Impacts of Social Media on Self-Empowerment: The Case of Nigerian Female Graduates in Nigeria
1Gloria Nwandu Ozor, 2Nwakaire, Esther N., 3Chinasa Abonyi
Women empowerment is crucial for promoting self-esteem and healthy social development. Many Nigerian youths, especially female graduates, are left without jobs after graduation. This situation makes them vulnerable to various illegal activities, which jeopardise not only their lives but also the reputation of the country. The issue of unemployment is a global problem that every country is addressing. In this context, social media refers to interaction among people through variousnetwork platforms, where individuals create, share, and exchange information and ideas virtually. Currently, many youths in Nigeria are harnessing the opportunities created by different social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter, to develop themselves economically, and Nigerian women are also participating in this effort. This paper aims to examine how social media platforms provide inclusive opportunities for networking with individuals worldwide for personal and community development. It also focuses on how Nigerian women, particularly female graduates, are utilizing social media to empower themselves socially and economically through various creative means. This work approaches the topic from human development perspectives that emphasise on expanding people's resources, opportunities, and choices. The secondary data used in this study are those available in the public domain.
Challenges and Perspectives of Women Football Premier League Clubs of Ethiopia
Alem Worku1; Kesatie Legesse2;Dr. Abebe Ejigu3;Dr. Laake Reda4; Girma Reta5
The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges and perspectives of women football premier league clubs of Ethiopia. Cross-sectional study design was used. Total populations of the study was 478 players, 34 Coaches, 20 Club managers, 41 Referees and 2 Federation managers, from the total population, 373 samples was taken by the researcher as the subjects. Questionnaire, Interview, Training session observation with cheek list and Document analysis was used as data collection instruments for data collection. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as mean,standard deviation, percentage and frequency was used to assess whether low socio-economic states and cultural factors affect female football premier league clubs in Ethiopia and to identify challenges and perspectives of Women premier league football clubs. The result shows that players have strong family support,and substantial barriers related to funding, facilities, coaching development, and organizational structures present, coaching strategies focusing on individual learning styles, pass variation, and communication are highly effective. Skill recall and error correction strategies are perceived as moderately effective, but there is a significant need for improvement in the strategies related to practice encouragement and basic skill development. The resource constraints facing female football clubs, the lack of basic infrastructure (fields, equipment, and changing facilities), along with financial and organizational challenges, seriously hinders the development and growth of the sport. The findings reveal significant challenges hindering the effectiveness of coaching in women's football clubs across multiple areas; financial planning, societal attitudes, administrative support, coaching expertise, facilities, player attitudes, and skilled personnel the mean scores consistently indicate substantial shortcomings and strongly suggest that improving coaching effectiveness requires a comprehensive strategy addressing both systemic issues (funding, facilities, administrative support) and individual/team-level factors (player attitudes, coach training).
Impact of Loneliness on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Dr. Agberotimi F. Samson, Olajide M. Christiana
Background: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) affects women of reproductive years by reducing functionality. Limited research exists on psychosocial factors like especially for undergraduates in developing countries like Nigeria. Given the crucial role of emotional and social experiences in shaping mental health, loneliness, a prevalent psychological distress among young adults, may contribute significantly to PMDD incidence.Therefore, this study’s objective is to investigate the impact of loneliness on premenstrual dysphoric disorder among female undergraduates. Methods: The study utilised a cross-sectional survey design on the population of Lagos State University female undergraduates, using the convenience sampling method to identify female participants.It used avalidated self-report questionnaire containing demographic information, the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) and the 8-item Loneliness Scale by the University of California, Los Angeles (ULS-8). The data was subjected to SPSS for statistical analysis to test the hypothesis using regression. The significance criterion for testing the hypothesis was set at p<0.05. Results: The study consisted of 386 female participants with a mean of 20.56 and a standard deviation of 2.47. The findings reflected loneliness as a significant predictor of PMDD [R2 = .016, F (1, 385) = 6.337, p<0.05)] with coefficient B = .06. Conclusion: Loneliness was identified as a predictor of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Reducing loneliness may lower PMDD incidence. Future studies should explore geographic and psychosocial variables like resilience. Programs targeting awareness of the relationship should be developed within universi along side support programs to prevent and mitigate symptoms.
Assessing the Effect of Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (EE) on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises' Performance in Delta State, Nigeria
1Nana, U. Joseph & 2Omodafe, U. Philomena
The study investigated the effect of the entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) on performance of small and medium-sized enterprises in Delta State. The selected research design for this study is the cross-sectional survey research design. Small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners in Delta State, Nigeria made up the study's population. The Cochran formula was used to determine the sample size of 384 participants. The study employed the judgmental sampling technique. The primary source provided the data for this study through the use of a structured questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale response format. The study employed internal consistency reliability as a means of assessing the efficacy of the questionnaire items. The acquired data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods to arrive at a result. Findings showed that policy (β = 0.421, p < 0.05), finance (β = 0.108, p < 0.05), increased human capital (β = 0.102, p < 0.05), markets (β = 0.350, p < 0.05) and support (β = 0.154, p < 0.05) positively affects SMEs performance, while culture negatively affects SMEs performance (β = 0.069, p > 0.05). The study concluded that the combined effect of entrepreneurial ecosystem pillars creates a supportive environment that can significantly enhance the performance and sustainability of SMEs. The study recommended that the Delta State Government should promote a culture that values risk-taking, creativity and resilience through educational programs and public campaigns.
Expenditure on Education Nexus Economic Growth: Panel Analysis from East African Countries
Abrham Hunegnaw Reta
Human capital is a key element in providing a means for creating stable and long-lasting economic growth. East Africa is characterized by low return from education and underdeveloped economy. Hence, it needs further investigation into the role of human capital in building the strong economy of the region. The objective of the study was to examine the role of human capital on economic growth in East Africa. This study examines the effect of human capital on economic growth in East Africa by employing annual panel data obtained from the World Bank and IMF database for the selected countries in the region over the period 1990 to 2017. The recently accepted methods of panel error correction and panel co-integration regression analysis that helps to recognize the dynamic causality in short and long-time horizons were used. Accordingly in the econometric analysis, the long-run estimated coefficients of the fully modified ordinary least square co-integration regression result founds that human capital have positive and significant long run effect on economic growth while it has negative effect in short run in the panel of six East African countries. The different effects of human capital in different time horizons may be due to short-term crowding out effect on domestic investment and long run technical and knowledge transfer (spillover effect). Therefore, policy makers should consider special treatment to promote domestic investors while they design policy that attracts human capital.
Environmental Sustainability and Economic Growth in West African Monetary Zone (1981-2023)
1Asso. Prof Anichebe, Nnaemeka. Austin.; 2Dr .Okwor, Emmanuel Ejimnkonye; 3Dr. Ejinkonye, Remigius Chinwoke; 4Okolie, R.O; 5Dr. Mazeli, Edith Nkiru; 6Mr. Omeje Emmanuel Ikechukwu
The examined the impact of environmental sustainability on economic growth in West African region from 1981 to 2023.environmental sustainability were proxied by internal freshwater resources per capita and combustible renewable energy as the explanatory variables, while the gross domestic product served as economic growth Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, and Senegal. Were selected purposively out of population of sixteen countries in West Africa using industrialization metrics. The specific objectives of the study are;(i) investigate the effect of internal freshwater resources per capita on gross domestic product (GDP) in West Africa. (ii) Determine the impact of combustible renewable energy from waste on gross domestic product (GDP) in West Africa. The study observed that series of studies had been carried out on environmental sustainability without an indebt long term study on factors that characterized the West African environment and its impact on her economic growth; hence the study aspires to bridge that gap by scrutinizing the manner in which these particular factors interact and influence trajectories of economic growth using ARDL model and other relevant parameter stability tests. The study revealed that(i) Internal freshwater resources per capita had non- significant impact on gross domestic product GDP in West Africa (P > 0.05 = 0.4850).(ii) Combustible renewable energy had a non-significant impact on gross domestic product GDP in West Africa (P > 0.05 = 0.1415).The study recommend that the governments within the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ) prioritize the development of comprehensive water management systems, robust infrastructure, and strategic policies that optimize the utilization of freshwater resources and renewable combustible energy.
Conflict and Resolution Mechanisms in the History of Farmers and Herders Clash in Nigeria: A Systematic Review
Oyibo, F. O.1; Abdullahi, S.1; Ahmed, T. A.1; Odekina, F. O.1; Odiba, J. A. O.1 & Eti-Ukwu, A. I.1
Relationships that were historically inter-dependent and mutually beneficial have been altered by factors like environmental degradation, social manipulation of ethno-religious biases, and technological advances. States within Nigeria particularly the Middle Belt have witnessed an increase in casualties as consequences of these fractured relationships. This review examined the major drivers of the conflict, the strategies that have been adopted to manage the conflict thus far, and on the basis of these propose useful recommendations on developing a more sustainable framework for conflict prevention and management. It is evident from the review that the major drivers of the conflict between farmers and pastoralists are competition for common resource, difference in ethnic value and the impact of urbanization. The impact of conflict has been severe in the affected communities as is evident in the significant loss of lives, destruction of crops and livestock and increasing cases of poverty. The review further showed that government and other stakeholders have responded in different ways with the intension of managing the conflict. The intervention strategies have not yielded much results owing to the deficiency observed in the planning and implementation of such strategies. Towards developing a more sustainable approach to mitigating the conflict, it is recommended among other things that a comprehensive and detailed enquiry to ascertain the immediate and remote causes of the conflict should be instituted and community based responses that utilize the approach of negotiation and dialogue with the conflicting parties should be encouraged and sustained as against the huge deployment of security agencies to the affected communities.
Heartful Action Network and Development (HAND): Intensifying Responsiveness on Child Protection Policy in Bantayan National High School
Cherry T. Surio Teody Lester V. Panela
This action research aimed to intensify the responsiveness of teachers through the Heartful Action Network and Development (HAND) program in the implementation of Child Protection Policies in Bantayan National High School. Using a mixed methods concurrent embedded research design, this study evaluated teachers' level of responsiveness before and after the implementation of HAND. The participants included 30 teachers from Bantayan National High School during the school year 2022-2023. Data were collected through observation checklists and focus group discussions, and analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The research built upon Craig's (2009) reactive action research model and Grundy's (1982) practical action research model. The study incorporated three main components: (1) Information Dissemination, (2) Updating of Existing Localized Child Protection Policy, and (3) Campaign against Violence, Abuse and Bullying. Findings demonstrated significant improvement in teachers' responsiveness to child protection policies after the implementation of HAND, contributing to the creation of a safer school environment. Recommendations included continued professional development for teachers, enhanced stakeholder collaboration, and regular evaluation of child protection practices to ensure sustained improvement in child protection policy implementation.
Public Sector Infrastructure Financing and Poverty Reduction in Nigeria: An ARDL Approach
Alalade,Yimka S. A., Ogboi Charles & Nasiru, Olayemi Saliu
Nigeria’s recent economic outlook has been replete with slow levels of economic growth that continue to impact the standard of living and quality of life of many households in Nigeria. Infrastructure deficits in power, transport facilities, water, and health services are identified in the literature as a major setback to Africa's industrialization, particularly in Nigeria, which continues to undermine policy efforts against poverty. In this study, historical public sector financing on infrastructure was explored to ascertain its effect on poverty levels in the country from the lens of per capita income. This study employed the ex post facto research design which enabled the utilization of secondary data extracted from 1986 to 2023 from the World Bank’s WDI (2024) and CBN’s Statistical Bulletin (2024), while bounds cointegration and the autoregressive distributed lagged (ARDL) modelwere employed in the analysis. Public sector infrastructure financing (PSIF) on roads, education, health, and housing were captured as the independent variables while per capita income was used as the proxy for poverty. The study hypothesis was tested at a5% level of significance. Overall, the study found that public sector infrastructure financing (PSIF) had a mixed and significant influence on per capita income(Adj.R2= 0.65,F(4, 33) = 9.56, p ? 0.05). Specifically, the study found thatonly PSIF on educationexhibited significant positive effects on per capita incomein the short run (β=0.18, p<0) and long run (β=0.07, p<0.03), while PSIF on road, health, and housing each exhibitednegative butinsignificant effects on per capita income both in the short and long run. The study concluded that investments in education have great potential for improved per capita income, improved well-being of the people, and reduction in the level of poverty.The findings led to recommendations of the necessity for the appropriate ministries to invest massively in education and prioritize the spending for this sector, to take benefit of economic growth associated with infrastructure development in Nigeria, to boost domestic expenditure, to improve the standard of living of the people, and ultimately reduce poverty.
Rrhizobacterial Novel Approach for Waste Rice Bran Management in Farmers' Fields
Aashish Kashyap1, Dr. Vijay Kumar2
The primary challenge in sustainable agriculture is the management of rice bran, a significant by-product of rice cultivation. Rice bran, which contains high concentrations of proteins, lipids, and fibers, presents both an opportunity and challenge for agricultural waste management. Conventional disposal and utilization methods do not adequately address the environmental and economic requirements of rice bran. In this review, we propose the application of rhizobacterial agents as a novel approach to their management in rice fields. Since the emergence of soil-grown plants, rhizobacteria have been demonstrated to be valuable components of beneficial interactions between these microorganisms and plant roots, rendering them promising tools for improving waste management practices. These bacteria actively contribute to the maintenance of soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, plant growth promotion, and the biocontrol of plant pathogens. Their role in the decomposition of agricultural waste may offer distinct advantages for rice bran management. The composition, behavior in soil, and limitations of traditional waste management methods, such as landfill disposal and direct incineration of rice bran, were examined.
Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Land Use/Land Cover in Ballia City Using Landsat Datasets
Chhaya Mishra1, Dr. Ashutosh2, Dr. Ronak Jain3
Urbanization has significantly altered land use and land cover (LULC) in Indian cities such as Ballia, resulting in the widespread expansion of built-up areas. This growth often occurs at the expense of agricultural land, vegetation, and open spaces. The present study aims to analyze the spatial and temporal changes in LULC within the urban area of Ballia city over a thirty-year period, from 1991 to 2021. The primary objective is to understand how land use patterns have evolved in response to rapid urban expansion, population growth, and developmental activities. The findings of this research are intended to support the development of sustainable land management strategies.To achieve this objective, satellite remote sensing data from Landsat-5 Thematic Mapper (TM) for the year 1991 and Landsat-8 Enhanced Operational Land Imager (OLI/TIRS) for the year 2021 were utilized. These multi-temporal images were analyzed using supervised classification techniques, specifically the maximum likelihood classification method, to identify and map different land use categories such as built-up area, agricultural land, water bodies, and vegetation cover. The classified maps were then evaluated for their accuracy using overall accuracy percentage and the Kappa coefficient, ensuring the reliability of the classification results.The study reveals a dramatic shift in land use in the Ballia urban area over the three-decade period. This sharp expansion of built-up zones highlights the pace of urbanisation and increasing industrial activities.The expansion of residential, commercial, and infrastructural development has led to a significant transformation of land previously used for agricultural and open green purposes. Specifically, large tracts of fertile agricultural land have been converted into non-agricultural uses, which poses serious concerns for future food security and environmental sustainability in the region.This pattern of urban growth is largely unplanned and has resulted in pressure on the natural environment and available resources. Such unchecked expansion has not only caused a loss of agricultural productivity but also contributed to challenges like increased surface runoff, reduced groundwater recharge, and the urban heat island effect. This study underscores the importance of integrated urban planning and robust land management policies to ensure that development progresses in harmony with environmental sustainability. The findings of this research are intended to aid city planners, policymakers and local authorities in understanding the trends and impacts of land use change. By using satellite data and GIS-based analysis, the study provides an evidence-based foundation for formulating sustainable development plans for Ballia city. It emphasizes the importance of protecting agricultural lands and maintaining ecological balance while accommodating urban growth. Ultimately, the research advocates for responsible urban planning that can lead to more sustainable and resilient urban development in the future.
The East Asian Dissemination Mechanism and Cultural Competitiveness of Korean Religious Cinema
Zhou Ting
Korean religious cinema has successfully achieved the globalization of indigenous spiritual expressions through a dual-track mechanism of "cultural translation" and "media convergence," establishing distinctive cultural competitiveness. Utilizing cultural translation theory and media geography as analytical frameworks, this paper examines the narrative evolution and dissemination pathways of Korean religious films through comparative analysis with Chinese religious cinema. The findings reveal that Korean religious cinema's competitive advantage stems from three strategic approaches: 1) Modern transcoding of religious symbolism; 2) Genre-blending narrative hybridization; 3) Transmedia storytelling ecosystems. These strategies facilitate an evolutionary transition from cultural exportation to cultural permeation. In contrast, Chinese religious cinema predominantly emphasizes harmonious narratives between spirituality and nature, constrained by its "cultural documentation" paradigm while lacking critical engagement with modernity's inherent contradictions. This study proposes a dual-dimensional "transmission-reception" analytical framework to transcend traditional text-centric approaches. Practically, it advocates for Sino-Korean collaborative exploration of an "East Asian Spiritual Cinematic Universe," synergizing policy innovation and technological advancement to drive narrative reinvention.
Effect of Market Risk on Firm Value of Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria
Vivian Chioma Anetoh Ajakpo (Ph. D)1; John Chidume Anetoh (Ph.D)2; Virginus Ikechukwu Ugwu (Ph.D)3; Edwin Chukwu Okoro (Ph.D)4
The incidence of high volatility caused by market risk in deposit money banks in Nigeria is the motivation that prompted this study. In spite of the attention given to risk in the last few years, the recent financial crisis caused by market risk in Nigeria has brought this subject matter to limelight Therefore, it is imperative to uncover how market risk affects deposit money banks in this contemporary era in Nigeria. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of market risk on firm value of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. The market risk was measured by stock price, interest rate and inflation rate risks while Tobin Q was the surrogate for firm value of deposit money banks. The study adopted an ex-post facto research design method. The target population of the study comprised all the deposit money banks listed in Nigeria Stock Exchange. The study used secondary source of data from Central Bank of Nigeria as well as from annual reports and financial statement of accounts of deposit money banks under review from 2016-2024. Structural equation modeling was the statistical technique used to estimate the nature, direction, strength, significance and effect of explanatory variables on the outcome variable at 0.05 level of significance. The study found that stock price risk had a significant but negative effect on firm value of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The finding showed that interest rate risk had a significant but negative effect on firm value of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study also found that inflation rate risk had a significant but negative effect on firm value of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The researchers recommended among others that bank managers and other stakeholders in the banking industry should try to invest more on the utilization of financial instruments so as to reduce risk exposures. They should plan carefully and diversify and also be cautious of factors that can affect stock prices. They should also be more careful when investing in fixed income securities so as to prevent high interest charges as experienced in Nigeria and beyond.
Impact of Group Lending on Enterprise Capital Formation and Employment Creation in Salale Oromia, Ethiopia
1Belay Kasaye Tura, 2Hailu Tesfaye Erba, 3Aster Teshome Haile
The Ethiopian government has been promoting MSE using different strategies, such as access to credit in a group. Although the government is working on a group loan program, the MSE's performance is ineffective. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine how group lending affected the formation of enterprise capital and the creation of jobs in Salale, Ethiopia. Primary data was collected through questionnaires and key informant interviews. The effects of group lending on the income of enterprises and the creation of jobs were determined using the PSM estimation. A simple two-stage random sampling technique was used to draw the sample. Data collected from 388 respondents were analyzedusing aneconometric model. The estimation of the prosperity score was done using the probit model. The study concluded that group lending has a significant impact on enterprise income, but not on employment creation. Finally, to recognize the role that MSEs play in capital formation, the study recommends that the government and financial institutions should formulate strategies through context- and practice-based impactful training, business development advisory services, guidance, and financial support.
Digital Finance Channels and the Financial Performance of Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria
1Irejeh Enaikpobomene Mina, 2Dr. Aigbovo Omoruyi, 3 Dr. Nwaoligbo Victoria Chinwendu, 4Okoro Long-life Owei, 5 Markwe Henry Somayina, 6Agwu Sylvester Maduabuchi
The study examined the effect of digital finance channels on the financial performance of deposit money banks (DMBs) in Nigeria for the period of (15) years on a quarterly basis from (2009Q1-Q4) to (2023Q1-Q4). The independent variables employed in the study are; Automated Teller Machine (ATM), Mobile banking (MOB), Point of Sale (POS) and Web pay (WP) and financial performance of DMBs proxied Return on Asset (ROA). Data was collected from the CBN Statistical Bulletin for (2009Q1-Q4) to (2023Q1-Q4). Quarterly data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and Ordinary Least Square Method (OLS) with the help of E-VIEW version 9.0 for the hypotheses raised. The finding shows automated Teller Machine (ATM) has positive and significant effect on financial performance of DMBs in Nigeria, Mobile Banking has positiveand significant effect on financial performance of DMBs in Nigeria, Web-pay has negative and significant effect on financial performance of DMBs in Nigeria and Point of Sales have positive and statistically significant effect on financial performance of DMBs in Nigeria. The study thereby recommends that DMBs continue to expand and strategically deploy ATM networks for increased revenue generation, cost efficiency, customer retentions and satisfaction, enhanced deposit mobilization and support for digital banking integration. Also, the study recommends that there should be public enlightenment on the benefit that is accruable from the usage of Mobile transfer transaction. This would help to reduce the ills associated with the use of mobile banking.
Ethiopia's Political Challenges and Sports Participation in Colleges and Universities in Tigray
Shishay Weldeslassie1, Kesatie Legesse1, Tekeste Birhanu2, Laake Reda1
A recent study indicates that Ethiopia frequently faces serious political communal conflicts. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of these political issues on sports participation in colleges and universities in Tigray. A descriptive research design was employed, utilizing a sample of 147 sports management bodies from various colleges and universities in Tigray. A cross-sectional approach was applied to compare the impact of political issues on sports participation among four universities and two colleges. Data were collected using a standardized 5-point Likert scale questionnaire and structured interviews, which were analyzed using SPSS (version 20). Specifically, cross-tabulation descriptive statistics and the Kruskal-Wallis test were utilized to analyze and compare the collected data. Additionally, the Spearman rank-order correlation test assessed the association between political issues and sports participation. Findings show Ethiopia's political issues negatively affect sports participation in Tigray's institutions. Many respondents reported high negative impacts: Aksum University (88.5%), Adigrat University (82.4%), Mekelle University (95.6%), Raya University (86.6%), Adwa College (87.5%), and Abyi-adi College (80%). No significant differences in impacts across institutions were found (P-value 0.462). There was a strong negative correlation between political issues and sports participation (correlation coefficient 0.238, significant at 0.001). In conclusion, Ethiopia's political system and its resulting conflicts have profoundly hindered sports participation in Tigray’s colleges and universities. Additionally, Ethiopia's political system had a strong negative association with the sport participation at Highere institusions.
Perceptions and Utilization Practices of Internet as a Source of Seeking Academic Related Health Information among Dental Students in Nellore - A Cross Sectional Study
Dr. B. Aparna Yadav (MDS) 1; Dr. G. Srinivasulu (MDS) 2; Dr. RVS Krishna Kumar (MDS) 3; Dr. R. Swetha (MDS) 4; Dr. Seemala Jyotsna (MDS)5; Dr. Indumathi. K. P (MDS)6
Introduction: Owing to the revolution in technology, the internet has become an important aspect of people’s lives. Recently, Internet based academic related health information had become more popular among students in providing an incomparable information resources during learning and research. Aim: This study was aimed to assess perceptions and utilization practices of internet as a source of seeking academic related health information among Dental students in Nellore. Materials and methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted from October to November 2021 on 285 dental students of Nellore city of Andhra Pradesh. A specially designed 14 item validated questionnaire was used to collect the data. SPSS version 22.0 was used for the statistical analysis. Fisher exact test was used to analyse the data p value< 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 285 dental students filled the questionnaire, majority of the dental students use internet for seeking academic related health information. Statistically significant difference was found (p <0.05) between Postgraduates, Undergraduates and Interns for responses on the questions related to knowledge of obtaining academic related health information. No statistical significantdifference was observed when compared postgraduates with undergraduates and Interns in finding academic related health information in Internet. Conclusion: This study concluded that majority of the dental students utilizes internet for seeking academic related health information.
