Devotion : Journal of Research and Community Service

Online Customers Review and Buying Behaviour among Students at Heritage Polytechnic, Nigeria

2025-10-04T04:02:48+00:00

In the 21st century, the Internet has revolutionized advertising by providing businesses large and small alike unprecedented access to global audiences at lower costs and faster rates. However, this shift has also diminished advertisers’ monopoly over information, giving rise to a consumer-centric economy where users actively engage in evaluating and discussing product experiences online. This study aims to examine how online product reviews influence consumer perception and buying behavior. Employing a survey research design, data were collected through electronic questionnaires from a sample of 333 respondents, determined according to Phillip Meyer’s sampling recommendation. The results reveal that continuous online discussions and reviews significantly affect consumers’ purchasing decisions, as they tend to rely heavily on peer opinions before making a purchase. Negative reviews were found to reduce purchase intention, while positive feedback strengthened brand trust and loyalty. The study concludes that online product reviews play a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior in the digital marketplace. It implies that advertisers and product manufacturers must actively monitor, respond to, and integrate consumer feedback into product improvement strategies to foster positive perceptions and sustain competitiveness in an increasingly transparent digital environment.

Case Report: A 47-Year-Old Man with Coagulopathy Due to a Snakebite

2025-09-25T03:14:34+00:00

Venomous snakebite is a medical emergency commonly occurring in tropical regions and can lead to severe systemic complications, including Venom-Induced Consumption Coagulopathy (VICC). This condition is characterized by activation of the coagulation pathway by snake venom enzymes, leading to massive consumption of clotting factors. A 47-year-old male presented with severe pain, progressive swelling, and subcutaneous bleeding of the left lower limb following a suspected snakebite while working in a forest. Laboratory examination revealed an unmeasurably prolonged prothrombin time (>150 seconds), indicating severe coagulopathy. The suspected envenomation was caused by Trimeresurus insularis, a venomous pit viper endemic to East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Due to the unavailability of antivenom, the patient was managed supportively with Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP) transfusion and vitamin K before self-discharging against medical advice. This case highlights the critical importance of early recognition and timely antivenom administration in managing venomous snakebites. Without antivenom, the risk of life-threatening complications such as hemorrhage, organ failure, and death increases significantly. Equitable distribution of antivenom and enhanced education for healthcare providers and the community are essential to reducing snakebite-related morbidity and mortality in Indonesia.

Financial Performance of Ultra-Micro Banks Before and During the Covid-19 Pandemic (A Case Study of BTPN Syariah)

2025-09-25T03:12:04+00:00

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted financial performance across all economic sectors, including ultra-micro Islamic banking institutions such as BTPN Syariah, which specializes in serving underprivileged productive communities. This study examines the differences in BTPN Syariah’s financial performance before (2017–2019) and during (2020–2022) the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia. Utilizing secondary data from monthly financial statements published by BTPN Syariah, this research employs a paired sample t-test analysis using SPSS software to compare six key financial performance indicators: Return on Assets (ROA), Return on Equity (ROE), Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), Operating Costs to Operating Income ratio (BOPO), Non-Performing Financing (NPF), and Financing to Deposit Ratio (FDR). The results indicate significant differences in banking financial performance between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods, with CAR showing notable improvement due to a strategic Initial Public Offering (IPO), while ROA and ROE experienced temporary declines followed by gradual recovery. These findings contribute to understanding the resilience mechanisms of Islamic ultra-micro banking institutions during crisis periods and provide insights for policymakers and practitioners in developing countercyclical strategies for future economic disruptions.

Analysis of the South China SEA: Resource Potential and Future Conflict Risks for Asean Countries

2025-10-04T03:58:52+00:00

The South China Sea represents one of the most strategically significant maritime regions globally, characterized by complex territorial disputes involving China, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei. This study examines the resource potential of the South China Sea and analyzes how these resources influence conflict risks for ASEAN member states. Employing qualitative research methodology through case study design and process-tracing techniques, this research investigates the interplay between natural resource exploitation, territorial claims, and security dynamics in the region. The findings reveal that the South China Sea contains substantial reserves of oil (estimated 11 billion barrels), natural gas (190 trillion cubic feet), and fisheries resources (8 million metric tons annually), alongside serving as a critical international trade route with approximately $5.3 trillion in goods transiting annually. The territorial disputes are exacerbated by competing interpretations of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), China's nine-dash line claims, and increasing militarization of disputed features. ASEAN's mediation efforts face significant challenges due to diverse member interests, Chinese economic leverage, and external power involvement. The study concludes that effective conflict management requires strengthened ASEAN unity, enhanced diplomatic mechanisms, adherence to international law, and cooperative frameworks for resource sharing. The research contributes to understanding how resource-rich maritime territories shape regional security architecture and provides policy recommendations for peaceful dispute resolution in contested waters.

Legal Protection of Military Medical Personnel in Disaster Area Assignments Under Law Number 17 of 2023 on Health

2025-10-02T04:17:05+00:00

In carrying out duties in disaster areas, various factors affect the rescue actions of military medical personnel assisting victims. The government and relevant agencies must ensure legal protection for these personnel in performing their professional duties. This study examines the form of legal protection for military medical and health personnel assigned to disaster areas under the enactment of Law Number 17 of 2023 on Health, focusing on both criminal and civil law. Using a normative juridical approach, the analysis explores the application of relevant laws and the conceptual understanding of legal principles related to military medical practice. The findings show that military medical personnel must possess STR and SIP and are entitled to legal protection, as medical risks may arise even when procedures comply with established SOPs. If disputes occur in criminal or civil matters, patients may file complaints with the MDP. Subsequent proceedings include an examination, a public hearing, and recommendations by the MDP to the concerned personnel. Should any personnel be found at fault, they remain entitled to redress through both military and general judiciary channels, provided their actions adhered to professional service standards and that initial resolution efforts are pursued through alternative dispute mechanisms outside the court.

Policy Analysis Of Pelagic Thresher Shark (Alopias Pelagicus) Conservation And The Role Of Local Communities In Preservation In Indonesian Waters

2025-10-01T04:10:32+00:00

The thresher shark (Alopias pelagicus) is an apex predator that plays an important role in marine ecosystems, but its population continues to decline due to overexploitation and habitat degradation. This study analyzes the thresher shark conservation policy in the Alor Marine Conservation Area, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), and the role of local communities in supporting the conservation of this species. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis, then analyzed using qualitative methods. The results show that the conservation policy in the Alor MPA faces challenges in implementation, such as low community participation and limited monitoring resources. This study recommends a community-based approach to improve the effectiveness of thresher shark conservation in a sustainable manner.