knot nematode management.