Autonomous All-Terrain Robot for Remote Environmental Monitoring
1Sparsh Rathore, 2Rajanya Sarkar, 3Dr. J. Sam Jeba Kumar
This paper details the development of an autonomous all-terrain robot designed for real-time environmental monitoring in hazardous areas such as landslides or forest fires. The robot is equipped with a thermal camera (MLX90640) for detecting trapped humans, utilizing YOLOv5 and TensorFlow for object detection. A Raspberry Pi HQ Camera enables live streaming and obstacle avoidance. Communication is facilitated by the Telit LM960 4G module, providing reliable internet connectivity in remote locations. Additionally, sensors like the MQ5 gas sensor and AHT10 temperature sensor monitor for toxic gas leaks and high temperatures, ensuring prompt user notifications in emergency situations
Re-exploring the Pedagogy of Story Writing: A Case Study of the Wuxia Workshop at Chongqing College of Mobile Communication
Li Yan
As a pioneer in integrating genre-specific training into creative writing education, Chongqing College of Mobile Communication's Wuxia Workshop offers a unique model for cultivating literary creativity through structured engagement with cultural narrative traditions. This study examines how a three-tiered pedagogical framework—modular deconstruction of wuxia's narrative elements (e.g., quest structures, chivalric ethics), interactive peer-driven workshops, and transmedia synthesis of visual and literary techniques—enhances students' ability to balance genre conventions with innovative expression. By analyzing classroom interactions, student works, and instructor reflections, the research reveals that systematic?? (deconstruction) of genre components into teachable modules fosters metacognitive awareness, while multimedia-integrated practice and structured peer discourse significantly boost narrative sophistication and creative autonomy. The findings contribute to global conversations on creative writing pedagogy by proposing a scalable model for integrating cultural heritage with contemporary storytelling, particularly in nurturing writers who navigate the dialectic between traditional genre logic and subversive innovation.
Surrogacy Practices in Nigeria: How Relevant are Religious Beliefs?
Chima-Agbara, O. W.1; Odunaike, D. A.1; Olanrewaju, P. O.1; & Akintoye, I. R.1
Surrogacy, a vital component of assisted reproductive technology (ART), continues to evoke moral, legal, and theological debate, particularly in religiously plural societies like Nigeria. Despite its growing relevance as a solution to infertility—which affects an estimated 20–30% of Nigerian couples—surrogacy remains controversial, largely due to the dominant influence of Christian and Islamic doctrines that govern public morality and private decision-making. This paper offers a conceptual exploration of the intersection between surrogacy practices and religious beliefs in Nigeria. It examines how theological concerns—such as the sanctity of marriage, lineage purity, and divine authority over reproduction—shape social attitudes, legal hesitation, and gendered notions of reproductive autonomy. Drawing on contextual theology, policy pluralism, and ethical reasoning, the paper advocates for a balanced framework that respects religious convictions while promoting reproductive justice. It proposes engaging religious leaders in interfaith dialogue, reinterpreting sacred texts through compassion-centered theology, and developing inclusive legal frameworks that protect both faith values and individual rights. The paper concludes by recommending future empirical research on religious perceptions of surrogacy and case studies on integrating faith-based ethics into national reproductive health policies.
Company Income Tax and Economic Growth of Oil Producing Countries in Africa: Evidence from a PCSE Model
Ademikanra, A. D.1; Akintoye, I. R.1; Falode, O. A.1& Okon, I. J.2
This study investigates the relationship between company income tax and economic growth in selected oil-producing African nations. Drawing on a 20-year panel dataset (2003–2022) from ten top oil-producing African countries with complete non-oil tax data, the study adopts an ex-post facto research design and employs the Panel-Corrected Standard Error (PCSE) estimation technique to address issues of cross-sectional dependence, heteroskedasticity, and autocorrelation. Key variables analyzed include GDP growth rate (dependent), company income tax (main independent), and control variables such as gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) and secondary school enrollment (SSE). Findings reveal that CIT has a negative but statistically insignificant effect on GDP growth, suggesting limited elasticity of company tax revenue in stimulating economic expansion in rent-dependent economies. The study concludes that CIT alone cannot drive economic transformation in oil-rich African states without concurrent reforms in tax governance, institutional strengthening, and investment alignment. Policymakers are therefore advised to reduce overreliance on CIT and instead improve its productivity through compliance reforms, transparency, and alignment with long-term growth objectives. For corporate stakeholders, tax planning should integrate broader economic development strategies. This research contributes to the growing literature on fiscal policy in resource-endowed economies and calls for future studies to incorporate dynamic modeling and sectoral disaggregation to capture the heterogeneous impact of tax instruments across industries and institutional contexts.
The Effect of Tax Aggressiveness on Taxpayers' Registration with Tax Authorities in Lagos State, Nigeria
Osianor, E. A.; Akintoye, R. I.; Owolabi, B. A.; Sanni A
Tax compliance is vital for Nigeria's revenue generation and economic development, as it funds public services, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs. However, Nigeria faces significant challenges in tax compliance, with a low tax-to-GDP ratio of 5%.¹ This is largely due to weak revenue administration capacity, lack of data on the informal sector, and an ineffective tax collecting system.Tax noncompliance is a persistent issue in Nigeria, resulting in inadequate tax revenues and hindering the government's ability to fund fiscal policies. To address this, tax aggressiveness strategies such as tax audits, investigations, tax collection agents, lawsuits, tax justice, and tax education can be employed. These strategies can improve compliance by influencing taxpayers' behavior and attitudes.A study in Lagos State, Nigeria, investigated the relationship between tax aggressiveness strategies and taxpayers' behavior. The study found that tax aggressiveness significantly influenced taxpayers' registration. The study's findings suggest that tax aggressiveness variables can impact taxpayers' compliance behavior, providing valuable insights for strategies to improve tax compliance in Lagos State.The findings revealed that tax aggressiveness significantly influenced taxpayers’ registration (Adj.R2 = 0.371, F(5, 400) = 65.90, p < 0.05). The study's methodology involved a survey research design, with a sample size of 400 registered taxpayers in Lagos State, Nigeria. The response rate was 88.4%, and descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. The study's conclusions highlight the importance of tax aggressiveness in promoting tax compliance in Nigeria, and its findings can inform strategies to improve tax compliance in Lagos State.
Effect of Community Relations Strategies on Community Development in Southwest Nigeria
1Oladipo, Taiwo Kolawole; 2Ugwuonah, Geraldine Egondu; 3Kamalu Adamu Mohammed; 4Kolawale Olasoji Abraham; 5Musa, Bulus Kwablang; 6Olaifa, Jimoh Aremu
Community relations emphasize establishing and sustaining good relationships with members of the community. It focuses on finding better and productive ways of doing things in a manner that will improve the quality of life of the people. It is about the environment, social cohesion, meeting the various needs of the people in different communities, and creating equal opportunities that will bring about a strong and healthy society. The study sought to examine the influence of direct engagement of community members on infrastructure provision, determine the effect of sponsorships on access to education, and examine the effect of community day ceremonies on cultural preservation. To achieve the objectives of the study, a quantitative research design was used with 422 responses gathered. Findings from the study indicate that the various strategies, such as direct engagement of community members, sponsorships, and community day ceremonies, were pivotal to community development in the South West region of Nigeria. The study, therefore, recommends that the government should promote inclusivity and participation by ensuring that community members have a voice in decision-making processes for community development. Moreover, the government should invest in sponsorship and capacity-building programmes for community members to enhance access to quality education and empower them with skills for development efforts. Finally, community stakeholders and the government must encourage traditional ceremonies, such as community day ceremonies, to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the people.
Ramakrishna Mission and the Women's Emancipation in Northeast India
1Jayoti Gupta & 2Dr. Amit Kumar Tiwari
The 19thcentury India underwent various socio-political and economic changes due to the influence of colonial rule. During this time, many social evils like Sati system, child-marriage, female-child infanticide etc. were existing in Indian society. As a result, society was going through a crisis during this period and needed social reformations. In this situation, various socio-religious reformers appeared on the soil of India and Swami Vivekananda was one of them. He founded the Ramakrishna mission which played a significant role in the social reform movements in India. Swami Vivekananda realised that the lack of education and unequal treatment against women were the root causes of all prevailing social evils in India. While travelling in various parts of the country, he realised that the lower caste people and women were victimised by the prevailing social evils. Swami Vivekananda who was well versed with the Hindu scriptures, knew that- Yatra Naryastu Pujyante, Ramante Tarta Devta (where women are honoured, divinity blossoms there). Swami Vivekananda believed that the existing social evils were the main cause of women’s subjugation; therefore, he took the initiative for empowering women by imparting education. Swami Vivekananda led the foundation of the Ramakrishna mission on May 1st, 1897 and later this mission opened various schools and colleges for girl’s education in various parts of Calcutta which gradually spread to the other parts of India. The mission also undertook various steps in Northeast India to educate women. Therefore; the objective of the paper is to enquire the role of Ramakrishna Mission in women empowerment in northeast India. The paper explains various activities under the mission in North East India.
Salicylic Acid: A Potential Metal Stress Attenuator in Legumes Plants
Sumil Chauhan1, Mishmi Paul1, Arushi Sankhyan1, Preeti Kumari1, Aditi Bisht1
Heavy metals (HMs) have a negative impact on growth and development of plants, especially legumes, which are essential for the world's food security. Presence of HM alters the growth and metabolism of plants by inhibiting photosynthesis, decreasing vegetative growth, decreasing seed germination, and nutrient uptake, etc. Plants have some inherent defense mechanisms for example, osmolyte accumulation, antioxidant defence machinery, production of secondary compounds, etc. to cope with these environmental constraints, however, under severe stressed conditions these strategies are not sufficient. Recently, application of exogenous stress ameliorators such as phytohormones, signaling molecules, etc, have emerged as potential tools that can alleviate the detrimental effects of HM stress on plants. Among diverse phytohormones, salicylic acid (SA) is known to play important role in growth and development of plants by modulating various physiological and metabolic attributes. By keeping this in mind, the current review is highlighting the various physiological, biochemical and molecular role of SA in mitigating the effect of HM stress on legumes. This review also summarises the latest findings on the exogenous application of SA could be a better approach for the sustainable agricultural practices in contaminated soils.
Floating Filters: Harnessing Duckweed (Lemna paucicostata) for the Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal in Industrial Wastewater, Calabar, Nigeria
Jimmy, Emmanuel U.1, Ekanem Sunday B.2, Udiba, Udiba U.1*,Dan, Monica U3, Amah, Joseph E.4, Nwuyi, Okori Sam-Uket5, Ishado Stephen A.1
This study explores the potential of Duckweed (Lemna Paucicostata) as a natural phytoremediation agent for heavy metal removal from industrial wastewater in Calabar, Nigeria, aiming to enhance treatment efficiency and ensure compliance with national discharge standards. Duckweed samples of 100g, 300g, and 500g were introduced into 20L of wastewater, and controls were maintained, in monthly trials from May to August 2023. Metals tested included lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) before and after a 28-day treatment period. In the Niger Mills effluent, the 500g duckweed treatment achieved reductions in Pb (87.1%), Cd (83.4%), Cu (71.8%), Ni (77.0%), Fe (72.8%), and Zn (84.2%), while in the Iron and Steel effluent, reductions included Pb (72.4%), Cd (90.1%), Ni (93.1%), Fe (77.64%), Cu (88.86%), and Zn (84.75%). Treatments reduced Cd concentrations to levels below National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) acceptable discharge limits in both effluents, with 500g achieving discharge limits for Ni, Cu, Fe, and Zn in Iron and Steel effluent. This study concludes that Lemna Paucicostata holds substantial potential for industrial wastewater remediation, achieving significant reductions in heavy metal levels. To optimize its effectiveness, further research is recommended to investigate the impact of higher duckweed biomass densities and extended treatment durations. Additionally, integration of duckweed with other treatment methods could be explored to enhance removal efficiency for metals like Pb and Ni that exceeded limits, supporting a more sustainable and cost-effective approach to wastewater management in industrial settings.
AI-Driven Conflict Management in Ghanaian Manufacturing: Unveiling the Role of Organizational Culture and Predictive Analytics
John Yaw Akparep
In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, how are Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technological tools transforming organizational processes, particularly in conflict management? This study explores the role of AI and technological tools in enhancing conflict management within Ghanaian manufacturing firms, focusing on the moderating role of organizational culture and the mediating role of predictive analytics. Drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model and Organizational Culture Theory, the study investigates how these factors influence AI adoption in conflict management. The data was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that organizational commitment, perceived ease of use, and trust in technology positively impact conflict management, while perceived usefulness negatively influences conflict resolution. Predictive analytics were found to mediate the relationship between AI adoption and conflict management, enabling proactive conflict detection, while organizational culture strengthened the effect of AI on conflict management. These results emphasize the importance of AI and technology adoption in improving conflict management practices, underscoring the need for supportive organizational cultures and effective training programs to maximize the potential of AI-driven conflict resolution tools. The study contributes to the understanding of AI adoption in conflict management within the context of Ghanaian manufacturing firms, offering practical and theoretical insights for enhancing organizational performance and workplace harmony. Furthermore, the integration of predictive analytics in conflict management processes is crucial for proactive, data-driven decision-making, enabling organizations to mitigate potential conflicts before they escalate, leading to improved productivity and cost savings.
Evaluating Soil-Plant Transfer and Partitioning of Toxic Metals in Cassava(Manihot esculenta): Implications for Food Safety around Mfamosing Cement Plant, Nigeria
Udiba U. Udiba*1, Blossom U. Ejah1, Alice O. Ekwu2, John Ama1, Edward O. Emuru3, Moses U.Awusha3, Ekom R. Akpan4
The study evaluated soil-plant transfer, partitioning, and bioaccumulation of toxic metals in cassava (Manihot esculenta) cultivated around the Mfamosing Cement Plant, Nigeria, to assess food safety risks. Soil and cassava samples (peeled tubers, peels, and leaves) were collected from farms at varying distances (0–1500 m) from the cement plant and analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (Model AA-6800, Japan). Mean soil metal concentrations (mg/kg) ranged from 0.22±0.09 to 81.61±3.67, while concentrations (mg/kg) in peeled tubers, peels, and leaves ranged from 0.01±0.01 to 0.72±0.02, 0.01±0.00 to 2.48±0.04, and 0.01±0.00 to 1.03±0.06, respectively. Except for cadmium, mean soil metal concentrations were below regulatory thresholds. A significant decrease in lead, cadmium, and chromium concentrations in soil and cassava tissues with increasing distance from the cement plant suggests anthropogenic influence. Transfer factors for all metals were within acceptable ranges (0.01–0.1 Mg/kg), with chromium exhibiting efficient internal transport from roots to leaves (TF >1), whereas Pb, Cd, Hg, and As showed restricted mobility (TF <1). Results revealed that cassava peels and leaves preferentially accumulated Pb, As, and Cr, while peeled tubers stored mercury, suggesting varied metal partitioning patterns within the plant. Notably, Pb and Cd concentrations in peeled tubers and leaves exceeded WHO/FAO limits, highlighting concerns regarding food safety. The findings underscore the need for periodic monitoring, awareness campaigns on cassava tissue-specific metal bio-accumulation, and assessment of potential health risk pose by edible cassava tissues. Given cassava’s role as a staple food, continuous exposure to these metals could have long-term health implications, necessitating stringent regulatory measures.
Structural Career Plateauing and Employees Performance in Deposit Money Banks in South-East, Nigeria
Nwamaka Abigail Ozioko1, Emmanuel Kalu Agbaeze2, Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali3
The study examined the effect of Structural Career Plateauing on Employees Performance in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in Southeast, Nigeria. The specific objectives were, to: assess the effect of lack of transparency in succession planning on the productivity levels of employees; evaluate the extent to which lack of periodic promotion affect employee growth; assess the effect of lack of career advancement opportunities on employee retention rates; ascertain the influence of perceived career stagnation on employee psychological commitment; and evaluate the extent to which lack of internal mobility policies affect employee innovation. The study adopted a survey research design. The population of the study comprised 1481 staff of banks in South-East, Nigeria, which have international operational licenses from the CBN. The banks include: Access Bank – 201, First Bank – 297, First City Monument Bank – 164, Fidelity Bank – 213, Guaranty Trust Bank – 134, United Bank for Africa – 245, and Zenith Bank – 227. A sample size of 305 respondents was used, which was determined using Freund and William’s statistical formula. The study adopted stratified sampling technique to reach out to different strata using a structured questionnaire. The research instrument was validated using face and content validity. Cronbach’s Alpha Statistic was used to test the reliability of the instrument, which reported reliability coefficient of 80%. Regression analysis was used for data analyses at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed thatStructural Career Plateauing had a significant effect on Employees Performance in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in Southeast, Nigeria.The study concluded that Structural Career Plateauing had a significant negative effect on the Employees Performance in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in Southeast, Nigeria. The study recommended, among others, that Deposit Money Banks in South-East Nigeria should establish transparent succession planning processes by clearly outlining career paths, communicating these plans to employees, and providing regular updates on potential career advancements within the organization.
Organisational Design and Performance of Federal Universities in Southeast Nigeria
1Ugochi Sally Esimai, 2Emmanuel Kalu Agbaeze, 3Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali
The study examined the effect of organisational design on the performance of federal universities in southeast Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: examine the effect of Governance Structure on organisational effectiveness, ascertain the effect of Administrative Structure on operational efficiency, assess the effect of Academic Structure on the Teaching Quality, investigate the effect of Financial Structure on the Achievement of University's Goals, and asses the effect of Physical Infrastructure on the Learning Outcome. The study adopted survey research design with a total population of 21918 for both members of staff and PG students. The sample size included 372 members of staff and 372 PG students. The sample size was determined using Freund and Williams’s statistical formula. The primary data collected were subjected to statistical test using Ordinal Logistic Regression (OLR) analysis with the aid of SPSS. Findings revealed that: Governance structure had a significant effect on organisational effectiveness in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria, Administrative structure had a significant effect on operational efficiency in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria, Academic structure had a significant effect on teaching quality in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria, Financial structure had a significant effect on the achievement of university goals in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria, and Physical infrastructure had a significant effect on learning outcomes in federal universities in Southeast Nigeria. The study therefore concluded that organisational design had significant effect on the performance of federal universities in southeast Nigeria. The study, among others, recommended that federal universities should strengthen their governance structures by promoting transparency, accountability, and clear decision-making processes to enhance organizational effectiveness.
Transforming Waste: A Comprehensive Review of Innovations and Challenges in Municipal Solid Waste Management in India
1Ipsita Dash, 2Rajat Kumar Panigrahi, 1Rahul Behera, 1Ronak Mohapatra
Municipal solid waste (MSW) management is a critical challenge for urban areas in India, including Odisha. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and changing consumption patterns have led to increased waste generation, necessitating effective management strategies. This review examines the current state of municipal solid waste (MSW) management in Odisha, India, highlighting the challenges and best practices associated with waste generation, collection, segregation, and treatment. With urban areas producing approximately 3,000 tons of waste daily, effective management is crucial to address the increasing environmental and health concerns. Key challenges include infrastructure deficiencies, financial constraints, and inadequate public awareness regarding proper waste disposal. However, promising initiatives such as public-private partnerships, community composting, and recycling programs demonstrate potential for improvement. The review emphasizes the need for enhanced source segregation, investment in infrastructure, stronger policy enforcement, and increased community engagement to foster sustainable waste management practices. By adopting a collaborative approach, Odisha can transform its waste management landscape and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for its residents.
A Structural Analysis of Channel Selection among Tribal Vegetable Growers of Sundargarh: Preferential Antecedents and Mediating Affinity
1Dr. Sumant Kerketta; 2Dr. Debendra Kumar Mahalik; 3Gourav Kumar Panda; 4Yadav Devi Prasad Behera
Development of tribal people is most essential element of developing tribal areas and that can be possible by enhancing their earning capacity. In this regard tribal products must be made marketable ad must increase sale, which ultimately need better channel members for transportation and sale. But, the selection of channel members from the prospective of tribal people must be studied for better accessibility and better channel relationship. Purpose of the study- This study intent to examine the preferential factors of tribal vegetable farmers that helps in selection of channel member for marketing and sale. This study also aimed to find the mediating role of affinity for selection of channel members. Research Methodology- The study followed causal research design. Primary data is collected from 494 tribal farmers across four strata of Odisha through self-structured questionnaire. Structural Equation Modeling was carried out using SPSS Amos for analysis of relationship among the dependent and independent variables. Findings of the study- The study found that affordability, accessibility and affordability are the factors that helps to prefer the channel member for logistics and transportation, which also helps in sales and marketability. The study found that the affinity factors have a mediating role on the selection of channel members for marketing and transportation of tribal vegetable products. Research implication- The channel members can use this research finding to understand the preferential factors that encourage the selection of channel members and how the channel members behave hospitable in order to gain faith and work from tribal vegetable farmers.
"Beyond Medications: How Manual Therapy Can Relieve Low Back Pain"
1Dr. Hari Narayan Saini, 2Dr. Jitendra Singh Parmar, 3Dr. Deepak Kumar Singh, 4Dr. Nopa Ram Dewanda
Background: One of the main causes of disability in the world is low back pain (LBP), which is frequently treated with medication. However, manual therapy is gaining attention as an effective alternative. Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess how well manual therapy works for people with LBP in terms of pain reduction and function enhancement. Methods: 100 participants were split into two groups for the randomized controlled trial (RCT): one group received standard care, and the other group received manual therapy. Pain intensity and functional outcomes were measured. Results: In comparison to the standard care group, the manual therapy group demonstrated a notable improvement in mobility and pain reduction. Conclusion: Manual therapy is a viable alternative to medication for managing LBP, enhancing both pain relief and function.
The Impact of Domestic Violence on Pupils' Academic Performance in Ekiti State, Nigeria
1Ruth Morenike Odewumi (Ph.D), 2Ayobami Alice Agboola, & 3Samuel Ayodele Akeredolu
This study investigates the impact of domestic violence on pupils' academic performance in Ikere Local Government Area, Ekiti State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was employed, and the population consisted of pupils from both public and private primary schools in the area. A total sample of 200 pupils from 10 schools (five publics and five private) was selected using a stratified sampling technique. Four self-designed instruments were used: Physical Effects of Domestic Violence on Pupils (PEDVP), Effect of Domestic Violence on Loss of Concentration of Pupils (EDVLCP), Effect of Domestic Violence on Poor Study Habit among Pupils (EDPSHP), and Effect of Domestic Violence on Pupils Performance (EDVPP). The reliability coefficients for these instruments were 0.71, 0.70, 0.69, and 0.80, respectively, as determined by Cronbach’s alpha. Data analysis involved T-tests and frequency counts. The results show that domestic violence significantly affects pupils' academic performance, concentration, study habits, and physical wellbeing, with aggressive behavior, depression, anxiety, and trauma being the most common physical effects. These findings underscore the negative impact of domestic violence on pupils' academic performance.
Modeling Vehicles Image Detection at Nigerian Higher Institutions
1Yahaya T. Olawale,2Tayo P. Ogundunmade, 3Ganiyu Kabir Adewale
Vision has been the primary method for extracting information for judgment and decision-making. Visuals are now being used by gate and traffic systems to automate their operations. Identifying innate patterns in the flow of vehicles into and out of the Universities may provide useful information for security-focused decision-making in order to be prepared for this future. The work aim to integrate statistical learning methods with image processing to identify traffic trends in higher institutions. At the entrance and exit locations of the gates of five southwest higher institutions in Nigeria, pictures were taken using a stationed long-range camera. These institutions selected are the Polytechnic of Ibadan, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), University of Ibadan (UI), University of Lagos (UL) and Obafemi Awolowo Universities (OAU. Three thousand and eighty observations make up these data. At the entry point, 1,802 observations were collected, and at the exit position, 1,278 observations were collected. Two deep learning models were considered, the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and the Gaussian Mixed Modelling (GMM) models for classification of the vehicle images. The result shows that CNN outperformed GMM in terms of classification accuracy, achieving 85.48% compared to 71.77% for GMM.The findings suggest that for complex pattern recognition tasks like vehicle image identification, deep learning architectures can overcome fundamental limitations. The management of the Nigerian Institution can use the algorithms and outcomes to control vehicle movement as well as for security inspections within the school.
Nitric Oxide: A Potential Molecule for Salt Stress Tolerance in Legumes
Mishmi Paul1, Sumil Chauhan1, Preeti Kumari1, Arushi Sankhyan1, Aditi Bisht1
Salt stress is a significant environmental issue that affects growth and development of plants especially legumes, by reducing water potential, nutrient uptake, ionic imbalance, nodule potential etc. Higher concentrations of Na+ (sodium) and Cl- (chloride) reduce the uptake of Ca2+ (calcium), K+ (potassium), and Mg2+ (magnesium) levels, and thereby, impacting the K+/Na+ ratio. Legumes activate their inherent salt tolerance mechanisms to maintain ambient environmental conditions for survival under salinity. These defense mechanisms involve biochemical and developmental changes, including ion homeostasis, accumulation of osmolytes, upregulation of antioxidant defense mechanisms, etc. However, in extended stressful situations, the oxidative burst of reactive oxygen species (ROS) outweighs the balance between ROS generation and scavenging, resulting in plant death as a result of cellular equilibrium being upset. Recently, various molecules have been exploited to impart tolerance to stressed plants, including gasotransmitters and signaling molecules like nitric oxide (NO), salicylic acid (SA), gallic acid (GA), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, and abscisic acid. Among these, Nitric oxide (NO) is a crucial redox signaling molecule which improve growth and development of plants by boosting photosynthetic activity, respiratory rate, stomatal movement, ion homoeostasis, osmolyte accumulation, leaf relative water content, etc. Keeping all this in mind, this review highlights the impact of NO in alleviating the detrimental effect of salt stress on leguminous plants and advocating for its application as a sustainable agricultural practice as it is efficient and ecofriendly to improve legume resilience against salinity and improve crop yield in saline environments.
Aravind Adiga's the White Tiger as a India's Social Milieu
1Md Yaqub Alam, 2Dr Sukhdev Singh
Aravind Adiga’s The White Tiger is a masterful narrative that uncovers the dark underbelly of modern Indian society. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly globalizing economy, the novel explores themes of class conflict, systemic corruption, poverty, and the illusion of upward mobility. Through the journey of Balram Halwai, a village boy who becomes a successful entrepreneur via morally ambiguous choices, Adiga constructs a compelling image of India’s social milieu. This paper seeks to analyze how The White Tiger reflects India’s socio-economic and political landscape, and how it contributes to postcolonial literature by foregrounding the voices of the subaltern class. The article also explores the novel’s symbolic and narrative techniques that highlight the contrast between the so-called "India of Light" and "India of Darkness."
Analyzing the Relationship between Dynamic Capabilities and Firm Performance: A Quantitative Study in the Fruit and Vegetable Processing Industry in the Malwa Region of India
1Dr. Mayank Saxena, 2Ms. Sonam Shrivansh
Purpose: This research investigates the relationship between dynamic capability theory and firm performance in the fruit and vegetable processing industry in the Malwa region. Data: The study uses a quantitative research design, using data collected from a sample of 258 respondents from 33 different fruit and vegetable processing industries in the Malwa region. Analysis: The data is analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the hypothesized relationships between dynamic capabilities and firm performance. Findings: The findings of this research provide empirical evidence on the relationship between dynamic capabilities and firm performance in the fruit and vegetable processing industry. The study also examines the role of various factors, such as customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, innovation and many more, in the relationship between dynamic capabilities and firm performance. The research is conducted in the Malwa region, a developing economy context, which provides insights into the applicability of dynamic capability theory in different contexts. Implications: The findings of this research have practical implications for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers. For industry practitioners, the study offers guidance on how to develop and enhance their dynamic capabilities to improve firm performance. For policymakers, the research provides evidence-based recommendations on how to support the development of dynamic capabilities in the fruit and vegetable processing industry. For researchers, the study contributes to the growing body of literature on dynamic capability theory and its application in various industries and contexts.
Social Networking and Performance of SMEs in South Eastern Nigeria
Isienyi, Raluchukwu Andrew1, Dr B.I Chukwu2, Onuorah Kenneth .I3, Onoh Chizoba Chuzzy4, Ikenna Amuka5
This study focused on social networking and performance of Small and Medium-size Enterprises in South eastern Nigeria. For SMEs, which often operate with limited resources, social networking offers a cost-effective and efficient means of sharing ideas with partners, enhancing exchange with suppliers, reaching potential customers and building brand awareness. Despite the relevance of, network structure, network size in fostering effective social networking effort towards improved performance of SMEs in the South Eastern Nigeria, there are still issues on privacy concern. The study examined the effect of network structure on sales volume; assess the influence of network size on productivity. The study adopted a survey research design. The population of this study was 57,035 SMEs. The sample size of the study was 398. A multi-stage sampling technique was utilized to ensure comprehensive representation. The study employed faces and construct validity. The study employed both descriptive and inferential statistics for data analysis. The study utilized linear regression to test the formulated hypotheses. Finding showed that network structure significantly and positively affects the sales volume of SMEs (given β= 0.719148; p-value <0.01), network size significantly and positively affects the productivity of SME.The study concluded that evolving landscape of social networking has become a pivotal element for SMEs, influencing various aspects of their performance. The study recommended that SMEs should prioritize developing a clear and organized network structure that facilitates effective communication and partnership among stakeholders, and that SMEs should actively seek to expand their network size by engaging with diverse partners, including industry peers, suppliers, and customers.
Entrepreneurial Skills and Performance of Small / Medium Scale Enterprises in South-East, Nigeria
Onuorah Kenneth .I1, Prof. E. K. Agbaeze2, Onoh Chizoba Chuzzy3,, Ikenna Amuka4
This study critically examined Entrepreneurial Skills and Performance of Small Medium Scale Enterprises in South-East, Nigeria. Entrepreneurial skills is the combination of the owner-managers’ identifiable characteristics, competencies and motives that are vital in managing a business. Entrepreneurial skills are the psychological attributes that an entrepreneur can be identified with and are vital to the management of a business. Entrepreneurial skills are critical for the success and sustainability of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs). Specifically, this study sought to determine the effect of communication skills on customer satisfaction and to ascertain the effect of risk taking on profitability of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs)in South-East, Nigeria. The target population of the study consists of 3875 staff of the selected Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in South-East, Nigeria. The sample size of 363 was determined using the Slovin’s formula. Primary data were obtained from structured questionnaire while secondary data were obtained from books, journals and the internet. The questionnaire was designed on five points Likert Scale format. The finding revealed that Entrepreneurs’ communication skills had a positive effect on customer satisfaction of SMEs (β = 0.754); (p < 0.05), and that Entrepreneurs’ risk taking had a positive effect on profitability of SMEs (β = 0.752); (p < 0.05)in South-East, Nigeria. Based on the findings, it was recommended that SMEs should invest in training programs focused on enhancing entrepreneurs' communication skills, as effective communication can significantly improve customer satisfaction and foster long-term relationships with clients. Entrepreneurs should be encouraged to participate in workshops that teach risk management strategies, enabling them to make informed decisions that can lead to increased profitability while mitigating potential downsides.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Residents towards the Prevention of Exposure to Noise Pollution in Egbejila Community, Nigeria
Shuaib Kayode Aremu1; Rasaq Kayode Adewoye2; Azeez Oyemomi Ibrahim3
Background: Noise pollution is an increasingly significant environmental health concern in rapidly urbanizing communities of Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness, and practices regarding noise pollution prevention among residents of Egbejila community in Kwara State, Nigeria. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 385 randomly selected residents of Egbejila using a structured questionnaire. Data on demographics, knowledge about noise pollution, awareness of regulations, and preventive practices were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: The study revealed moderate knowledge levels (mean score: 3.2±1.1 out of 5) but limited awareness (mean score: 2.3±1.4 out of 7) regarding noise pollution among residents. Only 37.4% of respondents were aware of national regulations on noise control. Preventive practices were generally poor (mean score: 3.5±2.1 out of 12), with significant associations observed between educational level and knowledge scores (χ² = 21.53, df = 3, p < 0.001), as well as between duration of residence and preventive practices (χ² = 16.27, df = 3, p = 0.001). Generator use (38.7%) and religious activities (27.8%) were identified as the major sources of noise pollution in the community. Conclusion: This study highlights significant gaps in knowledge, awareness, and practices regarding noise pollution prevention in Egbejila community. There is an urgent need for community-based educational interventions and enforcement of existing noise regulations to mitigate the growing health risks associated with noise pollution.
Foreign Inflows and Financial Institutions Development in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Panel Data Approach
1Irom Ishaku Agabi; 2Onwumere, Josaphat Uchechukwu Joe; 3Chukwudi Umejiaku; 4Alozieuwa, Nneka Chizoba; 5Ajayi, S.O
The study evaluated the impact of foreign inflows on financial institutions development in Sub-Saharan Africa for the coverage period, 1986-2023 and the cross section represents 45 countries of the SSA. The independent variables were diaspora remittance, foreign direct investment, and official development assistance, which were used to measure foreign inflows while the dependent variable, financial institutions development was measured by financial institutions depth. Using dynamic panel least squares (PDLS), particularly the random effect, the study found that diaspora remittance exerted an increasingly significant influence on the depth of the financial institutions of the SSA countries; foreign direct investment adversely and non-significantly affected the depth of financial institutions in the studied SSA countries; while official development assistance exerted positive but non-significant influenced on the depth of financial institutions in the studied SSA countries. Given the mixed influences of the foreign inflows on financial institution depth, SSA should maintain liberalized policies, particularly by minimizing restrictions on remittance inflows, to further develop their financial institutions while strengthening institutional quality is crucial to mitigating these negative influences that may stem from the size of the economy, exchange volatility, weak regulatory frameworks, inadequate supervisory mechanisms, and corruption.
Educating Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders: Exploring General Education Teachers' Lived Experiences
Dr. Hilaria Miguel Manuguid, Dr. Michael Tomas Sebullen
Teachers who educatestudents with emotional and behavioral disordersface unique challenges that affect their professional perspectives in various ways. Using purposive sampling, the lived experiences of five general education teachers who teach students with EBD were explored in this phenomenological descriptive research. Semi-structured interviews were done using an aide-memoireto obtain the lived experiences of teachers in navigating their behavioral challenges, effective strategies, personal impact, and professional growth. The findings of this study revealed the profound impact of teaching students with EBD on teachersthrough the seven key themes identified, which include: individualized behavioral instability, experiential progressive strategies, structured support strategies, evolving teaching perspectives, resilient coping strategies, pedagogical breakthroughs, and transformed teaching perspectives. These findings highlight the complexity of teachers’ lived experiences of addressing the unique needs of students with EBD while fostering an inclusive learning environment. In conclusion, teaching students with EBD not only challenges educators to adapt and grow but also transforms their instructional practices,teaching philosophies, resilience, and commitment. This study may contribute to the understanding of new and tenured teachers on how to navigate the challenges of teaching students with EBD in the general education setting. On the other hand, this study also emphasizesthe importance of continued investment in supporting inclusive schools with teacher training and support to truly create an inclusive classroom that embodies the education for all context. It is crucial to acknowledge these lived experiences of teachers to equip incoming educators with the tools, strategies as well as emotional resilience necessary to thrive in a challenging yet rewarding inclusive classroom environment. Future research may explore long-term outcomes of adaptive strategies for students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders, focusing on their academic progress, emotional development, and the sustained well-being of educators to ensure lasting positive impacts in inclusive and special education.
Digital Business Model Innovation and Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises in South-East Nigeria
Chukwuemeka Andrew Odo1, Anthony A. Igwe2, Chris Chukwuebuka Emeali3
The study examined the effect of Digital Business Model Innovation on Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises in South-East Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: ascertain the effect of e-commerce on innovation rate of SMEs, examine how digital marketing strategies enhance the profitability of SMEs, and assess the effect of digital payment systems on cash flow stability among SMEs. The study adopted survey research design with a total population of 9731 which was reduced to a manageable sample size of 370 respondents using Krejcie and Morgan Statistical Table. However, the study made use of 367 copies of duly completed and returned questionnair for the analysis. The primary data collected were subjected to statistical test using ordinal logisticregression analysis with the aid of SPSS. Findings revealed that:(i) E-commerce had a significant effect on the innovation rate of SMEs in South East Nigeria, (ii) Digital marketing strategies significantly enhanced the profitability of SMEs in South East Nigeria, (iii) Digital payment systems significantly enhanced SMEs’ cash flow stability in South East Nigeria, The study therefore concluded that Digital Business Model Innovation had a significant positive effect on the Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises in South-East Nigeria. Thus, the study, inter alia, recommended that SMEs in South-East Nigeria should embrace e-commerce platforms to drive innovation, expand their market reach, and enhance their competitiveness.
"Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Anticancer Activities of Methanol Leaf Extract of Naringi Crenulata (Roxb.) Nicolson (Rutaceae): A Promising Source of Plant-Based Therapeutics"
V. Surya Ramani¹, P. Rama Rao2, Ch. Murali Krishna3, Y.T. Rajesh Babu4, S. B. Padal5
The study investigates the chemical composition, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities of the methanol leaf extract of Naringicrenulata (Roxb.) Nicolson (Rutaceae). Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis identified eight major bioactive compounds, with 1,3-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester being the most abundant (60.79%). The antimicrobial potential was evaluated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria using the cup plate agar diffusion method. The methanol extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity, with the highest inhibition zones observed against Bacillus subtilis(22.6 ± 0.57 mm) and Staphylococcus aureus(19.3 ± 0.57 mm). The anticancer efficacy of the extract was tested against MDA-MB-231 (breast cancer) and Hep 3B (liver cancer) cell lines using the MTT assay. The extract displayed potent anticancer activity against MDA-MB-231, with an IC50 value of 31.5 ± 1.42 µg/ml, whereas Hep 3B exhibited moderate sensitivity (IC50 = 194.1±2.28 µg/ml). These results highlight N. crenulata as a promising source of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial and anticancer potential, warranting further exploration for pharmaceutical applications.
" Effectiveness of Walking on Grass Surface on Improving the Static Balance of Subjects with Chronic Stroke"
1Shantanu Sharma; 2Dr. Shailendra Mehta
Background: A major contributor to long-term disability, stroke frequently leaves victims with impaired static balance, which increases fall risk and limits functional independence. While conventional rehabilitation techniques improve balance, walking on different surfaces, particularly grass, may offer additional benefits by enhancing sensory input and neuromuscular coordination. Objective: This study sought to ascertain the efficacy of walking on grass surfaces in improving the static balance of individuals with chronic stroke. Methods: A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest study was conducted with 30 chronic stroke patients were split up into an experimental group (n=15) undergoing a four-week grass-walking intervention and a control group (n=15) continuing standard rehabilitation exercises. Balance improvements were evaluated utilizing the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the One-Leg Stand Test (OLST). Results: The experimental group showed notable improvements in static balance compared to the control group. The BBS scores increased from a mean of 31.6 to 34.3 within the experimental group(p=0.000), whereas the control group displayed a smaller increase from 31.5 to 33.4 (p=0.000). Similarly, OLST performance improved significantly within the experimental group (pre-test: 7.87 sec, post-test: 10.53 sec, p=0.000) in contrast to the control group (pre-test: 8.13 sec, post-test: 10.67 sec, p=0.000). The independent t-test further confirmed a statistically significant variation among the groups. (BBS: t=3.0, p=0.002). Conclusion: Walking on grass enhances static balance in chronic stroke patients by stimulating proprioception, improving neuromuscular control, and increasing postural stability. Incorporating grass-walking into rehabilitation programs may provide a cost-effective, natural, and interesting method to lower fall risk and enhance balance in stroke survivors.To investigate long-term impacts and applicability in various stroke populations, more research is advised.
Determinants of Adoption of Improved Maize Bh540 Variety among Smallholder Farmers in Ethiopia: The Case of Burie Zuria District, West Gojjam Zone Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia
1Bantayehu Tamrie Alemu; 1Wubneh Mulat
The adoption of agricultural technology by smallholder farmers plays a pivotal role in accelerating Ethiopia's economic transformation, particularly within the agricultural sector. Despite the government's policy initiatives to promote active technology adoption, a significant proportion of smallholder farmers remain reluctant to embrace modern agricultural innovations. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing the adoption of the improved maize variety, Bh540, among smallholder farmers in BurieZuriaWoreda, West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Regional State. The research utilized primary cross-sectional data collected from a total sample of 368 smallholder farmers. A multi-stage sampling method was employed, with respondents selected using a probability proportional technique. The collected data were analyzed using a binary logit model to identify the most significant determinants of Bh540 adoption. The findings revealed that key factors influencing adoption included gender, educational attainment, access to market information, farmers’ attitudes toward the Bh540 variety, farming experience, and access to training programs. Based on these results, stakeholders in the region are encouraged to implement awareness campaigns, improve formal education opportunities, and expand access to training initiatives tailored to the specific needs of smallholder farmers. Such measures are essential for enhancing the adoption rate of improved maize varieties and fostering sustainable agricultural development.
Financial Structure and Performance of Quoted Agricultural Firms in Nigeria
Obiezekwem, Chukwujekwu Jeffery1,Okonkwo, Chukwudi Joseph2, & Chineze J. Ifechukwu-Jacobs3
This study examined the effect of financial structure on the performance of agricultural firms quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE). The motivation stemmed from conflicting theoretical and empirical perspectives. While Modigliani and Miller argue that firm value is independent of capital structure, the static trade-off theory suggests an optimal financial structure balancing tax advantages and leverage-related costs. In contrast, the pecking order theory rejects the notion of an optimal structure, favoring internal financing over debt. Empirical findings on this relationship remain inconsistent. Using secondary data from 2009 to 2021, the study applied Panel Ordinary Least Squares (POLS) and Granger Causality tests. Results showed that total debt to total assets, total debt to equity, and short-term debt to total assets significantly affect return on assets, return on equity, and net profit margin. However, financial structure had no significant effect on overall performance. The study recommends a debt-equity mix that enhances returns, with a preference for equity financing to avoid negative impacts on shareholder wealth.
Assistive Technology: Fostering Inclusive Paradigms in Childhood Development
Agbara Oluwa Kayefi Kuboye
Global legislation about disability discussions has imbued in it the need for support and sustainability. For children, it is a particularly sensitive case as the importance of this support is instrumental to the ‘No Child should be Left Behind’ campaign. The research emphasizes the need to align environmental settings with the unique requirements of children with disabilities. Recognizing the ever-evolving nature of technology, the study advocates pilot programs and empirical testing to evaluate the effectiveness and adaptability of emerging Assistive Technology solutions. Such evidence-based approaches are essential for informing policy decisions and optimizing resource allocation. Thus far, there is no doubt that with Assistive Technology, family relationships are strengthened, friendships are engineered and maintained, education and healthcare are accessed with greater ease, play is made more pleasurable, quality of life is generally improved upon, and children get to flourish despite the presence of disability. However, Assistive Technology is not a magical solution to addressing the support that children with disabilities require for optimal development. Without a conducive environment or products that appeal to the users or professionals who are not well grounded in their respective fields of expertise, Assistive Technology will prove insufficient to meet existing needs.
Achieving Optimal Performance of Quoted Firms in this Digital Era through Nomination Committee Attributes Nigerian Example
Hope Ifeoma Orjinta (PhD)1, Prince Chinedu Okeke (PhD)2
The digital era has sparked serious concerns about firm performance to the extent that stakeholders use assessment results to decide about holding or acquiring company shares. Such business assessment becomes essential before capital investments is made. In view of the above, this study investigates how optimal performance of firms could be achieved through proper mix of nomination committee members among quoted non-finance firms in Nigeria. This study sampled forty-four (44) Nigerian non-finance firms that have been on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) between 2016 and 2023. Further, this study utilized ex-post facto and cross-sectional research designs as its methodology. Annual reports from selected non-finance firms provided data for the analysis which include descriptive and correlation analysis while random effect regression analysis model was employed to test the hypotheses. The result obtained from the regression analysis showed that foreign nomination committee members, nomination committee member’s qualification and non-executive committee members are positive significant drivers of optimal performance of quoted non-finance firms in Nigeria reaching a statistically significant 5% level. The study findings lead to the recommendation that nomination committee should always evaluate diversity while creating a standardized recruitment process for board members on the bases of their qualifications, independence and business requirements approaches. Also, this study recommends that nomination committee members should be selected from diverse backgrounds and across different countries to provide in-depth recruitment and selection expertise for optimal firm performance.
Balancing Graduate Studies and Work: Challenges for Public Sector Mothers
Irene P. Tanyag1,4,, Romer D. Tanyag (PhD)2,, Shyla T. Tugay-an3,4, Anderson G. Dawigi3,4
Mothers in the public sector pursuing graduate degrees face significant challenges balancing academic, professional, and family responsibilities. This review examines the impact of multitasking on academic success, career productivity, and personal well-being. The demands of higher education, job duties, and parenting create a complex environment requiring institutional support, resilience, and time management.Time constraints pose a major challenge as working mothers juggle education, careers, and parenting. Role conflicts often lead to stress, burnout, and mental fatigue, reducing overall productivity and well-being. Emotional stress from self-doubt and guilt further complicates their ability to meet expectations in both personal and professional spheres.Support networks play a crucial role in managing these difficulties. Flexible work policies, academic accommodations, and family support improve graduate success. Additionally, hybrid courses and online learning enhance accessibility and flexibility. However, systemic barriers such as limited mental health services, gender discrimination, and rigid work policies persist.This review highlights the need for comprehensive policies supporting work-life balance, particularly in the public sector, where structured schedules often hinder academic pursuits. Employers and universities must collaborate to implement strong support systems, including mental health services, mentoring programs, and childcare assistance. Fostering a culture of flexibility and inclusivity can help working mothers manage their demanding roles effectively.Ultimately, the success of mothers in graduate programs depends on institutional adjustments, personal resilience, and social support. Addressing these challenges allows policymakers and academic institutions to create a more inclusive, adaptable, and sustainable learning environment.
Treasury Single Account and Performance of Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria
Ibechukwu Modesta Nwakaego1, Ofoegbu Grace N.1 & Chukwu Benjamin Ibe2
The study investigated the effect Treasury Single Account (TSA) and Performance of Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) in Nigeria from 2007 to 2022. The specific objectives are to: assess the effect of TSAon the loan portfolios and credit intermediation of all the DMBs; evaluate the effect TSAon return on the net interest margin of DMBs; ascertain the effect of TSA on the deposit mobilization DMBs, determine the effect of TSA on liquidity ratio of DMBs, and ascertain the effect TSA on the return on assets of DMBs in Nigeria. The investigation employed the expost-facto research design. The population of the study comprises all the twenty four (24)DMBs in Nigeria. Time series data used for the study were obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical financial Bulletin,World Bank, and Federal Reserve Bank of St Louis for the period of 16 years (2007-2022). The type of data collected were financial performance data; and these were analysed using E-View as well as SPSS Version 27. All the hypotheses were tested at 5% level of significance. The result of the hypotheses tested showed that the implementation of TSA had significant effect: on loan portfolios and credit intermediation extended by DMBs(t = 9.730, p-value = 0.000), on net interest margin of deposit money banks (t = 10.833, p – value = 0.000), on deposit mobilization capabilities of DMBs(t=5.757, p-value = 0.000), on liquidity ratio of DMBs(t=9.068, p-value = 0.000), and on return on assets of deposit money banks in Nigeria (t=14.682, p-value = 0.000). It was concluded that TSA had significant effect on the performance of DMBs in Nigeria. Among others, we recommend that DMBs should actively seek to diversify their funding sources beyond government deposits.
Benguet's Land Titling Landscape: An Exploratory Case Study of Challenges and Opportunities
Josefa Pur-Ayan Dampilag
Land titling plays a crucial role in securing tenure, promoting economic development, and facilitating access to credit. However, in Benguet, challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, legal ambiguities, and indigenous land claims hinder the efficiency of the titling process. This study explores the barriers and opportunities within Benguet’s land titling landscape, drawing insights from existing literature, policies, and empirical studies. Findings indicate that administrative delays, conflicting legal frameworks, and limited institutional capacity contribute to land tenure insecurity, particularly among indigenous communities. Despite these challenges, opportunities for improvement exist through policy reforms, technological innovations, and community engagement. Strengthening institutional coordination, streamlining procedures, and integrating digital solutions such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and online land databases could enhance efficiency and transparency. Additionally, promoting participatory approaches and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms may contribute to a more inclusive and equitable land titling system. This study suggests that addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that balances legal, administrative, and socio-cultural considerations. By improving land governance, Benguet may enhance tenure security and sustainable land management. Future research may focus on evaluating the effectiveness of policy interventions and exploring innovative solutions for equitable land access in the region.
Assessing the Voluntary Disclosure of Consumer Goods Firms in Nigeria in this Digital Era through Chief Executive Officers' Attributes
Hope Ifeoma Orjinta (Ph.D)1; John Chidume Anetoh (PhD)2; Prince Chinedu Okeke (Ph.D)3; EdwinChukwu Okoro (Ph.D)4
In a bid to improve and sustain the transparency and performance of consumer goods firms in Nigeria; this study becomes necessary especially in this contemporary era.Therefore, this study examines the attributes of the CEOs and how they affectthe firms’ voluntary disclosures with particular reference to consumer goods. The study employed an ex-post facto research design method. The study utilized secondary data sourced from various consumer goods companies’ financial statements as well as the Nigerian exchange fact books.The study aimed to ascertain the nature as well as the extentthe gender, experience, education qualifications, expertise and the nationality of CEOs affect the voluntary disclosures by various consumer goods firms in corporate financial statements. The study therefore applied an all-inclusive multivariate data analysisstatistical techniques. A sample of ten consumer goods firms quoted in Nigeria Exchange Group was used in this study for the period of ten (10) years spanning from 2015 to 2024. The hypotheses formulated to guide the study were tested using regression analysis at 5% level of significance. The findings revealed that chief executive officer’s experience, educational qualifications and expertise have significant and positive effects on voluntary disclosure of quoted consumer goods companies in Nigeria.The study also found that the gender and the nationality of chief executive officer have no significant and negative effect on voluntary disclosureof quoted consumer goods firms in this digital era in Nigeria. In line with the findings, the researchers recommend that the board of directors of consumer goods firms in Nigeria should appoint or elect an experienced chief executive officers with good managerial skills so that they will be more committed and willing to comply with the voluntary disclosure policies. Also, CEOs should be encouraged to get additional qualifications so as to boost their expertise especially as regards to consumer goods firms in Nigeria. It was suggested that CEOs with post-graduate qualifications provide more detailed voluntary work disclosure than CEOs with bachelor’s degree because of the acquisition of more knowledge, being more proficient and more competent and exerting more efforts in their duties.
Assessment of Soil Suitability for Sugarcane Cultivation using GIS and Multivariate Analysis in Binauli Block, Western Uttar Pradesh, India
1Jagarti Rana, 2Dr. Arushi Rana, 3Shresthi Jaiswal
This study assesses soil fertility in Binauli Block, Baghpat, India, using a nutrient index approach and GIS mapping. Soil samples from 54 sites were analysed for pH, organic carbon, electrical conductivity, macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), and micronutrients (sulfur, zinc, boron, iron, copper, manganese). Soil samples were tested in the laboratory for various parameters. The obtained data was then analysed using SPSS and R software. The analysed values were interpolated using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) method in Arc GIS. Results show low organic carbon (0.26), phosphorus (10.83), and electrical conductivity (0.75), while potassium (145.38) and nitrogen (149.01) are adequate. High pH (8.11) and optimal boron (0.94) and manganese (4.89) suggest fertility concerns impacting sugarcane productivity. Findings emphasize tailored fertilization to improve soil health and yields.
Sustainability Reporting and the Market Value of Listed Firms in Nigeria
Agunbiade, K. A.1; Yekini K. C.2; Akintoye, I. R.1& Atanda, O.3
Despite the increasing global emphasis on sustainability reporting, its impact on market value remains inconclusive, particularly in emerging economies such as Nigeria, where regulatory frameworks are still evolving. This study examines the relationship between sustainability reporting and market value among listed firms in Nigeria, considering economic, social, environmental, and governance sustainability disclosures. Using an ex-post facto research design, secondary data from 57 purposively sampled firms across multiple sectors of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) from 2012 to 2023 were analyzed. Market capitalization served as the dependent variable, while sustainability reporting dimensions were the independent variables. Panel Corrected Standard Errors (PCSEs) regression was employed to address heteroscedasticity and autocorrelation concerns. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between all four dimensions of sustainability reporting and market value. Economic sustainability reporting enhances investor confidence, social sustainability disclosures improve brand perception, environmental sustainability reporting signals long-term risk mitigation, and governance sustainability reporting fosters transparency and accountability, collectively contributing to higher market valuation. These results suggest that firms engaging in comprehensive sustainability reporting gain competitive advantages in capital markets, reinforcing the relevance of stakeholder, legitimacy, and signaling theories. The study underscores the need for corporate executives to integrate sustainability initiatives strategically, while regulators should strengthen sustainability disclosure frameworks to enhance transparency and investor protection. Investors, both potential and existing, are encouraged to incorporate sustainability metrics into their valuation models, as firms with strong ESG disclosures demonstrate superior financial resilience. Policymakers must consider mandatory sustainability disclosure requirements to align Nigerian corporate practices with global standards. Future research should explore industry-specific variations in sustainability reporting effects and investigate the role of institutional investors in shaping ESG-driven market valuation, offering deeper insights into sustainable finance in emerging markets.
External Debt, Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth in Some Selected West Africa Countries
Adedapo, K. D.; Onakoya, A. O.; Ajibola, J. O.; Akintoye, I. R.
Developing economies face persistent challenges in achieving sustainable growth due to their reliance on external debt (ExtD) and foreign direct investment (FDI). This study examines the relationship between economic growth (GDP), ExtD, and FDI in Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal. The main objective is to evaluate the impact of external debt and FDI on GDP, identify long-run and short-run relationships, and provide policy insights. Annual time-series data from 1990 to 2022 were sourced from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF). The analysis employed the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach. The ARDL bounds test results reveal mixed findings. In Ghana, the F-statistic for the equation with external debt as the dependent variable is 9.11, exceeding the upper critical value of 6.03 at the 1% significance level, confirming the existence of a long-run relationship among the variables. Conversely, in Nigeria and Senegal, the F-statistics for all equations fall below the lower critical value of 4.95, indicating no evidence of cointegration between GDP, ExtD, and FDI.These results suggest that while Ghana has effectively leveraged external debt and FDI for growth, Nigeria and Senegal face challenges stemming from poor governance, debt mismanagement, and undiversified economies. The study recommends that policymakers in Nigeria and Senegal focus on fiscal discipline, debt sustainability, and diversifying FDI inflows into non-resource sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture. Strengthening governance and creating an enabling investment environment are critical for achieving sustainable economic growth.
Effect of Exchange Rate and Trade Openness on Economic Growth in Nigeria
1Dr. Ibekwe Angela O, 2Dr. Ibekwe Anthony I, 3Dr. Chineze J. Ifechukwu-Jacobs
This study investigates the effect of Exchange rate and Trade Openness on Economic Growth in Nigeria from 1981-2023. The objectives of the study were as follows; investigate the impact of the real exchange rate on Nigeria's gross domestic product: Assess the influence of balance of payment on Nigeria's gross domestic product; Analyze the relationship between trade openness and Nigeria's gross domestic product. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the dependent variable, while the real exchange rate, trade openness and foreign direct investment are the independent variables. All the variables were secondary sources from central bank of Nigeria (CBN) statistical bulletin vol 2023. The study conducted unit root test, cointegration test and error correction model. From the study it was found that, there is significant effect of the real exchange rate on gross domestic product in Nigeria. Foreign direct investment has significantly affect gross domestic product in Nigeria. Trade openness has significantly affect gross domestic product in Nigeria. It was recommended that encouraging manufacturing firms to utilize locally made capital goods during periods of depreciating exchange rates is a practical approach to mitigate the negative impact on economic growth. It not only supports domestic industries but also stabilizes the economy by reducing reliance on foreign goods. Implementing effective foreign exchange control policies can indeed aid in determining a more accurate and stable value for the national currency. However, it's crucial to strike a balance between control measures and maintaining a conducive environment for international trade and investment. Disincentivizing high dependence on imports through tariffs can promote domestic production and reduce trade deficits. However, policymakers must consider the potential consequences such as increased costs for consumers and the need to ensure the competitiveness of domestic industries. Additionally, focusing on improving domestic productivity and competitiveness can complement tariff measures.
Companies Income Tax and Foreign Direct Investment of Sub-Saharan Africa Nations
Nnamani, A. C.1; Dada, S. O.1; Akintoye, I. R.1; Akinyele, O.1& Sanni, A.1,2
The persistent challenge of attracting stable and long-term foreign direct investment (FDI) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has fueled intense policy debates, particularly regarding the role of company income taxation in shaping investment flows. While conventional wisdom suggests that lower corporate tax rates enhance FDI attractiveness, empirical evidence remains inconclusive, with some studies arguing that broader macroeconomic conditions and governance structures play a more significant role. This study examines the impact of company income tax revenue on FDI inflows and stocks across 12 selected SSA nations from 1981 to 2023. Using a panel autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach, this research captures both short-run and long-run relationships while addressing heterogeneity concerns. The study employs secondary data from UNCTAD and World Bank Development Indicators, incorporating corporate income tax revenue, inflation rate, and credit to the private sector as independent and control variables. Findings reveal that while corporate tax revenue exhibits a significant positive long-run effect on FDI stock, its short-run impact on FDI inflows remains statistically insignificant. This suggests that foreign investors prioritize fiscal stability and tax predictability over short-term tax incentives. Contrary to the notion that tax reductions are a panacea for attracting FDI, the results indicate that well-structured tax regimes that ensure efficient revenue mobilization foster investor confidence and sustain FDI accumulation. The study concludes that tax policies should be designed not merely to compete on lower rates but to enhance governance transparency and regulatory stability. Policymakers should focus on streamlining tax administration, reducing compliance burdens, and reinforcing institutional quality to sustain long-term foreign investment. Future research should explore the sector-specific effects of corporate taxation on FDI retention and assess the impact of global tax reforms on SSA’s investment landscape.
The Effect of Capital Market Operations on Per Capita Income of the Selected Sub-Saharan African Countries
Alabi, O. A.1; Oseni, E. O.2; Akintoye, I. R.1& Dada, O. S.1
The underdevelopment of capital markets in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) continues to hinder economic progress, raising questions about the extent to which capital market operations influence per capita income. This study examines the relationship between capital market development and economic growth in selected SSA countries, focusing on key indicators such as the number of listed companies, market capitalization, stock turnover, and foreign direct investment (FDI). Utilizing a panel dataset spanning 1990–2023, the study employs the Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) estimation technique to address heteroscedasticity and autocorrelation issues. The findings reveal that while market capitalization and stock turnover exert a significant positive effect on per capita income, the number of listed companies does not have a statistically meaningful impact. Furthermore, FDI is found to be a key driver of economic expansion, reinforcing the importance of external capital inflows in fostering industrialization and employment creation. These results highlight that merely increasing the number of publicly traded firms is insufficient to stimulate income growth unless accompanied by improved market liquidity and investor confidence. The study’s implications underscore the necessity for stronger regulatory frameworks, enhanced financial market transparency, and policies that encourage institutional investor participation to improve capital market efficiency. Moreover, fostering an investment-friendly climate to attract sustainable FDI is essential for long-term economic prosperity in SSA. Policymakers, corporate managers, and financial market regulators should focus on strengthening financial institutions, integrating digital financial platforms, and deepening market participation to enhance capital market efficiency. While this study provides robust empirical evidence on the capital market-income nexus, future research should explore the role of financial technology (FinTech), regional capital market integration, and the impact of institutional quality on financial market performance to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how SSA’s capital markets can be leveraged for sustainable economic growth.
Electronic Payment System and Economic Growth of Nigeria: 2012 - 2022
Emmanuel Isaac John1*; Atseye Fidelis Anake2; Takon Samuel Manyo3; Ajayi Samuel Olatayo4; Dare Joseph Enimola 5; Idih Ogwu Emmanuel6
This study assessed the effect of electronic payment system on economic growth of Nigeria using secondary data sourced from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Data and Statistics from 2012 to 2022. The data covered Automated Teller Machine Payments (ATMP), Point of Sale Payments (POSP) and Web Payments (WP) as the independent variables and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the dependent variable. Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model (ARDL) was the technique used to analyse the data collected. The result of the study indicated that long-run relationships exist between the dependent and the independent variables. The result further showed that ATMP has a significant positive effect on GDP, a variable representing economic growth. Also, POSP has a positive and significant effect on GDP. However, WP has a positive but not significant effect on GDP.Thus, the study concluded that electronic payment system has a significant positive effect on economic growth of Nigeria. The study recommended that banks should ensure that their ATM Machines are loaded with cash always to ensure that all customers desiring to withdraw funds for economic purposes succeed in making such withdrawals; Also, the Central Bank of Nigeria should regulate the charges obtained by POS operators to ensure that the costs of transactions are brought to the minimal level to encourage economic activities in the country; Finally, the network providers in Nigeria should improve the quality and coverage of their networks and also extend same to rural communities to facilitate web transactions.
Influence of Dividend Policy and Earnings on Stock Prices: Evidence from Selected Nigerian Firms
Okonkwo, Chukwudi Joseph1, Obiezekwem, Chukwujekwu Jeffery2 & Chineze J. Ifechukwu-Jacobs3
Dividend policy involves decisions on profit distribution and retention, guiding managers on cash payouts to shareholders versus reinvestment for growth. This study examines the influence of dividend policy and earnings on stock prices, using selected Nigerian firms as a case study. The research employs descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression to evaluate the relationships among market price per share (MPS), dividend per share (DPS), earnings per share (EPS), and net asset per share (NAPS). The purposive sampling technique was used, this method involves selecting firms based on specific criteria to ensure the reliability and relevance of the data.The findings reveal that while EPS and NAPS exhibit significant positive effects on stock prices, DPS demonstrates a negative and insignificant impact. The results suggest that investors in the Nigerian stock market prioritize firm profitability and asset value over dividend payouts when making investment decisions. The study highlights the volatility of the Nigerian stock market and the need for firms to adopt strategic policies that enhance shareholder value. These findings contribute to existing literature on corporate finance and provide insights for policymakers, investors, and corporate managers seeking to optimize financial performance and stock valuation. The study recommend that corporate managers should prioritize profitability growth and firms should adopt a balanced dividend policy.
Social Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment: Understanding the Nigerian Context
Solomon Uchechukwu Eze1*, Cosmas Anayochukwu Nwankwo2, Macdonald Isaac Kanyangale3
Introduction: the concept of social entrepreneurship has come to stay and many youth who have suffered the challenges of being unemployed may embrace this new phenominon. Social entrepreneurship is an emerging concept that combines the passion of a social mission with business-like discipline, innovation, and determination. Nigeria has a large youth population, many of whom face high unemployment and limited economic opportunities. Objective: The study examines the role of social entrepreneurship and its potential in empowering youth in Nigeria. Methodology: The study reviews how social entrepreneurs in Nigeria are developing innovative solutions to youth development challenges, creating jobs, and empowering young people through their ventures. By examining various social enterprise models, case studies, and the existing challenges faced by youth, this study highlights the transformative impact of social entrepreneurship on youth empowerment, the key characteristics of social entrepreneurship for youth empowerment, the main challenges faced, and the policy implications for supporting this sector. Conclusion: The paper concluded that social entrepreneurship holds great promise for catalyzing youth development in Nigeria but requires a conducive ecosystem and greater institutional support.
Perceived Obstacles to Effective Feedback in Nigerian Higher Education Institution
Chinyere Ori Elom
This study explores the perceptions of Nigerian higher education (HE) teachers and undergraduate students of obstacles to effective student feedback to teacher (SFT).Using a purposeful sampling procedure and interview methodology, we obtained rich information from 76 participants comprising 46 Nigerian HE teachers and 30 final year undergraduate students from 6 Nigerian public universities on the perceived four obstacles to effective SFT. Focusing on four dominant themes from the thematic analysis, we analyse the perceived obstacles to effective SFT practice: low awareness of SFT, little emphasis on SFT, lack of student invitation to feedback surveys and difficulty coping with negative feedback from students. The findings of this study support SFT as an essential school improvement tool that can inform teachers about the efficiency of their practices. The study will be useful for HE teachers, HE management, curriculum developers, students, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to promote the quality student feedback.
Understanding Employability Skills Development of Business Education Students in Work Placement Learning: The Role of Learning Styles
Chinyere Ori Elom
This study relies upon the experiential learning theory to examine the effects of work placement learning on employability skills (i.e., leadership, teamwork, communication, information technology, adaptability, bookkeeping and basic accounting) development, mediated by students’ learning styles.Using data from 439final-year business education students from 11 public universities in Nigeria who had completed the compulsory six-monthwork placement learning in business organizations and returned to their respective campuses to complete their degree programmes, we test the proposed hypotheses employing path analysis. The results showed positive effects of work placement learning on employability skills constructsexcept bookkeeping. However, we found evidence of positive effect of work placement learning on the students’ learning styles, and learning styles significantly influenced their employability skills development except bookkeeping. Lastly, we found that learning styles mediated the effect of WPL on the employability skillsconstructs except bookkeeping skills. The results of our study contribute to improving work placement learning programme and employability skills development nexus via learning styles among business education undergraduate students.
Strategic Public Relations and Flood Control in Imo State -Nigeria
1Igboanusi, Remigius Anayo; 2James Okechukwu Abugu; 3Victor Onyebuchi Okolo; 4Gbemisola Ogbolu; 5Oranusi, Ifeanyichukwu Nwadiogo; 6Kobi Pamela Ikpo; 7Ngozi N. Ugwu; 8*Otei, Chinwendu Deborah; 9Kamalu Adamu Mohammed
In times past, public relations strategies have been successfully applied towards solving numerous problems confronting the society. However, the problem of flooding has remained unresolved in spite of several measures put in place to tackle the menace. This study focuses on utilising public relations in controlling flood control in an Eastern State in Nigeria. The research objectives specifically sought to ascertain the effects of communication, sponsorship and stakeholder engagementon flood control in Imo State. The study used the survey research method. The projected population of Imo state was 5,459,300, while a sample size of 385 was generated using the Stat Trek’s Sample Planning Wizard tool. Face and content validity testing was carried out to assess the validity of the research instrument, while a test-retest reliability testing was done to assess the reliability of the research instrument. The T-test was used to test the hypotheses, and the results showed that communication, sponsorship, and stakeholder engagement had significant effects on flood control in Imo state, Nigeria. Thus, the problem of flooding lingers because public relations strategies have not been adequately deployed in solving the problem all the while. It is therefore recommended that continuous enlightenment, regular cleaning of catchment areas and drainages; strategic communication be deployed in engaging key stakeholders to sponsor construction of vital flood control infrastructure; and public relations driven advocacies should be deployed in the enactment of policy guidelines that attract sponsorships in order to achieve flood control in the state.
Strategic Interests in the Arctic: A Comparative Analysis of China and India
Lakshmi Karlekar
The Arctic region can be described as the southernmost latitude in the Arctic Circle in the northern hemisphere, consisting of eight Arctic states.Once a frozen frontier, it is now a gateway to global geopolitics and resource exploitation due to its changing effects of climate change due to the melting of polar ice cap. The world now looks upon it as an opportunity to assert its dominance over the region through establishing trade routes i.e. the northern sea route which aims to connect Europe and Asia to enhance trade with cost-effective shipping services instead of goods Mediterranean passing through the traditional Indian Ocean – Suez canal route passing through the sea. Until the 1990s, the US and European powers had established their rights over the Arctic resources which were governed by the Arctic Council formed in 1996. Officially, Asia’s involvement began in 2013 with observer status in the Arctic Council. This paper aims to analyze the growing influence of China and India’s contrasting approaches to mark their presence in the Arctic region. It also examines their interests, strategies, and geopolitical tensions involving the regional dynamics between two Asian powers.
Demographic Characteristics and their Implications on Mental Health among Nigerian Undergraduates
Eyisi I. Meek1; Abiodun M. Gesinde2; Gboyega E. Abikoye3; Joy C. Eyisi4
Understanding the influence of demographic factors on mental health outcomes is crucial for designing effective interventions in university populations. This study explores the socio-demographic characteristics of Nigerian undergraduates and their relationship with mental health challenges, including suicide ideation, perceived stress, and quality of life. Utilizing an ex post facto research design, data were collected from 4,930 students across three geopolitical zones—Southeastern, Southwestern, and Northcentral Nigeria. The findings reveal significant gender, regional, and academic level differences in mental health outcomes. Male students exhibited higher levels of suicide ideation compared to their female counterparts, while final-year (400-level) students reported elevated stress levels due to academic and transitional pressures. Regional disparities were pronounced, with the Northcentral zone showing the highest prevalence of suicide ideation and fear of missing out (FoMO). These results underscore the importance of socio-demographic factors in shaping mental health outcomes and highlight the need for targeted, gender-sensitive, and regionally tailored interventions. Universities should prioritize mental health resources that address the diverse needs of their student populations while leveraging existing cultural and religious structures for support. Future research should employ longitudinal approaches to explore causal relationships and refine intervention strategies.
Extraordinarization in Innovation
Joseph Kwaghkor Achua
This paper explores the concept of extraordinarization in innovation, reimagining it as performing ordinary tasks in extraordinary ways. By making innovation accessible, approachable, and practical, this research emphasizes thesignificance of extraordinarization in driving sustainable development and inspiring individuals and organizations to rethink management practices. The Centre for Food Technology and Research (CEPTER) establishment at Benue State University, among others, is a prime case study of how extraordinaryization can elevate mundane tasks to produce exceptional outcomes that generate long-term value. The study highlights strategies for overcoming challenges, emphasizing micro-creativity and extraordinary execution, and unlocking growth, prosperity, and sustainability opportunities.
Mural of Participation: Artistic Expressions of Ethiopian Localized Governance System
Bruk Gonfa1 , Govada Veerraju2
This study examines the role of community participation in fostering good governance within Bale Robe’s local administration in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, focusing on four kebeles with a total population of 26,130. Using stratified random sampling, 394 respondents were selected and mixed methods data collection—including structured questionnaires (administered to both residents and kebele employees) and interviews—was employed to assess governance dimensions such as participation, transparency, accountability, responsiveness, integrity, and ethical conduct. Findings indicate weak community engagement, poor bureaucratic responsiveness, and deficiencies in transparency and accountability. The study recommends institutional reforms, capacitybuilding training for employees, and structural adjustments to enhance inclusivity and governance effectiveness.
Audit Committee Characteristics and Financial Statement Fraud: Evidence from Nigeria-Listed Companies
1Danjuma, Jibrin Isa; 2Prof. Edith O. Onyeanu; 3Dr. Ofogbe, Nyore Sandra
This study examined the impact of audit committee characteristics on financial statement fraud of listed companies in Nigeria. The study adopted an ex-post factor research design to achieve the above goals. The data used for this study was sourced from the annual reports of the selected listed companies. A purposive sampling technique was used to select fifty (50) entities from thirteen (94) from 2018 to 2022. The data collected were then analysed using the panel data regression model. The findings showed that audit committee size and meetings have a negative, non-significant impact on the detection/prevention of financial statement fraud in the selected companies. It is therefore concluded that audit committee characteristics had no significant effect on the detection/prevention of financial statement fraud of the companies chosen. In line with the findings, we recommend that increasing the proportion of independent members and including financial experts on the audit committee is crucial for effective oversight, and this can reduce the likelihood of fraud; the management should provide training for board members on the latest financial reporting and fraud detection developments. This can help them stay informed and vigilant in detecting fraudulent activities.
Unravelling the Role of Gallic Acid in Imparting Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Legumes
Preeti Kumari1, Arushi Sankhyan1, Mishmi Paul1, Sumil Chauhan1, Aditi Bisht1
Abiotic stressors such as salinity, heavy metals, temperature, drought, etc, significantly hinder growth and yield of legume crop. All of these stressors affect metabolic processes, nutritional availability, and water absorption, which results in oxidative stress, ion toxicity, and osmotic imbalances especially in legumes. Collectively, these stressors induce morpho-anatomical, physiological, and biochemical alterations, leading to substantial economic losses in legume crop production. Although, plants employed diverse inherent defense mechanisms like metal sequestration, antioxidant enzymes activation, osmolytes synthesis, etc. to combat the negative impact of these stressors, however, still there is a need of efficient alternative approach for sustainable agriculture practices.Recently, GA is identified as a key regulator that promotes root formation, secondary metabolite synthesis, and facilitates the plant defense system under various stressed conditions. Keeping this in view, the present review explores the multifaceted role of Gallic Acid (GA) in improving abiotic stress resilience in legumes. The findings suggest that GA may serve as a sustainable strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of abiotic stress on legume productivity and resilience.
Instructors' Perceptions, Practices and Challenges in the Implementation of Educational Innovations: A Focus on Federal Universities in Ethiopia
Nebiyu Birhane Tefera; Alemayehu Bishaw Tamiru; Amera Seifu Belaynh
Context: this study investigates the perceptions, practices, and challenges faced by instructors in federal universities regarding the implementation of educational innovations. Based on a survey of 400 instructors (160 female and 240 male), the findings highlight differences in perceptions across gender, the prevalence of various teaching practices, and the challenges faced during implementation. Results: indicate that while instructors generally perceive educational innovations positively, they encounter significant barriers such as insufficient training, resource constraints, and resistance to change. Conclusion: the study also discusses the importance of institutional support in overcoming these challenges and ensuring the effective adoption of innovative teaching methods.
Experiences of Students on the Resumption of Face-to-Face Classes
Nicolas L. Faller, Teody Lester V.Panela
This phenomenological study was conducted to determine the experiences of students in the resumption of face-to-face classes during the post-pandemic transition period. The investigation was anchored on the theories of wellness by Dunn, Smith's health and Dewey's learning experience. Using purposive sampling, thirteen (13) students from Northwest Samar State University participated in the study. Employing Moustakas' phenomenological qualitative research method, the following thematic findings emerged: (1) High Hopes for Normalcy, (2) Financial Burden, and (3) Improved Learning. The results revealed that students expressed high hopes for normalcy with the implementation of face-to-face classes despite experiencing financial burden, considering that most of their family's livelihoods were affected by the pandemic. Despite the various hindrances and difficulties encountered, students continued to strive hard since they believed that resumption of face-to-face classes would bring them improved learning opportunities. This study contributes valuable insights for educational institutions navigating post-pandemic transitions. It is recommended that schools take initiative in examining the different experiences of students in the resumption of face-to-face classes to guide them in overcoming problems encountered in this new educational landscape.
Social-Emotional Readiness among Kindergarten Pupils of San Vicente Central School
Laura B. Magdaraog, Teody Lester V. Panela
This study utilized a phenomenological approach in exploring the lived experiences and views of kindergarten parents regarding the social-emotional readiness of their children. The qualitative research was grounded in Piaget's theory on social and emotional development, Bowlby's Attachment theory, and Vygotsky's Theory of Social Development. Through purposive sampling, fifteen (15) parents participated in the study. Using Colaizzi's method for data analysis, three major themes emerged: (1) social-emotional unconstraints; (2) coping mechanisms; and (3) anticipated views. The results revealed that parents faced behavioral problems regarding their children that affected their readiness to enter formal schooling. Despite these challenges, parents implemented coping practices to train their children to become independent and aspired for enhanced programs and services through strengthening the kindergarten curriculum. This study provides a foundation for future research and curriculum enhancement. It is recommended that the Department of Education provide seminars and training to kindergarten teachers to strengthen their skills and knowledge in teaching. Additionally, schools should provide facilities that develop the social-emotional readiness of pupils.
Out-of-Field Teaching in Mathematics: Issues and Adaptive Strategies among Senior High School Teachers in Balicuatro Area Division of Northern Samar
Jeralyn M. Banagbanag, Teody Lester V.Panela
This study used phenomenological approach in exploring the life and lived experiences of out-of-field senior high teachers teaching Mathematics subject. This qualitative study incorporated Gadamer's theory (1975) of "fusion of horizons" and with Vygotsky's theory (1978) of the more knowledgeable other, which provided a better understanding of the significance of out-of-field teaching for the learning environment. Gadamer's concept of "shared meaning" (1976) aided in examining participants' lived experiences through multiple lenses. Using purposive sampling, fifteen (15) senior high teachers participated in the study. Utilizing Creswell's method for data analysis, three major themes emerged: (1) Arduous Work; (2) Being Adaptable; and (3) Improving Content and Knowledge. The results revealed that these out-of-field senior high teachers experienced significant difficulty adjusting to teaching their Mathematics classes. The findings also showed that these out-of-field senior high mathematics teachers employed various teaching strategies, participated in peer mentoring and coaching, and continuously tracked student progress using diverse assessment techniques from carefully prepared lessons and improvised instructional learning materials. With their positive attitude, commitment to service, and passion for teaching, these teachers successfully coped with different teaching-related adversities. They demonstrated proficiency in developing mitigating solutions, creating teaching strategies, and persevering to assist students in achieving predetermined learning outcomes. School administrators and district supervisors are advised to seriously address this issue to implement appropriate strategic interventions and recruitment policies based on fields of expertise. Parallel studies could be conducted focusing on out-of-field teachers across all levels from other disciplines.
Corporate Governance Expert and Sustainability Quality of Listed Conglomerate businesses in Nigeria
1Ahmodu, A. O. (AAT)*; 2Aribaba, F. O. (PhD, FCA); 3Ogunniyi, O. R. (PhD); 4Kolawole, T. O. (FCA); 5Ajayi, J. O. (PhD); 6Ajiga, A. A.
The study examined the influence of corporate governance expert on the sustainability quality of listedconglomerate businesses in Nigeria. The study employed causal comparative design with a population of 452 listedconglomerate Businesses in Nigeria. The data was sourced from the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) online edition, spanning from 2020 - 2023with the sample size of 34 listedconglomerate Businesses in Nigeria. The statistical method used was linear regression analysis with the aid of E-view statistical software to analyze the data. The findings revealed a negative and significant relationship between board financial experts and sustainability quality (t-value -3.360769; p-value 0.1841 > 0.05). While the foreign board members and sustainability quality in Nigerian conglomerates shows a negative significance (t-value -1.147683; p-value 0.1621 > 0.05).The regression model explained a substantial proportion (95%) of the systematic variation on sustainability quality. However, the Durbin-Watson statistic indicated a positive autocorrelation in the model, warranting consideration for future research and model refinement. The study concluded that there a diverse decision-making processes within boards, each adhering to established guidelines, policies, and principles. The policy implications underscored the importance of appointing board members based on skills, competencies, experience, and educational background. Businesses were encouraged to remain vigilant in monitoring and assessing their board expert, as a well-composed board was identified as instrumental in directing the business interests and contributing to the sustainability quality of conglomerate businesses.
AI-Powered Media Analytics: A Study of Algorithmic Decision-Making in Digital Media
1Liu Yukun, 2Li Yan
The rapid evolution of digital media has introduced complex challenges and opportunities in content creation, curation, and audience engagement. Central to this transformation is the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered analytics, which enables algorithmic decision-making to optimize media processes. This review explores the multifaceted role of AI in media analytics, focusing on its capabilities to enhance personalization, streamline operations, and predict consumer preferences. It highlights how algorithms analyze vast datasets, identify patterns, and generate insights to inform content strategies, thus transforming the digital media landscape. The study delves into the ethical implications of algorithmic decision-making, including issues of bias, transparency, and data privacy, emphasizing the need for robust governance frameworks to address these concerns. By examining real-world applications, such as AI-driven recommendation systems, sentiment analysis, and automated content generation, the paper underscores the transformative potential of these technologies. It also evaluates the limitations and risks associated with algorithmic systems, such as the propagation of echo chambers and the erosion of editorial independence. This paper synthesizes existing literature, case studies, and industry practices to provide a comprehensive understanding of how AI-powered analytics is reshaping digital media. It identifies key trends, including the integration of natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision, as well as the increasing adoption of machine learning (ML) models to enhance user experiences. Finally, the study calls for collaborative efforts between technologists, policymakers, and media professionals to ensure ethical and equitable implementation of AI in digital media. By critically analyzing the interplay between AI and digital media, this review contributes to the broader discourse on the future of media analytics and the societal implications of algorithmic decision-making in an increasingly data-driven world.
Impact of Workplace Stress Management on Employee Engagement among Office Managers in University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
1 Veronica Abiola Ayo-Ogunlusi, 2Oyebanji Abiola Azeez
The issue of office managers’ engagement at workplace has been attracting the attention of public educators and stakeholders in education.High workload of office managers is one of the factors impeding their desire to put up excellent performance due to the stress resulting from workload. Therefore, this study deemed it fit to investigate the impact of workplace stress management on employee engagement among office managers in University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Descriptive research design was adopted. Population consists of 276 office managers from University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. 276office managers served as the sample size for this study. Complete enumeration sampling technique was adopted as the sampling technique for this study. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that workplace stress management had positive and significant influence on employee engagement (Adj. R2 = .418; F (4, 122) = 23.587, p<0.05). The study recommended that there should be an advocacy for teamwork that would enhance effective workdone and reduce stress while engaging office managers as this could also heighten their level of job performance. This would make them to perform better in their jobs.
Perceived Parental Autonomy Support, Emotion Regulation Difficulties and Academic Procrastination among College Students
Ms . Glady P1, Dr Anil Jose PS2
Parental autonomy support and control were examined as predictors of academic time management and procrastination. Emotional regulation is a protective factor that has an essential impact on academic procrastination. Emotional regulation can help students regulate their psychological problems and deal with the adverse reactions caused by academic procrastination. It is found that students with high emotional regulation can effectively solve difficulties, cope with academic pressure, and avoid academic procrastination. The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between perceived parental autonomy support, difficulties in emotion regulation, and academic procrastination. The study was conducted on 400 college students, using a convenience sampling method. The data was collected through psychological measures such as the Perceived Parental Autonomy Support Scale, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, and the Academic Procrastination Scale. The data were analyzed using Pearson's product-moment correlation and independent samples t-test. The results of the study indicate a significant relationship between parental autonomy support and difficulties in emotion regulation. However, parental autonomy support and difficulties in emotion regulation show no significant relationship with academic procrastination. Additional results also examined the differences between the variables based on gender. Effective time use has been emphasized across diverse contexts such as work and academic settings (Claessens, van Eerde, Rutte, & Roe, 2007). In academic settings, time management has emerged as a factor that makes an important contribution to academic performance.
Reef at Risk: A Rapid Evaluation of Copper Pollution in Cebu City's Coral Ecosystem
Joseph Joel Almagro1, Ronron Aruta1, Kaye Margallo1
Coral reefs are vital ecosystems supporting marine biodiversity, providing significant ecological and economic benefits. This study evaluated copper levels in Cebu City's SRP reef ecosystem. Situated near river mouths, the reef is highly vulnerable to pollution. The study analyzed copper concentrations in sediments from three sites with varying proximity to urban runoff sources, examined the relationship between copper levels and site proximity, and conducted a rapid visual assessment of the reef and its associated fauna. Sediment samples were analyzed revealing interesting patterns of copper concentrations. Surprisingly, the highest levels were observed at the site farthest from urban runoff sources (Site2). ANOVA test showed no statistically significant differences in mean copper concentrations among the sites (p=0.282), and the distribution of values demonstrated substantial variability. Copper concentrations were generally lower in sandy sediments compared to silt, consistent with the latter’s higher capacity for heavy metal adsorption. Findings highlight dynamics influencing copper distribution in reef sediments, including sediment characteristics. While copper levels were below the threshold for acute toxicity, potential for bioaccumulation and long-term impacts on coral health cannot be ignored. Reef biodiversityindicated 30 fish species (9 Pomacentridae), 6 algae species, and 4 echinoderms. Despite 23% dead coral and 39.84% rubble, 31.83% live coral indicates resilience, yet urgent sustainable management is needed due to fishing, sedimentation, and pollution.Further testing, increased sampling, and environmental factor analysis are needed to understand copper sources and impacts on reef health. Continuous monitoring, pollution control, and community engagement are recommended to be conducted.
Exploring the Human Facial features: A Nasofacial Analysis with Elevation using Rhinobase software
Shresthi Jaiswal1, Dr. Arushi Rana2, Urvashi Bist3
The human face is a canvas of cultural and geographical expression. It is a representation of nature, culture, history, and beliefs. From the shape and size of our eyes to the contours of our noses and lips, each human face has a unique combination of traits that may indicate a person's personality, culture, and origin. Asians have a wide range of anatomical features. The creation of the human body is shaped by the environment which comprises climate, geography, and resource availability. Over several centuries, people may adapt to the circumstances where they live. Various geographical factors influencing the human face are elevation, temperature, climate, and precipitation. This study determines the correlation of nasofacial features of female students from different parts of India. By taking the zoom-in photograph of a female student, the photographic analysis of the frontal profile of the student is analysed using the Rhinobase software. Further, the data wasanalysed using IBM SPSS Statistics 20 software. The correlation between the nasofacial parameters and elevation is examined using Pearson’s Correlation. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is calculated using R Software. The result shows a positive significant relationship between the nasofacial parameters (LFH, ULL, SM) (MFH, AL-AL, EN-EN, and X-X) (WD-WD and UFH).
Alzheimer Patient's Assistance BOT - Instrumentation Approach in Healthcare
1R.S. Varsha (B. Tech); 2B. Aravindhan (B.Tech); 3Dr. Sam Jeba Kumar; 4Dr. Likith Kumar
Alzheimer’s is the most commonly known dementia, which is characterized by memory loss of the tolerant and changes in basic lifestyle practices. These biological conditions occur due to the inactivity of brain proteins in the brain cells, which results in shrinkage of the brain cells. Memantine is a pill prescribed to recover patients from memory loss. Consumption of memantine includes side effects such as dizziness and hallucinations. Commonly targeting the old age category, Alzheimer patients may stand aloof at times when there is no human assistance. The most needed support for the patient relies on tracking their location as they do not tend to realize their actions. To give a side-effect-free solution; an instrumentation approach is more feasible. The Alzheimer patient’s assistance bot is a bio-instrumental approach that can track the patient’s activity and assist them with their normal lifestyle, building trust and companionship between the bot and the patient.
Love and Enterprise: Navigating the Highs and Lows of Married Business Partnerships
1Dr. Donny C. Calaunan; 2Dr. Nikko Jayson P. Go
This study explores the benefits and challenges of married couples as business partners in T. Alonzo, Baguio City. It examines the advantages couples perceive in running a business together, the difficulties they encounter, and the strategies they use to sustain both a strong marriage and a successful business. Using a descriptive survey method, the study employed a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool, which demonstrated an acceptable reliability coefficient of 0.739. Data were gathered from 26 business establishments owned and managed by married couples. Findings indicate that trust, shared goals, and the ability to balance work and personal life are key advantages of couples in business. However, challenges such as difficulties in separating personal and professional roles, financial stress, and differing management styles also arise. To address these issues, successful couples implement strategies such as joint decision-making, recognizing each other’s contributions, fostering open communication, and setting clear boundaries between work and home life. The study underscores the importance of mutual support, well-defined roles, and effective communication in achieving both business and marital success. It provides insights for married business partners and suggests future research on the emotional and psychological dynamics within such partnerships.
Influence of Digital Marketing Strategies and Performance of Youth Managed Small and Medium Enterprises in North- Central Nigeria
1Mamman, Zacchaeus Ndaba; 2 Ugwuonah, Geraldine. E (Prof); 3 Dr. Ewuzie, Cajetan Obinna; 4Dr. Obeta, Charles Eze; 5Dr. Okolo, Victor Onyebuchi
The increasing importance of digital marketing in today’s competitive business landscape necessitates a thorough understanding of its impact on the performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This study examined youth-managed SMEs in North Central Nigeria, addressing a gap in the literature by analyzing how various digital marketing strategies affect business performance metrics. Specifically, it investigated the effects of search engine optimization (SEO) on profitability and content marketing on sales growth. From a population of 4,250 youth-managed SMEs across six states in North Central Nigeria, a sample size of 365 was determined using the Taro Yamane formula. Stratified sampling was applied to ensure representation across the different states. A quantitative methodology was used, with surveys conducted to gather data from selected SMEs. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including mean rating, standard deviation, and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), were employed to test the hypotheses using T-values. Findings revealed that SEO significantly enhances profitability, while content marketing has a substantial impact on sales growth. The study concluded that digital marketing strategies, particularly SEO and content marketing, are essential for improving the performance of youth-managed SMEs in North Central Nigeria. It recommended that these businesses prioritize these strategies to increase profitability and sales growth, thereby attracting and retaining customers.
Phytochemical Profile of Piper Guineense Seeds, Rosemarinus Officinalis Leaves and Syzygium Aromaticum Buds used in the Control of Selected Pests of Stored Grains
Ernest Olaolu Dawodu
Piper guineense, Rosemarinus officinalis and Syzygium aromaticumare botanicals with insecticidal properties which have desirable qualities for the control of Sitophilus zeamais, Callosobruchus maculatus and Tribolium castaneum pests of stored products. Analysis of phytochemical composition of seeds from P. guineense, leaves from R. officinalis and buds from S. aromaticum were carried out. The qualitative analysis of the three plants indicates the presence of saponins, steroids, coumarin, glycosides, flavonoids, triterpenes, alkaloids and terpenoids. Flavonoid has the highest quantity in seeds of P. guineense (398.26 µg quercetin equivalent/g extract). The phenolics had the highest quantity in Rosemarinus officinalis and Syzygium aromaticum respectively. It is evident that each of the phytochemicals contributed to the activity of the botanicals in the control of the storage pests of maize, cowpea and sorghum. They exhibited high antioxidant activity.
Preferences of the Fall Armyworm Spodoptera Frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lep., Noctuidae) to Different Maize Cultivars Grown In Jordan
AL-Zyoud, Firas1; Alheshoosh, Saba2; Alasasfa, Muawya3; Shawaqfeh, Samar4; Mamkagh, Amer5; Al-Atiyat, Raed6; Salameh, Naser7; and Hasan, Hanan8*
This study aimed at determining the pest's preferences for various maize cultivars grown in Jordan. The experiments were conducted at the Southern Ghor Agriculture Directorate, Ghor Al-Safi, Karak, Jordan in 2022. Multi-choice preference and non-choice susceptibility experiments were set up to determine the least preferred cultivar by the early and late larvae of the pest. Egyptian White Maize, Aqeeq F1, Egyptian Red Maize, Merkur F1, Thailand A528, and Asgrow, were used in the experiment. The results of the preference experiment revealed that Egyptian White Maize is the least preferred maize cultivar for both early and late larvae, followed by the other four cultivars: Aqeeq F1, Egyptian Red Maize, Thailand A528 and Merkur F1, while Asgrow represented significantly the most preferred plant cultivar. In the susceptibility experiment, for the early larvae, the findings indicated that the maize cultivar, Egyptian White Maize and Aqeeq F1 were significantly the least preferred cultivars, followed significantly by Merkur F1, Egyptian Red Maize and Asgrow, Thailand A528 represented significantly the most preferred cultivar. Forlate larvae, Egyptian White Maize and Aqeeq F1 were significantly the least preferred cultivars, followed by Egyptian Red Maize, while Thailand A528, Merkur F1 and Asgrow represented significantly the most preferred cultivars. In the multi-choice preference and non-choice susceptibility experiments, there was a positive and significant correlation between the cultivars and the leaf area consumed by the early and late larvae. In addition, there was a significant interaction between feeding type (separately or together) and each of larvae type and cultivar.
Novel Ecofriendly Management Tactics of the Fall Armyworm Spodoptera Frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Maize in Jordan
AL-Zyoud, F.A.1; Alheshoosh, S.2; Al-Ameiri, N.3; Samar Shawaqfeh4; Hanan Hasan5* & Ghabeish, I.H.6
Maize, Zea mays L. is one of the most important cereals consumes as grain for human and as forage for animals. Recently, the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda is becoming a major invasive insect pest causing huge yield losses to maize in much of the world, this study aimed at assaying of five different products against the pest.In 2022, experiments were conducted at the Southern Ghor Agriculture Directorate in Jordan, involving five commercially available products tested on larvae, with three different concentrations for each product, including a controlusing early and late larvae.The results of application of the five products at the three concentrations indicated that with time post application and with increasing concentration from low to high, there was a significant increase in mortality of both early and late larvae, the overall mortality during all days of the experiment and all treatment concentrations indicated that there were significant differences among the treatments, where the most efficacy treatments were rapeseed oil (82.25%), and abamectin (79.83%), followed by deltamethrin (78.92%), B. thuringiensis (71.25%), and pyriproxyfen (67.42%) for the early larvae, while for the late larvae there were abamectin (81.33%), rapeseed oil (80.83%), and deltamethrin (79.75%), followed by pyriproxyfen (71.00%) and B. thuringiensis (69.17%), the mortality percentage of the early larval instars was higher than those of the late larval instarsof S. frugiperda in the six treatments. This indicated that the early larval instars are more susceptible than the late ones to the treatments.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Stored Plastic Bottle Water Exposed to Sunlight
Ikenna Ifeanyi Chukwuma1, Godwin E Mbamalu2
Over the years, the challenge of availability and access to improved drinking water sources has necessitated water storage for short- and long-term uses in Africa and most developing countries. Plastic containers of different volumes are usually used for long- or short-term storage of water or sold as plastic bottle water for immediate use by individuals. These stored plastic bottles are mostly stored in the sun for long period of time before they are sold and consumed. This study investigates the likely impact and health risk associated with polychlorinated biphenyls in stored plastic bottle water exposed to sunlight. The study involved the collection of water samples from functional pipe borne water sources in Lagos state, Nigeria using PET bottles after which the samples were exposed to sunlight for a period of 3 months and analyzed for 27 PCB congeners using EPA Method 8082A using Agilent 7820A GC equipped with Electron-Capture detector. Analysis of plastic bottled water exposed to sunlight at 28.65°C–30.24°C for three months detected 20 out of 27 PCB congeners. Before exposure, only PCB 8, PCB 18, PCB 28, PCB 44, PCB 52, PCB 60, and PCB 81 were present in the water. The study reported PCB 28, 44 and 18 as the most predominant PCB observed in the water, however, PCB 81, PCB 28 and PCB 44 had concentrations above the USEPA permissible limit of 0.0005mg/L with mean difference of 0.010015 mg/l (t = 16.754, df = 49, p <0.001), 0.002607 mg/l (t = 16.645, df = 49, p <0.001) and 0.001718 mg/l (t = 14.106, df = 49, p <0.001) respectively. However, the health risk assessment showed a low risk of cancer and non-cancer related diseases, however the estimated risk seemed to be higher for children. The study highlights the paucity of data for PCB in water media, especially drinking water in most developing countries, thus there is a need for more research and monitoring for PCB in drinking water sources exposed to climate conditions. The study findings highlight the need for storing bottle water in cool places while emphasizing the role sunlight could play in remediating PCBs in other sample media such as surface water and air. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing financial interests
Overcoming Fear of Failure: A Pathway to Entrepreneurial Success Analysing Entrepreneurial Intentions among Postgraduate Commerce Students in Ernakulam District
1Ottina Treasa Mendez & 2Presteena Jesna M Jose
Entrepreneurial intentions among students are critical to fostering innovation and economic growth, especially in developing economies. This paper examines the factors influencing entrepreneurial intentions among postgraduate commerce students in Ernakulam District, India. Employing a structured questionnaire and a quantitative research approach, the study investigates variables such as motivation, fear of failure, educational factors, environmental influences, and entrepreneurial behaviour. Data collected from 100 respondents were analysed using statistical tools, revealing significant relationships between these variables and entrepreneurial intentions. Motivation emerged as a key driver, while fear of failure served as a deterrent. The validated model using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) supports the study’s findings, emphasizing the importance of structured entrepreneurship education and supportive ecosystems. This study provides actionable recommendations for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets among students, paving the way for economic development and self-reliance in the region.
The Lived Experiences of Contract Workers: A Phenomenological Study
Irene P. Tanyag 1,4, Marivic A. Wance 2,4, Dun Vincent D. Bueno 3,4 & Romer D. Tanyag, (PhD)5
The experience of contract workers is often ignored and overlooked, with many facing emotional and workplace challenges that go unnoticed. This paper aims to shed light on the silent struggles of contract workers, focusing on their emotional toll and difficulties in their workplaces. Contract workers are often hired for short-term assignments with no employer-employee relationships, which can lead to feelings of instability and insecurity. They frequently face the pressure of constantly proving their worth and adapting to changing work environments without the same benefits or job security as regular employees. Emotionally, contract workers often experience isolation, stress, and burnout due to the temporary nature of their jobs. They may lack a sense of belonging or colleague support, leading to loneliness and frustration. The fear of not having long-term job security can add to their anxiety and negatively impact their mental health. In addition to emotional challenges, contract workers face difficulties in their workplaces. These can include a lack of recognition for their efforts, limited access to career development opportunities, and unequal treatment compared to permanent employees. Contract workers often feel undervalued and excluded despite contributing significantly to the organization. This paper highlights the lived experiences of contract workers, showing how these emotional and workplace struggles can affect their well-being and performance. By understanding these challenges, we can better support contract workers and create a more inclusive and supportive work environment. The goal is to raise awareness about the often-invisible difficulties faced by contract workers and encourage organizations to consider their well-being when designing employment policies.
Effect of Pulmonary Rehabilitation with Balance Training on Balance, Functional Capacity and Quality of Life in ILD Population
Shireen Rehman1, Meghna Singh2, Sonam Verma2, Sheenam Popli2
Background: Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is a chronic and progressive respiratory condition associated with impaired balance, reduced functional capacity, and diminished quality of life. Current treatment approaches often focus on pulmonary rehabilitation, but the potential benefits of incorporating balance training into ILD management remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of balance training combined with pulmonary rehabilitation in improving balance, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with ILD. Methods: An therapeutic group (n = 17) or a control group (n = 17) was randomly allocated to a total of 34 ILD patients. A comprehensive program comprising both pulmonary rehabilitation and balance training was administered to the intervention group, while the control group simply got normal pulmonary rehabilitation. Utilizing the Mini-BESTest (MBT) to assess balance, the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to examine functional capacity, and the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) to measure quality of life were the three main outcome measures. Assessments were done on both groups before and after the intervention. Conclusion: The study's conclusions suggest that adding balance training to pulmonary rehabilitation can significantly enhance patients with ILD's functional ability, balance, and general quality of life. These results highlight the potential benefits of a comprehensive approach that targets both respiratory and balance impairments in ILD management. Further research and clinical implementation of balance training within ILD rehabilitation programs may enhance the outcomes and well-being of ILD patients.
Enhancing Gait and Balance in Older Adults: The Impact of Multiple-Task Training
Rishi Raj1, Dr. Virendra Singh Rajpurohit2, Dr. Maliram Sharma3, Dr. Swati Sharma4, Anuja Choudhary5, Dr. Waribam Ranjeeta6
Gait and balance impairments are highly prevalent in the geriatric population, often resulting in an increased risk of falls, diminished mobility, and a subsequent decline in overall functional independence. As aging is associated with both physiological and cognitive changes that contribute to these impairments, interventions targeting both motor and cognitive domains have gained considerable attention in recent research. Multiple-task training (MTT) has emerged as a promising approach that integrates cognitive and motor tasks to enhance functional mobility. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of MTT in improving gait and balance among older adults by incorporating structured interventions designed to enhance dual-task performance. The intervention protocol focused on training participants to simultaneously engage in cognitive and motor tasks, thereby assessing its impact on key gait parameters, postural stability, and cognitive-motor integration. The findings of this study indicate that MTT leads to significant improvements in gait speed, postural control, and the ability to perform dual-task activities. Enhanced cognitive-motor integration was observed, which contributed to improved stability and reduced fall risk. These results suggest that MTT is an effective, evidence-based intervention that can play a crucial role in fall prevention and mobility enhancement among older adults. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term benefits and optimal implementation strategies of MTT in geriatric rehabilitation settings.
Microencapsulation Utilizing Polymer and Biopolymer Systems Represents an Expanding Domain Characterized by Numerous Contemporary Trends and Prospective Applications
1Prabir Kumar Banerjee, 2*Subhodip Ghosh, 2Subhadeep Parua, 2Sarmistha Panja, 2Ananya Jana, 2Parvin Sultana, 3Rounak Bhattacharya
Phase change material (PCM) microencapsulation is useful for increasing PCMs' thermal conductivity and guarding against potential environmental interactions and leakage during the melting process. However, there isn't a comprehensive guide to all the different ways that PCMs can be microencapsulated, as this can result in microcapsules with varying morphology, structure, and thermal properties.The three categories of microencapsulation methods—physical, physic-chemical, and chemical processesare examined and categorized in this research. It is a helpful resource for researchers in this field, asit provides an overview of the methods used for PCM microencapsulation. This method has been applied in various industries, including printing, culinary, textile, pharmaceutical, and defense. This approach has brought self-healing composites and chemically decontaminating materials to the defense academy.This review article discusses materials used in microencapsulation, microencapsulation technologies, microencapsulation goals, microencapsulation morphology and methodology of microcapsules, the release mechanism, and the fields in which microencapsulated additives are used in building materials.
Assessment of Angle of Anterior Chamber in Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome
Preethi Chava1, Usha B R2, Manjula T R3
Purpose: To assess the angle of anterior chamber in pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 80 eyes who came to the department of Ophthalmology OPD. After obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee, all the patients underwent visual acuity, slitlamp examination, gonioscopy and Intra ocular pressure(IOP) estimation. Angle of anterior chamber assessed by Shaffer’s grading and results were analysed. Results: Out of 80 eyes examined, 72 eyes (90%) have normal anterior chamber depth and remaining 8 eyes (10%) have shallow anterior chamber with high intraocular pressure.Out of 8 eyes which have shallow anterior c9hamber, 5 eyes ( 62.5% ) are males and 3 eyes ( 37.5% ) are females and 4 eyes are under age group of 60-70 (50%), 3 eyes of age group 70-80 ( 37.5%), 1 eye of age group 80-90 ( 12.5%). Conclusion: In this study it is observed that angle of anterior chamber is open in most of the cases only few cases showed closed angle with high intra ocular pressure.
Vision Viksit Bharat 2047: Redefining Higher Education in the Digital Era
1Prof. Manish Kumar Pandey, 2Dr. Anjalee Yadav & 3Dr. Amit Kumar Tiwari
The innovative integration of digital learning in India’s education sector has emerged as a transformative force. Vision 2047 envisions making education universally accessible and compulsory by leveraging digital technologies and platforms to foster inclusive growth and equitable learning environments. This initiative seeks to redesign the education system, addressing existing barriers to achieve the evolving demands of the 21st century. Digital learning platforms enhance collaboration and communication between students and teachers, fostering synergy within diverse educational communities. Vision 2047 also emphasizes the adoption of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality, to enrich learning experiences and equip students with the necessary skills required to thrive in the digital era. Aligned with this vision, the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 introduces project-based and value-driven learning initiatives designed to strengthen discipline proficiency and communication skills. Since the early 21st century, digital learning has been a key innovation in Indian higher education, with the government championing e-learning and online courses to improve access and quality. However, challenges persist, particularly in remote areas where inadequate internet connectivity and limited technical support hinder the full adoption of digital technologies in higher education. This study aims to explore the opportunities and obstacles faced by universities as they strive for continuous innovation and adaptation to emerging digital learning technologies, ensuring competitiveness in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
Automating Chemistry Tasks Using Large Language Models (LLMs): A Stepwise Framework for Cheminformatics
1Swaroop Laxmi Mudliar, 2Sai Shashank Mudliar
Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT and LLaMA have exhibited exceptional general thinking skills [2] [5]. Nevertheless, its utilization in specialist fields such as cheminformatics remains little examined. This research introduces an innovative approach for automating essential chemical operations through the integration of large language models with computational tools like RDKit and PubChemPy. Preliminary studies using the LLaMA 3.2 1B Instruct version produced inadequate outcomes for accuracy and task reasoning. We then migrated to ChatGPT, which exhibited notable enhancements in task precision and efficiency. By implementing sequential task reasoning and guaranteeing stepwise execution, we mitigate prevalent issues such as "jumping the gun," when models presume intermediate outcomes rather than deriving them. The system automates processes such as translating chemical names to SMILES representations, calculating molecular weights, verifying explosive characteristics, and assessing molecular similarities, resulting in substantial enhancements in efficiency and precision.
Comparative Study of Colour Stability and Tensile Strength of Conventional Room Temperature Vulcanized Silicone and Modified Room Temperature Vulcanized Silicone by Incorporating Silicon Dioxide Nanoparticles from Bamboo Extract
1J. M. Karpaga Priya; 2Keerthana Nagarajan; 3Dr. M. Navinbharathy (MDS); 4Dr. B. Tamizhesai (MDS); 5Dr.M.Rathinavel Pandian (MDS); 6Dr. M. Narasimman (MDS)
Introduction: Room temperature vulcanizing silicone, or RTV silicone, has gained popularity in maxillofacial clinics due to its notable advancements, which are available as platinum-cured polydimethylsiloxane. Previous investigations have demonstrated improved mechanical and optical qualities when silicon dioxide nanoparticles are added to room-temperature vulcanized silicone. Bamboo has a lot of silica. Thus, the goal of this study is to incorporate silicon dioxide derived from bamboo to increase the tensile strength and color stability of room-temperature vulcanized silicone. Evaluate the differences between modified RTV silicone that contains silicon dioxide from the bamboo extract and conventional RTV silicone in terms of color stability and tensile strength. Materials and procedure: Sixty silicone RTV samples were made. Using epoxy molds measuring 150 mm X150 mm X 2 mm, six of which were of conventional RTV silicone (Group A) and six for each group, which were of bio-silicone dioxide modified RTV silicone (Group B) at various concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 3%). Followed by tensile strength testing on the samples. Then a 1000-hour natural weathering process, the samples' color stability was assessed. Result: Statistical analysis is done using SPSS software.To minimize Type I errors, an ANOVA test (???? = 0.01) is used to determine whether group means differ substantially for color stability. The null hypothesis, equal means, is disproved if p < 0.01. The F-test for variance equality is used in advance to ensure variances are similar. In the case of tensile strength, an ANOVA test (???? = 0.05) finds differences between the means of five groups. If the ANOVA shows significance (????< 0.05), a Tukey HSD post-hoc test is used to identify particular group differences. Conclusion: This study showed that 0.5% bio-silica-modified RTV silicone provides the optimum tensile strength and color stability during an artificial aging process of 1000 hours, making it the ideal concentration for enhanced performance.
Impact of Culture on Entrepreneurship Development in 'Nigerias' South Eastern States
Prof. Agbaeze, Emmanuel Kalu1 & Amamba, Okechukwu Evaristus2
The cultural practice has been in use over the past decades as a tool for identification. Despite the successful application of culture in entrepreneurship development methodology in advanced nations of the world and some parts of Africa, it has been observed that most Nigerian entrepreneurial firms are not fully implementing culture in entrepreneurship methodology. Thus, the study examined culture and entrepreneurship development in Southeast Nigeria. The specific objectives include (i) Explore the correlation between uncertainty avoidance and entrepreneurial business growth in the southeast of Nigeria. (ii) access how masculinity tendencies relate to organisational justice in entrepreneurship business in Southeast Nigeria. The study population consisted of 3,539 staff members from selected manufacturing firms in southeast Nigeria. A sample size of 347 respondents was determined using the Freund and Williams statistical formula. However, 320 properly completed and returned questionnaires were analysed. The research employed a stratified sampling technique to target different staff categories through a structured questionnaire. Bowler’s (1976) proportional allocation formula for stratified sampling was utilized to ensure fair representation to distribute the sample across strata. The primary data collected were analysed statistically using the Pearson correlation coefficient at a 5% significance level. Key findings included: (i) uncertainty avoidance significantly and positively related to entrepreneurial business growth and (ii) masculinity tendencies significantly correlated with organizational justice in entrepreneurial businesses. The study concluded that culture encompasses patterns of thinking, feeling, and reacting transmitted through symbols, shaping group achievements, including production processes. It recommended that manufacturing firms mitigate the adverse effects of individualistic behaviour and foster employee commitment to enhancing productivity, retention, and overall performance.
Modeling Children's Weight Growth Trajectories using Latent Growth Curve Models: Socio-Demographic Influences across Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Alemayehu Siffir Argawu (PhD Candidate)1*; B. Muniswamy (Professor)1; B. Punyavathi (PhD)1
Background: Children’s weight growth trajectories offer valuable insights into their development and long-term health outcomes, especially in low- and middle-income countries. These trajectories help identify early health risks such as malnutrition and obesity. Aim: This study aimed to analyze non-linear weight growth trajectories in children aged 1–15 years using latent growth curve models, identify key latent variables, and evaluate the influence of socio-demographic factors, including country, gender, and residence, on growth patterns across India, Ethiopia, Peru, and Vietnam. Methods: Longitudinal data from the Young Lives Study (2002–2016) were analyzed, comprising 7,140 children. Latent growth curve modeling was applied to explore weight growth patterns and evaluate the influences of country, gender, and rural/urban residence on growth trajectories. Results: The model identified significant latent variable effects on children's weight growth, including baseline weight (9.726, P < 0.001), growth acceleration (0.172, P < 0.001), and deceleration (-4.507, P < 0.001). Compared to India, Peruvian children had the highest baseline weight (1.012, P < 0.001) and steepest growth rate (0.034, P < 0.001). Vietnamese children had higher baseline weights (0.590, P < 0.001) and growth rates (0.024, P < 0.001), while Ethiopian children exhibited slower growth (-0.012, P < 0.001). Females had lower baseline weights (-0.519, P < 0.001), and rural children had lower baseline weights (-0.635, P < 0.001) and slower growth rates (-0.023, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Latent growth curve modeling effectively captured the non-linear nature of children's weight growth trajectories and highlighted significant socio-demographic disparities. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions to address nutritional challenges, gender inequities, and rural-urban gaps in low- and middle-income countries.
The Nexus between Marketing Mix Strategy and Performance of Small and Micro Enterprises: The Case of Jimma Town
Meseret Tesfaye Mekonnin
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly recognized as a crucial platform for development and to enhance the overall progress. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of marketing mix strategy on performance of small and micro enterprises in Jimma town. Questionnaire is used to collect the primary data. 117 target respondents were randomly selected. The finding of the study shows that product, pricing, promotion, and distribution strategies have statistically significant positive linear relationships with the performance of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The study recommend Micro and small manufacturing enterprises (MSEs) should prioritize the production of goods characterized by innovative designs, enhanced features, and a diverse array of options, while also being capable of offering supplementary services.
Harnessing AI and Digital Innovations for Affordable Housing: A Sustainable and Data-Driven Approach
Devesh Ojha
With the increasing demand for affordable housing, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies has become essential in optimizing resource management, cost-efficiency, and sustainability. This research examines the impact of AI, machine learning (ML), and digital modelling tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) in enhancing housing design and construction processes. By analysing predictive analytics, smart automation, and AI-driven design methodologies, this study presents a transformative approach to affordable housing. Case studies from Singapore and Sweden illustrate practical applications and benefits of AI in modular and prefabricated housing projects. Additionally, challenges in implementation—such as high adoption costs, regulatory barriers, and data management—are discussed alongside potential strategies for overcoming them. The findings emphasize the need for an integrated technological framework to ensure sustainable, scalable, and high-quality affordable housing solutions.
Accessing the Impact of Social Media in Civil Engagement among Young Adults in Nigeria: A Survey Study
Juliet Nkonyeasua Ossai1, Christiana Nwakaegho Nwadiokwu2, Eseoghene Umolu-Sule3, Nathan Udoinyang4
This research aims to assess impacts of social media on civil engagement among young adults in Nigeria. Study employs mixed-methods research design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. National bureau of Statistics estimates entire population at 230,700,000 as at 2024 among which the population of young adults aged 18-40 according to NBS is 63,244,000. Sample size of 400 was generated using Taro Yamane formula and was distributed to young adults within age bracket of 18-40 out of which 291 distributed questionnaires were returned and validity of research instrument ascertained using Statistical Package for Social Sciences and Cronbach alpha reliability index of 0.80. 5 Likert scale were used to answer research questions with criterion mean of 3.0 and research hypotheses tested using Pearson correlation at 0.05 level. Findings show that social media increases online activism, volunteering and community service providing platform for young adults to engage in civil activities, mobilize support and raise awareness. Facebook Instagram Twitter and WhatsApp are most used social media platforms for civil engagement in Nigeria. In terms of benefits of social media usage include desire to make positive impact and interest in social and political issues, while the barriers include inadequate finance digital literacy and fear of online harassment etc. Study concludes and recommends leveraging social media platforms to promote civic engagement and implementing digital literacy programs among others etc.
Psychological Predictors of Suicidal Ideation among Nigerian Undergraduates and the Mediating Effect of Demographic Variables
1Meek I. Eyisi, 2Abiodun M. Gesinde, 3Emmanuel G. Abikoye
Suicidal ideation is an enormous public health concern on a worldwide scale. Because of the absence of an overt symptom or sign of its presence, suicide ideation is hidden from the inspection of public health till it is too late for intervention. Research efforts to identify variables predicting suicidal ideation among undergraduates is still ongoing and open for fresh findings especially in Africa where there is paucity of empirical information on the determinants. The study, therefore, investigates the predictors linked to suicidal ideation among a total of 4930 participants (1807 males mean: 2.25, SD: 1.122 and 3123 females mean: 2.11 SD: 1.171) randomly selected for the study with an age range of 16-34 years old. An ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study and two research hypotheses were posed. The German Beck scale for Suicide Ideation, the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale, the Fear of Missing Out Scale, and sociodemographic questionnaire were employed for data collection. Multiple regression and Structural Equation Model (SEM) statistical tools were used for data analysis. At p<0.05, quality of life, perceived stress and Fo MO jointly accounted for 9.1% of the variance in suicidal thoughts and separately predicted suicide ideation at different degrees in this order (Quality of life β = .428; t = 19.95; p <.000; perceived stress β =-0.083; t = -3.14; p <.002; fear of missing out β = -.134; t = -9.08; p <.000). There was no significant mediation role for age, gender, and educational level in the relationship between the three independent variables and suicide ideation: FoMO: 0.281 (0.000), Quality of Life: -0.049 (0.002), Perceived Stress: -0.137 (0.000). In order to reduce global suicide ideation rates, it is essential to factor the predicting values of these variables into the development of preventive and management techniques for suicide ideation among undergraduates.
Status of Household Solid Waste Management in Mainpuri City of Uttar Pradesh, India
Mohini Saran1, Dr. Salahuddin Mohd2, Parul Pathak3
Generation of solid waste by human activities is mandatory but due to population growth, urbanization, industrialization, economic growth there is a dramatic change in nature and amount of solid waste generated. The amount of solid waste generation has been increasing in proportion to rising population and growth in the economic sector. This paper is an attempt to study the current status of solid waste (generation of household solid waste and disposal scenario according to income groups) and how the municipality of city handle the generation of solid waste. This study is based on both primary and secondary sources of data, primary data wascollected through the household survey in Mainpuri city in the 2022. Households of Mainpuri city belong to different income groups were selected and entire sample size consists of 1836 households. The result reveals that solid waste management has become a major problem in small size cities like Mainpuri. The city has a recycling plant for solid waste management but the capacity of the plant is not able to fulfil the current necessity that’swhy excessive amount of solid waste lies down near the Isan River, and around the recycling plant; If the city does not get any appropriate solid waste management plan in future condition becomes more worse. In present situation Mainpuri city needs a suitable plan for (SWM) solid waste management to overcome the approaching challenges.
Restoring Mangaluru's Waterfront and Celebrating its Rich Natural and Cultural Heritage
Manjukeerthi S1 & Dr. Venkatesh Amin2
Purpose: Waterfront development for a city acts as a precinct of interface between the urban and infrastructure development with the water. Waterfront development plays a crucial role in bridging urban and infrastructure growth with water bodies, serving multiple functions, including industrial hubs, trade centers, residential areas, and recreational spaces. The evolution of waterfronts can be categorized into four phases: (a) Emergence of Waterfronts, (b) Growth of Waterfronts, (c) Decline of Waterfronts, (d) Rediscovery of Waterfronts. Mangaluru has already progressed through the first three phases and is now transitioning into the fourth phase. The establishment of a Cultural Hub at Bolar Sea Face will contribute significantly to this transformation. This article explores how a Cultural Hub along the Netravathi Riverfront at Bolar Sea Face can enhance tourism, boost community engagement, generate revenue, and create employment opportunities for the local youth. Design/ Methodology/ Approach:The research employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies to holistically address the study's objectives. The approach involves the following key components: (a) Literature Review, (b) Site Analysis, (c) Stakeholder Engagement, (d) Cultural and Historical Analysis, (e) Case Study Approach, (f) SWOT Analysis, (g) ABCD Analysis and (h) Proposed framework for intervention. Findings/ Results:The study highlights the intricate relationship between environmental, cultural, and socio-economic factors that impact the restoration and development of Mangaluru’s waterfronts. Key findings include: (a)Environmental Degradation of Water Edges: Unchecked urban expansion, pollution, and encroachments have led to significant deterioration of the waterfront areas, (b)Loss of Biodiversity: Industrial waste and habitat destruction pose a severe threat to native flora and fauna along the riverbanks and estuaries, (c)Hydrological Challenges: Erratic monsoon patterns and inadequate drainage systems have intensified flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas, (d) Cultural and Historical Significance: The waterfronts hold deep historical and cultural value, which needs to be preserved and integrated into modern urban development. Originality: This research offers a unique contribution to urban rejuvenation and heritage conservation by emphasizing the intersection of environmental sustainability, cultural heritage, and smart city initiatives. Given Mangaluru’s rich coastal history and natural legacy, the study presents innovative solutions tailored to its specific urban and ecological context. Paper type:(a) Case Study Research Paper, (b) Applied Research Paper,(c)Thematic Research Paper on Heritage and Sustainability and (6) Exploratory Research Paper.
Harvest Hub: AI and ML-Driven Platform for Crop Selection, Price Prediction, and Farmer Assistance
1Mucharla Yaswanth; 2Q. Angelin Jeba
Agriculture plays a crucial role in global food security, yet many farmers, particularly in rural and developing regions, face significant challenges in optimizing their crop selection and market decisions. Unpredictable weather patterns, fluctuating market prices, and limited access to agricultural knowledge hinder their ability to make informed choices, leading to reduced productivity and profitability. Harvest Hub is an AI-driven platform designed to bridge this gap by integrating machine learning models for intelligent crop recommendation, price forecasting, and real-time farmer assistance. The system leverages a Random Forest model to suggest optimal crops based on soil type and seasonal climate. These recommendations are then processed through an LSTM-based price prediction model, which forecasts market trends to identify the most profitable crop options. Additionally, an AI-powered chatbot provides personalized guidance on cultivation techniques, irrigation strategies, soil nutrition, and market insights.By combining data-driven decision-making with accessible agricultural support, Harvest Hub empowers farmers to maximize their yield potential and financial returns. This platform not only enhances productivity but also fosters sustainability by ensuring that crop selection aligns with both environmental conditions and economic viability.
Urban - Rural Disparities in Nutritional Status of Under-Five Children: A Study in Coastal Andhra Pradesh
Telagareddy Divya Jyothi1, Mudunuri Satya Revathi2
Introduction: Childhood is a critical period for physical and psychosocial development, with under-five children being particularly vulnerable to various morbidities, including malnutrition. Despite global progress in reducing child mortality, disparities persist between urban and rural populations, particularly in developing regions like coastal Andhra Pradesh. This study aims to investigate the nutritional status and morbidity patterns among under-five children in urban and rural settings, addressing the gap in understanding how these factors differ across environments. Objectives: The primary objectives of this study are to compare the nutritional status of under-five children in urban and rural field practice areas of a teaching hospital in coastal Andhra Pradeshand to assess the overall nutritional status of the children involved in the study. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over a year, with data collection spanning six months from June to November 2024. A total sample size of 300 children aged six months to five years was determined using systematic random sampling. Data were collected through pre-tested questionnaires, clinical examinations, and anthropometric measurements. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software to evaluate differences in nutritional status and morbidity patterns. Results: The findings revealed no significant difference in malnutrition grading between urban (9.7% under -3 SD for height) and rural children (24.3% under -3 SD for height). Overall, rural children exhibited poorer nutritional outcomes compared to their urban counterparts, particularly regarding height-for-age metrics. Conclusion: This study highlights significant urban-rural disparities in the nutritional status of under-five children in coastal Andhra Pradesh. The results underscore the need for targeted interventions to address malnutrition and improve child health outcomes, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited. Continued research is essential to inform policy and resource allocation for child health initiatives.
Low Level Laser Therapy for Non-Surgical Management of Oral Mucosal Lesions: A Narrative Review
1Dr. Shahala B. B; 2Dr. Nayantara Menon; 3Dr. Deepak Daryani; 4Dr. Jiji V Unni; 5Dr. Uthkal M.P
Over the past few decades, the use of laser technology has revolutionized dentistry in particular. Laser-based techniques have enhanced the precision, efficiency, and outcomes of both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in various oral health conditions. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as photobiomodulation therapy, has emerged as a promising non-invasive treatment modality in the management of various oral mucosal lesions. It harnesses the therapeutic effects of low-intensity laser light to stimulate cellular activity, promote tissue repair, and reduce inflammation and pain without causing thermal damage to tissues. Oral mucosal lesions, ranging from aphthous ulcers and oral lichen planus to mucositis and burning mouth syndrome, often present significant challenges in terms of symptom control and patient comfort. Traditional pharmacological approaches may offer relief but are often associated with side effects or incomplete efficacy. This article provides a narrative review about the use of Low-level laser therapy in non-surgical management of oral mucosal lesions.
Seasons and Mental Well Being: A Case Study of Gangotri Region
1Urvashi Bist; 2Dr. Arushi Rana; 3Shresthi Jaiswal
This study aims to explore the relationship between humans and their living environment, focusing on the mental wellbeing of residents in Gangotri Municipality, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Data was gathered through a survey on a prepared schedule that included questions on mental health, spirituality, and physical well-being. The mental wellbeing of individuals was assessed through various indicators such as appetite, physical activity, emotional state, sleep patterns, and stress levels. A comparative analysis was conducted based on responses from 47 participants, with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The results provide statistical evidence showing the influence of seasonal changes on mental wellbeing. The Mann Whitney U Test was employed to assess the significance of differences across various indicators. Additionally, R-Studio software was utilized for Principal Component Analysis and Random Forest Analysis. The findings highlight a notable impact of the summer season on mindfulness and overall wellbeing, offering insights into the complex relationship between seasonal variations and mental health in the region. Results reveal thatemotional regulation and stress management are crucial components for enhancing mental health in the region of Gangotri. The mental wellbeing data of respondents was visualized using Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) interpolation through ArcGIS 10.4.1 software.
Forced Migration and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Review Article
1Dr. Arushi Rana; 2Urvashi Bist; 3Manjeet
Migration to a new environment often leads to significant changes in human lifestyles. When people are forced to relocate, they may develop various psychological disorders. Common mental health issues in such situations include stress, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and schizophrenia. During and after migration, individuals may face traumatic events that leave lasting memories, potentially leading to PTSD. PTSD was first recognized in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published in 1980. Its inclusion in the DSM marked a recognition of the profound effects that exposure to traumatic events can have on an individual’s mental well-being. The DSM criteria for diagnosing PTSD include experiencing a traumatic event, along with specific symptoms such as intrusive memories or nightmares, avoidance behaviors, negative shifts in mood and cognition, and increased arousal. This condition can cause physical, mental, and behavioral challenges, affecting an individual’s ability to adjust. While some people recover from PTSD relatively quickly, others may suffer from its effects for a lifetime. This study aims to explore the different aspects of forced displacement, focusing on the relationship between PTSD and forced migration.
Financial Inclusion and Economic Development in Selected Sub-Sahara Africa Countries (1999 -2024)
1Odogwu, Helen Ede; 2Josaphat Uchechukwu Joe Onwumere; 3Onyejiaku Chinyere; 4Lawal, Faith Chidinma
This study examined the impact of financial inclusion on economic development in SSA countries in SSA countries covering the period 1974 to 2023. The choice of SSA as the geography of the study was informed by the degree of financial exclusion in the financial system and the widening level of human underdevelopment. The dependent variable is economic development represented by gross domestic product per capita while financial inclusion indicators were used as the independent variables. The panel data for this study was sourced from the World Development Indicator and International Financial Statistics. Two variants of Panel-ARDL were used, namely, mean group and pooled mean group with Haussmann test serving as the guide in the choice of the more efficient and consistent of the two models. Findings arising from this study are summarized as follows: That Number of Formally Banked Adults (FBA) has positive (=0.29) and significant (0.000) effect on human development in Sub-Saharan African countries. Also, that Adults with Credit (AWC) has negative (=-0.32) and significant (0.000) effect on human development in Sub-Saharan African countries and that Number of Formally Banked Enterprises (FBE) has negative (=-0.00) and insignificant (0.1485) effect on human development in Sub-Saharan African countries. It was also found that Number of Enterprises with Credit (EWC) has negative (=-0.03) and insignificant (0.0000) effect on human development in Sub-Saharan African countries and that Point of Financial Services (PFS) has positive and significant (pvalue-0.0000) effect on human development in Sub-Saharan African countries. Spread of ATM Services (SAS) has negative (=-0.04) and significant (0.000) effect on human development in Sub-Saharan African countries. The study in agreement with some prior studies found that the human development index benefits from intentional policies designed to enhance financial inclusion. It is recommended that government should enhance access to credit by individuals to drive human development. This can be achieved through strengthening microfinance and other rural based financial institutions.
Hydrogen as an Energy Carrier: Challenges and Solutions in Production and Storage Physics
Mr. Hemant K Suryawanshi1, Mr. Dilip D. Thorat1, Mr. Atul P Naikwade2, Dr. Surendra M. Yenorkar3
Hydrogen is one of the crucial energy source for the global transformation to a sustainable decarbonized energy system. Due to its versatile and high-energy-density nature hydrogen enables decarbonization in industries like power generation, transportation and heavy manufacturing. Some challenges in hydrogen productionto overcome this issue researcherfocused on electrolysis of water, thermochemical processes, challenges with high-temperature processes and their environmental impacts and use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy production. challenges in hydrogen storage system to overcome these challenges, need innovations in electrolysis, use of advanced materials like pervoskites, novel storage approaches such as use of liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs), advanced storage options comprise compressed hydrogen, cryogenic liquefaction, and metal hydrides and new adsorbents like MOFs.This article gives an importance of hydrogen, application of hydrogen as energy carrier in varies sectors like transportation, electric buses, vehicles, industrial decarbonization. In Future role of hydrogen promise useful energy carrier, clean and essential for global transition to sustainable energy source. To overcome these challenges researchers focusing to development of energy efficient electrolysis system, hybrid electrolysis system for hydrogen production, development of safer and scalable storage technology. Overcoming these hurdles will let hydrogen contribute importantly in this journey toward a resilient and sustainable energy future.
African Aesthetics in the Drama of Olu Obafemi
Zaccheaus Ojo Joseph
This paper discuss extensively on Obafemi who remains one of the vibrant and prolific playwrights in Nigeria whose plays have constantly been dedicated towards exploring topical themes and subject matters affecting the masses particular in Nigeria and generally in Africa. Indeed, the main themes and tendencies of Obafemi’s plays cut across several topical issues which reflect the social realities of the Nigeria and African people. Consequently, among other Nigerian playwrights in his generation, Obafemi’s plays undoubtedly possess rich element of African aesthetics within the polemics of modern drama. Therefore, this study examines the plays of Obafemi with the few to discuss African aesthetics as crucial elements in his plays in this paper, attempt is made to examine the introductory aspects of the paper which are found in the subsequent sub-headings.
Green Clean-Up: Leveraging Duckweed (Lemna paucicostata) for Sustainable Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals in Dumpsite Leachate, Calabar, Nigeria
Udiba, Udiba U.,1* Jimmy, Emmanuel U.,1Anwana, Enoabasi D.,2 John Ama1, Sonowo, Olunimi3, Akpan, Ekom Robert4,Essien, Glory A.1
Heavy metal contamination in dumpsite leachates poses significant environmental and health risks. This study conducted an ex-situ experiment evaluating the effectiveness of Lemnapaucicostata for phytoremediating heavy metals in leachates from Lemna dumpsite, Calabar, Nigeria. Duckweed biomass was cultured at varying densities (100g, 300g, and 500g) in 20L of leachate under ambient conditions over 28 days. Heavy metals such as Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, Fe, and Zn were analyzed pre- and post-remediation using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Reduction efficiency was calculated, and statistical analyses (t-test and ANOVA) determined significance.Significant reductions in metal concentrations were achieved with increasing duckweed biomass. The highest reduction efficiencies at 500g biomass were observed for Pb (82.40%), Cd (94.54%), and Cu (83.88%). Nickel, iron, and zinc also showed reductions exceeding 70%. In contrast, the control group exhibited no significant changes in metal levels, underscoring the plant's efficacy.Duckweed's dense biomass enhances heavy metal uptake through phytoextraction and phytostabilization. Comparisons with existing studies reveal Lemnapaucicostata outperforms other aquatic plants in heavy metal removal, especially for Pb and Cd. However, post-remediation concentrations for some metals exceeded regulatory limits, indicating the need for extended remediation durations and optimization strategies. The study conclude thatLemnapaucicostata is a viable, cost-effective solution for heavy metal remediation in dumpsite leachate, providing an eco-friendly approach to mitigating pollution. Its application could enhance water safety and environmental sustainability.Future research should explore higher biomass densities, prolonged exposure periods, and nutrient supplementation to optimize remediation efficacy. Large-scale trials are essential to validate scalability for industrial applications.
Technoprenuership and Organizational Productivity of Wine Firms in Anambra State
1Dr. Ohanyere C.P; 2Okoye, Vincent Chekwubechukwu; 3Nnebe, Ekwutosi Gloria
Technopreneurship is crucial because it boosts financially viable good organization, introduces improvement to the marketplace, and initiates new jobs while preserving existing ones. The organizational efficiency and technopreneurship of wineries in Anambra State were examined in the study. Technopreneurship has its own set of difficulties, such as the expense of technology, problems with adoption and training, and possible cybersecurity threats. Analyzing how innovation, intellectual property rights, and technology-intensive skills affect the managerial good organization of wine industries in Anambra State was the study's target. In keeping with the study's aforementioned goals, three research hypotheses are developed. The descriptive survey design approach was applied. Seven hundred and twenty-seven (1727) respondents made up the population for this study. According to the Borg & Gall algorithm, the sample size is 332 and includes every employee of the chosen wineries in Anambra state. While 332 surveys were distributed by the researcher, only 317 copies were recovered. Data from the respondents was gathered using a well thought-out survey. To evaluate the theories, the t-test and correlation analysis data method were employed. Finding shows that; Intellectual property rights have considerable affirmative effect on managerial productivity of wine firms. Innovation has considerable affirmative effect on managerial productivity of wine firms. It was recommends that Intellectual property ought to take serious by the firms in order to protect their product from pirates. Firm should invest much on innovation tools in order to come up with unique products.
Navigating Barriers and Building Capacity: A Phenomenological Study of Teachers' Action Research Experiences in Samar Island During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Teody Lester V.Panela
This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of basic education teachers conducting action research during the COVID-19 pandemic in Samar Island, Philippines. In-depth interviews were conducted with 32 teachers across three divisions who attempted to implement action research projects during the pandemic. Using Colaizzi's method for data analysis, three major themes emerged: (1) Confronting Pandemic-Related Research Barriers, (2) Adaptive Research Strategies, and (3) Transformative Professional Growth. The study revealed that teachers faced significant challenges in data collection, participant engagement, and maintaining research momentum amid pandemic restrictions. However, many demonstrated remarkable resilience by developing alternative methodologies, leveraging digital platforms, and forming collaborative research communities. The findings suggest that despite considerable obstacles, the pandemic context prompted innovative approaches to educational action research and fostered deeper appreciation for research flexibility and resilience. The study recommends enhanced institution-level support systems, expanded virtual research training opportunities, flexible research frameworks accommodating pandemic constraints, and policies promoting collaborative research models. These insights provide a foundation for strengthening action research implementation in challenging contexts while highlighting the transformative potential of research persistence during crisis situations.
Mapping the Research Landscape: Evaluating Skills and Competencies of Basic Education Teachers in Samar Island, Philippines
Teody Lester V.Panela
This quantitative study assessed the research skills and competencies of basic education teachers in Samar Island, Philippines. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data was collected from 287 teachers across elementary and secondary levels through a validated survey instrument. The research focused on five dimensions: research knowledge, methodological skills, data analysis capabilities, research writing proficiency, and research utilization. Findings revealed moderate levels of research competence (M=3.24, SD=0.78) with significant variances based on educational attainment (F=8.76, p<.001) and years of experience (F=6.42, p<.01). Teachers exhibited higher proficiency in research knowledge (M=3.65) but demonstrated notable gaps in data analysis (M=2.76) and research utilization (M=2.83). The completion rate of Basic Education Research Fund (BERF) studies was found to be suboptimal at 48.7%. Correlation analysis indicated a significant relationship between research training hours and overall research competence (r=0.67, p<.001). The study recommends systematic capacity-building interventions, enhanced technical support, and institutional policy reforms to strengthen the research culture within the basic education sector, particularly in resource-constrained divisions in Samar Island.
Assessing Ways through Research and Augmentation (AWRA): Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of College Students in the Philippines Phase 2
Teody Lester V. Panela
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic changed the overall educational landscape of the country. It shifted the attention to how the students handled the predicaments presented by the situation. This phenomenological study explored lived experiences of college students from both public and private institutions in the Province of Samar, Philippines and how the pandemic impact their mental health. Accompanying the semi-structured interview is the color association technique to best describe their emotions and reactions. Sixteen (16) college students were included in the study. After data analysis, specifically thematic analysis under Colaizzi Process, three themes emerged: (1) Col?remQuaestionis (Colors of Problem); (2) Col?remMarte (Colors of Initiative); and (3) Col?remSpei (Colors of Hope). Colors of problem, represented by red, black, and brown, centered around the danger, negativity, and sadness felt by the college students during the pandemic. It created a feeling of uncertainty among them which led to the development of anxiety and depression. Colors of initiative, represented by purple, blue, and green, focused on intuition, logic, and determination of the college students in seeking good support system. Aside from a good support system, they used innovative alternatives to address challenges felt, overall protecting their mental health in the process. Colors of hope, represented by yellow, orange, and teal, focused on the undying hope, enthusiasm and stability of the college students in traversing over the problems brought about by the pandemic. By slowly incorporating to their psyche that everything changes and slowly moving on to the next normalcy, students adapt and make necessary adjustment. The pandemic had negative implications to the mental health of the college students. To cope with this, institutions and concerned agencies need to develop a good support system accompanied by a well thought out preventative and rehabilitative programs that caters mental health concerns of college students.
Assessing Ways through Research and Augmentation (AWRA): Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of College Students in the Philippines Phase 1
Teody Lester V. Panela
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic changed the overall educational landscape of the country. It shifted the attention to how the students handled the predicaments presented by the situation. This survey explored the effects of the pandemic to the mental health of the college students from both public and private institutions in the Province of Samar, Philippines. Data collection focusedin two areas of mental health: anxiety and depression. It was done through online and face-to-face modalities with the use of the following tools: Anxiety GAD-2, Anxiety GAD-7, Depression PHQ-2, and Depression PHQ-9. Data were analyzed through quantitative methods. It was found out that of the 180 college students, 91 (50.56%) screened for generalized anxiety disorder as a result of the pandemic. Further analysis under this premise revealed that most of the college students which accounts for 87 (48.33%) developed moderate anxiety. By using the Depression PHQ-2 tool, it was found out that 127 (70.56%) college students developed major depressive disorder during the pandemic. Furthermore, 113 (62.78%) have PHQ-9 scores between 5-9, classified as mild severity of depression. This means that they need to be observed constantly and a follow-up diagnostic test should be conducted. Moreover, the following factors were identified that contributed to their current mental health: pandemic scare and fear of the unknown(175/180, 97.22%), decreased social activities and interaction due to pandemic restrictions(178/180, 98.89%), and forced transition of the mode of learning and other academic concerns(179/180, 99.44%). The pandemic had negative implications to the mental health of the college students. To cope with this, institutions and concerned agencies need to develop a good support system accompanied by a well thought out preventative and rehabilitative programs that caters mental health concerns of college students.
Corporate Sustainability Reporting and Firm Performance in the Context of Nigeria: Does CEO Power Matter?
1Atanda, Olabamiji; 2Romoke, Rafiat Busari; 3Sanusi, Rasaq Olabamiji; 4Okon, Idorenyin John
Purpose: This study investigates the moderating role of CEO power on the relationship between sustainability reporting and firm performance among listed non-financial firms in Nigeria. While extensive research has explored the direct effects of sustainability reporting on firm performance, little is known about how CEO power influences this relationship, particularly in emerging markets like Nigeria. The study aims to bridge this gap by examining whether CEO power, characterized by ownership, tenure, and board influence, alters the impact of sustainability disclosures on firm outcomes. The findings reveal that the effectiveness of sustainability reporting in enhancing firm performance may depend significantly on the extent of CEO power, which can either align managerial interests with those of shareholders or lead to managerial entrenchment. Study design/methodology/approach: The study employs a quantitative research design, utilizing a moderated regression analysis to examine the interaction effects between sustainability reporting and CEO power on firm performance. Data was collected from 100 listed non-financial firms in Nigeria from 2015 to 2023. The study utilized secondary data sourced from annual reports and financial statements, while CEO power was measured through indicators such as ownership, tenure, and board influence. The robustness of the model was tested using the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to address issues of endogeneity and heteroscedasticity. Findings: The results indicate that sustainability reporting positively affects firm performance in terms of return on assets (ROA) and share price. However, CEO power significantly moderates this relationship, with higher CEO ownership enhancing the impact of sustainability disclosures on performance. Conversely, excessive CEO influence over the board was found to diminish the positive effects of sustainability reporting, suggesting a nuanced interplay between managerial power and corporate transparency. Originality/value:This study contributes to the literature on corporate governance and sustainability by highlighting the contextual differences in the moderating role of CEO power within an emerging market framework. The findings underscore the importance of considering CEO power dynamics when assessing the effectiveness of sustainability practices, offering valuable insights for policymakers, regulators, and corporate managers on optimizing governance structures for enhanced performance outcomes. Future research could explore the role of external governance mechanisms in moderating the CEO power-sustainability relationship.
Exploring the Multifaceted Role of School Administrators in Facilitating Comprehensive Staff Professional Development and Advancement
Okokoyo Isabella Ezinwa (PhD) & Anthony Great Ossai (PhD)
The intricate role that school administrators play in fostering the success and professional development of their entire staff is examined in this article. It examines the different responsibilities and strategies that administrators employ to help teachers flourish, grow professionally, and engage in lifelong learning. In order to support staff development activities, the article highlights the importance of good leadership, needs assessment, programme design, resource allocation, and evaluation. It accomplishes this by utilising actual research, theoretical frameworks, and useful insights. The best methods, challenges, and moral dilemmas surrounding staff professional development are also examined in the study. Administrators receive guidance on how to give staff development first priority, foster a culture of continuous learning, and offer opportunities for career advancement.The article's conclusion highlights the critical role that administrators play in fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment that helps teachers succeed in their roles and positively affects student outcomes.
A Study of Avian Diversity and Temporal Variation in Sailana Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh, India
S. A. Mahiwal & S. Gaherwal
This study investigates avian diversity and its temporal variation in Sailana Wildlife Sanctuary, a critical habitat in Madhya Pradesh, India. Over the course of a year during April 2023 to March 2024 (summer, rainy and winter season), systematic surveys were conducted across different sites to assess species richness, abundance, and community composition. A total of 46 bird species, were recorded, highlighting the sanctuary's role as a biodiversity hotspot. Seasonal variations revealed significant shifts in species presence, with an influx of migratory birds during winter and fluctuations in resident bird populations influenced by breeding and resource availability. Species richness peaked during winter season. Key indicator species such as Sarus crane (Antigone antigone)and rare taxa were identified, underscoring the importance of habitat conservation and monitoring efforts. This study provides baseline data critical for long-term ecological research and informs management strategies aimed at preserving the sanctuary's avian diversity amid anthropogenic pressures and climate change.
Significance of Entrepreneurship Development Factors on Youth Employment Rate in Abuja
1Ashogbon Esther Oluyinka; 2Olajide Oladipo
This study examines the significance of entrepreneurship development factors on youth employment rate in Abuja, Nigeria. Methodologically, the study used primary data collected through structured surveys and interviews. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics and logit regression. The research utilized Schumpeter’s Innovation Theory, McClelland’s Need for Achievement Theory, Schultz and Becker’s Human Capital Theory, and Douglas and Shepherd’s Expected Utility Theory to support its findings. Results from the findings shows that all the entrepreneurship development factors have a positive impact on youth employment rate in Abuja. However, only youth training (p = 0.000) and technical and vocational education (p = 0.018) exhibit significant impact on youth employment rate in Abuja. In addition, if we have no knowledge of the entrepreneurship development factors and guess that a youth would be employed, we would be 52.2% of the time correct. We can predict with 60% accuracy that with the knowledge of the entrepreneurship development factors a youth would be employed. Youths are 0.749 times as likely to be employed than being unemployed when it has to do with youth empowerment programme, 0.645 times as likely to be employed than being unemployed when it has to do with youth training, 0.832 times as likely to be employed than being unemployed when it has to do with technical and vocational education, and 0.649 times as likely to be employed than being unemployed when it has to do with innovation rate.
"Psychosocial Determinants of Quality of Life Amoung Adolescent Girls in India: An Exploratory Study"
Dr Shilpa R
Adolescence is a transformative phase marked by rapid physical, psychological, and social changes. In rural India, adolescent girls face unique challenges, such as gender inequality, societal norms, and limited resources, which significantly impact their quality of life. This study explores the Quality of Life among adolescent girls aged 14–19 years in Bangalore rural district. A total of 414 respondents were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, and results were analyzed using statistical methods. Findings indicate significant variations in Quality of Life, with 49.8% of respondents reporting medium Quality of Life, 45.4% high Quality of Life, and 4.8% low Quality of Life. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to address psychosocial and cultural barriers that hinder the well-being of rural adolescent girls.
Gender Preference and PC-PNDT Awareness: A Rural Outlook
Dr. Harshitha H N1*Dr. Rashmi Kundapur2
Introduction: According to the economic survey 2017-18, it was estimated that 63 million girls were missing in the Indian population, and 21 million girls were unwanted. To curtail the practice of female foeticide Government of India passed the Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques (Regulation and Prevention of Misuse) Act in 1994. Objectives1. To assess the awareness among women about PC-PNDT Act.2.To study the perception of rural women about femalefoeticide and gender preference Methodology: A mixed method study conducted in rural Dakshina Kannada with multistage sampling technique. Cross sectional analysis for awareness of PC PNDT Act and gender preference was done. A pre-validated and pretested questionnaire used. Knowledge and attitude were scored and categorized. FGD was done for second objective. Thematic analysis was done for FGD. Results A total of 650 mothers from 13 PHCs were surveyed for the assessment of awareness of PC-PNDT Act and Gender preference.The knowledge regarding PC-PNDT was found to be average in majority i.e., 49.5% and attitude was found to be good in majority i.e., 74.9%Majority of the mothers had no gender preference 57.7%, 20.5% had preference for the female child in the study and 17.2% had preference for the male child. There was significant association of age, occupation, income, type of family and gender preference among women. Conclusion: The awareness regarding the PC-PNDT Act is average among the mothers but majority have good attitude towards the Act. No obvious gender preference observed in the study participants.
Green Synthesis of Hafnium Oxide Nanoparticles using Vaccinium Sect. Cyanococcus and its Antimicrobial, Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Dr Surabhi Halder1 & 2S Rajeshkumar
Introduction: Green synthesized Hafnium oxide nanoparticles (HfONPs) can be prepared for various other applications to address oral health concerns like bacterial infections and inflammation. Hafnium oxide nanoparticles exert their antimicrobial,anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects through mechanisms like producing reactive oxygen species and direct interaction with microbial cells. Aim: The present research article describes the anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of green synthesised of Hafnium oxide nanoparticles (HfONPs) using Vaccinium sect.cyanococcus extract. Materials and Methods: The Vaccinium sect. Cyanococcus mediatedHafnium oxide nanoparticles were developed and tested for various applications.These Hafnium oxide nanoparticles were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy and Scanning electron microscopy.The antimicrobial activity of HfONPs was assessed using Mueller hinton agar plates.The anti-oxidant was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) assay methods. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined through the egg albumin denaturation method, the bovine serum albumin denaturation method, and the membrane stabilization assay. Results: The present study gave insight about the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. There was a positive outcome when testing for Antimicrobial activity showing maximum zone of inhibition in C.albicans. Conclusion: The green synthesised hafnium oxide nanoparticles using Vaccinium sect.cyanococcus showed an excellent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity suggesting its potential for oral application and other inflammatory conditions.
A Review on Recent Significant Researches on Drag and Lift Type Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT)
1Amit Kumar Mandal
A vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) is a sort of wind turbine in which the rotor shaft is set perpendicular to the wind flow direction. There are mainly two types of VAWTs i.e. drag type and lift type. The Savonius wind turbine or rotor is a drag-type VAWT. Due to its simple and robust design with relatively poor efficiency, it is used whenever reliability is more significant than efficiency.Further Savonius turbines are broadly categorized into straight bladed and helical bladed. The Darrieus wind turbine is a lift-based VAWT. Being lift-type, the Darrieus wind turbines can extract more power from the wind compared to drag-type wind turbines.However, equipped with salient features such as easy to design, lower cost and high reliability, VAWTs have not gained much attraction for commercialization due to poor efficiency. The present paper summarizes the recent significant researches rendered inrecent years in the field of VAWTs.
Exploring Eating Behavior and Contributing Factors among Undergraduate Students at a Private University in South Gujarat
Mr Jacob Nenwon, III*1, Mr Henry Ballah*1, Dr Deepak Vishwakarma*2, Dr Kavya Rao Bagati*2
Context: The study explores the present conditions of disordered eating behaviours and contributing factors among University students, especiallybehaviors that can cause serious physical, emotional, and mental health issues, such as eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. It aimed to explore disordered eating behaviours among students and identify the contributing factors. Setting and Design: Data were collected from individuals across various colleges using descriptive analysis and a stratified random sampling, with a sample size of 351. Data collection methods included questionnaires which were employed to analyze the data. Results: The findings indicate diverse attitudes towards exercising for calorie burning. While 17.1% of respondents always focus on burning calories during exercise, 16.0% usually think about it, and 24.5% sometimes do, showing a moderate concern for calorie expenditure. A smaller portion, 11.7%, rarely considers calorie burning, possibly due to an awareness of disordered eating behaviors, while 16.0% never engage in this behavior, suggesting they are not focused on calorie-related exercise motives. Furthermore, the data shows that 76.1% of respondents reported never making themselves vomit to control their weight, implying that extreme measures for weight control, such as purging, are uncommon among them. This suggests that the majority are more likely to focus on body-building or healthier weight control practices instead of engaging in harmful behaviors. Conclusion: The study at University reveals that while disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) are present among students, extreme practices like purging are uncommon. A notable portion (17.1%) consistently focuses on burning calories during exercise, with 24.5% showing moderate concern, while a smaller group demonstrates less focus, possibly due to awareness of DEB risks. Most students (76.1%) do not engage in extreme weight control methods like vomiting, indicating a preference for healthier or body-building practices. However, the presence of DEBs emphasizes the need for increased awareness and interventions to prevent more serious health issues.
Bias Perceptions of Generative AI: A Comparison of Public Sentiment on Twitter and Workplace Perspectives
1Evans Uhunoma; 2Maryann Asemota
Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) is perhaps one of the most significant technological inventions in the last decade.It enhances content generation across various domains, from personal messages to work-related tasks, encompassing text, images, and videos. However, there have also been several debates surrounding its inadvertent risks for bias and perpetuating stereotypes (Ferrara, 2023; Xavier 2024) both from gender and racial perspectives (Nicoletti & Bass, 2023; Zhou, 2024; Sadeghiani, 2024).Today, Gen AI is also being used in the workplace, with many organisations adopting custom-built Gen AI tools as part of their working tools and systems. Consequently, the objective of this research was tofind out if employees perceive work-related outputs of Gen AI to be biased against women, people of colour or neurodiverse people, and how this perception compares to that of the public, who use Gen AI tools for both work and non-work-related purposes. A mixed-methods approach was employed in this research. From workplace perspectives, quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire from UK employees. From the public perspective, qualitative data were collected through text mining using specific keywords from Tweets on X platform. Findings showed that, while workplace respondents reported modest levels of perceived bias across all groups, public sentiment analysis and themes showed significant mistrust and negative perception of bias in generative AI outputs for women and people of colour. There was however positive perception as it relates to Neurodiverse people, with the public data showing positive sentiments for Gen AI outputs as it relates to Neurodiverse people, as the users view it as a tool for helping dyslexic users communicate better.
Achieving Sustainable Performance of Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria through Artificial Intelligence Strategies
Hope Ifeoma Orjinta (PhD)1; John Chidume Anetoh(PhD)2
The rise in the number of deposit money banks in Nigeria prompted by the entry of foreign and private banks; the consolidation of existing banks and the establishment of new local banks has increased competition in the banking sector in Nigeria. Unfortunately, the conventional means of capturingthe attention of bank customersand enhancing sustainable performance have failed to address the challenges posed by competition in the banking industry in Nigeria. Consequently,artificial intelligence is a new age survival and technological advancement strategy used in this contemporary time to address the challenges posed by competition in the banking sector.Therefore, this study critically examined how artificial intelligence strategies lead to sustainable performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study adopted an ex-post facto research design for a period of ten years spanning from 2014 to 2023. Sustainable performance was measured using net operating profit while artificial intelligence strategies were measured usingvirtual assistants, expert systems, machine learning algorithms and chat bots. The population of the study comprised the 14 deposit money banks in Nigeria but only 12 that use artificial intelligence were investigated. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the extent of relationship between sustainable performance of deposit money banks and artificial intelligence strategies. Panel regression analysis statistical technique was used to determine the nature, direction, effect and the significance of artificial intelligence strategies on sustainable performance of deposit money banks. The study found that artificial intelligence strategies positively relate and have significant effect on sustainable performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The conclusion drawn from findings is that artificial intelligence strategies enhance sustainable performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The researcherstherefore recommend that banks should sustainedthe use of virtual assistants, expert systems, machine learning algorithm and chat bots since theyare significant artificial intelligence tools that stimulate and enhance sustainable performance of deposit money banks in Nigeria.
Upscale Production and Commercialization of Daerrys Tilapia Ice Cream and Tilapia Cookies
Dana G. Vera Cruz1, Tereso A. Abella2, Venus Q. Lagmay4, Celyrah B Castillo1, Pablo J. Rafael3, Ervee P. Landingin1, Pamela Denise V. De Ramos1,Remarjay V. Neypes1
The successful development of Daerrys Tilapia Ice Cream and Tilapia Cookies contributes significantly to promoting and adopting new and improved technologies for sustainable management and resources in the agricultural sector. Thus, the study aimed at the technology transfer, commercialization, and upscale production of Daerrys products. Partnership and collaboration with the MAnggagawang BUkid Ng Guimba Agriculture (MABUNGA) Cooperative were established for the technology commercialization. The members were trained and capacitated with skills and knowledge in producing the tilapia fillets. As a result, the spin-off company Vera Bella Enterprises Limited Company, created to commercialize the Daerrys products, secured a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) License to Operate (LTO) in March 2022. After the issuance of LTO, production increased by 430% in 2022. In addition, nutritional analyses showed that the products contain more protein than commercially available ice cream products. Moreover, the microbial assessment of the products falls under the acceptable limit based on the FDA standard. As the Daerrys products reached the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 9 and Marketing Readiness Level (MRL) 8-Proof of Scalability, the products were distributed locally. The products participated in various international exhibits, receiving multiple awards for their innovation and impact on the community.
Reviewingthe Role of Literature in Promoting Effective Communication Competence: A Focus on Kenyan Technical Institutions
Gloria Nwandu Ozor & Daniel Ochieng Orwenjo
The rapid advancement of robots, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) is gradually replacing human workers, leading to job disruption and widespread unemployment. This is a global concern, especially for future graduates, as these technologies imitate human intelligence and capabilities. To compete with these artificial "employees," experts recommend that universities expand their education and skills-building programs. This study explores how literature can enhance Kenyan technical-basedstudents' communication skills and prepare them to succeed in today's job market. The research also focuses on how literature facilitates effective communication and offers tools that can benefit Kenyan technical-based students in their respective fields. Effective communication in this context refers to any means of conveying information for better understanding.
The Contribution of Innovation Management Practices in Aerospace to Technology Roadmapping
1Maryann Asemota; 2Alexei Sukharev
This study investigates the reciprocal relationship between the aerospace industry and academic schools of thought in the field of technology roadmapping (TRM) through a systematic literature review. Employing a multi-method approach, the research integrates textual analysis of keywords and abstracts, author co-citation analysis, and manual qualitative thematic coding to identify developmental patterns and interconnections between academic and industrial research. The analysis reveals the emergence of two distinct research flows within TRM, highlighting evolving theoretical and practical paradigms. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the synergies between industrial innovation and academic research.
Female Labor Force Dynamics in Tanzania: A Generalized Linear Model Analysis of Employment Factors among Women Aged 15+
Shehe M Harith, Salim S Msalilwa
This study examined the determinants of female labour force participation in Tanzania, focusing on socio-economic and demographical factors, particularly for women aged 15 and above. The labour force participation provides substantial benefits in Tanzania, contributing not only to economic development but also to cultural norms and social equity. Despite a number of studies done in specific locations within Tanzania, this study addresses the gap of specific locations by utilising a nationally representative dataset across the entire country to examine the key determinants. The study uses a cross-sectional dataset (Integrated Labour Force Survey dataset 2020/2021). The binomial probit generalised linear model was applied to examine the determinants. The study findings reveal that rural women, married women, and cohabiting women are more likely to participate in the workforce compared to urban and single women, respectively. Age of woman, income level, and family size are positively related to labour force participation. Health insurance and certain education levels demonstrate mixed or negative associations. This study reveals the need for targeted policies promoting equitable access to formal employment, addressing socio-cultural barriers, and aligning educational programs with labour market demands. The study’s insights contribute to the broader discourse on enhancing gender equity in labour markets in Tanzania and sub-Saharan Africa at large.
Human Resources Planning Practices and Sustainability of Cosmetics Industry in Anambra State
Chidimma Odira Okeke, (PhD); Dr. Chineze J. Ifechukwu-Jacobs; Goodfaith Nnenna Dike, (PhD), Obinna Solomon, Eboh
The study examined the human resources planning practices and sustainability of cosmetics industry in Anambra State. The objective of the study were to, Determine how Training, talent acquisition and Examine the effect of succession planning on social sustainability of cosmetics industry in Anambra State. This work is anchored on the human resources theory of Gray, & Herr (1998). The study adopted a cross-sectional research survey design in its investigation of the variables. Primary data was generated through structured, self-administered questionnaire. The target population was cosmetics industry in Anambra State. In this study we both primary data. The study sample was 744 employees. Data generated were analyzed and presented using Spearman correlation and t-test. The hypotheses were tested using the t-test .The tests were carried out at a 95% confidence interval and a 0.05 level of significance. The study found that Training has significant positive effect on environmental sustainability of cosmetics industry in Anambra State. Talent acquisition has significant positive effect on economic sustainability of cosmetics industry in Anambra State. The study recommends that Cosmetics firms should imbibe the culture of implementing talent management policy to enable them to achieved set goals and relevance in the business environment. Successor opportunity should be independence to act and willingly develop love to manage the business through learning the business operations by practicing.
Study of RM Distribution Generalization and Certain Common Theorems
M.A.Hamad1, R.A. Farah2 , I. A. Almardy3,Notik Ishola Abolaji4
In this paper, we study a significant number of distributional theoremsby considering linear ordinary differential equations and we use RAHMOH(will call it transform) transform, we find that integral transform is convenient and crucial to use to get an essential result.
Innovative Practices using Different Pedagogies in Assessment and Evaluation
Sunita Pachori; Karuna Nikum; Ritika Tiwari
The Covid-19 pandemic changed the world totally including the education sector. Though the Corona kept everything standstill, but human beings found out ways to overcome the health calamity. As a result, the education sector also evolved with number of innovations for teaching, learning and assessment and evaluation of learners. This paper shows the research habits of the students can be improved through assessment and examination processes. Research instudents learning depends on two main sources: knowledge gaining and problem-solving approaches to learning (PAL). If learners have a creative skill of study, learning will be inclined towards the research mindset and will adopt the way they learn with a perspective of the application. An innovative approach for assessing learning skills has been represented here as a part of an innovative examination (IE) system. The innovative approach starts with a learning-to-understand problem statement followed by interaction with subject guide and peer discussions about learning strategies to inculcate self-innovative learning. This study shows the Research-based evaluation (RBE),that aims to promote and develop student competencies related to research practice and to nurture their skills through creative thinking and problem-solving approach. This assessment implies the application of learning strategies that link research with teaching. Comparison of teaching - traditional and online both are done through the survey of the students and come up with the positive as well as negative outcomes. Survey questionnaires were used in this study to determine the perspectives of various students of Thakur College of Engineering and Technology (TCET), Mumbai. The results showed that the participants experienced IE beneficial primarily for promoting research, connecting the learners to the global community, and getting a huge and authentic resource of knowledge.
The Study on Antioxidant and Dissolution of Calcium Stones by Kalanchoe Pinnata Extracts
Dr. Sunil S V1; K N Nireeksha1; Deekshitha S J2; & Nethravathi A M2
Kalanchoe pinnata is a perennial plant of family belongs to Crassulaceae family having global distribution. These plants are usually found in Madagascar where it grows in appreciable numbers in sandy and granitic soil under subhumid to humid climatic conditions. Some of them are even grown in the malenadu regions of Karnataka in Shivamogga District. These plants are aromatic and have extreme therapeutic potential and high medicinal importance due to the presence of unique chemical constituents such as alkaloids, steroids, triterpenes, glycosides and flavonoids. Also these plant leaves are used in south Asia as natural kidney stone dissolvers and known to exhibit wound healing, insecticidal, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-tumor activities and anti-oxidant potentials. The main objective of this study is to identify the artificial calcium stone dissolving properties, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial properties of K. pinnata leaf extracts. In vitro studies were conducted to evaluate the calcium stone dissolving properties of K. Pinnata leaf extract with 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% ethyl acetate and aqueous solvent extracts on artificially made calcium monohydrate crystals. Further the antioxidant, phytochemicals and antimicrobial properties are carried out against the pathogenic species such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Penicillium chrysogenum, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Aspergillus flavus. Our study concludes that the leaf extracts of Kalanchoe pinnata have a potent antioxidants, antimicrobial and calcium stone dissolving properties with 75%, 100% ethyl acetate and aqueous extract samples. From the scientific validations it was lead us to the isolation and determination of the applications of the bioactive compounds from various solvent extracts of the K. Pinnata plant. Further research and clinical trials have to be carried out in order to commercialise the potential pharmaceutical uses of the plant for which one should thoroughly know about the pharmacognostical properties of the plant.
"Dental Peace: The Impact of Noise Protection on Dentists' Performance"
1Kiruthiga D.; 2Rashmi M.; 3Nazni Rahamath; 4Prakash Pugazh; 5Soneya Punith; 6D. Narmadha
Purpose: Dental professionals face significant challenges due to the constant exposure to high levels of noise in clinical environments, which can impact both their performance and well-being. This study investigates the effectiveness of different noise protection methods—Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Passive Noise Cancellation (PNC)—on dentists’ performance during dental procedures. Materials & Methods: A total of 45 dental students were divided into three groups: ANC, ANC with binaural beats, and PNC with binaural beats. The study aimed to assess noise perception, concentration, communication, and overall satisfaction with the devices. Results: the study revealed that PNC with binaural beats provided the highest satisfaction in noise reduction and communication, followed by ANC with binaural beats, which significantly enhanced concentration. While no significant differences were found in terms of disruption during procedures, PNC with binaural beats effectively addressed the participants’ main concerns. Conclusion: These findings suggest that noise cancellation technologies, particularly PNC with binaural beats, may improve the dental working environment, offering potential benefits for both practitioners and patients. The study highlights the need for further exploration of noise control in dental settings to enhance performance and reduce stress.
Game-Based Pictoword: Science Teaching Innovation for Basic Education
Maria Lourdes G. Tan
Game-based pictoword, as an intervention, responded to the quest for making learning an enjoyable experience for students. As a science teaching innovation, this action research design study aims to enhance the science vocabulary words of ten junior high school students who were purposely selected as participants. Data were obtained using an interview guide through in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, and observation. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data gathered from the participants. It is anchored on the theory of Constructivism and Mayer's cognitive theory of Multimedia Learning. Findings revealed the students' difficulties in terms of science vocabulary words include understanding the meaning of the word, pronouncing the word correctly, and writing the correct spelling of the word. The coping mechanisms of students include reading their science books, searching for the meaning in the science dictionary, google search using their phones, and asking for help from their science teachers. Results of the study pointed out that Game-Based PictoWord helped enhance students' science vocabulary through an increased number of science vocabulary words learned, giving the correct meaning, pronunciation, and spelling of the science terms, and improved performance in the science subject, both hands-on and mind-on activities. It is suggested that game-based and other interactive activities be integrated intodifferent science fields for comprehensive assessment resulting to an effective and efficient teaching and learning processes.
Workplace, Health Risks and Safety Procedures for Tannery Employees in the Kanpur Dehat District, India
Shubhi Paliwal1, Dr. Salahuddin Mohd2, Parul Pathak3
Occupational health encompasses all elements of worker safety and well-being. The purpose of the study is to determine how much knowledge there is on the risks to one's health that come with working with leather and what precautions tanneries in rural Kanpur, India, have taken to mitigate those risks. Two hundred four (204) tannery workers from the study region were surveyed using questionnaires adapted from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) and the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health research (TAHS) in order to collect data on occupational exposure and health outcomes. We examined the work areas of the employees (beam house, wet finishing, dry finishing, and miscellaneous) as well as their duration of employment. The results showed that employees who worked in both wet and dry finishing had more challenges.The length of employment and nature of the job are linked to a higher risk of health issues, such as respiratory disorders and skin conditions, in workers at tanneries. The study's findings show how the working environment affects employees' health and call for taking appropriate action to upgrade facilities and enhance employees' health in tanneries. To lower these dangers and enhance the health of tannery workers, strict regulations, ongoing enforcement of health evaluation, and labor and employer education are required.
Does Managing of Enterprenurial Risks Guarantee Self-Reliance of Table Water Firms in Nigeria? Perspective from Anambra State
Vivian Chioma Anetoh Ajakpo (Ph.D)1, John Chidume Anetoh (Ph.D)2, Jeffery Chukwujekwu Obiezekwem (Ph.D)3 & Solomon Obinna Eboh4
Small and medium scale enterprises in Nigeria are still confronted with numerous challenges and obstacles among which are the extremely high rate of volatility caused by entrepreneurial risks which lead to high costs of administration as well as management of enterprises. This is worsened by high interest rates, high business closure and liquidation discriminations from banks averse as well as issue of risk associated with lending to borrowers. Therefore, the motivation for the study emanated from the fact that table water manufacturing firms in Nigeria especially in Anambra State are faced with incessant shutdown due to risk exposure. Accordingly, this paper investigated the effect of entrepreneurial risks on self-reliance of selected table water firms in Anambra State of Nigeria. Specifically, this study examined the effects of credit risk, operational risk and market risk on self-reliance of selected table water firms in Anambra State of Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive research design using a survey method. The target population of the study comprised the owners and employees of selected table water firms in Anambra State. Multiple regression was used to test the formulated hypotheses at 5% level of significance. The findings showed that credit risk management has a significant and positive effect on self-reliance of table water firms. The study found that operational risk management has a significant and positive effect on self-reliance of table water firms. The findings revealed that market risk management has a significant and positive effect on self-reliance of table water firms. The study recommended among others that credit, operational and market risks should be properly managed for sustained self-reliance of table water firms in Anambra State of Nigeria.
Innovative Digital Marketing Platforms and Sustainable Development of Bottled Water Businesses in Nigeria
John Chidume Anetoh (Ph.D)1 ; Vivian Chioma Anetoh Ajakpo (Ph.D)2 Basil Chibuike Nwatu (Ph.D)3; Solomon, Obinna Eboh4
This paperinvestigated the effect ofinnovative digital marketing platformson sustainable development of bottled water businesses in Nigeria with a special reference to Anambra State. The paper aimed to ascertain how innovative social media marketing platform, affiliate marketing platform, search engine platform, email marketing platform and mobile marketing platform contribute to the sustainable development of selected bottled water manufacturing firms in Anambra State of Nigeria. Relevant literature concerning the study variables was reviewed. A descriptive research design was employed using a survey method. The methodology was used to address the objectives of the research. The hypotheses formulated to guide the study were tested using the partial least square structural equation modeling statistical technique at 0.05 level of significant. The findings revealed that innovative social media marketing platform has a significantly and positively lead tosustainable development of bottled water manufacturing firms. The findings revealed that innovative affiliate marketing platform has significant and positive effect on sustainable development of bottled water manufacturing firms. The study found that innovative search engine marketing platform has significantly and positively lead to sustainable development of bottled water manufacturing firms. The findings revealed that email marketing platform has significant and positive effect on sustainable development of bottled water manufacturing firms. The study found that innovative mobile marketing platform has significantly and positively lead to sustainable development of bottled water manufacturing firms. Based on the significant and positive effects of innovative digital marketing platforms on the sustainable development of bottled water firms in Anambra State of Nigeria, the paper recommended that innovativeness on digital marketing strategies should be sustained.
Corporate Governance and Audit Report Timeliness: Evidence from Nigeria
Adabenege, Adams; Prof. Edith O. Onyeanu; Dr Ozor David Chidi
This study examined corporate governance and audit report timeliness in Nigeria. The study aims to ascertain the effect of board independence, audit committee size, audit committee meetings, audit committee financial expertise, CEO duality and Non-Executive directors on the audit report timeliness of the non-financial companies quoted on the Nigeria Exchange Group. The study adopted an ex post facto research design, and data were sourced from annual reports of the selected non-financial companies. The purposive sampling technique was used to choose 51 companies from 2018 to 2022, and the data collected were analysed using the panel data regression model. The findings show that corporate governance indicators have not led to delays in the financial reporting of non-financial companies. In conclusion, the empirical findings provide that corporate governance practices have not led to delays in the audit report timeliness of the selected companies. Hence, regulators should ensure that companies comply with the minimum submission period to avoid companies taking advantage of the current three-month reporting period and giving rise to issues of information asymmetry.
Inflation Targeting and Economic Growth in Nigeria
Dr.Ibekwe Angela O, Dr. Ibekwe Anthony & Dr. Chineze J. Ifechukwu-Jacobs
This study analyzed the inflation targeting and economic growth in Nigeria. The specific objectives were to, ascertain the impact of inflation on Nigeria’s economic growth; estimate the threshold effect of inflation on economic growth in Nigeria; determine the effect of inflation targeting on Nigeria’s economic growth. The variables were economic growth as the dependent variables while fixed capital formation; human capital index; inflation rate; broad money supply and exchange rate were the independent variables. Autogressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method of data analysis was used. The study also employed unit root test, bound cointegration test, Serial Correlation, normality test and Hetroscedasticity. From the analysis result the study found that; Inflation has a significant impact on Nigeria’s economic growth; there is threshold effect of inflation on economic growth in Nigeria; Inflation targeting does have a significant effect on Nigeria’s economic growth. More realistic effort is necessary by the monetary authorities to target inflation strongly by reducing inflation to a single digit as contained in the economic recovery growth plan. Inflation threshold need not be necessarily the inflation target, the inflation objective for monetary policy should be set lower than the inflation threshold. Monetary authorities should make a more practical effort to manage inflation forcefully in order to avert its negative effects by assuring a bearable rate that would boost Nigeria's economic growth
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